Nama Omakase focuses on the precision of Japanese culinary arts through a curated sequence of seasonal sushi preparations. The kitchen emphasizes the raw quality of maritime ingredients by utilizing traditional slicing techniques that highlight natural textures. Each presentation follows a deliberate flow, balancing vinegared rice with fresh seafood to ensure consistent flavor profiles across every portion. Creative compositions incorporate subtle seasonings that respect the original integrity of the fish without excessive masking. The environment centers on an open preparation counter that allows for clear observation of the technical skills required for authentic nigiri assembly. This establishment prioritizes the direct relationship between prepared portions and the raw material provided by global coastal sources. The result is a methodical approach to seafood consumption that adheres strictly to established minimalist traditions.
Nama Omakase offers a sophisticated and intimate dining experience that many guests describe as a highlight of Montreal's culinary scene. Most diners praise the high quality of the fresh fish, the creative French-Japanese fusion dishes, and the meticulous presentation, with many highlighting the eggplant katsu and tartares as standout items. While the majority of visitors rave about the warm, professional service and the engaging interaction with the chefs at the counter, a few guests noted inconsistencies regarding portion sizes, pacing, or specific service lapses during busier times. The ambiance is generally viewed as elegant and well-suited for special occasions, though opinions on the music volume and price-to-value ratio vary among patrons. Despite these occasional mixed reviews, many guests consider the restaurant a memorable destination that earns strong recommendations for its passion and craftsmanship.
Vraiment très bon restaurant avec une énergie général assez cool. Les plats étaient super copieux & on est ressorti de la très satisfait
Merci a Titouan pour son excellent service
Superbe expérience pour nos 5 ans avec mon conjoint.
L'ambiance était chaleureuse ; teintée de bonne petite musique house. Les plats raffinés, variés & copieux pour le menu en 5 services (avec 2 à 3 assiettes par services). Merci à Titouan pour son accueil & sa belle énergie, qui nous a fait passer un super moment !
We dined at Nama Omakase with high expectations, given its positioning as an upscale omakase restaurant. Unfortunately, the experience fell short in several important ways, especially at this price point.
During the meal, we encountered a bone in the Nama Maki ($55 before tax). In a restaurant of this caliber, proper fish preparation is non-negotiable. This is not a minor oversight but a fundamental error that raises concerns about quality control & attention to detail.
What was more disappointing was how this was handled. When we informed the waitress clearing our plates, she responded that she would let the chef know, but no one followed up with us afterward. There was no acknowledgment, apology, or attempt to address the issue during the meal. Later, when another server asked about our experience while we were paying, we raised it again & were simply thanked for the feedback, again, with no real ownership or resolution.
We had also noted in our reservation that we were celebrating my husband's birthday, but this was completely overlooked. We had to remind the staff ourselves near the end of the meal, which defeats the purpose of providing that information in advance. For a restaurant that emphasizes experience, this lack of attentiveness is disappointing. (I now noticed this has happened to many other diners who shared their disappointment in their review)
In terms of the food, while some dishes showed creativity, there were inconsistencies. For example, one piece of the duck was noticeably tough & difficult to chew, lacking the tenderness expected from a properly prepared dish, especially in a fine dining setting.
To add to this, we discovered that an 18% gratuity was automatically applied because part of the bill was paid using a gift card. This was not disclosed anywhere on the Costco purchase page, nor was it communicated by the restaurant beforehand. While we would have willingly tipped 20% for good service, imposing a gratuity without transparency, especially tied to the method of payment, is not acceptable.
We paid $525.25 for two adults (without drinks). At this level, guests expect not just excellent food, but polished service, consistency, & accountability when things go wrong. While the restaurant shows potential, the overall experience was undermined by these lapses.
For a premium omakase restaurant, both execution & service need to be held to a much higher standard.
P/S: The first dish of Hokkaido Scallops was exquisite IMHO.
La nourriture était simplement excellente, plusieurs services & chaque plats étaient expliqué. Très belle expérience, bonne atmosphère avec dj le weekend. Merci pour cette belle expérience.
I had the pleasure of dining at Nama this evening for their Omakase experience. From beginning to end, the service & food is incredible. The staff & chef ensure you enjoy every part of the evening. Chef GaCong clearly loves what he does because he put so much attention into every dish. He was a delight to chat with. If you ever want to celebrate an event or simply enjoy a new experience, I strongly recommend Nama.
