Le Taklamakan specializes in a unique fusion of Chinese and Mediterranean culinary traditions that prioritize bold spice profiles and authentic preparation methods. The menu centers on hand-pulled noodles and expertly seasoned grilled skewers that reflect the geographic influence of the historic Silk Road trade routes. Patrons encounter a distinct selection of savory dumplings and aromatic stir-fry dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced for their robust flavor profiles. The interior environment emphasizes a utilitarian and straightforward layout focused on the efficient delivery of these complex, multi-regional flavor combinations. Each dish balances traditional techniques with a contemporary approach to preparation, ensuring the integrity of the original regional recipes. This establishment serves as a dedicated destination for diners seeking a clear departure from standard takeout fare by providing deep, layered culinary expressions.
Le Taklamakan is widely celebrated for its authentic and flavorful Uyghur cuisine, with many patrons highlighting the handmade noodles, big chicken plate, and house made cheesecake as standout offerings. While most experiences emphasize the generous portion sizes, warm service, and excellent value, there are occasional inconsistencies regarding food texture and temperature, particularly with lamb dishes and take out packaging. Despite minor critiques, the restaurant is frequently described as a hidden gem in Montreal that offers a welcoming environment and consistently delicious meals, making it a highly recommended destination for those seeking a unique and memorable dining experience.
We loved Le Taklamakan for its fresh ingredients, warm & courteous service, & cleanliness. This restaurant specializes in authentic Uyghur & Xinjiang cuisine. We decided to give this place a try!!
The menu features halal dishes from this Central Asian & Chinese intersection, such as handmade laghman noodles, tender lamb skewers, & the famous'Big Plate Chicken' (da pan ji) made for sharing. I sampled the Samsa as my appetizer. A flaky, savory pastry pocket filled with minced lamb & onions, heavily seasoned with black pepper & baked until golden brown. ❤? We shared the Uyghur Steamed Dumplings, Delicious!! &, we each ordered the savory Dry Fried Noodles.
I learned that authentic Uyghur & Xinjiang cuisine is a vibrant, hearty culinary tradition from China's northwestern Xinjiang region, blending Central Asian heartiness with Silk Road spice profiles & Chinese stir-fry techniques.
Because the Uyghur people are an ancient Turkic ethnic group, the cuisine relies heavily on halal cooking traditions & mirrors flavors found in Uzbek, Turkish, & Middle Eastern kitchens, rather than typical East Asian cuisine.
If you haven't stopped by to sample the menu, I highly recommend you sample their menu.
Ordered take out. Food was great & happy to find authentic Xinjiang style lamb.
Small note regarding ordering the big chicken plate for take-out. Even well wrapped, the sauce would over flow, & the paper bag wouldn't hold it. I recommend putting half the sauce in a separate container.
Restaurant roulette brought me here, the great taste will bring me back. While I have no benchmark to judge the cuisine from this culture, it felt that the meal we enjoyed was felt true & uncompromised: lamb skewers were earthy, dry noodles fragrant & warmly spicy. Looking forward to explore the other menu offerings.
Very good spot for Uyghur cuisine. Super nice staff & great food!
A family meal/meal sharing environment that is at a great price for the portion & quality given.
Le Taklamakan is hands-down my favourite restaurant in LaSalle, & every visit reminds me why.
We ordered the chopped noodles, the big chicken plate, lamb kebabs, & dumplings - & everything was outstanding. The chopped noodles had that perfect chewy texture, the big chicken plate was generous & packed with flavour, the lamb kebabs were beautifully seasoned, & the dumplings were simply delicious. Uyghur cuisine doesn't get enough attention in Montreal, & Le Taklamakan is doing it justice.
What makes the experience even better is the staff - genuinely warm & welcoming every single time. You feel like a regular from the moment you walk in.
If you haven't been, do yourself a favour & go. This place is a gem.
