Monday

11:30 am - 10 pm

Tuesday

11:30 am - 10 pm

Wednesday

11:30 am - 10 pm

Thursday

11:30 am - 10:30 pm

Friday

11:30 am - 10:30 pm

Saturday

5 pm - 10:30 pm

Sunday

5 pm - 10 pm

About

Holder occupies a sprawling industrial space characterized by high ceilings and exposed brickwork that define its bustling atmosphere. The kitchen focuses on refined French brasserie staples with an emphasis on technical precision. Signature preparations include expertly seasoned hand-cut beef tartare served alongside crisp, golden frites. Mussels arrive in generous portions, steamed in aromatic broths that highlight the natural salinity of the shellfish. Diners navigate an expansive menu that balances traditional techniques with contemporary presentations. Large circular booths and polished woodwork foster an environment conducive to focused consumption of classic culinary favorites. This establishment maintains a consistent reputation for delivering robust, flavorful plates that remain grounded in the core principles of European culinary traditions through careful ingredient selection and diligent, systematic kitchen execution.

Reviews for Holder

Food

Service

on Google4.5 (3000+)

*as of 2026-08-01

4.5 787 ratings

5★

71%

4★

18%

3★

2★

1★

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Reviews often mention

Display All french(85) recommend(64) beef(59) duck(51) confit(50) tartare(48) dessert(47) soup(46) duck confit(41) steak(41) attentive(40) wine(39)

Review Summary

Holder is widely regarded as a staple in Old Montreal, offering a classic French brasserie experience that frequently delights visitors and locals alike. Many guests praise the authentic menu, highlighting standouts such as the beef cheeks, duck confit, beef tartare, and mussels, often paired with an extensive wine list. While the atmosphere is consistently described as lively, bustling, and stylish, some diners find the dining room can become quite energetic and noisy, which may not suit those seeking a quiet or intimate environment. Service is a frequent highlight, with many reviews commending the professional, attentive, and welcoming nature of the staff, although a small number of patrons have noted inconsistent experiences with both service pacing and food quality. Overall, the restaurant is frequently recommended for its generous portions, great value, and warm hospitality, making it a reliable destination for group dinners, business lunches, and special occasions.

Page 2 of 6 - 51 Reviews

Wade

5.0

Faultless. Serive was amazing for wvwey staff member. The food which was calamari, salad, beef cheeks (so good!) & mussels where all amazing!

Mar 21, 2026

on Google

Douglas

5.0

The beef cheek was incredible!

Feb 20, 2026

on Google

Maya

5.0

We had a great BD dinner at Holder. Dominique's service was impeccable. We enjoyed the calamari, the oysters, the little goat tart, the beef & the duck & everything was on point.
Dominique even sent over some free dessert once I mentionned to her on the side it was my friend's BD & made her night special, thank you Dominique!

Jan 24, 2026

on Google

Robin

5.0

We dined here on a recent trip to Montreal & my friends & I really enjoyed our meal! I had salmon, my sister had duck & another friend had the beef cheeks. Each plate was prepared perfectly & our waiter, Masha suggested the perfect wines to go with each entree . The atmosphere was very comfortable & welcoming & the staff very attentive to our needs. We highly recommend Holder..

Jan 20, 2026

on Google

Richard

4.0

Decided to lunch here after reading the reviews.
Staff were both friendly, pleasant & helpful. Great ambience & well appointed.
My wife ordered the French onion soup & the beef tatare (her favourite) for the entrée. I had the warm goat cheese & beef cheek for the entrée.
My order was fabulous. Loved it. My wife was a wee bit disappointed with hers. The soup was below average & her beef tartare was average fare.
We'll try Vallier tomorrow as we're here for a few days.

Nov 10, 2025

on Google

Dean

5.0

Absolutely first rate brasserie. Lovely room, professional service, fantastic food. Beef cheeks & salmon were amazing. Serving sizes were large & creatively plated. Excellent all around.

Sep 30, 2025

on Google

Patrice

5.0

A veritable Parisian experience in the heart of Montreal… absolutely delicious classic French brasserie type of fare. Beef cheek bourguignon served over dreamy mashed potatoes was divine… the endive salad a delight! Highly recommend…

Jul 3, 2025

on Google

Jessie

4.0

We had a nice dinner at Holder in Old Montreal. The ambiance was lively & stylish, & the service was friendly & attentive.

Here's what we ordered:
🥩 Beef Tartare: Flavorful & well-prepared, though a touch too salty for my taste. Still enjoyable overall.
🥗 Mixed Vegetable Salad: Light, fresh, & a great starter - nicely balanced & refreshing.
🐮 Braised Beef Cheeks: Tender & deeply flavored, one of the best dishes of the night.
🦆 Duck Confit: The skin was crisp, but the meat was a bit dry. Could use a bit more juiciness.
🦞 Lobster Ravioli: Rich & creamy, with a generous amount of lobster. A standout dish!

Overall, a solid dining experience with a few minor flaws. Still a great spot to check out if you're in Old Montreal!

Jul 1, 2025

on Google

5.0

I would give our recent dining experience at Holder six stars if I could. The food was excellent. We shared the calamari & mozzarella di bufala to start. The braised beef cheek was outstanding - rich & flavourful. The grilled hanger steak was bistro perfection. But what made the evening was possibly the best service we've had ever. Professional of course. But friendly & kind & genuine. Joe made a great evening unforgettable. His food & wine suggestions were spot on. So if you're gonna go to Holder, ask for a table in Joe's section. It's worth it.

Jun 29, 2025

on Google

Jen

5.0

my god I just had the beef tartare-it's a religious experience. it's giving I left my heart in Montreal. please come to Toronto 😩

Jun 27, 2025

on Google

Holder

Montreal’s classic French brasserie destination remains the undisputed local authority on perfectly crafted tartare.

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Reviews for Holder

Review Summary