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.
We have been going to this restaurant since it first opened & we always enjoy our meal. Some of our favorite dishes are the shrimp okonomiyaki (amazing) & the salmon salmon bowl. We have recommended this restaurant to many people & everyone has enjoyed it as well. There can be quite a wait at the door but it is worth while. The restaurant is very small, but the meals come out quickly which means there is a fast turnover. The bar seats are great, you get to watch the chefs prepare the meals in front of you. Great service with a smile & excellent food!
Resto japonais tout en contrastes, avec un look "reto-bar de ruelle" & des plats d'une finesse & d'une authenticité exemplaires. Les poissons sont toujours frais & savoureux.
Le service est ok: ils font ce qu'ils peuvent avec un espace réduit & des files d'attente tous les soirs. Quand le "hype" autour de cet endroit va se calmer, ça va être encore mieux. Par contre, vu la qualité de ce qu'ils servent, les files d'attente ne sont pas près de finir...
IN-CROY-ABLE! Mon expérience culinaire au Kazu a été inimaginable. Parmi les meilleurs plats (le bol de thon & saumon tartare est à essayer) japonais que j'ai mangé. Service impeccable, très chaleureux.
Bémol: En raison de l'extrême popularité de ce restaurant, ainsi que sa petitesse, la ligne d'attente semble de mise à toute heure de la journée. Aucune réservation acceptée. Cependant, l'attente en vaut la chandelle!
I went here with a friend after work (she was horrified when I told her I've never been there). The line at the door was about 20 mins, & totally worth it because we got to sit at the bar :D
We didn't know what to order so we asked the waitress what she suggested. We has the shrimp burger, tuna & salmon sashimi, & this octopus tentacle. For dessert, we had the plum, & earl grey tea ice cream. The food was just amazing. I don't know what else to say!
The place was very hyped up & the line up is usually extremely long. I went for lunch & the food was a bit disappointing. The place is small & crowded as well.
I am Japanese descent & we heard Kazu has an authentic Japanese Food. Well, the staff are Japanese but the food is pretty westernised. So I wouldn't say they are authentic Japanese food. The taste & presentation was good.
Excellent food. I have never been disappointed. The shrimp burger & sashimi are my particular favourites, & I have enjoyed the pork neck as well. Note that for the size of the portions, though, the prices are rather high.
The only thing is: expect to eat quickly & to wait since reservations are not a possibility.
resto cher mais trop petite portion. Je ne vois pas vraiment de typiquement japonais , y a pas grand choix de menu. Je pense que les plats sont assez facile a cuisiner c juste la presentation qui fait qu
What to eat, what to eat, what to eat? Not only did everything on the menu sound like it belonged in my belly, but seeing the dishes whiz by only added to the I-must-eat-everything-eyes-bigger-than-stomach thing. In the end, our helpful, friendly, & efficient server aided my wide-eyed over-excitement & guided me towards my friend, the grilled octopus leg. My Kazu-veteran chum chose the grilled beef with rice & salad. B-I-N-G-O homies. In an ideal world we would have ordered entrées & lounged with drinks, but 1) I just don't know how to be that hungry at 5:30, 2) we had a movie to catch, & 3) the ever-growing line-up of people eyeing your gluttony with restless disdain does not make for a lounge-worthy situation.
For full review, please visit: http://winedinemontreal.blogspot.ca/2013/04/kazu-1862-sainte-catherine-ouest.html
