Le Violon presents a sophisticated market-driven approach to seafood, sourcing the freshest catches to showcase their inherent quality and flavor. The culinary team expertly transforms premium fish and shellfish into elegant dishes that highlight regional influences and seasonal availability. Patrons can expect a focused menu featuring expertly prepared seafood preparations, from delicate crudo to robust grilled entrees, all designed to celebrate the ocean's bounty. The environment is curated to provide a refined yet approachable setting for enjoying exceptional aquatic ingredients. It is a destination for those who appreciate the art of seafood preparation at its peak.
Le Violon offers a sophisticated culinary experience that is widely praised for its creative, high-quality tasting menus and beautifully presented dishes, with many guests specifically highlighting the gnocchi, lobster, and impressive desserts as standout elements. While the atmosphere is frequently described as vibrant, upscale, and trendy, some visitors find the space quite noisy and the seating tight. Service levels are generally considered impeccable and professional, though a minority of experiences report inconsistency in attentiveness or a feeling of being rushed. Although the restaurant is seen by many as a must-visit destination in Montreal that lives up to its reputation, a segment of diners feels the portions are small for the price point and that expectations set by its high profile are not always met.
Le Violon embodies the ambiance of an elevated resto de quartier. We were seated at the bar with a view through the window of the kitchen.
The food was good, but arguably safe & conservative in flavour. Everything was very well cooked; the fish was flaky with a crispy skin, & the gnocchis very pillowy soft & peas still fresh with a light pop. Yet, each dish felt like it was just missing an element of surprise, whether a contrast in texture, flavor or aroma; something that stands out to make the dish more memorable for the price point.
The decor & the vibe of the restaurant is undoubtedly beautiful. The noise level was high & at times, it became difficult to have a conversation.
All in all, Le Violon was good, but perhaps not good enough to justify the cost. I was more blown away by the bill than the food.
absolutely fabulous experience sitting at the bar at Le Violon. Hype is well earned - not just from perfect dishes, wines & cocktails, but also incredible service. Warm, welcoming, & very knowledgeable.
I am very disappointed with my experience at Le Violon we had such high expectations. We got seated at the bar & right from the beginning the server was not friendly at all with us. We told her it was our first time in the hope to get some guidance, she told us we should get this specific amount of dishes, did not explained the menu we had to ask her what are the really good stuff, she goes on to mention every most expensive items on the menu without providing any additional details on the dish to help us make a decision while there are literally 3 ingredients listed for every dishes ?! Also sure the most expensive plate may be the best but like tell me more ?! Obviously with her attitude we didn't wanted to bother her with questions so we just ordered…
We ordered some wine & the wine came after we got the appetizers which I find unacceptable for a restaurant with such a reputation.
She set us up for the pasta dish with only a fork no knifes so we had to cut our ravioli with the side of our forks, which I'm sorry but why do I have to ask the server for proper ustensils with a 40$ pasta plate.
Food was good, maybe a little overrated, maybe I just had too much expectation, but the attitude the server had towards us completely ruined our night. I genuinely wonder if we did anything wrong because 2 people got seated next to us while we were having desserts & they got a beautiful smile from her so I'm clueless as to why we got this cold attitude since the moment we got sat.
Honestly most of the small issues could be totally forgave if it wasn't for the server attitude we really felt not welcome. 400$ for two people, I am never going back there.
May 20, 2026
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This was an excellent experience. The service we received the moment we walked in the door was top notch. The staff made you truly feel welcome, we sat at the bar near the kitchen & the chef caught us eyeing dishes as they came out, he was so friendly & explained what the dishes were in detail. Mel truly made the experience special, she took time to visit & help us pick out the best coffee shops & restaurants for the rest of our trip. Le Violon is a special place & a must if you are in Montreal, the food is incredible!
Had an absolutely beautiful meal here last night. Services was on point & the food was excellent. A seat along the bar on the left side is fun as there's a great view of the kitchen. Better than the food though was the atmosphere. I noted on the way out that everyone was always smiling, & having a seat with a full on kitchen view, the chefs / cooks were as well. Everyone working in this restaurant seemed legit happy to be there & that makes all the difference. Amazing space as well, looking forward to heading back.
Nous avons découvert Le Violon pour un dîner en couple & l'expérience a été vraiment agréable. L'ambiance est conviviale avec un petit côté bistronomique parisien. Nous avons été installés au bar ce qui apportait un peu d'animation & finalement c'était très sympathique.
La carte des vins est excellente tout comme le cocktail que nous avons essayé. Côté plats nous avons goûté au thon rouge plus bruschetta, à la pintade & à la dorade : des assiettes bien préparées & savoureuses. Pour finir le gâteau basque accompagné d'une crème anglaise à la pistache a été une belle conclusion au repas.
Un endroit qui vaut le détour surtout si vous parvenez à obtenir une table même au bar ou l'expérience reste réussie. Une adresse à garder en tête.
Everything here (start to finish) was phenomenal. We like to go out for nice meals & some of the top restaurants just don't live up to the hype but chef Danny Smiles & his team definitely do. We had lobster & tuna tartare to start then the sea bream & gnocchi as mains & were mind blowingly good. I 10000% recommend. Go there for those two mains in particular. Service was also excellent. We sat at the bar accross from the kitchen. I like what they've done with the place (post Maison Publique). The bar looks like it's made of pink salt. Very appropriate. Anyway, congrats team! You have a great restaurant.
Le Violon does not disappoint! The service was impeccable & you can tell that each person truly wants you to have a positive experience. It is evident that the staff works as a team to make this place come alive. The renovations to the building are fantastic. The interior offers 3 main seating areas, including the bar in which you can watch the chefs work. I was told by the staff that the art is one of a kind, which is neat. When you get a chance, check out the washroom as well - trust me. Of course the food was phenomenal. With Le Violon being rated as #11 in all of Canada (2025) & #1 best new restaurant (2025), I was not surprised. I asked for the chef to cook for me instead of picking items off the menu myself. Some items I had are the scallops, the beef tartare, the gnocchi dish, the tonata & a pastry dessert. Each meal was gorgeous to look at & taste. You can tell that all flavours & textures were carefully considered. I can't forget the bartender who whipped up an amazing cocktail to suit my dishes. THANK YOU to Le Violon team for giving me a memorable culinary experience. I will be back!!
Attiré par sa place de #1 au Canada's 100 best restaurant nous sommes allés hier & le moins qu'on puisse dire c'est que c'était une soirée splendide. Les plats étaient beaux, les saveurs recherchées, les ingrédients frais & goûteux. Bref tout ce qu'on recherche quand on met une somme non négligeable dans une soirée au restaurant.
Si vous décidez d'y aller, je vous suggère de manger au bar, vous aurez en plus le plaisir de converser avec des gens qui font le service avec un grand sourire & un professionnalisme exceptionnel !
Attention cependant, le restaurant peut être un peu bruyant donc si vous aimez les ambiances plus paisible ça peut être un peu dérangeant. Sinon c'est un restaurant à essayer (& adopter) au plus vite !
