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.
The best Isakaya in town. Don't look anywhere else. No reservation, always a line-up but it is worth waiting & it goes fast anyway. The food is incredible. I've been coming for 15 years & it's my go to favorite place on earth ❤?
Jul 28, 2025
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The food was out of this world! Everything was really good. The place is bit tight but the food makes it super worth it :) also take a picture of the specials on the wall. I recommend getting there early, we arrived at 5:10 & we got the last table, the place was packed (they open at 5:00)
10* /5 :)
Always the best taste & dish presentation! We recommand cod dish & morue head ! The cod filet skin-on ( for me is an excellent choice to keep skin-on ) was incredible soft velvety, juisy texture, right cooking time....a dream. The grilled morue head also very juicy very far from dry, excellent size, sauce amazing, variety of salads. Excellent restaurant & no 1 in our hearts! Helpful, fast waitress. Unforgettable.
Bon plats à bon prix, atmosphère peu agréable. Je recommanderais plus du take out parce que c'est un resto relativement rapide, donc je n'irais plus là pour m'assoir & prendre mon temps. Nous avons attendu 1h pour une table. Nous ne savions pas non plus que nous pouvions commander les plats affichés sur les murs (ressemblent à des dessins d'enfants)… Nous aurions aimé savoir, car il y a une belle diversité. Bref, c'était correct sans plus.
Best restaurant in town without spending an arm & a leg. Service is incredible. They are fast, competent & really nice. Kazu is the guy with the yellow shirt in the kitchen, extremely nice guy. I recommend you sit in front of the kitchen. Its such a vibe eating & watching them cook. Its well worth the queue. If you don't want to wait, try to arrive 15 to 20 mins before they open.
This place is 100% worth the wait! I had heard a lot of good things about this restaurant before trying it last week & it was definitely worth the hype. We went on a Friday at around 8:30 & got seated about an hour later. They gave us the menu while we were in line so we could be prepared to order right as we were seated. I started with the Yuzu cocktail & the egg drop soup which was very good. For an appetizer we had the chicken dumplings & the chicken skewers, also delicious! As a main course I had the beef short ribs & I would recommend those as well! The serving sizes were great for the price. Service was very fast too which makes up for the wait imo! Next time I will for sure try things on their menu on the wall. Great overall restuarant I will be going back!
Pour moi le meilleur restaurant à Montréal!
La rapport qualité prix est excelent, l'attente parfois pénible en vaut vraiment la peine. Un restaurant authentique bien loin des restaurants de style tapas hors de prix & aux portions ridicules qui pullules en villes.
À essayer absolument!
3 words. Worth the wait.
The food here is absolutely fantastic. You may be greater by a 30-45 minute wait, but wow is it worth it. The Japanese curry is absolutely fantastic, & the beef ribs, amazing.
The service is really quick & friendly.
Perfect for a quick date night.
Recommend 10/10.
