Karin presents a distinct fusion of Japanese and Korean culinary traditions centered on the precise preparation of fresh sushi and authentic cooked specialties. The menu features an extensive selection of nigiri, maki rolls, and sashimi alongside traditional bibimbap and savory bulgogi preparations. Ingredients are sourced to maintain high standards of quality and texture across both culinary styles. The dining room offers a minimalist aesthetic that prioritizes functionality and clear visibility of the food preparation process. Patrons encounter a methodical approach to kitchen operations where consistency remains the primary operational focus. This establishment serves as a destination for those seeking specialized preparation techniques that honor both Tokyo and Seoul culinary roots through a structured and focused menu architecture.
Karin is widely regarded as a charming and authentic family-run gem in Montreal, celebrated for its high-quality, fresh Japanese cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Guests frequently praise the exceptional freshness of the sashimi and sushi, alongside diverse offerings like udon, soba, and authentic kimchi. The restaurant features a cozy, traditional decor with intimate seating options that are ideal for families and small groups. While some note that pricing can be on the higher side and service pace may occasionally vary, the overwhelming consensus highlights the care put into the food, the heartfelt hospitality of the owners, and the overall value provided by such a consistently delightful dining experience.
Hands down the best Japanese restaurant in Montreal, even in Canada.
The first step you take into Karin, you can see it's family owned. Small, cute tables, cute booths.
The mom is taking the orders while the son & father are in the back cooking & prepping. The food is amazing, honestly the best Japanese food I've had in Montreal.
The sushi is crazy good. The highlight for me was the sashimi. The quality of the fish is top notch. They serve different cuts of tuna & salmon at different levels of fattiness, & they literally melt in your mouth.
The tempura is amazing, & so is the bulgogi beef. I recommend the set menu to share if it's your first time, since you'll get to taste a bit of everything, have quality food, & leave with a full stomach.
If you like cheesecake, the matcha cheesecake is amazing. It's their grandma's recipe. Everything here is made with love & you can taste it.
10/10, you should try this place & you'll want to come back.
Really good restaurant if you want a delicious high quality japanese meal. The food & especially the sushis are of very high quality, you can even choose the specific part of the fish (e.g higher vs lower fat pieces for tuna). I discovered several fishes that I had never eaten in sushi. I highly recommend the sushi assortment (Combo sushi hakata or Kyoto) if you want to discover new flavors. If you're not a fan of sushi, they also serve delicious udon or soba noodles, & fried rice dishes like beef donburi. For dessert everything is delicious, but my favorite is the matcha japanese cheesecake ! The restaurant itself is also very cosy, you can have your own little cubicule, & you can also reserve for larger groups if your going with family or friends.
The atmosphere is so cozy & vibey!!!
The people are very welcoming, smiley & nice! However, the prices are a bit high but for the quality of the food it's so worth it, delicious 😋
Feb 28, 2026
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What a gem! The atmosphere & food can be described as more home cooking, excellent balance of portion size, favor, variety & quality of the fish for the price is unmatched in Montreal. I love their is saumon, nigiri & sashimi plates. The noodle dishes are a treat as well. Try the matcha cheesecake for dessert maim
A gem of traditional Japanese cuisine, the service is good & the dishes are quality. I had the pleasure of trying the o-toro that melts in your mouth. The selection of nigiri was excellent, of great quality & freshness. If you have the opportunity to live the experience, I highly recommend it.
Oh well, in Montreal this is the restaurant I love the most. It's not cheap (especially if you want sake as well), but the dishes (all of them) are fantastic! For the main dish, Anguilles were highly recommended by my son & brother in law, & I was crazy about Yaki Udon. Miso soup is memorable, but what I died for was the kimchi. I couldn't believe that quality can exist, so you really need ti experience it if you go there.
a little gem in NDG, been walking in front of it for years. Familly owned & operated. Authentic food, good ambiance & good quality ingredients. highly recommended.
Karin Japanese Restaurant is an absolute gem! This place just reminded me of Japan. The decorations with every detail thoughtfully crafted by the owner's mother, it is realy an authentic atmosphere.
The food is great & everything is made with care. Best sushi & sashimi I ever tried in Canada & as you know, freshness is true a true testament to quality. The flavors are fresh, & you can tell they use top notch ingredients. The selection of beer, sake, & other alcohol perfectly complements the meal also, if you are a tea lover you can choose from their range of Japanese teas.
The owners are originally from Japan, & of course the service is warm & welcoming & the entire restaurant feels like a slice of Japan right here in the heart of Montreal in Canada.
If you're looking for authentic Japanese dining experience look no further, I highly recommend this restaurant & will definitely visit it over & over again!
