Balbastik

DK

5.0

The best sandwich I've had in Montreal in years! I went to grab something for takeout, it had sweet & spicy aromas, the meat was juicy & delicious & the owner was clearly happy to be here. Will go back.

Jon

5.0

This place has the best sandwiches in Mile End / Plateau, among the best in Montreal. I think their vegan sandwich is the best in the city; super hearty, with touches of salt, sweet (honey) & spice, & without any ketchup or mayo. They also serve tajines & popsicles that I can't wait to come back & try. Prices are really reasonable (& show you just how much other places are overcharging!). Staff is very friendly & the ambience is warm (West African jazz on the speakers). Must try!

Update: can confirm their balbastik glace are da bomb! Kefir lime is excellent.

Roxanne

5.0

Balbastik - Fresh West African Flavors & Warm Hospitality

I had the pleasure of visiting Balbastik yesterday, & it was a memorable experience from start to finish.

Balbastik is owned by a kind & passionate man from Mauritania, & you can feel the love & care he pours into every detail-his culture & music are truly at the heart of it all. The bread is made fresh in-house, & it makes all the difference-especially in their Spicy Beef Meatball Sandwich, which quickly became my favorite. The meatballs were flavorful & satisfying, with just the right amount of heat. The sauce, made with eggplant, tomatoes, & onions, had a beautiful balance of savory & sweet, thanks to a light drizzle of honey that tied it all together.

To sip alongside everything, I had their housemade juice with orange, mint, hibiscus, & lemon-it tasted like sunshine in a glass. I also couldn't resist trying their homemade baobab popsicle, a refreshing & unique treat, perfect for a hot day. & to finish? A classic mint tea-sweet, aromatic, & the perfect comforting end to the meal.

Beyond the food, the décor is warm & inviting, transporting you straight to Mauritania. Traditional music fills the space, creating a calming atmosphere that makes you want to stay a little longer.

Everything at Balbastik is made with heart, & it shines through in every bite. Whether you're stopping in for a quick meal or settling in for a cozy visit, it's a place that welcomes you with open arms & leaves you feeling nourished in every way.

✨ I spotlight my favorite local gems on TikTok @foxy.appetite & IG @foxyappetite-& Balbastik is officially on my list.

I was invited to visit as part of a collaboration-sharing my genuine experience above.

Cynthia

5.0

This place has great decor, great service & great food. We had a bomb shakshuka with sweet mint tea, & I'll be returning to try the sandwiches one day. I recommend it to all my friends visiting the area & to you, dear Google reviews reader.

Sofia

5.0

My friends love coming here for the chicken meatball sandwich, but I come for the bean crêpes. They are naturally gluten free as the batter is made from fermented black eye peas. You can ask for them sweet with honey & date syrup or savoury with any of the sandwich fillings as a topping. The veggie'meatballs' are delicious, incredibly well seasoned & also gf.