Jako specializes in the precise synthesis of Korean and Japanese culinary traditions. The kitchen prioritizes the delivery of balanced flavor profiles through signature fusion plates that bridge distinct cultural techniques. Patrons encounter a focused menu emphasizing fresh sashimi cuts and hearty, spice-forward Korean staples served within a streamlined, contemporary space. This establishment maintains a commitment to authentic preparations that highlight raw ingredient quality and robust seasoning integrity. Each dish reflects a technical approach to regional specialties, ensuring consistent textures and vibrant presentations across all servings. The interior atmosphere supports a minimalist aesthetic, fostering an environment where the complexity of the food remains the primary focal point for every visitor present.
Jako is widely recognized as a top-tier destination in Montreal for authentic and flavorful Korean cuisine. Diners frequently praise the cozy, vibrant atmosphere and the consistent quality of dishes like the dolsot, chicken katsu, and various udon options. The portions are consistently described as generous and fairly priced, providing excellent value for the quality provided. While the restaurant is popular and often bustling, particularly on weekends, the staff are generally noted for being friendly, attentive, and helpful with menu recommendations. Whether visiting for a quick lunch or a social dinner with friends, many patrons consider it a reliable favorite and highly recommend booking a reservation in advance to ensure a table at this well-loved neighborhood spot.
I disliked the kimchi appetizer which smells & tastes OVER fermented (rotten). Katsu fried pork was OPPOSITE to crispy (soft & soggy surface) Restaurant floor looks stained. Had a fly around me.
It was a perfect experience. I went to the restaurant at 5 p.m., & since it was still early, there was no need to wait in line. The staff were very friendly & professional. We ordered fried chicken, Japanese okonomiyaki, beef stone pot bibimbap, & a beef rice bowl. The food was served quickly, & the portions were generous. My mother & I were so full that we still couldn't finish everything. After noticing that we had finished our meal, the server proactively brought us takeout boxes. The restaurant is just as excellent as it was a few years ago when I last visited.
Food was so good that I tried it on Thursday night & was back on Sunday for lunch. Everything is absolutely delicious but I highly recommend the tteokbokki udon, the fried tteokkochi, & the korrokes. They also have makgeolli which is not something I see very often (highly recommend the banana). The prices are super affordable, the food is delicious & comes in great portions, the staff are really friendly, & the vibe feels like you're actually out for a meal in Korean. 10/10 will be back.
I haven't been to Jako for a long time. A great Korean restaurant as I remembered. Went again today with a friend. Ordered three dishes to share. Sorry cannot remember the exact names, but they were fried chicken, dolsot with squid & fried Udon. They were all good, except a little bit salty. The fried chicken was amazing
Starting off with the food, every single thing was delicious!! I had the bulgogi dolsot (pictured) & it was incredible, probably one of the best meals I've ever eaten. Everyone in my party was extremely happy with everything from the daikon to our appetizer of fried cauliflower to each of our meals. Two of my party members had the creamy seafood yaki udon & said it was the best meal they ever had. Next, the service was great! They came by multiple times to check on us throughout the meals, asked us about dietary restrictions without prompting, & were very polite. Lastly, the atmosphere was amazing!! The signs & posters across the walls were such a great touch & the chalkboard menu with drawings of the meals was so cute & artistic.
TLDR: Everything was amazing & they were very accommodating! Their food was absolutely incredible & the atmosphere is so cool. I 100% recommend it when in the Montréal area!!
I was looking for a Korean restaurant in Montreal & this place was a pleasant surprise. We got Korean fried chicken & beef udon bulgogi & they were very delicious. Coming from Toronto with many good Korean restaurants, I was so happy with the place & we are definitely coming back. They also have Sapporo on tap! 👍
First time here, got invited by a friend. Great cozy place, nice ambiance, polite staff. They have a not-so-big menu, just enough to try everything each time you visit them. i guess its their signature dishes which is perfect for me since i don't like tons of choices to choose from. My choice which was the pork donburi (stir-fried pork, rice, fried kimchi on the side, miso soup) it was delicious! My friend had the fried pork cutlet with rice. Yuummy.... beautiful presentation as well. only downside was the parking obviously since its in downtown, gotta find your street parking or! there is a paying parking lot right next to it which was $10 (i think this is better option since street parking ads up really fast by the hour) As a korean reviewing a korean/japanese restaurant,I will definitely go back & try their other dishes!
