Escondite delivers a vibrant exploration of contemporary Mexican street food culture through an extensive selection of artisanal tacos and curated Latin American small plates. The menu emphasizes bold flavor profiles by pairing premium proteins like slow-cooked carnitas and crispy baja fish with house-made salsas and fresh, zesty garnishes. Diners encounter a high-energy environment characterized by eclectic decor and a prominent focus on agave-based spirits. The kitchen demonstrates technical precision in balancing traditional preparation methods with modern culinary flair to ensure every dish maintains structural integrity and authentic taste. Signature items like the charred corn esquites and complex mole variations highlight a commitment to regional diversity. This establishment prioritizes consistent ingredient quality across its entire taco-focused repertoire, providing a dynamic sensory experience that defines the essence of modern urban taquerias through meticulous preparation and robust seasoning.
Escondite is widely celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, creative Mexican and Asian fusion menu, and standout cocktails, particularly the margaritas. Many guests praise the delicious food, especially the tacos, guacamole, and unique gyoza nachos, noting that the decor and overall vibe make it a fantastic destination in Old Port. While service is frequently described as exceptional and attentive, some diners report inconsistencies, citing issues with long wait times, occasionally rude staff, or challenges with dietary requests. Opinions on portion sizes and value are mixed, as several visitors feel the dishes are quite small and expensive, though the majority appreciate the quality and lively setting for social gatherings.
I would avoid this restaurant if you are visiting Montreal! We went for dinner on Friday - our server was very rude & ignored us. We were never given napkins or even cutlery for our meal. The table beside us arrived after & had all their drinks & food before our drinks even came. We ordered guac & chips, which also never came. There was no apology or even an attempt to serve us with any level of care. We left very frustrated! The food was good, but the service was awful.
Très longue attente pour avoir une place , nous avons commander après un certain temps d'attente , un drink chacune & une assietes de tacos à partager , la nourriture on aurait pu se croire dans un resort cheap dans le sud , la viande pleine de gras & ordinaire c'était supposer être l'assiette tacos al pastor avec coriandre oignon & ananas & la viande , il y avait 2 morceau d'ananas en tout ..3-4 oignon .. aucune coriandre & la
Viande digne d'un tacos à Cuba ! Les drinks eux sont arriver à la fin du repas au même moment que nous étions rendu à la
Facture , la serveuse n'étais pas en mesure de répondre à aucune de nos questions sur le menu de nourriture ni alcool , service très lent , & nourriture ordinaire , nous n'y retournerons clairement pas!
I rarely write reviews, but I felt compelled to share my experience after a very disappointing visit to Escondite on May 22nd.
I've been to this location many times over the years, & it has always been one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in Montreal. I've even brought friends visiting from out of town because I've consistently enjoyed the food & atmosphere. Unfortunately, this visit was disappointing on multiple levels.
We had a reservation for 7:30 PM. Upon arrival, we entered through the restaurant as we had done during previous visits & were told by the employee at the door to go back outside to the patio. When we went to the patio, the hostess told us that we should have entered through the restaurant. The conflicting directions were confusing, & the interaction itself was not particularly welcoming. Rather than making us feel like valued guests, it felt as though seating us was an inconvenience.
The most concerning issue occurred when we ordered a virgin cocktail. We specifically requested the non-alcoholic version & confirmed it with our server. However, the drink that arrived contained alcohol. As someone who has never consumed alcohol, I found this extremely disappointing & concerning. Mistakes can happen, but what was equally disappointing was the lack of a sincere apology or any effort to make the situation right. The drink was simply taken back & replaced, with little acknowledgment of the seriousness of the mistake.
Finally, the food quality was noticeably below the standard I've come to expect from Escondite. One of the reasons I've returned so many times is because of the consistently good food, but this visit felt very different. The overall quality was disappointing, & the meal simply did not reflect the level that had made this restaurant one of my favorites.
I am not a picky customer, nor am I someone who regularly leaves reviews. However, between the confusing arrival experience, the incorrect alcoholic drink, & the decline in food quality, this was by far my most disappointing visit. I'm sharing this feedback because I genuinely enjoy this restaurant & hope these issues are addressed so that future guests have a better experience.
10/10 restaurant for nice meal & fun drink!! The Birria Taco was so very delicious, perfectly tender meat & amazing overall!!! Our service was outstanding with our drinks arriving perfectly with our dishes, even on a game night😁!! I will definitely be coming back for more!!
This place is a mess, poor service poor customer service. The food is mediocre for the prices they are charging. Also this was the first restourant i have even been that the food came before the drinks which were late more than 20 min. Avoid, its not worth it.
Wonderful place in Old Montreal! Recommended by another patron, & it did not disappoint. Our waiter (Camille) was very kind, & food/drinks were delicious. Highly recommend!
