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.
My husband & I came here to celebrate our 10th anniversary. Food was exquisite, & service was attentive without being overbearing. The staff are young, but knowledgeable & passionate about what they do - a delight! We loved the lobster, braised leeks & hollandaise, as well as the blue fin tuna bruschetta & squid & mussel escabeche - but the hand pulled ricotta gnocchi Boscaiola was the absolute star of the night. Rounded out the evening with espresso, Valhrona Basque cake & the Peaches Eton mess, followed by a tipple of Amaro generously offered by the chef. The decor was elegant, spare, but still cosy. Chef Danny Smiles & his team have created a complete gem. Outstanding & highly recommend!
Quel coup de coeur! Mon nouveau restaurant préféré à Montréal. Nous avons fait le menu'choix du chef' & tout était délicieux du début à la fin. Mes préférés étaient le homard avec de la sauce hollandaise & les gnocchi avec des champignons. Le service est impeccable, ils sont très attentifs à des restrictions alimentaires particulières. Le restaurant en soi est très beau, lumineux, accueillant & bien décoré.
Oct 2, 2025
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
every dish was more delicious than the last. Fresh high quality ingredients, fun textures, lovely presentation. We absolutely adored the mushroom gnocchi & the cheesecake, chocolate basque cake, which were the highlights of the evening. Service was impeccable & the atmosphere & decor are just lovely.
Beau décor , bel accueil …ce fut mes hightlight de la soirée. Ma serveuse était sympathique & enjouée , rien à dire sur son service . Par contre celle qui venait porter les plats & les présenter , je ne comprenais absolument rien …sûrement un niveau de stress , de timidité car ce n'est pas sa langue , & le fond de bruit ….je pigeais rien du tout . Pour ce qui est de la nourriture , c'était bon , je vois la recherche , les produits locaux etc …mais pour les portions , le coût & le goût , rien n'était remarquable . J'aurais aimé avoir un coup de coeur , mais hélas ce ne fut pas le cas . Formule plat à partager , mais si petit que je restais sur ma faim , sans WoW en bouche.
I really enjoyed my experience at this restaurant. I would say the food is good, not quite exceptional. There was nothing to complain about execution wise, but I have had a more inspired or impressive version of each dish elsewhere for a similar price. The decor & the atmosphere are top tier; they clearly took their time with the re-design of the space. The service is casual & cool without being too laid back or inattentive. The restaurant has earned its best new restaurant title, but I think there is room for improvement should they hope to impress all guests.
The beef & bulgur was good. The white asparagus & crab was delicious but maybe a little overpriced. The guinea fowl was perfect. Lamb chop is worth adding. The off-men snow crab tagliatelle was kinda disappointing, needed more seasoning. The custard pie needed more rhubarb, the tiramisu was delicious, the tiramisu flavoured affogato was great, though I think adding a lady's finger biscuit or its crumbs would have helped. Could have put more effort into garnishing their cocktails but they were good.
Friendly, efficient service. Nice decor.
