Aquinta specializes in authentic Portuguese cuisine with a primary focus on charcoal-grilled specialties and fresh seafood preparations. The menu features traditional dishes centered around flame-seared proteins seasoned with robust Mediterranean aromatics. Patrons encounter a culinary selection emphasizing high-quality Atlantic fish and expertly prepared poultry dishes finished over an open grill. The preparation methods prioritize the natural flavors of the ingredients through heat-based cooking techniques typical of coastal Portuguese cooking traditions. Every plate reflects a commitment to classic flavor profiles, avoiding unnecessary complexity in favor of straightforward, bold taste profiles. The internal atmosphere aligns with the culinary approach, providing a functional and focused environment where the food remains the singular attraction for those seeking genuine Portuguese grilling expertise and high-quality oceanic delicacies.
Aquinta is widely regarded as a standout neighborhood destination in Montreal, celebrated for its authentic Portuguese charcoal-grilled cuisine and exceptional value for money. Guests frequently praise the flavorful and generous portions, with the chicken, ribs, and octopus being consistent highlights of the menu. While the atmosphere is often described as lively, cozy, and welcoming, the restaurant's popularity means it can get quite busy, sometimes leading to wait times or a bustling environment. Service is generally noted for being professional, warm, and attentive, though a few diners have noted feeling rushed during peak hours or experiencing occasional inconsistencies with delivery orders. Overall, it remains a favorite for those seeking high-quality, unpretentious dining that remains accessible and consistently delicious.
If you enjoy grilled octopus, you must go to Aquinta. The food is all amazing, & the owner, the staff, awesome.
You may have to wait for a table a little, because it always gets busy, but it's absolutely worth it . I wait, when I don't reserve on line cause I know I'm gonna enjoy my food.
I definately recommend for Grilled Portugese food.
Great cozy place, good service, nice food nice vibe. They even offer their homegrown grapes. The food portion is very generous for the price. One of those rare places that has charcoal grilled octopus. Very decent price overall for food & drinks.
We went back recently in March 2024 & the place is popular as usual. They now have 2 services hours 6pm or 8pm. It's strongly recommended to reserve in advance even for 2, & expect slow service due to the busyness. Food still good & our server was nice.
If there was an option to give them a 5-million-star review, I definitely would have!😅 I ordered through UberEats today. The food was amazingly delicious. Chicken & the lamp chop were charcoal grilled & heavenly flavorful, rice was so good. & the Portuguese potatoes were scrumptious! Highly recommended! 👌🏻
May 9, 2026
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Great spot if you're looking for a restaurant without pretentions that does everything right & has been doing it consistantly for years. The portuguese chicken has just the right amount of char without compromising taste & tenderness. The ribbs are fall off the bone & the chorizo grilled perfectly to bring out its smokey flavors. The cod croquettes are a nice addition to the fried calimari plate, & the freshness was a perfect sidekick to cut off the fat of the latter. We had no room for dessert but we keep coming back, like everyone else as the place is always packed bit never loud. Its a great spot for any foodie looking for consistant food that never fails of quality without breaking your wallet. Service is discreet. 5/5
Amazing food. Other than the combos (chorizo, ribs & chicken are very tasty), I highly recommend the grilled octopus & marinara mussels . Good crunchy pastel de natas with a bit of a cinnamon taste. Everything was wonderful, great service too.
I only had experience through über eat, never been in their restaurant. I think it's one of the best Portuguese charcoal grilled chicken 🍗 in Montreal. Keep in mind though if you choose delivery they regularly forget items in the order like soda, natas or the salad side dishe. Of course uber refund but very frustrating still.
Great welcoming ambience, service is very friendly & accommodating. Definitely recommend this place yo anyone. 4 stars because the grilled calamari to me was bland but everything else was top notch!
Both the grilled chicken & grilled squid at Aquinta are excellent. The chicken is juicy & flavorful with a nicely grilled exterior, while the squid is tender, springy, & perfectly seasoned with no fishy taste at all. You can really tell the ingredients are fresh & prepared with care. Definitely a place worth coming back to.
We were dining on the 2nd of October 2025. Had an excellent time. Food was amazing. We ordered Grilled Mix 2. Service was outstanding. & very fast. our food was ready within 15 minutes. Thank you for giving us amazing table immediately without reservation. Thank you. The place is worth to visit.
