Kazu is described as a busy, intimate Japanese izakaya in Montreal where traditional flavors meet a creative twist, with many dishes prepared right in front of diners at the bar and a lively, authentically Japanese atmosphere. The menu is large and wall postings keep things interesting, and while the space is small and lines can be long, the consensus is that the quality, freshness and value make the wait worthwhile. Dishes like beef short ribs, curry, sashimi, and a variety of small plates are repeatedly praised for depth of flavor and thoughtful preparation, with some items singled out as standout favorites and others noted as less compelling or pricier. The staff are consistently described as fast, friendly and attentive, and the kitchen’s in‑view hustle adds to the appeal, a highlight that keeps guests returning. A common refrain is that Kazu delivers an authentic Japanese dining experience in Montreal, offering a distinctive vibe and dependable, high quality food, even for those willing to queue at opening and endure limited seating.
L'endroit idéal pour de la nourriture authentique japonaise si vous êtes prêt à attendre 30 minutes dehors au froid. Le service est expéditif pour diminuer l'attente, mais en même temps vous sentez une pression pour manger rapidement. S'il n'y a pas de file d'attente, c'est un must go!
La nourriture est excellente, meilleurs takoyakis à vie (je pèse mes mots). Ça serait parfait si on pouvait en profiter dans un local plus spacieux & qu'on acceptait les réservations.
Worth the 2 hour wait! It was our last evening in Montreal when you came across this amazing place. It was packed to the rafters. We waited for about 2 hours in th3 cold but it was worth it! The food is fantastic & the service is nothing short of amazing. Would definitely recommend!
Dec 20, 2023
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Finally got to try this place, there was a little line-up but it moved fast enough. Had the tempura halibut ,temupra lobster & chicken tortilla ( i think). Everything was super tasty & staff are super friendly
The best izakaya in town!!! Show up when the restaurant opens at 5PM because there is bound to be a huge lineup. (Or cheat & call for takeout to bypass the line, they'll have your food ready within 15 min) For the best seats in house, grab a stool at the bar & watch the chef & his team pop out beautiful dish after beautiful dish with practiced efficiency. The ever changing seasonal menu is found on small pieces of paper stapled to the wall. (We tried the beef tongue stew this time around & it was a huge hit) The octopus & lamb chops are both a bit on the pricier end, but every smoky tender bite is worth it. From the regular menu, popular items such as the tuna salmon bowl, the kalbi & the beef ribs are some of my favourites. & if you're extra hungry, the 48 hour pork bowl is a cheap & delicious option.
Dec 17, 2023
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As a Japanese food lover, I am glad that I finally find one that I am satisfied in Montreal. The food is made with heart, with nice plating & delicious of course.
Tight space but that's part of the experience. I have visited this small restaurant many times. It was in the old location when i first visited. but still i found something amazing every time i dine here.
Yum. Everything here is good. They even customized my cream cheese ice cream with matcha powder on top lol! Friendly & attentive staff, quick service. I'll come back here every time I visit montreal :)
This place makes you feel like you've been transported to an izakaya in Japan especially if you're sitting at the counter. Then you check out the menu & you're brought back to reality. The menu here is pretty unique where they blend Japanese food with western options & I must say that have married the two perfectly together. It was hard to decide what to order as there was so much we wanted to try. They also have entrees not in the menu listed on the paper at the bar so don't forget to look there!
Nov 27, 2023
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Un lignup habituelle car toujours plein car toujours excellent. Très abordable. Ont peut manger pour aussi peu que $30 santé. Essayé les taco au tofu 😋
Really fun Izakaya with delicious food. I really loved their chicken curry & the yakitori. The atmosphere was upbeat with very fun decor. The service was super fast. The food is really reasonably priced too, particularly for the high quality. Get there early at opening times as even at 5:04 when they opened at 5:00pm we had to wait in line for a table.
One of montreal's rare gems. The food is phenomenal, & very reasonably priced. You can easily have an amazing time for two under 100$. We sat at the bar facing the open-air kitchen. It was a treat to observe them prepare the food, & it left us salivating while waiting for ours.
This is by far the best Japanese food we've ever had! Authentic, rich flavours, kind service, & a special atmosphere. Worth the wait in line any day!! Kazu is a genius!
