Leila is described as a warm, intimate spot with a lively yet relaxed vibe and a menu that blends Mediterranean and North African influences with a focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients. Dishes like sardines on toast, octopus, merguez, bitter lettuce and artichoke salad, and pasta such as cavatelli and tagliatelle ragu are highlighted for their balance of technique and rustic charm. The setting includes a backroom speakeasy style bar and a welcoming terrace, making it popular for dates and gatherings alike. Service is repeatedly praised for attentiveness, knowledge, and hospitality, while the atmosphere and cocktails, wine list, and overall value receive strong notes of praise. A few voices mention small portions or high prices relative to portion size and occasional slower service, but the prevailing sentiment is that the experience is memorable, distinctive, and worth returning to for the food, the vibe, and the sense of being cared for.
I am very happy to report that our experience last night was truly amazing. At first, we were a bit perplexed by the menu. There are only about 10 items. We ordered a salad, two pasta dishes, & the Cornish chicken. Long story short, the Cornish chicken was by far one of the best chicken I've had in my entire life. The best dishes were awesome, the salad was really good. Every meal was spot on. Not only the recipes are amazing, but most importantly the execution was flawless. Absolutely flawless. To add to all this, the desserts were truly amazing. Not some fancy I can type of dessert. But very good pistachio cake, & amazing basque cake with peaches. Last but not least, everybody was super friendly & a service was awesome. We can wait to go back.
Aug 29, 2025
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Leila is probably the most impeccable spot I've tried in Montreal this summer. Honestly the only place that truly wowed me with their dishes. The sardine toast? Unreal. The octopus? Hands down the best I've had in Montreal-beats all the hyped places serving it. I'd 100% come back. Big round of applause for the service too, one of the owners welcomed & served us, & you can tell they really know what they're doing.
I read the reviews & was excited to try this place but must say fell short of some expectations. The drinks , food ( portion ) are wildly overpriced. Atmosphere is great, service is lacking profoundly. Spent over $100.00 to leave extremely hungry & to some extent upset. The waitress was of no help in any way, hardly ever asked if seconds were required ( this was an event ) . I honestly think they over shot their idea & did not prepare properly as such. Farm fresh to table is not expensive or is not meant to be. If the chef knows his/her stuff then portions would be great & variety inexhaustible. As well asking if allergies are prevalent & offering or discussing a plate , advising it would be served & never was , is misleading & to some extent disheartening. Suffice it to say will not go back nor recommend to friends or acquaintances. A lot to be desired!
I stopped on my way home at 10PM. I was hungry & asked if the kitchen was still open before staying. All seating options were available but I sat at the bar because I was alone.
The food was clean, simple & very tasty. Of course the presentation was also mouth watering. They are doing very complicated things using the best & freshest. What I ordered gave me the impression that everything on the menu is done perfectly. It doesn't matter what you order here as long as you come here & eat!
The kitchen was probably close to the end of service but there was no let up AT ALL on their end. Usually quality fizzles at that time but not at Leila. They are really on top of their service & quality.
The desserts & coffee where served in beautiful dishes. It really does make it taste better. Great touch.
My server (who is the bartender & restaurant sommelier) did a great job explaining the food & even choosing for me. She is extremely dedicated to her work & the hospitality. She really enjoys her craft & this is very evident. A great ambassador to the restaurant.
Last I'll mention the price. There is alot of value in the meal experience for the price you pay.
Very well done by 4 young guys who are probably going to be doing big things
We were a group of five. The service is excellent. The waiter was very helpful & new his stuff. The menu is not large & we tried multiple dishes. They were all quite good but also on the salty side. The ragu was very salty & we couldn't each much of it. The pork chop was also very salty & lacked any char. It was also pre-cut which we didn't appreciate. We prefer cutting our own meat. Their desserts were good, light & mild in flavor but nothing wow. Leila has potential to be much much better. It was our first time so we have nothing to compare but if they can reduce the saltiness & intensify the flavors in their desserts it would be a huge improvement. Also, they had a lot of lamb dishes for a small menu. They need a little more variety. Last thing, they need to put a menu on their website. I hate restaurants that don't show a menu or prices.
Leila is my new favourite restaurant in Montreal. You could tell a lot of passion goes into their dishes. Quality ingredients & as fresh as it gets. The staff is incredibly accommodating with impeccable service. Can't wait to come back! 😍
May 24, 2025
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Great food & service at Leila. The bitter lettuce & artichoke salad, pasta dishes & the skate fish all amazing! Cozy atmosphere with excellent & attentive staff. Highly recommend!
Leila Restaurant in Montreal St laurent is a hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable dining experience. From the moment you walk in, you're welcomed with warmth, making you feel right at home.
The salad is a simple yet standout dish-fresh, crisp greens, perfectly ripe tomatoes, & a light dressing that brings everything together beautifully. It's refreshing & full of flavor, proving that the best ingredients don't need to be complicated to be amazing.
Then come the sardines, & they are next level. Grilled to perfection with a light crisp on the outside & tender, juicy inside, they're seasoned just enough to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them. Every bite is packed with bold, rich taste-a perfect balance of tradition & expert execution.
But Leila isn't just about one or two great dishes. From comforting, slow-cooked tagines to perfectly grilled meats & flavorful sides, every plate is made with passion & care.
Beyond the food, the atmosphere at Leila Restaurant in Montreal makes dining here special. The staff is welcoming & attentive, making you feel like more than just a customer. A BIG PLUS IS CHEF AMINE - JUST ANOTHER COOK - LOOK HIM UP
If you love food that's made with heart, flavor, & tradition, Leila Restaurant is a must-visit in Montreal. Once you try it, you'll already be thinking about your next visit.
FYI: A speakizy hidden in the back. Ask the staff!
