Stem Bar operates as a refined bistro focused on the execution of seasonal plates and curated botanical infusions. The kitchen emphasizes ingredient integrity, utilizing fresh produce to construct dishes that prioritize natural flavors over complex preparations. Polished surfaces and minimalist interior design define the physical space, creating an environment centered on clarity and architectural precision. The menu features a rotating selection of small plates designed for shared consumption alongside a focused program of natural spirits. Service remains efficient and objective, ensuring that each interaction prioritizes the culinary components above all else. This establishment provides a calculated approach to modern bistro fare, blending accessible culinary techniques with a rigorous attention to detail in every prepared item presented to the guest.
Stem Bar is widely praised as a neighborhood staple in Montreal, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and an exceptional menu featuring standout dishes like the truffle burrata pancakes, beef tartare, and Brussels sprouts. While many patrons highlight the impeccable service and high-quality ingredients, experiences are occasionally mixed regarding wait times, noise levels, and rigid table turnover policies. Despite some concerns over portion sizes or occasional staff interactions, most visitors consider it a must-visit destination for those seeking a stylish, reliable, and delicious dining experience.
Looove this place. However we waited long to get our table & the place was super crowded & loud, hard to talk to each other. We had the burrata pancakes, the brussel sprouts & the lamb pasta, everything was delicious. The margaritas were great too! Overall good experience.
The place is perfect for a night dinner with friends, good selection of wine & the food is exquisite, the croquettes, the burrata with hot cakes, the flank pork special was so good & the Brussels sprouts amazing !!! Don't skip dessert it's so good the peach one
Exceptional from start to finish. STEM does not take reservations, but when we arrived on Friday at 7pm, we went straight up to the bar, where there was plenty of seating. We were greeted warmly by the staff who were very helpful in recommending what to eat & drink.
Although STEM appears to be a bar first & a restaurant second, everything we ate was truly exceptional-well presented dishes which were original & the perfect sharing portion.
The cocktails are straightforward & no-frills, but prepared well. The wine selections by the glass were the perfect pairing to the meal, a light crisp red perfect for summer nights.
We sampled the smoked trout fritters, which were topped with caviar-crisp on the outside & creamy in the middle. Next we had a pile of crisp brussels sprouts which had a great balance of flavour & texture. This went well with the unique salted pancakes with burrata. Underneath the burrata was a pile of delicious truffle shavings which elevated the dish, it was truly delicious. Finally, we had the spinach rotolo which sat on a pool of delicious & creamy tomato sauce. The meal was filling & the perfect portion for sharing.
There are many more dishes on the menu that we would like to try & we will most definitely return again!
Overall, the atmosphere, cocktails, wine & high-quality dishes make STEM bar an excellent value & a great date night locale in a neighborhood known for excellent eateries!
Jul 7, 2025
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everything was so good!! would def go back. LOVE the beef tartare ($22) with the potato crisps on top. brussel sprouts ($17) were also a crowd favourite. pancakes ($24) are talked about so much we had to try them. it was super interesting having them salty but i loved the texture, crispy outside paired with the smooth creamy burrata!! i'm already craving it again. hangar steak ($33) was also perfect.
FYI we went for 6pm on a weekend with no wait time
We arrived at 6:20 because last time we went at 8:00 was a 1 hour wait, so make sure to arrive early since they don't take reservations.
The burrata truffle pancakes were our favourite dish.
We also had the tuna tartare (a tiny bit bland), trout croquettes (crunchy & flavourful), cavatelli (comforting & filling), & brussel sprouts (a lot of sauce, though they could have been more crispy). Overall everything was good! However the cocktails were disappointing (amaretto sour, espresso martini, dirty martini). The atmosphere is great & the staff is really friendly, & we appreciated that they weren't rushing us out after eating.
Un restaurant sans prétentions, de la bonne bouffe, une belle ambiance, un beau décor, un staff friendly. The salty pancakes, cavatelli & Brussels sprouts are all delicious.
Truly a hidden gem. One of the few restaurants where every dish we ordered was done to perfection. The pancakes, brussel sprouts, & sea bream are definitely something you don't want to miss out on
