Karin is a restaurant renowned for its sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine as well as its Korean dishes. In addition to serving sushi of exceptional quality and absolutely fresh seafood, the restaurant offers an authentic Japanese gastronomy experience. Located on Queen Mary Road in Montreal for over a quarter of a century, Karin has stood the test of time and has proven it is one of the greatest Japanese restaurants in Quebec.
This renowned gastronomic experience that Karin offers would be impossible without the efforts and dedication of one man: the renowned chef Hansoo Im. A recognized authority on Japanese and Korean cuisine, Chef Im has confirmed his calling with great pride and application in over forty years of work in two very different countries.
At Karin Restaurant in Seoul, South Korea, Chef Im chef cooked Japanese dishes for people with the most refined tastes. This prestigious establishment, located near the Central Government Complex (the center of political power in South Korea), was host to a distinguished clientele. Chef Im learned the intricacies of his vocation. Officially qualified as a Japanese chef after only a few years of studies and apprenticeship, Chef Im has the merit of being allowed to prepare fugu, a dangerous delicacy, which requires a unique skill gained only by years of rigorous training.
Come and dine at the Japanese Restaurant Karin of Montreal in a warm environment offering taste, beauty, sophistication and tradition. Sample the results of 40 years of commitment and dedication of a family to culinary excellence.
Karin offers a unique dining experience in an original environment. Private booths are designed to ensure privacy and to be a haven, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here everyone can rest and savor the subtle pleasures of authentic Japanese cuisine that calms and awakens the senses.
Raw fish is rich in essential oils and vitamins and low in saturated fat. Traditional nori seaweed in itself provides high levels of minerals and antioxidants. The sushi is therefore an excellent healthy choice.
Reviews depict Karin as a warm, family-run Japanese restaurant in Montreal's NDG that feels like a home away from home. The atmosphere is intimate, with small private booths and traditional decor that adds a cozy, authentic touch. The kitchen earns high praise for fresh, well-balanced dishes, from standout sushi and sashimi to comforting staples like miso soup, tempura and various noodle bowls. Toro and other fatty cuts receive special mentions for melting in the mouth, and the nigiri selection is described as excellent and very fresh. Value for quality is noted, with some guests finding it a bit pricey, but most agree the portions are generous and the experience justifies the price. Set menus and family-style service make it easy to try a bit of everything, and the staff are consistently described as friendly, attentive and welcoming. The restaurant is repeatedly called a gem, a place that transports diners toward a Japanese dining experience in the heart of the city, with decor crafted to feel homey and intimate. Diners also mention Korean influenced options such as bibimbap and kimchi, highlighting the diverse offerings. Overall, Karin is seen as a reliable, beloved choice for occasions, returning guests and travelers seeking fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine in a warm, inviting setting.
such a lovely & beautiful restaurant. Go there with the people you love, family friends or lover, & enjoy a chef’s menu with some hot sake! & get the love cake!;) this is a hidden gem
This is my favorite restaurant in Montreal.
Every detail is carefully considered. The menus are very detailed, with cute images. The food is consistently fresh, & they offer convenient packages where you can sample a bit of everything. The service is incredible. I always feel very welcomed & cared for, I'm now a lifelong customer :) I hope the restaurant continues to thrive!
Sep 19, 2023
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Très bonne expérience à emporter en tout cas. Les makis étaient très frais & les takoyaki succulents. Le survive adorable. Une très bonne adresse de quartier.
J'ai aussi trouvé les prix très raisonnable 37 dollars pour makis × 2 + takoyaki
This restaurant is the best kept secret in N.D.G., Côte Des Neiges & next door Westmount. For sushi & sashimi freshness, price & service, there is no other restaurant in Montreal that completely fits the bill as Karin does. Unpretentious & homey, it makes you feel you're part of the family. This is our 25th year we have been eating there & we will for years to come. Chef-owner David is an absolute pro. His generous super fresh house sashimi is melt-in-your-mouth heaven on a plate. Same for his sushi, nigiri, maki & cones. During the pandemic chef David doubled down on generosity, freshness, & cleanliness to reassure customers things will be OK. We love - & always order - uni, that sea urchin which is now on a number of upscale sushi restaurants' menu. De-li-ci-ous! Everything else on the menu is tops, from the miso soup to dragon balls, gyozas, karaage chicken, vegetarian & seafood tempuras, grilled fish (yum!), teriyakis, okonomiyaki pancakes, & the soups, ramen & rice bowls, OMG! Karin's homemade wakame & kimchi are simply the best in town. Japanese wife Ai is the most attentive hostess, & her front restaurant decorations are beautiful. She's an artist!
By far the best value in dining anywhere in the city. The quality of the food more than makes up for a rather ordinary décor. The service is friendly & welcoming.
My date & I return regularly despite the fact we live more than a 30 minute drive.
If you haven't tried it lease do, the mackerel as art of the combo meals is absolutely stunning as is the salmon bones, you read right.
Sushi selection is limited but what they have is fresh, properly prepared & delish.
Nov 6, 2017
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