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.
Kazu is undeniably one of Montreal's premier Japanese dining experiences.
Upon entering, you're greeted by a cozy, warm, & traditional ambiance. The staff exemplify Japanese hospitality, being attentive, polite, & eager to address any inquiries. The menu strikes a perfect balance, offering a diverse selection without overwhelming patrons. Notably, the menu is creatively displayed on a collection of papers affixed to the wall, adding to the restaurant's charm.
Every dish we sampled was impeccably presented & delectable, reinforcing the notion that there are no wrong choices at Kazu.
In short, Kazu offers an authentic & memorable Japanese dining experience in Montreal. I wholeheartedly recommend it without hesitation.
Tried the Vegetarian range at Kazu. We had Veg Bowl & Bibimbap Japanese style (veg).
We wanted to try the Japanese curry which was in the chef's list apart from the menu but it was out of stock. But no regrets, both the dishes were absolutely amazing. The sauces, both quite unique were rich in flavor & i would highly suggest you to try them. The tofu was very soft, felt fresh. The vegetables were quite nicely done, carrots were pickled & sesame seeds drizzled on top. On the bibimbap contained an egg nicely done, the rice tasted soooo good & overall very well worth it compared to the price. Both bowls were very big & imo one bowl could serve 2 people.
Kazu stays at a bar to it's high rating, especially the staff is awesome. Very polite , helpful, quick service & everything you wish in a restaurant.
The ambience is also unique. Feels like a hustling & bustling restaurant in Japan with songs, happy people & tasty dishes.
Definitely order the fried beans on the side.
We also had desserts , one cheesecake ice cream & one sake icecream. While the cheesecake icecream was the best (really soulful) in Montreal, the sake icecream was very unique & we tried it for the first time. It has vanilla ice cream with sake on the top. Which made it taste quite unique & definitely try it out if you love experimenting things.
In all, superb place, deserves 5 star ⭐ & the staff makes the place lovely.
My favorite restaurant of all time. I've been going here since 2012 & I can honestly say that they consistently blow my mind every single time. There's always something new to try & everything in their menu is delicious from starters, main meals, desserts & their drinks. My friend & I got there right when they opened on a saturday at 5pm & we were seated in front of the kitchen & it was the best spot. Seeing them in action was fascinating. The staff are so organize & efficient. My friend & I ordered about 9 items in total & spent 63$ + tip each.
In the pictures:
Bbq eel, oysters, takoyaki, 48 hour pork, chirashi zushi
Everyone should at least try this restaurant more than once! Yes there's the waiting in line as this is a small restaurant but it's worth the experience & the service is fast.
Feb 27, 2025
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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.
A great place for dinner despite the long waiting list. They serve dishes very quickly after ordering. Their food has excellent presentation, but the portion on protein is a bit small. I would get more Salmon in my plate if I go to another Japanese restaurant. Price is fair. Beautiful Japanese style decoration in the restaurant. The seating space is a bit tight.
Great food, great service & an overall fantastic vibe. Food was high quality & prices were more than reasonable. Staff were friendly & food came very quick. I will definitely be back!
