Japote presents a refined culinary journey with a focus on authentic Japanese flavors, complemented by an extensive selection of vegetarian dishes. Guests can anticipate a thoughtfully curated menu featuring meticulously prepared sushi, vibrant vegetable tempura, and savory ramen bowls, all crafted with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant's ambiance encourages a tranquil dining experience, allowing patrons to fully appreciate the delicate artistry of each dish. Expert preparation ensures a harmonious blend of traditional tastes and innovative presentations, making Japote a distinguished destination for those seeking quality Japanese cuisine with appealing vegetarian options.
Japote is widely regarded as a hidden gem in downtown Montreal, consistently praised for serving delicious, authentic, and affordable Japanese comfort food. Diners frequently highlight the high quality of the dishes, such as the curry katsu and teriyaki bowls, which are complemented by a variety of customizable sauces and efficient, friendly service. While the restaurant is tucked away in an office building and operates on a cash-only basis, the quick service and exceptional value make it a popular lunch destination for students and professionals alike. Overall, the experience is described as a perfect no-frills option for those seeking fresh, flavorful meals at an unbeatable price point.
I had this place saved & was excited to try it, but was ultimately disappointed. At first I wanted to try their gyudon - but they said they didn't have it. It was 11:45am on a Monday. Mind you they open at 11:30am.
I opted for their Japanese curry chicken instead. It's premade, so it's just poured on top of the rice. The sauce was overly sweet for my liking, & the chicken & vegetables were sparse. It also wasn't super filling, despite being their large.
Their prices across the board seemed very reasonable & cheap (starting from $6CAD); this cost me $8CAD ($5.65USD). The place is in a bit of a weird location but wasn't too difficult to find. Kinda in an office building & have to go down 2 sets of escalators. While this meal wasn't the best, their other options might be better. Seems popular for McGill students.
Possibly the best place on earth. $8 chicken teriyaki rice bowl (#3 Tori-don) is unbelievable. Great flavour across the entire sauce selection & very quick. Curry is great too. Cash only!
Jun 8, 2026
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Unbeatable lunch spot. Affordable, fast, & delicious in a way that is impossible to find so close to McGill or downtown. The food is good, but the sauce options bring everything up a notch.
Cash only, & if you have a bigger appetite I would recommend getting multiple items, but it is still worth it!
A no-frills yet delicious spot to satisfy your Japanese food cravings. Japote is a family-run eatery located in a food court. If you are looking for good value-for-money don, curry, or katsu, definitely give this place a try.
We ordered the Unagi Toji-don & the Japanese Chicken Cutlet Curry Rice with a croquette, & both were delicious. Service was quick, efficient, & friendly-just like what you would expect in Japan. There is also a sauce station where you can add & customise your own sauces.
One thing to note is that it is cash-only, so do prepare some cash when you are planning to drop by.
*cash only* The reviews are correct, the food here is excellent. Delicous savory umami flavors, s,m,l portion sizes for all appetities, lots of sauces to try, & pickled ginger to clean the palette. Bonus affordable prices. I had #7, the veggie & shrimp tempura covered in egg, with a crispy'karokke' & pickled ginger on the side. The best lunch I have had in along time & I will be back for more.
incredible staff, very quick, & very affordable. The food is very tasty, recommend the korroke for sure & they have a small station for sauces as well. they are open 12-3 & so if you want a quick grab, super recommend!
Extremely affordable & delicious simple Japanese lunch fare. Very friendly & happy staff slinging succulent staples. Clearly the all-star of the basement food court it is located in. As a large & hungry man, I always shell out the extra $1 or $2 for a "large" portion so that I never leave hungry. Make sure to add the complimentary sauces & tsukemono (pickles). I can't wait to return again & again to the smiling staff & tasty hot lunch. They offer a rewards card too, further increasing the already great value that this establishment offers.
