Come and join us for an enchanted Syrian evening located Montreal’s chic and gastronomic heart of Outremont, on Van Horne Avenue. At Restaurant Damas, a uniquely comfortable microcosm will greet you with warm colours, velours, carved wood, and multicoloured lights.
Damas earns widespread praise for its refined Syrian and Middle Eastern cuisine, with a wide mezze spread, standout lamb dishes, octopus, and a balanced mix of bold and subtle flavors that many describe as deeply satisfying. The presentations are often praised as beautiful, ingredients high quality, and the open kitchen and warm ambiance add to a special night out. Service is repeatedly lauded as professional, attentive, and knowledgeable, with staff guiding guests through the menu and wine or cocktails, though a few experiences mention slow pacing during busy times or inconsistent timing. The tasting menu and wine pairing are a highlight for many, offering generous portions and a cohesive culinary journey, while others feel the price point is high for the portions or that some dishes do not justify the cost. Brunch is also highlighted as a good value and a way to sample the kitchen, while some reviews note that the atmosphere can be loud or the room crowded. Overall, Damas is regarded as a top Montreal dining destination for rich flavors, elegant service, and a memorable, if premium, dining experience.
We went out of our comfort zone this year & tried something new & oh my, this will place will be on our "regular" list going forward. It was THAT good. . Here is what we ate 1- GRILLED OCTOPUS Grilled octopus (T2), Aleppo pepper lemon sauce, green fava bean puree, cherry tomato & caper salsa 2- SOUR CHERRY KEBAB Charcoal grilled lamb kebab, Aleppo sour cherry sauce, seven spices, pine nuts, grilled Saj bread with butter 3- RACK OF LAMB (18 OZ) Alberta rack of lamb, seven spices, green hummus, Biwaz pita & tahini sauce 4- MIXED HOMEMADE BAKLAVA FOR 2 . . Everything was good. Anything cooked in an open grill is good. Smokey goodness. I'm still thinking of the sour cherry kebabs. That sauce, I wanna dip anything in that sauce. . If there's one place to go, it's gonna be @damasrestaurant - so make sure to check them out on your next visit to Montreal. You can make reservations via @opentable
When we travel, I spend time researching restaurants. We were thrilled to find that Damas is excellent. If we lived in Montreal we would eat here weekly. It is worth it. Our sever suggested a Syrian Bordeaux style blend & it was amazing. Entree portions are large, so watch it with the excellent first course choices like delicious octopus & grilled halloumi. I had lamb shoulder with tomato & okra & it was amazing. My wife enjoyed the duck. Service was also great. Damas is a do not miss restaurant experience.
Dec 9, 2024
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Our recent dining experience at Damas, a renowned Syrian restaurant in Montreal, was nothing short of outstanding. From the moment we stepped inside, we were transported to the Middle East through the restaurant's stunning ambiance, rich aromas, & a symphony of flavors that left an unforgettable impression. Food & Drinks The quality of the food at Damas is simply exceptional. Each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing the perfect balance of spices, fresh ingredients, & authentic Syrian flavors. The taste & aromas were exquisite, & we found ourselves savoring every bite. It was impossible to pick a favorite dish as each one seemed to outshine the last. The non-alcoholic beverages were equally delightful, crafted with care & offering unique flavor profiles that complemented the meal perfectly. Service The service at Damas was equally impressive. Our waiter was approachable, welcoming, & genuinely kind, making us feel right at home. What stood out most was the attentiveness of the entire staff. They circled the tables frequently, ensuring our glasses of water were always refilled & our bread basket was constantly replenished. The hosts were also lovely & attentive, escorting us to our table with warmth & professionalism. Atmosphere The atmosphere at Damas is vibrant, spacious, & beautifully decorated. Each section of the restaurant has its own unique vibe, allowing guests to find the perfect setting to match their mood. This thoughtful design added to the overall experience, making it even more memorable. Room for Improvement While our experience inside the restaurant was flawless, the surrounding area felt a bit off-putting. The streets outside were noticeably dirty, & we felt slightly unsafe as we arrived. It's surprising that such a beautiful & well-run establishment is situated in this particular location, as it feels out of place. That said, once inside, all concerns melted away, & the restaurant provided a stunning escape. Overall Damas is a culinary gem that offers an authentic & unforgettable Syrian dining experience. The exceptional food, attentive service, & vibrant ambiance are unmatched. Despite the challenges with the surrounding area, we will undoubtedly be returning to this fantastic restaurant. Absolutely delicious from start to finish!
First time just try the tasting menu. Stand out items was fish & lamb chops. Enjoyed everything, lots of complex flavors. Can't wait to go back. Will definitely get the lamb chops & fish.
I've eaten here a few times & it is still one of my favourite restaurants of all times. I am celiac so tasting menus can be difficult sometimes. Damas was able to accommodate & we were a walk-in. Everything was delicious. Ambiance is great. I can't wait to go back!
Nov 11, 2024
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Bel endroit avec une ambiance unique. Excellent service. Les plats sont classiques mais savoureux. C'est toutefois très cher & manque un peu de créativité & d'originalité pour le prix.
