Reviewers consistently praise Darbar for meticulously crafted flavors and dishes that feel both authentic and thoughtfully modern, from butter chicken and dal makhni to nihari, murg malai, seekh kebabs, and a variety of naans, all prepared from scratch with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is described as intimate and cozy, with warm, attentive service and a welcoming, family run vibe, and the chef often greets tables to discuss the menu and tailor dishes to spice tolerance and dietary needs, including gluten free and vegan options. The dining experience is frequently complemented by personal touches such as table conversations, seasonal recommendations, and occasional live jazz or a refined beverage program, making it a strong choice for dates and gatherings alike. Many reviews call it a hidden gem and among the top Indian eateries in Montreal, noting high consistency over years and a sense of warmth that balances flavor, presentation, and value. While most responses are glowing, a few criticisms surface regarding occasional slower service, smaller portions relative to price, or limited vegetarian options on some menus, yet these do not substantially dampen the overall impression of a special, chef led dining experience.
It's was not bad but certainly not good! There are other Indian restaurants with a higher quality of dishes, we were quite disappointed when we went there! On top of this, it's quite expensive so I would not recommend going there
The head chef is incredibly inviting & helpful. The food was delicious, & I was particularly impressed with the vegetarian entrees recommended by the chef.
We were delighted with the quality of the food. Everything from the daal soup to the chicken masala, customized aloo saag for me & my wife's lamb curry was delicious!! The mango lassi was amazing. We also had a tea that was out of this world. It was not on the menu, but recommended by our host, it is did not disappoint! We highly recommend Darbar & we will return!
By far my favorite Indian food, of all the places I've tried in every city I've lived in. I often make the trip from Vermont to Montreal specifically to eat dinner here, walk around St Laurent, & head back to the US. You can feel the love in every dish that hits the table, & when you hear this place's back story & learn more about the amazing family that runs it, you can't help but love the food all the more. Couldn't recommend more :)
Nourriture de qualité! Sevice familial convivial!! & puis nous sommes servis en français!! A Montreal ce nest pas acquis parler francais!Je recommande sans hésiter!!! Très belle experience! Miam miam!!@
The madras curry was phenomenal, unlike any curry I've had. The cocktails were also exceptional & very well presented. The service was also very friendly & warm, & the chef told us about the ingredients in our dishes. Would recommend!
Chef Samir , is excellent , we had the best Indian cuisine at Darbar , Montreal in Canada , the flavours were perfect , gave home food touch & great service , best wishes & highly recommend; when at Montreal
I told the head chef that this was the best meal I've had in a while, but the more I think about it it may be the best meal I've had....... ever. The service was exceptional, the staff was so caring & welcoming, the environment was so comfortable, & the FOOD. Perfectly balanced, beautifully tender, well portioned & priced. I am struggling to put this into words. It makes sense that the staff are so wonderful & passionate considering what a high degree of excellence they have achieved. I recommend this place to anyone who likes enjoying things.
Tastiest restaurant in Montreal, absolutely delicious food, we had a great time. Simar (exec chef) & his mother are very welcoming. Highly recommend even if you're new to indian food in general.
I had a very unique experience here & the food was great, it was personable & quaint. I would definitely recommend & also a word of advice to pre book a table as the restaurant is small.
Dining at Darbar offers an unparalleled culinary journey. Chef & owner Simar personally visits each table, offering insights into the menu & the stories behind your selections. Every dish, having been perfected over months, presents a distinctive twist on traditional Indian cuisine. The ambiance is cozy, complementing the vibrant flavors & lively atmosphere. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.
Nous avons eu le grand plaisir de souper dans un restaurant chaleureux, aux plats exquis & au service plus qu'impeccable. Le Darbar est sans aucun doute l'un des meilleurs restaurants indien de Montréal. La nourriture est délicieuse, les épices & arômes sont bien balancés, & les employé·e·s sont d'une gentillesse inouïe. Nous recommandons à tous & à toutes ce restaurant, où nous retournerons assurément !
Outstanding!!!!!! Amazing service & delicious food. The chef... hats off! We had the wine of the house & the fish with mint sauce --it was from another world! 🤯 you have to try it🤩🤩🤩 I wish I could eat there everyday 🥰😋😋😋 One year after update Darbar is our favourite restaurant, the food is always excellent & the service is fast & friendly. We love going there, we always recommend darbar to all our friends & family 💖
