Chez Chili serves a focused selection of Szechuan cuisine characterized by the bold integration of numbing peppercorns and aromatic dried chilies. The menu centers on authentic preparations that prioritize intense heat and complex spice profiles essential to this regional culinary tradition. Patrons encounter a variety of stir-fried dishes, slow-cooked meat preparations, and vibrant vegetable offerings that emphasize textural contrast and authentic seasoning techniques. Every plate reflects a commitment to the fiery essence of Szechuan gastronomy, utilizing high-quality ingredients to achieve profound depth of flavor. The dining room maintains a functional aesthetic, allowing the robust spice levels of the food to serve as the primary focal point for diners. This establishment operates as a destination for those seeking a direct and uncompromising encounter with traditional Chinese culinary heat.
Chez Chili is widely regarded as a standout destination in Montreal's Chinatown for authentic, flavorful, and generously portioned Chinese cuisine, particularly specializing in Sichuan and Hunan styles. Guests frequently praise the restaurant for its fresh ingredients, consistent quality, and efficient, friendly service that makes it a popular choice for both quick lunches and social family-style dinners. While the basement setting provides a cozy, lively atmosphere, some diners suggest arriving early to avoid potential wait times. Although most experiences are highly positive, a few reviews note occasional inconsistencies in spice levels or service pacing during peak hours, yet the overall consensus remains that it is a must-visit spot for those seeking delicious, reliable, and reasonably priced meals.
If you're in Montreal's Chinatown, go to Chez Chilli. We ordered General Tao Chicken, Hunan Beef, & Salt & Pepper Shrimp & everything was delicious. The shrimp was crispy & flavorful, the beef had the perfect kick, & the General Tao was classic comfort food. Great spot for a yummy Chinese meal!
My son suggested this place for lunch while we were visiting for Comiccon. Our group had the won ton soup, General Tso chicken, & the chicken stir fry with rice on the side. Did also have the vegetarian egg roll, which were delicious. Great little out of the way place to eat.
Went to Chinatown for a quick bite before the Cirque du Soleil Echo show in Montreal. Literally a'Dive', walking down some filthy stairs into the basement. But food was great! Three of us filled up with Gen Tsao's Chicken (menu item C1) as well as Broccoli with garlic sauce (L14). Tasty. Chicken did not smell, which is often a problem at Chinese restaurants. Huge portions (enough for us to give a meal to one of the many homeless wandering around). Paid $43 USD, including tip (no drinks). Recommended.
Jun 18, 2026
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Wait time was very short even though there were queues out on to the street. I had the yangchao fried rice & general tao chicken, the fried rice was very light on soy sauce compared to yangchao from other places which actually tasted better in my opinion. The chicken was very nice as well & the staff were very quick with unlimited ice water refills & quick service.
I was in Montreal yesterday for a work meeting, & a colleague recommended this place. The food was actually really good - especially the fried shrimp & the General Tao chicken.
But the service yesterday really ruined the experience. The staff didn't feel very friendly, & one male server in particular was quite rude. He looked like he hadn't slept much - low energy, uninterested, & pretty careless when taking our order. The way he spoke felt dismissive, like he didn't really care, & it honestly seemed like he'd rather be chatting with his coworkers than doing his job.
Also, I think the female server brought us the wrong dish at one point, but we didn't bother saying anything.
What made it more noticeable is that we came back again today, & the two servers we had were great - friendly, attentive, & professional. The difference was very obvious.
If someone doesn't feel like working, they really shouldn't be on shift, because it directly affects the customer experience.
Overall, great food, but the service quality is inconsistent & needs improvement.
I was looking online for good eats in Chinatown for my upcomjng visit to Montreal, & this name kept on popping up so I thought I'd give it a try. I see why it's a local favourite. The general tao chicken was tangier than I expected, but the batter had an amazing crunch juxtaposed with tender & juicy meat. I paired it with a Cantonese sausage fried rice, which was just as good as it smelled. Definitely a good place for food after an evening exploring the port, it's well worth your money.
