If you’re fortunate enough to have experienced a meal in the Middle East, you know all about their warmth, ambiance and extravagance. Whether it’s on a terrace accompanied by an afternoon tea, or sipping Arak in the evening, the “joie de vivre” can’t be missed.
Having successfully recreated the magic, our chef Joe Awad and his team have put together a menu featuring traditional flavours reimagined with a modern flare.
Our friendly and attentive staff will make you feel as though you’ve walked through the fabric of time to the other side of the world. Prepare your tastebuds, they’re in for an amazing experience!
SHAY delivers a warm, stylish Lebanese dining experience with a lively yet welcoming vibe and consistently attentive service. The menu shines with vibrant, well presented dishes and an array of mezze, lamb, kebabs, and brunch classics like shawarma eggs Benedict and baklava pancakes, all made with fresh ingredients. The brunch and dinner experiences are repeatedly praised for generous portions, bold flavors, and creative twists that honor tradition while feeling modern. The atmosphere, on both the dining floor and the terrace, is frequently described as beautiful and energetic, with knowledgeable staff guiding guests through thoughtful recommendations. Overall, SHAY stands out for reliable quality, standout dishes, and a memorable, friendly guest experience that makes it a go-to for meals with friends or celebrations.
The food was phenomenal. Flavorful, well-portioned. My bartender, Anna, was very knowledgeable & made excellent recommendations. She & Joshua (the other bartender) provided fantastic hospitality. I look forward to returning next time I'm in town.
Update: Returned for Brunch the next day. Joshua & Shawn were my bartenders, & gave similar warm hospitality to last night. On their recommendations, I had the moutabbal & hashis makenek. Both fantastic - the latter was a creative canadian/middle eastern fusion dish, blending savory & rich spices. The moutabbal was smooth & bright; I'm not sure how they do it, but their flatbread are always pillowy & soft. I also got to try their poutine, which was rich, creamy, & just the right amount of fats.
I didnt snap a picture of it (had to get it to-go!), but the Crepes Baclava smell divine.
Nov 15, 2025
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Shawn gives the best service ever - he's truly great! Always brings the best vibes & is just an all-around amazing guy. Highly recommend! & the food is incredible!
Shawn at Shay is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk in, he makes you feel completely welcomed & taken care of. He has that perfect mix of kindness, humor, & genuine attentiveness that turns an ordinary visit into the highlight of your day. Shawn doesn't just provide great service-he creates a whole vibe. If you want someone who listens, understands, & makes you feel amazing, Shawn is your person. Highly recommend!
Nov 15, 2025
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This place was a fantastic atmosphere, so much so that I was momentarily worried about the prices when we walked in. Luckily the food was very well priced, but delicious far beyond what I was expecting. The dishes were creative & every flavour went together perfectly. This is my new favourite brunch spot in Montreal. Our server Shawn was attentive & welcoming. My girlfriend & I were able to be seated at the bat with no wait, but you probably need reservations for a table. Great spot, I will be back to try the rest of the menu.
Amazing service & atmosphere, loved the food too. Our server Rachel was fun & sweet & entertained us haha. Will visit again when I'm in Montreal for sure sure.
I've only ever been there for brunch, & it's always such a nice experience. My favorite flavor is the muhammara, one of the best I've had in Montreal! The chicken & waffles are also really good, though one time out of the 4 or 5 visits it wasn't as great.. but hey, it happens! Still definitely one of my go-to brunch spots.
Nov 10, 2025
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The plates looked nice but the taste was mediocre. My friend & I went on Sunday & our food came fast which was nice but it was cold & the quality was subpar. Definitely wouldnt rave about it to others. I think there are way better Middle Eastern restaurants in Montreal to hit up with fresh ingredients.
There was a draft by the windows & we didn't really get checked on. Overall I wouldn't recommend.
incredible experience, our wait staff was so kind, they found out it was my birthday & gave us free birthday shots 🥹 food was incredible & the music was great. I wish we tried one of the sweet options such as the pancakes or crepes.
My friends & I were visiting the area for a birthday brunch & this place did not disappoint. The ambiance is so aesthetically pleasing & beautiful. The staff were pleasant, attentive & funny. The music was one of the best parts, great playlist. I got the breakfast sandwich & my friends got the hachis makanek & the omelette soujouk. Everything tasted so fresh & flavorful. The potatoes were crisp, the halloumi was so tasty, & the chai lattes were great (tasted more like espresso than chai to me, however, I did not mind it). I will definitely plan to visit when I am in the area again.
Came for brunch with the girls, Sabrina was our waitress & she was absolutely amazing, very personable & attentive! Definitely recommend🎉 Special mention to Aiden, he was our busser & he was extremely helpful & very friendly, he definitely deserves a raise!