Here's a refined & polished version: --- We came here to celebrate our 4-year anniversary after it was highly recommended by some friends who visit regularly. & it did not disappoint! We booked online a couple of weeks in advance without any issues. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly greeted by several staff members & promptly shown to our table. The décor was exquisite, just like in the photos, creating a charming ambiance that was sophisticated yet unpretentious. The seating was comfortable, & we had the choice of still or sparkling water as we browsed the cocktail menu. I tried the Aleppo gin sour-a vibrant green cocktail with strong coriander notes (a word of warning if you're not a coriander fan!). It was fantastic; I ended up having two. My girlfriend enjoyed two different gin-based cocktails & loved each one. Being our first time, we decided to try the tasting menu, & it was outstanding. While I'm not deeply familiar with Syrian or even Lebanese cuisine, I was blown away by each of the 12 dishes, each offering unique textures, an abundance of nuts, pomegranate seeds, & complex spice blends. Our server was exceptional (blond woman, didn't get her name, MERCI BEAUCOUP !) - attentive & personable, asking if we had any food preferences or intolerances. My girlfriend isn't a fan of raw meat, like tartare (which I personally love), & our server graciously provided her with an alternative dish. The rest of the staff was equally attentive, efficiently clearing plates & replacing our utensils throughout the evening. In short, an unforgettable experience. We'll definitely be back! It is on the pricier side, but for a unique, top-tier dining experience in the city, it's worth every penny. Bravo to the entire team! Gros merci encore.
Had a wonderful time at Damas celebrating a birthday. This was our second time & exceptional in comparison. The staff is on top of their game, know the menu & are quick with cleaning the table & replacing cutlery & plates in between courses. We opted for the tasting menu. Only negative is the pricing at $160 per person. We've dined at Michelin star restraunts in Toronto that cost less. Rest assured, the quality & quantity of food is just perfect. All the dishes were mindblowing. Olives were decent. Fattoush salad was fresh. The appetizers (Kibbe, fish, shrimp) & kebabs (lamb chops, skewer) were too good & flavorful. Shish tawouk could be a little more juicy. It was a bit dry but also white meat. We're glad we opted for the tasting menu. The ambiance is very beautiful & cozy. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Food was amazing, so many wonderful choices, we tried most of the menu. Service was 5 star, so attentive, friendly & helpful. Ambiance was inviting & comfortable. We will be back every time we're in Montreal!!
Sep 28, 2024
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I recently had the pleasure of dining at Damas Restaurant with my family, & I can confidently say it exceeded my expectations. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was so unique, elegant yet welcoming, setting the perfect tone for our evening. One of the standout features of this restaurant is the generous portion sizes. Each dish was beautifully presented & packed with flavor, making it a delightful experience for the palate. I ordered the rack of lamb, & I was pleasantly surprised by how hearty the serving was-definitely enough to share (though I didn't want to!). The service was impeccable, with attentive staff who were knowledgeable about the menu & eager to make recommendations. They truly elevated our dining experience without being intrusive. Overall, Damas is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to indulge in high-quality cuisine without leaving hungry. It's perfect for families, groups, & date nights, showcasing its versatility & welcoming atmosphere. I can't recommend it enough & can't wait to return for another memorable meal!
Damas is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, the warm ambiance & elegant decor set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The food is simply outstanding - each dish bursts with authentic Syrian flavors, perfectly seasoned & beautifully presented. The mezze are a must-try, especially kebbh nayeh & falafel The service is top-notch, with attentive staff who are more than happy to guide you through the menu & make excellent recommendations. Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a special gathering, Damas will exceed your expectations. A true culinary masterpiece - I can't wait to return!
A friend & I splurged on the tasting menu - still dreaming about the lamb & the fattoush among other things. Every item we tried was absolutely delicious. Highly highly recommend for a special occasion or to turn a normal day special. Great service too! Highly recommend, cannot rave enough about the quality of the ingredients & just the whole culinary experience.
One of the best restaurants in the city. Excellent food & service. Very pricey but you get what you paid for. I've tried the tasting menu several years ago & it was very good & way cheaper than it is now. I've also tried a la carte. Lamb is excellent. Everything is executed well. Definitely a special meal for a special occasion unless you have the wallet to eat here more than once a year. Highly recommend.
Sep 19, 2024
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Had the pleasure of dining at Damas & it was an unforgettable experience. The ambiance is warm & inviting. The menu offers a delightful mix of dishes, showcasing the chef's creativity & commitment to quality. Every bite was a burst of flavor, especially the pastirma. The lamp chops & filet mignon were perfectly cooked & beautifully presented. The service was impeccable. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want a great meal, Damas is a MUST!
**Title: A Taste of Syria with Unmatched Ambiance!** I recently dined at Damas, a Mediterranean Syrian restaurant that completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I stepped inside, I was transported to a different world-a perfect blend of traditional Syrian charm & modern comfort. The atmosphere is what really sets this place apart. The décor reflects the rich cultural heritage of Syria, with intricate patterns, warm earthy tones, & beautiful lanterns casting a soft, inviting glow. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance-relaxed yet lively, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners & gatherings with friends. The music playing softly in the background adds to the experience, with traditional melodies that complement the dining experience beautifully. The staff is incredibly welcoming, always ready with a smile & eager to share recommendations from the menu. As for the food, it's nothing short of spectacular. Each dish is a celebration of authentic Syrian flavors, made with fresh ingredients & a lot of love. From the perfectly spiced kebabs to the creamy hummus & freshly baked pita, every bite was a delight. The menu offers a wide variety of options, making it easy to find something for everyone. Damas is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience. The combination of delicious food, warm hospitality, & an unforgettable ambiance makes it a standout in the Mediterranean dining scene. I can't wait to return & bring more friends along to enjoy this hidden gem!
Very nice decoration of the restaurant, the ambiance & atmosphere is relaxing, it gets packed & is full, busy, but the service is fast & efficient, the real garlic sauce, the hummus, the quality of the food is remarkable & a good way to experience this type of gastronomy. Recommended spot.
I've been to Damas for YEARS, & every single time I get excellent service. A spot for a special occasion or to impress people out of town. The lamb is DELICIOUS!
