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.
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.
Darbar is truly exceptional! I think the thing that sets it apart is the complexity & variety of the spices & flavourings. We always enjoy a meal here. The staff & the owner demonstrate genuine pride in the excellence of their offerings.
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!
I am shocked at how amazing the food was! Like genuinely shocked! The food was finger licking good, ordered more than I could eat & still ate it all! The chefs definitely has magic in their hands, outside of home I have never had such savoury & flavourful food, the aromas & the taste of it all was so magnificent & explosive with flavour I could spend the entire day there trying everything off the menu! If you want Punjabi/South Asian food & you're in Montreal; you have to... wait you NEED to eat here! You'll never go anywhere else after!
Nov 12, 2023
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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!
Thank you for making such a special night for my birthday with all of my friends! I had such a wonderful time & your staff were welcoming & kind. I was especially delighted when I was given a free dessert for my birthday! You guys truly did an amazing job & I'm so glad that I picked your restaurant to celebrate at.
Nov 5, 2023
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The food was vert good.Thanks for the lady who serve us in french. I can't say the same for all the rest of the communication,the site for reservation, the survey, etc. Who were all in english.
Not only was the food impeccably delicious, the owners of this restaurant are such a delightful & hard-working family. They radiate with kindness in that place. Please give it a shot, you won't be disappointed. P.s TRY THE PAKORAS!
Un excellent restaurant, des plats tout aussi bons les uns que les autres, un service impeccable & charmant & de magnifiques couverts & plats. Je n'aurais pu souhaiter mieux pour mon anniversaire, c'était parfait !
