Hayat is often described as a standout Lebanese and Syrian restaurant in Montreal's Old Port, with elegant decor, a warm atmosphere, and a lively yet comfortable vibe. Reviews praise generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a variety of signature dishes such as baba ghanoush, shawarma, hummus, fattoush, lamb shank, and baklava pancakes. Service is repeatedly highlighted as a strength, with many noting attentive and professional staff and a welcoming front of house, though a few guests mention occasional slower moments or seating that could feel more intimate. Bar and patio options add to a flexible dining experience, suitable for dates, celebrations, and casual meals alike. While many describe consistent quality and a memorable overall experience, some reviews mention the price and portion sizes being out of balance. Overall, Hayat is seen as a top choice for authentic Middle Eastern flavors in Montreal, offering delicious food and a warm atmosphere, with room for improvement in service consistency and value.
I had one of the most outstanding meals here, complemented by exceptional service. Nathaniel, our server, delivered the best service I've ever experienced-extremely knowledgeable, friendly, professional, & attentive. We ordered the Boreg, Kebab Halloumi, & short ribs. For drinks, we tried the whiskey sour, Matcha martini & espresso martini. They were divine! The most delicious meals & drinks I've ever tasted. This place is now at the very top of my list.
KHALEDD !!! You made our day we came all the way from EDMONTON ... unfortunately & we ended up having the best fricken time at this little cute restaurant ! From the min we walked in to when we sat down was just amazing ! He even took the time to have a drink with us recommended places to go which were safe for us group of ladies 35 + haha ( young by heart) but honestly you guys if you EVER come downtown Montreal you need to come here ! The food was perfect as our day food ! Thanks HAYAT
tourists trap food sucks no taste service is not good & tables & chairs & booths not clean food crumbs all.over the place mixed drinks over powering . 2 ppl $200 plus later . 1h after 2 of us went the Duns & had a better meal for 100
We visited this restaurant after roaming the entire street & we were famished. We walked -in because we wanted to have nice brunch with some protein. We don't wat meat so eggs is the only source of protein which was easily available & we saw shakshuka on the menu so we went in. I knew it was a $$$ restaurant but didn't know they would serve shashuka with just 1 egg for 28 CAD. Shashuka was really delicious but I didn't expect it to come with just 1 egg in it & 1 thin bread toast. We asked them for extra toast, the server was nice enough to mention that the extra toast would take some time & they would also charge us for it. We didn't mind doing that but we just skipped it. The muhmara dip was delicious & it came with free pita so we just ate that with the shashuka. We ordered 2 drinks out of which the rose garden drink was really nice but again they were super pricy. We had their Syrian pudding which was yummilicious. It had perfect amount of sweetness & was garnished really well. Ambience is also really nice. Service was a little slow even though the restaurant wasn't that full. I think the staff is pretty new coz they forgot to serve us water & silverware & when reminded for water the server said he would send someone & forgot again coz he wasn't the server assigned for our table🙄 Usually I re-visit restaurants which serve delicious food but I would not visit this place again coz I felt it was ridiculously expensive. We spent $$$ for just 1 dip, 1 main course, 1 dessert & 2 drinks & the quantity also wasn't enough for the main course. I hope they read this review & work on their costing.
Fattoush salad served with two teaspoons? Shareable not served with small plates. Portions were too small, food was dry (the meat). Server took away plate before we even finished it. Water glasses were always filled half way. But the drinks were nice & refreshing.
Atmospheric Lebanese Muslim owned beauty of a restaurant. Smart flavor combinations & options for both meat & veg eaters. Lovely location & sweet staff- drinks that will cool off your soul.
Jul 2, 2024
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I had a wonderful experience at Hayat last week! It was my first time dining there & my waiter Chris gave my friends & I the best recommendations for our meal & drinks. Will definitely be back soon!
Had the best experience this weekend. Good food & amazing service from Ceila. Try the butterfly drink it's to die for. Would definitely recommend it to friends.
Hostess is great. Waitress is lost. Chicken was super dry & the mouhamara was not edible. Nice terasse. Nice crowd. Not a place for supper, perhaps drinks
It probably is the best spot in the old port to grab some nice food & drinks. We ordered the muhammara, zaatar focaccia, kibbeh naye, soujouk, manti, lamb shawarma tacos & fattet batinjein - everything were delicious & portions were decent enough to share between 3-4 people at a reasonable price. As for drinks, we took the butterfly effect & the patron spritz, which were all nice as well. When I first drank the butterfly effect cocktail, I made a slight face because I found it too strong but it was my fault as I didn't mix it enough - but the lovely bartender immediately noticed it & didn't hesitate to offer me a new drink (to which I declined since it was my mistake & when mixed enough the drink is amazing). The waitors & waitresses were quick & polite as well. Service & food are 10/10. I used to always go to Damas but this might be my new favorite place to go for Syrian/Lebanese food, especially this summer when it will be terrasse season.
Très bon restaurant avec un service chaleureux. On nous a conseillé pour les plats, les drinks & le fonctionnement. Notre verre d'eau était toujours rempli. Ils font également attention pour les allergies (c'était fruits de mer & gluten pour nous). Nous avons pu rester plusieurs heures simplement pour jaser & jamais nous avons senti que nous devions quitter. Il y a eu plusieurs anniversaires pendant la soirée, alors attendez-vous à entre chanter ;) ! La seule chose que j'aurais aimé c'est avoir un peu plus d'option de drinks sans alcool (bière, cidre ou atypique sans alcool par exemple). Il y avait seulement 3 options sur le menu qui pouvait être fait sans alcool.
A big table of many people were constantly bumping on our table, quite noisy. music too loud, but overall loved the food, & drinks were amazing. Our server was very sweet to adapt to all our dietary restrictons & allergies, & made our experience great.
