Mati presents a contemporary take on Mediterranean and Greek culinary traditions, offering a vibrant dining experience rooted in fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu features innovative interpretations of classic dishes, showcasing a refined approach to familiar flavors with an emphasis on seasonal produce and thoughtful preparation. Guests can anticipate a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere, ideal for enjoying expertly crafted plates that blend traditional essence with modern culinary artistry. This establishment is recognized for its distinctive approach to Mediterranean cuisine, inviting patrons to discover a compelling fusion of taste and style. The commitment to authentic flavors, presented with a modern sensibility, defines the unique character of Mati.
MATI has garnered widespread acclaim as an exceptional destination for Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Old Montreal, consistently praised for its warm, elegant atmosphere and top-tier service. Diners frequently highlight the high quality of the fresh ingredients, with standout dishes such as the grilled octopus, lamb chops, watermelon salad, and various dips often described as memorable and authentic. While many patrons appreciate the sharing-style menu and the modern, cozy decor, some feedback points to the dining experience being on the pricier side, with occasional comments regarding noise levels or portion sizes. Overall, the staff receives consistent commendations for their professionalism, hospitality, and deep knowledge of the menu and wine selections, making it a highly recommended spot for both special occasions and casual dining.
Every bite at this restaurant feels like a journey through the Mediterranean coast, reimagined with elegance & passion. The marinated fish with crushed pistachios was beyond incredible - delicate, buttery, & infused with layers of nutty aroma & citrus that danced together beautifully. Their whisky sour deserves a special mention too - perfectly balanced between sour, smoky, & sweet, it's easily one of the best cocktails in the city.
The chicken was divine - juicy, tender, & full of flavor, with that smoky char that makes you close your eyes in satisfaction. The lamb chops were out of this world - unbelievably tender, melting in the mouth like a fine piece of cake, & seasoned with heavenly spices that fill the air before you even take a bite. The pide was flaky, golden, & wonderfully rich - the perfect comfort dish that ties the whole meal together.
& let's talk about the staff - warm, genuine, & truly passionate about what they serve. They make you feel like an old friend coming home for dinner. The cozy atmosphere & soft lighting make it a perfect spot for a date night - romantic, relaxed, & filled with the aromas of freshly grilled perfection.
Special thanks again to Chef Arash, the master planner behind this unforgettable menu. His care, creativity, & attention to detail are reflected in every dish. The team & the chef together create an experience that's not just a meal - it's a moment you'll remember long after you leave.
Felix was our entertainment for the evening. We were seated at the bar. Actually better then out front. Very intimate & Felix was superb at recommending dishes & such. Our 3 course meal was great. If you are a couple & they can seat you at the bar it is the best seat in the house. My wife Linnea & I had a great time.
Oct 4, 2025
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Do not underestimate the Gemista (grilled stuffed veggies with potatoes & a homemade tomato sauce. It's amazing. I don't have a good photo of it, unfortunately but you must get it!
Dining at this Greek restaurant was nothing short of a revelation. From the moment we sat down, we knew we were about to experience something extraordinary, & every course proved us right.
Let's start with the cocktails: their whiskey sour alone could earn this place a cult following. It wasn't just good-it was exceptional. You could actually taste each layer of sourness & balance, perfectly shaken with just the right froth, smooth but with enough kick to remind you why classics never go out of style. If you think you've had a proper whiskey sour before, prepare to have your expectations redefined.
Then came the mezze dips, & what a journey those were. The smoky eggplant was rich & deeply flavored, carrying that rustic earthiness only true slow-roasting can bring. The tzatziki was creamy & refreshing, with just the right lift of garlic & cucumber. Add in the warm, pillowy bread to scoop it all up, & suddenly it's impossible to stop. Every dip was crafted not just as a side dish, but as a statement-balanced, fresh, & brimming with authenticity.
The salads pushed creativity even further. The standout was undoubtedly the watermelon salad-an absolutely brilliant creation. Juicy, vibrant cubes of watermelon laid over a cloud of tangy yogurt, dusted with finely crushed pistachios. The interplay of sweetness, creaminess, crunch, & freshness was nothing short of magical. A dish that looks simple but carries the soul of a chef who knows exactly how to balance contrast & harmony on a plate.
& then-the star of the night-the octopus. I cannot stress enough how life-changing this was. Easily the best octopus I have ever had, anywhere in the world. Perfectly grilled, smoky, yet tender to the bite, paired with capers, slivers of red onion, & a vibrant sauce that tied everything together. This dish was not just well-cooked; it was Michelin-star level artistry. A single bite was enough to make me pause & appreciate the kind of mastery that goes into creating it.
Every dish that came out of the kitchen had a story, & that story was one of passion, skill, & vision. & the mastermind behind it all is Chef Arash. You can taste his genius in the menu-how everything is thoughtfully planned, how flavors aren't just combined but orchestrated. He's not just a chef, he's a true culinary architect, weaving tradition with innovation. It's rare to encounter someone who can elevate classic Greek flavors to this level, but Arash has done it, & done it with elegance.
This isn't just a restaurant; it's a destination for anyone who loves food. A place where every sip, every bite, every dish makes you stop & say, this is special.
Truly, one of the best dining experiences I've had in years. If there were more than five stars, this restaurant & its team would deserve them all.
Perfect food for a long day. Service was super nice & made sure we had everything we needed. Shared several plates all good but winner winner was the Greek salad enough to share especially if you have other plates such as red pepper chile dip. Yum 😋
Tout était très bon. Mon coup de coeur , la salade de melon d'eau & de pistache, l'aubergine grillée, le bar, la le poulet de Cornouaille. Seul bémol , le resto est petit & très bruyant. Difficile à s'entendre.
The food was decent but some of the dishes were over priced. The Greek salad for example was really over priced. Very small portion & nothing special about it. The octopus on the other hand was perfectly cooked & tasted amazing. We also had the Cornish Hen, highly recommended. Very juicy & perfectly seasoned.
