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 visited the restaurant 2 weeks ago & had a fabulous experience! The decor, food, service & atmosphere were all outstanding. I am vegetarian & there were so many options, all of them delicious. My partner was just as impressed with his choices. I highly recommend for couples, friends or groups.
Definitely my favorite Montreal restaurant! Super hospitable, the food is divine & the people are amazing (not to mention the space is absolutely gorgeous).
We recently celebrated my husband's birthday at the newly renovated Mikado & we were so impressed. The decor is contemporary, warm & inviting. The food is inventive, colourful & beautifully presented on gorgeous earthenware. The staff was fantastic - they are experienced, knowledgeable & went out of their way to ensure we all had great evening. We did!! & we will be back!!
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!
Dining at Restaurant Mikado Laurier is an experience I highly recommend. Their newly renovated space combines a chic, modern ambiance with the best quality sushi & impeccable service. The service is outstanding, with attentive & knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience with their recommendations & warm hospitality. Of course, the highlight is the sushi itself, crafted with the freshest ingredients & beautifully displayed.
Returned after the renovations. Ambience was spectacular, food & drinks were delicious. Owners & staff are kind & attentive. I would highly recommend this restaurant for dinner or drinks.
May 15, 2024
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10/10 would come again. The staff are very nice & friendly, the quality of the food was top tier! & the atmosphere of the restaurant was nice & sophisticated.
Les meilleurs sushi à Mtl!! Le service est super, l'ambiance est parfaite, sommelier & mixologues sont excellents! Si je pouvais donner 10 étoiles I would do it! Si vous avez un craving de sushi, c'est l'endroit où aller!
May 14, 2024
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I recently had the pleasure of visiting the newly renovated Mikado on Laurier. If you don't want to read any further then the one word review is OUTSTANDING. The new decor is timelessly traditonal with a whole new edge making it cool & comfy. The tables are spaced well & the meals are presented artully. Our service was engaging & professional without being too much of iether. At one point a plate was placed before my companion (who is vegetarian) & a second server, instantly moved it to avoid any sensitivities she might have had...before she even had time to notice- subtle professionalism ! Now the best part...the food! It was beyond spectacular, I had a piece of Black cod that now ranks as the best I have ever tasted. I believe it was braised & marinated to the point that it literally melted in my mouth leaving nothing but taste & a desire to return for the more. The vegetarian options were equally delicious of note was the lighter than air batter on the Tempura. dessert was capped off the meal with a deconstructed apple tart UNDER a creme brule that was sublime. I have no hesitation highly reccomending this beautiful sushi house, it's as much a feast for the eyes as it was for the palate. We will be back soon!!
First time trying sushi was at this place 2012 & i fall in love after it, came back to it multiple times, last one was 2014 & hopefully coming soon this yea
Best sushi restaurant in Montreal. Amazing food & service, I definitely recommend the Bavette Grille, thon royale & the NDG maki. The sushi is fresh, ambiance is nice & the hospitality is great! Definitely will be back again!
May 11, 2024
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Nice presentation, beautiful place, delicious & fresh ingredients but it was overpriced & the sushi menu was lacking variety. The cocktail menu was more impressive!
The food was fantastic! The amazing food combined with a beautiful atmosphere led to a very fun night out. The staff was very friendly & kind! Would highly recommend, one of the best restaurants in the city!
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.
