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.
Personnel sympa, belle ambiance.
Excellente nourriture, bien que les portions étaient petites pour le prix.
L'un des deux employés sur place ne parlait pas français.
Nous avons adoré notre souper chez Darbar. Un personnel attentionné, une nourriture délicieuse & bien relevée, une ambiance intime & un menu abordable. Merci pour cet excellent repas.
Darbar is a beautiful hidden gem. The ambiance, music & decor, right down to the dishes & cutlery are so uniquely presented. The owner & entire staff are so friendly & kind. The food is authentic Indian & simply delicious. I look forward to our next dinner here.
Jan 12, 2023
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AMAZING FOOD!! If you love Indian food, that's your Place to go!! Waitress super friendly & explained us the whole menu! We loved everything & we will be back!!
Belle découverte! Un petit restaurant chaleureux, belle ambiance, la nourriture est excellente & savoureuse. On sent qu'il y a de l'amour dans les plats préparés
Family owned restaurant with traditional dishes! ambiance is great (floor tables & up ones) first look at the restaurant you couldn't tell it is so great... hidden gem. The food was amazing
Dec 12, 2022
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Birthday dinner, party of 4 & we are absolutely delighted with all aspect of the dinner. The owner & chef came several times to make sure we were happy that everything was perfect. We are used to Indian cuisine but at Darbar, we found the food to be more refined with a delicate & sofisticated taste! We loved it & surs recommend it.
It was some of the best Indian food I have ever had. The service was great, very attentive & kind people. I would recommend this for anyone looking to get good Indian food in Montreal
La nourriture était excellente & remplie de saveurs!! Première expérience à ce restaurant car nous habitons à Québec & nous voulions découvrir un nouvel endroit. Le pain naan était encore chaud & moelleux. Nous avons pris les samosas en entrée qui étaient parfaitement équilibré & la sauce piquante était au choix. Nous avons choisi le thali qui est une combinaison de pain naan, riz, poulet tandoori, poulet au cari & légumes au choix du jour. Chaque tapas était épicé différemment. Le personnel était courtois, ricaneux & gentil, même le chef/propriétaire est venu vérifier si nous avions aimé notre repas. Les prix etaient plus que raisonnables pour la quantité. Assurément nous reviendrons souper ici, quelle belle découverte! Merci pour ce bon repas!
