Creativity – Simplicity – Balance Japanese cuisine is an art in which aesthetics stem from product freshness and quality and where preparation is as critical as presentation. The dishes must be pleasing both to the eye and palate, making Japanese cuisine a truly sensual experience. Mikado modestly tries to master this art in skilfully preparing sushi and sashimi as well as teriyaki, tempura, soba and a vast assortment of other succulent dishes. Among the pioneers of Japanese cuisine in Montreal back in 1987, Mikado first opened with an 80-seat capacity and only two employees. But through the magic of word of mouth, Mikado expanded and can now welcome 130 guests in a pleasant, family-style and laid back environment conducive to appreciation of great food. Kimio Nguyen, the chef-owner, now has under his wing a wonderful team of over 40 loyal and attentive professionals whose culinary philosophy is based on Japanese tradition while taking into account the eclectic tastes of Montrealers. Three basic elements underpin Mikado's philosophy: creativity, simplicity and balance. Creativity to dazzle with original dishes; simplicity to allow for the experience of full unadulterated flavours; and balance to beautifully bring together tastes, textures, ingredients and colours. The attention to detail and aesthetics is reflected in the decor and even in the use of hand-made tableware. With all this in mind, Mikado tries to fulfil the needs and desires of its customers. And for those with a taste for the unknown and the wildly creative, the chefs at Mikado will gladly prepare special dishes to delight your whims and fancies on the spot!
Mikado is described across reviews as a stylish, upscale sushi spot with consistently fresh fish, beautifully presented plates, and a strong drink program that enhances the dining experience. Diners praise the quality and variety of sushi and sashimi, the standout rolls like lobster and paradise, and reliable appetizers and gyoza, with miso soup and dumplings receiving particular affection. The ambiance and service are frequently highlighted as refined and welcoming, the staff being noted for attentiveness and knowledge, and the setting described as cozy yet sophisticated. Some reviews mention prices being on the higher side and occasional inconsistencies in value, timing, or front of house service, including moments of slow pacing or instances where sushi arrived at the table at an undesirable temperature. Yet many readers call Mikado one of their top sushi destinations, citing thoughtful menu options, excellent cocktails, and a genuine sense of hospitality that makes it worth a return visit.
We came here on a Friday. The ambience was nice, but for the price & portions, the food didn't really meet our expectations. Although it looked visually amazing, the taste didn't quite match the presentation. Fresh fish on its own has a mild taste & traditional sushi is prepared with minimal sauce. However, we were expecting something that would stand out more in terms of depth/combination of flavours.
The only roll we truly enjoyed was the NDG one. We preferred the appetizers because they had more seasoning/sauces which added a good contrast of flavours to the tuna & scallops. If you enjoy sushi prepared in a very minimalistic or traditional way, you may appreciate it more than we did.
★★★★★
Mikado has always been one of my absolute favorite sushi spots - & this visit reminded me exactly why.
We started with miso soup, soft?shell crab, & a fresh salad, followed by two beautifully presented sashimi platters & two nigiri ones. Every piece of fish was pristine & cut with care - delicate, clean, & perfectly balanced. The lobster roll & paradise roll were equally impressive, marrying flavor & texture in a way that only Mikado manages to pull off.
The sake selection is phenomenal, & the mixologists truly take their craft to the next level. Add to that a team that's endlessly knowledgeable, kind, & welcoming, & you've got an experience that feels both refined & personal.
It's the perfect example of sushi done right - thoughtful, consistent, & made with genuine passion. Highly recommended.
Jan 31, 2026
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.
Visited Mikado on a friend's recommendation, mainly for the cocktails - & it didn't disappoint. Simone, the bartender, was amazing. Every drink we had was refined, balanced & honestly one of the best we've had. The manager told us that Lola poured her heart into creating these cocktails & it showed.
Service was friendly & fast, with great hospitality all around. The space was beautiful, & even the bar seating felt spacious & cozy. The food was great as well, especially the small bites & rolls. Would absolutely come back.
First time experience here & it really impressed me! The fish was incredibly fresh & each sushi roll was full of flavour. Would definitely recommend. Service was also excellent!
Absolutely amazing sushi-easily in my top favorites in town! The quality is outstanding, prices are very reasonable, & everything we tried was beyond delicious. The lobster roll, in particular, was one of the best we've ever had. Beautiful decor, great ambiance, good service, & a nice location. Highly recommend!
Food: I would definitely recommend the sashimi assortment & toro, everything tasted so fresh & had a great texture. The sushi rolls are quite unique, twists on the classics, & it was very enjoyable to taste.
The desserts deserve their own highlight, the deconstructed apple pie was so refreshing & the cherry pie is absolutely irresistible. I loved the mix of flavours & textures, & they might be one of my favourite desserts in Montreal.
Service: Our waiter was amazing, he was incredibly nice & patient with our questions, also very friendly. He recommended that we try custom cocktails from the bartender, who can make a drink based on your preferences, & all of them were perfectly on point, & they were delicious.
Atmosphere: Really great vibes for a night out with friends or date night. I cannot recommend it enough.
Food is fresh & delicious. There is an array of options for everyone's tastes/preferences (raw fish, vegetarian, etc.) The service was excellent. The employees were professional & attentive. I highly recommend sitting at the sushi bar for a unique experience.
Pictured is the lobster crab cake roll.
Feb 9, 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.
A nice family run establishment & they serve excellent food. Our waiter Basile was excellent & we felt very well taken care of. The tempura was delicious as was the sushi. The Miss Saigon roll was the favourite of the night. Fresh & well prepared. The raspberry sorbet tasted like you were biting into a ripe raspberry. Highly recommended.
Situé sur la rue Laurier, Mikado est un restaurant de sushis assez populaire dans le quartier. L'endroit est effectivement joli avec sa décoration épurée, feutrée & classique. Les sushis étaient bons mais loin d'être à un niveau exquis en comparaison à d'autres restaurants. Robster rolls
Amazing. The new look inside is elevated but relaxing with a speak easy vibe bar & outstanding food. Favourites were the Cod on soba noodles, lobster roll & shrimp gyoza. Service was extremely attentive, friendly & every dish was explained in detail. Delicious veggie options - there's something here for everyone. Extensive cocktail & tea menu with decadent dessert. Will definitely be coming back here!
May 15, 2024
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.
So a long time fan of this place for over thirty years. It has been a staple in the Montreal sushi scene & has always put out great product with a lovely atmosphere & solid service with pricing on the upper end & with creative dishes. So why not give five stars? This time the service was just too crazy slow. It took way too long & was truly unacceptable. This being stated I also have to admit that this is not the default but all too often food does take a little too long. If this is not an issue to you then consider all the rest to be at five star level. Quality. Taste. Plating. Knowledgable staff - all great. I don't add more photos as there are just too many at this point. The owner has told me they are closing down for a while to renovate & the reno plans are awesome so be sure to visit when done. I hope that with the renovations will come back a very special dessert - the coconut macaroons - PLEASE!!!! Every time I go there I always ask & if you miss them too be sure to tell the management as I'm determined to get them to offer them once again. Best dishes - too many. Favorites. Love katsu chicken it's to die for is all I have to say. I'm a big fan of their rice as I know this is such a someone thing but if you are a lover of rice, be sure to order some as it's perfectly cooked. Also big fan of their simple but perfectly made avocado rolls with perfect creamy taste & texture & amazing combination with the seaweed (nori) wrap & sushi rice. I have had every sashimi, sushi, & maki on the menue & all are a special treat for decor the one with the baby egg yolk as it's just not for me. So enjoy a Montreal landmark as it's worth the money & your time.
