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Restaurant Top Pick

Holder

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

Old Montreal
4.5$$
CLOSEDOpens Today at 5 pm
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
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Sunday
Photo of Holder, Old Montreal - Montreal
FrenchTartareMusselsCouscousBrunchGreat selection of wines
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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.
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5★
71%
4★
18%
3★
5%
2★
6%
1★
0%

Mentioned in:

Holder was featured in the article(s) below.

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Reviews for Holder

Food
Service
on Google4.5 (3000+)
*as of 2026-08-15
5★
71%
4★
18%
3★
5%
2★
6%
1★
0%

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 14 of 51 - 505 Reviews

I have been to Holder a few times over the years but it has gone downhill of late relying not on the quality of food & service but rather a constant stream of tourists.

In August 2025..... the steak was quite chewy & dry & the duck dry while portions had both shrunk & prices inflated. Service was slow too. Find somewhere else to go.

Aug 31, 2025
on Google

Une belle vaste salle à manger. Propre & invitante. Un menu varié alléchant composé de classiques de la cuisine française. Emplacement de choix. Une institution à Montréal.

Aug 28, 2025
on Google

We had the lobster ravioli on reccomedation & so glad! Was absolutely delicious, buttery & decadent like our entire experience there. A+ Good jo

Aug 23, 2025
on Google

Les moules & frites étaient délicieuses,le saumon & légumes aussi , la carte des vins est intéressante pour les vins blancs, desserts variés.

Aug 21, 2025
on Google

Great place for a business lunch. Service is quick & good value for money

Aug 21, 2025
on Google
5.0

I arrived to Montreal from Ontario & had to come here. I made a late reservation & they still accepted me. I was given an excellent window seat, & felt extremely welcomed. My server was wonderful. I started with 24 oysters. They tasted good & were fresh ($2 each). I paired it with a Prosecco! Afterwards I had the duck confit. It was delicious! The duck could've been juicer, but overall the flavour & textures were wonderful. Truly a beautiful experience with fast reliable service. I ended the night with a night cap, a boulevardier! Everything was tasty, fresh & worth it. I highly recommend this place for some French cuisine!

Aug 11, 2025
on Google

Holder ofrece un ambiente elegante pero relajado, con una carta variada de inspiración francesa. El pulpo destaca por su cocción precisa y textura tierna, acompanado de guarniciones que realzan su sabor sin opacarlo.

El servicio es atento y la presentación de los platos cuidada. El local, amplio y animado, es ideal tanto para comidas de negocios como para cenas informales con un toque sofisticado.

Aug 9, 2025
on Google

Everything was perfect. Oysters were to die for & the atmosphere was so welcoming, fun, & classy.

Aug 8, 2025
on Google

Yummy French food our first meal in Montreal did not disappoint
Coming from California we were inspired to try foie gras everything we ordered was exceptional including the crème brûlée
We missed the butterscotch lava cake
Recommend this place if you are in the area

Aug 8, 2025
on Google

It was really a great night. The cuisine is really good, the mussels are top notch. Will definitely be back for more however the calamari were a bit chewy. Overall tasty

Aug 8, 2025
on Google