Kazu specializes in authentic Japanese soul food characterized by intense flavor profiles and meticulously prepared ingredients. The menu features signature items like succulent pork belly bowls, rich shrimp burgers, and expertly seasoned ramen that anchors the culinary focus. Every dish reflects a commitment to traditional techniques while utilizing high-quality proteins and fresh seasonal vegetables. Diners experience a compact and high-energy environment where the open kitchen layout allows direct observation of the cooking process. The atmosphere remains consistently lively, mirroring the busy stalls found throughout Tokyo. Each preparation emphasizes deep umami notes through precise simmering and grilling methods. This establishment provides a focused selection of Japanese comfort classics designed for rapid service and immediate consumption within an intimate, bustling space that prioritizes the integrity of every individual bowl.
Kazu is widely celebrated as an exceptional Japanese restaurant in Montreal, recognized for its authentic flavors, creative dishes, and vibrant izakaya-style atmosphere. Many visitors praise the high quality and freshness of the food, particularly highlighting the seasonal specials displayed on the walls, the katsu curry, and the grilled fish options. While the restaurant is consistently busy and often requires waiting in line, most patrons feel the culinary experience, efficient service, and reasonable pricing make it well worth the time. Although the space is small, cramped, and occasionally loud, the friendly and attentive staff help create a welcoming environment that mirrors the energy of Japan, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a memorable and flavorful meal.
smallest portions ever & super overpriced,we ordered the octopus for 33$ & they gave the smallest octopus leg ever & the salmon portion we got was basically just fat
The food is very good with lots of options. The grilled seabass & the salmon tartare were standouts personally. As were the desserts, particularly the panna cotta.
For the past 10 years, Kazu has been my absolute favorite Japanese restaurant in Montreal, & it's long overdue that I share how exceptional this place truly is.
Every single year, I celebrate my birthday here because I know I'm guaranteed an unforgettable meal. Every plate is a voyage for the palate, crafted with care, precision, & incredible culinary talent. Honestly, I can't remember a single time I've ever been disappointed.
The ingredients are always fresh, thoughtfully prepared, & packed with flavor. Their grilled octopus is hands down the best I've ever had in my life, & the kama salmon collar - whenever it's available - is simply out of this world.
While the regular menu is consistently excellent, I highly recommend paying special attention to the seasonal dishes written on the small pieces of paper around the restaurant. Those limited-time creations are often the true highlights: refreshing, unique, creative, & an absolute must-try.
Kazu isn't just a restaurant to me - it's a staple of Japanese cuisine in Montreal & a place that has delivered memorable experiences year after year. If you haven't been yet, you're missing something special.
May 15, 2026
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Their only redeeming quality is their food, otherwise service, atmosphere & seating are garbage.
Con:
-Very hard to be seated if you're an odd-numbered group. They'll straight up just seat someone else before you. We waited easily 1h30+ outside because they absolutely wanted to fill every single seat & had groups of 2 & 4 skip us consistently even if they arrived after us.
-The'daily special' is always some honey leftover cut of meat or fish. SKIP IT.
-Service was existent, but does not deserve more than 10% tip. It's so minimal that the food is what makes up for it.
-The ice cream was very expensive. A small teacup was 5$.
Pro: The tuna & salmon bowl was very tasty. The portions are decent.
It's a nice spot, the atmosphere that is. Waiters are a bit in a rush because there is always a line up so you better be ready to order your appetisers 😤. We ordered some raw salmon & tuna which were good. The beef short rib was nice but after two chews I had to visit the dentist the next day. Might not come back but i understand why people may like it.
Excellent service, but the food is overrated. All 4 appetizers we tried (chicken yakitori, beef carpaccio, oysters, chirashi with salmon & tuna) tasted almost the same, with an overpowering vinegar flavor. It was not delicious.
Disappointing.
Nice place! I don't think I ordered the right things, because the cooked salmon I got was not my favourite. Seems like a really busy place so will go back & try some other menu items.
I first thought this place was a little overrated but then I went again & loved it! My first time I ordered off the menu, however my second time I ordered mostly off the many options found on the wall & it was way better. The salmon bowl, potatoes & gravy & the ice cream were amazing!
Absolutely love this place. I have visited numerous times & will continue to visit. I especially love the shrimp burger (not fishy at all, extremely juicy & is complimented very nicely with the sauces), Beef Kalbi Plate, Tuna Salmon Salad Rice Bowl, beef Bibimbap (the beef falls off the bone), the salmon/tuna belly (literally melts in your mouth), & the grilled seabass.
The only items I didn't love are the chicken & the octopus so if you visit definitely opt for beef or fish instead. The desserts are quite basic, I usually skip it.
In terms of service they definitely prioritize table turn overs over everything else so they do tend to rush you towards the end but I understand given that it's a very small place & there's usually a line out the door. I only had one bad experience in this regard but have been back since then & was treated nicely by the same waitress so she could have just been having a bad day.
Lastly, I would recommend visiting as a smaller party as it is a small place.
