It was in 1934 that Mr. Delisle and Mr. Morissette first opened Chez Delmo just up the street from where it is now. Back then it had 3 floors; a seafood restaurant on the main floor, a gaming house on the 2nd and brothel on the 3rd.
In 1964, Mr. Roland Périsset took over the operation and closed the 2 top floors.
Our menu has changed little over the past 80 years. Quality fish and seafood prepared and served in a traditional way. The house specialty is the Dover sole meunière. Our chefs take great pride in this dish, which used to be de-boned table-side, but now done just before serving. Our lobster bisque takes 2 days to create and the classic cream of tomato remains virtually unchanged for decades.
We have stayed true to cuisine classique, resisting the popular tide of nouvelle cuisine. Traditionally prepared quality seafood; unadorned and unembellished.
Over the years, Delmo has had its share of facelifts; the 18 bar-stools surrounding the granite bar are all that are left of the original 38. The iron sign outside and its original lighted tulips, were salvaged and still greet all our clients. The destruction of the original porcelain tile frieze that decorated the walls behind the bar prompted us to ask local muralist and celebrated artist, Carlito DalCeggio, to reproduce his version of the scenic garden party adorned with the verse from 18th English poet John Gay, “from wine what sudden friendship springs”.
Chez Delmo stands out as a premier seafood destination in Old Montreal, offering top quality, fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that blends historic charm with modern elegance. Diners repeatedly praise house specialties like the Dover sole Meuniere and lobster ravioli, the seafood tower, and a variety of seafood pastas, all prepared with skill and care. The service is consistently described as friendly, attentive, professional, and knowledgeable, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and a personal touch that makes guests feel at home. The interior and location near Notre Dame Basilica contribute to an appealing setting, from intimate bar seating to refined dining rooms, and the overall experience is often described as memorable and ideal for celebrations or special occasions. While prices reflect the quality and setting, many reviews note excellent value for quality, thoughtful wine pairings, and accommodations for dietary restrictions. Overall, Chez Delmo is portrayed as a reliable, high-end yet welcoming choice for seafood lovers visiting Montreal, with a reputation built on great food, superb service, and a distinctive atmosphere.
Fabulous! That's the word I'd use to describe one of the oldest & best restaurants of Montreal, Chez Delmo. Haven't been here for a while since we live in Europe with my wife, but every time its is always a pleasure to be greeted by Benoit & his wonderful team. The food is always good, this time I've tried their new Lobster Club sandwich (btw the best sandwich I ever had) & my wife ordered the Seafood Tagliatelle, which she adored. The waiters were super nice & professional as expected, & the owner recognized us & spent a good 15 mins talking to us at our table, which was lovely. I recommend without hesitation!
J'ai reçu un excellent service de la part de David qui a été sympathique & très courtois. J'y retournerais & demanderais a être servie par lui à nouveau. Le fish & chips était correct mais présentation plutôt simple, une salade de choux ou un légume d accompagnement aurait été apprécié. J'y retournerai & essayerai un autre plat
Nous avons été très bien accueillis & bien servis ici, les plats étaient succulents & excellents. On a pris, avec mon père, la sole menière & le Crabe des neiges. Je recommande !
We had an excellent experience here. The service was wonderful & the food was delicious. Lobster Thermidor was incredible as was the Walleye & Steak Tar Tar. The cocktail menu is full of classics that are executed very well. The Vespa Martini is worth going here for alone. Great atmosphere & the staff really made us feel welcome & appreciated.
Super restaurant ! Mention spéciale pour le propriétaire, son fils William & au serveur David pour leur amabilité & gentillesse. Nous avons passé un super moment & la nourriture était excellente ! Nous reviendrons c'est certain 😉
May 2, 2024
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Nous tenons à exprimer à David notre profonde gratitude pour son service exceptionnel & sa gentillesse lors de notre repas au restaurant. Votre attention aux détails & votre professionnalisme ont grandement contribué à rendre notre expérience culinaire mémorable. Merci pour votre dévouement & votre passion pour votre métier. Nous vous en sommes reconnaissants & nous espérons avoir l'occasion de revenir bientôt pour savourer à nouveau vos délicieuses créations. Avec toute notre reconnaissance,
Highly recommend Chez Delmo. The staff & management went above & beyond to accommodate my food allergy. I appreciate how easy they made it for me. The food was amazing & atmosphere was perfect. We went for dinner after a long day. If you have a food allergy make sure to reach out to the restaurant to give them a chance to prepare for your visit. Will definitely keep Chez Delmo in mind for our next trip to Montreal.
Apr 27, 2024
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- excellent service throughout the evening & also on days leading up to it when the reservation required modifications - entire staff was friendly & knowledgeable - snow crab salad was one of the highlights & worth trying in season - peaceful & friendly ambiance
Absolutely delicious & unexpected from the cocktails, wine, beers, starters & entree's. I truly mean that. My wife & I have traveled across 25+ countries & I come back to this one as my most favorite! Adam surprised me with his modern yet simple twist on classic cocktails & Benoit helped to encourage me to a fantastic meal. After many visits in Montreal, this is by far my most memorable restaurant/friendly experience.
Apr 17, 2024
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The pandemic has curtailed my restaurant experiences in the last two years however, I was exuberant to receive an invitation to Chez Delmo recently. It was my third event there in as many years! The atmosphere was unique, elegant & charming & the the sitting arrangements allowed for privacy as well as maximum comfort. We were fortunate to be served by William who headed the service. What an extraordinary young man! Knowledgeable, courteous, efficient, skilled, & so entertaining! The meal was mouthwateringly delicious.....had the endive salad as well as the Lobster Roll which easily rivaled those I used to enjoy in Maine. Sumptuous! The host, Ben Dessureault was assuredly an exceptional individual....inclusive, informed, witty & elegant. I urge all to partake of this experience! There are so few things that come with an assurance, & this is one of them! What a wonderful way to spend the evening!
I was passing by the restaurant with my husband a few days ago & we were looking for someplace to eat with a great atmosphere. We were charmed by its looks even from the street point of view, so we decided to give it a try. & we weren't dissapointed! The ambiance of the Delmo is at the same time both class & warm, & it's exactly the type of restaurants that I like the most. Great selection of seafood, some vegetarian options too (even off-menu, you can just tell the waiter you're vegetarian & the kitchen will do something special for you) & a very good service. I recommend without a doubt & will come back for sure!
