Darbar is widely praised as an intimate, cozy, family run Indian restaurant in Montreal where flavors are rich and dishes are prepared with care and from scratch. Reviewers note attentive service and a warm, personalized dining experience with moments such as the staff coming to the table to explain dishes and tailor them to spice preferences. The menu is described as authentic and varied, with balanced spices and fresh ingredients and occasional seasonal highlights. The ambiance is consistently described as cozy and charming, with real candles, dim lighting, and a mix of quiet dinners and lively jazz on select nights, plus a winter indoors and summer patio vibe. Pricing is considered reasonable for the quality and for sharing plates with friends or family. Dietary needs are well accommodated, including gluten free and vegan options, and staff are noted for asking about spice tolerance and customizing dishes. While most experiences are outstanding, some reviews mention slower service in a small, busy space and a few dishes that were less impressive. Overall, this spot is seen as a standout for authentic Indian cuisine in Montreal and a must visit for food lovers.
Had the chance to check out Darbar, & the food was incredibley tasty, staff was also very nice & hospitable. Tried the seekh kebab, murgh malai, chicken biryani, & chicken tikka masala, & the mango lassi was amazing. The only drawback was that the portion sizes were on the small side. This is especially true with the appetizers. The owner mentioned to us everything on the menu is $2-4 more expensive than the menu price due to inflation which most people probably understand these days, though I was still expecting the portions to be consistent with any other Indian restaurant. Overall food was delicious & certainly worth trying. Just not satisfied paying $130 for 2 people.
Super friendly & accommodating staff. Food is great & get substantial portions for the price. It deffinatly feels like a family run spot. I suspect some/most 1 start reviews are from a competitors network, or different ethnic Indian groups. Darbar deffinalty deserves a much higher rating!
Amazing hospitality, the food was top notch. Authentic to the brand of North Indian cuisine. The staff were very attentive. & I loved the butter chicken, so yummy, additionally had a mango smoothie that was to die for! Will be returning!
I recently dined at this Indian food restaurant, & it was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish! The ambiance was inviting, the staff was attentive & friendly, &, most importantly, the food was out of this world.
From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The flavors in every dish were rich, authentic, & bursting with spices that transported my taste buds straight to India. The menu had a fantastic variety of options to choose from, & each one I tried was a culinary masterpiece.
The butter chicken was creamy & flavorful, the biryani was fragrant & perfectly cooked, & the naan bread was soft & pillowy. I can’t forget to mention the mouthwatering delectable mango lassi, which were the perfect way to start & finish my meal.
The presentation of the dishes was also impressive, showing the care & attention to detail that the chefs put into their craft. The portion sizes were generous, ensuring that I left with a satisfied belly.
I can’t recommend this restaurant enough to anyone looking for an authentic Indian dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this place will exceed your expectations. I’ll definitely be returning soon for another unforgettable meal!
It was the best, healthy delicious Indian food we have ever had. The staff was attentive & offered suggestions. This is a must place to dine whenever we are in Montreal.
Oct 4, 2023
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Fairly standard Indian spot. Small portion for mains (especially the tandoori fish) but big rice portions (they said 1 portion for 1 person but should feed 2). Flavour was decent but certainly not the best. Malai kofta was the best dish we tried.
This is the best Indian food I have ever had It is delicious & is very much cuisine (not food) - you can taste the individual spices. Our waiter was fantastic - he spent time with us, talked to us about the dishes, gave suggestions of what to do in Montreal. This is our second time at Darbar, & we will be sure to visit every time we are in Montreal.
Sep 7, 2023
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The best Indian food we've had in Montreal. The owner & Chef took the time to greet us & explain the menu. We were a party of 6 & felt well cared for, not rushed & comfortable. The recommended wine was perfect, the beer tasty & the food bursting with flavor. Darbar is a small space with outdoor seating. We enjoyed it all.
Darbar is an exceptional Indian restaurant that truly captivates the senses. Under the skillful guidance of its owner, this hidden gem delivers an authentic culinary experience that transports diners to the heart of India. The owner's dedication to authenticity shines through in every meticulously crafted dish, while the warm hospitality & inviting ambiance make for a memorable dining experience. Darbar is a testament to the owner's passion & expertise, offering a delightful taste of India right here in Montreal.
