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.
Les sushis sont incroyables & le service est sans reproche! Samantha était super gentille & agréable toute la soirée & Basil offre un service parfait! Très hâte de retourner manger ici :)
Cocktails looked delightful but we do not drink alcohol, although were tempted. It was a perfect place for date night, low light atmosphere. Very pleasant. Service was good, staff all seemed to work together wonderfully making it an inviting space. Food was nice , sushi was good. Portions were reasonable & tasteful. Enjoyed my experience.
Nov 23, 2024
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This place has the best sushi, hands down. We have been clients of this Mikado (& others when there were more) for 20 years. The quality has not wavered.
Super expérience au restaurant Mikado!! Le lieu est magnifique, les sushis sont délicieux & le service impeccable. Mention spéciale pour les cocktails, Pierre nous a conseillé & nous a appris plein de choses sur les spiritueux !
Great service. Last time I was at Mikado was back in the 1980's & it was located across the street. It is still owned by the same family & now run by the 2 sons. We were delighted to be treated very well & dessert was on the house. Very good sushi/sashimi & excellent wine list.
I heard a lot about this sushi place in Montreal, so I decided to try it myself. The atmosphere was fantastic, & our waiter was genuinely friendly & attentive. While the food was decent, I did feel the quality could have been a bit higher considering the price. That said, it was still enjoyable overall, & I'd recommend it for a date night.
Sep 15, 2024
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I've been going to Mikado for a while. Always had a good experience & the food is very fresh. We went this weekend for my dad's bday (my first time since the renovations) & it was a little disappointing.. The waitress, Genevieve, didn't seem to match the vibe & service I would expect from a Sushi Restaurant with Mikado's Reputation (& prices)... We got appetizers, plates & sushi (bc not everyone was getting sushi as their main meal) & she didn't ask us in which order everything should come out. Some people ended up getting their main meal while others were getting their appetizers (which left them with nothing to eat later on). The first service was quite confusing as we got hot & cold appetizers at the same time Then they gave us an empty soy sauce container. Also, they forgot my dad's soup as well as our sashimi order. Usually, sashimi & nigiri are served first, before other strong flavours affect the palate. Then you eat the makis. Because she didn't enter our order correctly we ended up getting the sashimi in the middle of the evening. When I dine out & pay for marked up prices & food, it's not just for the quality of the food & the convenience of not having to cook it. It's also for the service (which my family & I always tip for generously as I've personally worked in the restauration industry myself) & ambiance. I did expect better from Mikado, or at least for them to uphold the standard they had previously set with me & the many meals I've already had there. Ps. I also asked for mocktails recommendations because I'm on medication right now & can't have alcohol. She recommended the Sawa something, saying it was fresh & herbaceous . It's not. It tastes like limonade & is quite sour. I wouldn't say it's thirst-quenching nor has any herb fragrance at all.
Great atmosphere, dimmed lighting, amazing date spot. took a little long to take our orders however overall good waiters & good service. Sushi was slightly above average, & cocktails were solid.
Delicious, & fresh sushi, amazing appetizers, high-end signature cocktails full of depth & complexity, beautiful & complete wine card, extensive sake selection, pair this with outstanding service, friendly, & knowledgeable waiters, in an enchanting, breezy, wabi-sabi decor. A must in the Montreal dining experience!
Jul 29, 2024
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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
Magnifique endroit pour savourer des sushis de qualités. Le restaurant est bien décoré , faites attention au stationnement avec la folie des pistes cyclables qui longent la rue. Le service était moyen considérant le prix à payer. Le serveur a ramené une bouteille de vin & il a disparu après. J'ai bien aimé mon expérience , mais le service doit être amélioré!
Elegant & organic atmosphere after their recent renovation. Kind & attentive service by William. Tasty & beautifully presented sushi. It had been many years since I've been to this restaurant & I plan to return soon.
