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.
I visited Darbar on a Saturday evening with my family & discovered a hidden gem in Montreal serving the best Indian food. Everyone at Darbar was so warm & welcoming, which is rare these days. Will keep visiting
Meilleur restaurant indien dans lequel j'ai mangé. En fait, c'est la meilleure bouffe indienne à laquelle j'ai goûté dans ma vie! Tout était incroyablement savoureux. La présentation était superbe & nous avons eu un très bon service. Une mention spéciale à l'entrée de samosay pakoray! Une belle découverte!
For the past few years, I've done my best to come here a few times a year. It's a little inconvenient, & Montreal has no shortage of great Indian food, but this place is special. Before saying a word about the food, it's worth noting the resiliency of this establishment. Faced with barriers, literal ones put up by the city's slow-moving roadwork, it has continued to fight on to preserve the memories of the family that created it. I consider going here, in some ways, a political act. That said, given how good the food is, it doesn't take much to get inspired to go. The presentation of the food is as wonderful as its flavors - the small touches, like literal flowers, bring every dish to the next level. I find that everything I try here is always an elevated version of the comforting flavors I've had elsewhere. The chef is sensitive to spice tolerance (I can handle the heat, but my partner less so), which makes it a good spot for everyone. I've been treated with the experience of trying new desserts in the works & given great advice on wine pairings. I brought my toddler once & they went out of their way to keep her occupied with little snacks along the way so we didn't feel we had to manage her too much or rush out. All of this to say, that if you're looking for a delicious meal from a place that earns every penny it makes, go here & you will not be disappointed!
Nov 25, 2024
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Nous avons découvert ce petit restaurant & nous avons été charmé par sa nourriture, ses propriétaires & son ambiance. Nous le recommandons fortement. En plus, on y aide la francisation des nouveaux arrivants. Le serveur était aussi très à l'écoute & nous a fait d'excellentes recommandations.
Best Indian food we tried in Montreal, we were there with friends last weekend & tried Indian food at two places, Darbar & Le Taj (one which is rated as #1 restaurant in Montreal). Darbar food & the service hands down beat Le Taj. The warmth & love with which chef welcomes you & takes care of you, it feels almost like you are eating at your family home. Space is limited so please do reservation. We will definitely be back for food at Darbar, wont mind driving from upstate NY all the way to Montreal just of the dinner - with regards to Le Taj, not so much.
I was walking back to my car after an event, hungry & deciding where to eat. From across the street, I could smell the food from outside & decided to walk in! Best decision! The hostess/ waitress was very kind, the food was absolutely delicious (I had the Dahl soup & meat thali), perfectly portioned as well as totally fair priced IMO. I would go there again & recommend in a heart beat!
Nov 21, 2024
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Adorable petit resto tout simple, tenu depuis des années par la même famille. J'y suis allée quelques fois, & c'est toujours un enchantement. C'est maintenant le fils du fondateur qui est aux fourneaux, & il reste fidèle aux principes familiaux: une bonne cuisine authentique, généreuse & savoureuse, un accueil chaleureux & une ambiance conviviale. Qui plus est, le personnel se fait un point d'honneur de nous servir en français. Il y a même, en marge du menu, une note qui nous demande de persister à parler français aux employés qui ne maîtrisent pas encore très bien la langue, afin qu'ils puissent s'améliorer. À Montréal, c'est rare. J'y retournerai sûrement! Un conseil : Réservez! Le resto est tout petit & se remplit vite.
Intimate atmosphere, delicious food, lovely waiters. Food is all cooked from scratch for each meal, so be prepared to wait, but it is well worth the wait! Also, they were very nice to convert the vegetarian thali into a vegan thali. Thank you!
Quelle expérience gastronomique extraordinaire! Nous avions demandé au chef de nous faire tomber en amour avec sa cuisine à l'aveugle & nous avons été conquises dès les entrées. Les saveurs étaient exquises & l'ambiance était magnifique. Une expérience à vivre.
Amazing food especially loved the Aloo Tikki & Baingan Bhartha.. Last but not the least hospitality by Simar was next level. He made us feel so comfortable & was so service driven ensuring to give us the time we needed to understand & decide what it is we wanted. Kudos to the entire team at Darbar❤️👌100%
