Jongwook Lee & WonGoo Joun’s favourite restaurants in Montreal

At Montréal Plaza, chefs Charles-Antoine Crête and Cheryl Johnson run the kitchen like a well-oiled experiment: playful, unpredictable, but anchored by technique. The dining room, designed by Zébulon Perron, hints at the surreal—plastic dinosaurs on the pass, Elmo sightings at the bar—but the cooking is no joke. Scallop sashimi arrives on a toy triceratops, layered with citrus and quinoa; a whelk gratin might follow, then foie gras with strawberries, and a dessert that’s basically fruit gone punk. The à la carte is ever-shifting, but the tasting menu (introduced by demand) has become the house favourite.

French methods meet global flavour, with Johnson grounding Crête’s improvisational streak. Even with its absurdist touches, the place runs tight and tastes sharp. In short, Plaza not only blurs the line between high dining and irreverence—it makes it irrelevant.

Dobe & Andy, a Cantonese BBQ joint, delights with its straightforward yet delicious fare inspired by Hong Kong’s vibrant food scene. Since its opening in March 2019 by Edmund, Eric and Edward Ku with Webster Galman, this spot has charmed diners with its commitment to authentic, well-crafted meals at pocket-friendly prices. The menu, ranging from $7 to $17, features staples like succulent crispy pork roast and a uniquely savory curry braised beef.

The 90-seat venue emphasizes a communal approach, reflecting a deeply ingrained family ethos in every dish served. Nestled in the heart of Montreal's Chinatown on Saint-Urbain Street, whether it’s for takeout or delivery, Dobe & Andy offers a taste of dedication wrapped in the warmth of a family-operated gem.

Le Majestique’s a lively bar first established in 2014, and it’s been boasting a dynamic atmosphere and top-notch cuisine ever since. Decorated by Thomas Csano with a blend of kitsch and curios, Majestique's ambiance invites patrons to indulge in delectable small plates highlighting seafood and seasonal vegetables. Signature dishes like the 12-inch Gaspor pork hot dog are crowd-pleasers and easy date night winners, as is the stellar oyster service. Beyond that, the bar's extensive drink options feature natural wines, microbrews, and classic cocktails, all up for grabs until the late hours.

Pony BBQ brings the vibrant energy of Seoul to downtown Montreal with authentic Korean BBQ. Located on Sainte-Catherine Street West, this is the brainchild of Hanhak Henry Kim and Vien Man Cao-Tran of An Choi Plaza, with support from their friends at 9 Tail Fox.

Named after the iconic 1984 Hyundai Pony, the restaurant blends nostalgia with modern flair. Guests can grill top-tier cuts of meat right at their table, including the standout nagano pork belly and expertly marinated options, prepared on-site over 48 hours. For hot pot lovers, the richly flavored broths are perfect for simmering ramen, vegetables, and more. Signature Korean fried chicken with spicy garlic sauce is a must-try.

Pony BBQ elevates the experience with a playful, neon-drenched decor that transports diners to the bustling streets of Seoul.

Mon Nan, a staple of Montreal’s Chinatown since 1982, offers an authentic Cantonese dining experience that draws both late-night revelers and daytime enthusiasts. Situated by the east gate of Chinatown, this restaurant’s purple neon lights set the tone for an on-point atmosphere. Owned by the Lee family, Mon Nan has remained true to its roots while evolving under the guidance of current owner Joe Lee. The menu, filled with family recipes, features standout dishes like salt and pepper shrimp, Peking duck with homemade pancakes, and perfectly steamed Dungeness crab. It’s a must-visit for both Cantonese classics and a lively dining experience.

This spot in Little Portugal captivates with greenery, leather accents, and steampunk-inspired, art deco charm. A premier Instagram hotspot, by day it's a café serving up Pilot Coffee Roasters' brews and delectable pastries, while it transforms it into a bustling bar by night. The brainchild of the Holder brothers, it occupies the former Les Bobards space with ever-changing menus that showcase seasonal dishes. Seamlessly transitioning from workday haven to vibrant evening haunt, it’s easily earned a spot among Montreal's best cafes.

A Montreal institution since 1980 on rue Saint-Denis, L'Express continues to uphold its reputation for timeless French cuisine and conviviality. Founded by François Tremblay, Colette Brossoit, and Pierre Villeneuve, the restaurant caters to everyone with a welcoming atmosphere that remains to this day. With a menu largely unchanged over the years, L'Express offers classic dishes like sorrel soup, marrow, and veal liver, prepared with an unwavering consistency and attention to detail. Designed by renowned architect Luc Laporte, the elegant decor exudes a timeless charm, attracting a diverse clientele served by a stable team of long-serving staff.

Heni, a Little Burgundy restaurant focused on the SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) region of the world—a decolonial term for what’s commonly referred to as the Middle East—is a place of many new pathways for Montreal.

Its kitchen is producing new kinds of flavours that blend its regional focus with Quebecois ingredients—think marinated olives with sea buckthorn berry instead of orange zest, kibbeh can be made with PEI beef or duck hearts, fatteh and couscous with wild mushrooms, lobster tails spiced with ras-el-hanout on a bed of corn, ice cream sandwiches of sfouf and wild blueberries that are dipped in dark chocolate—as well as wines taken from its in-house wine importation agency Sienna which highlights new-generation winemakers from Lebanon.

Pichai doesn’t trade in crowd-pleasing Thai clichés. Instead, it pushes north—specifically toward Isaan—where heat, acidity, and texture do the heavy lifting. From the team behind Pumpui, the kitchen turns out food that’s direct and uncompromising: fried fish balls slicked in sweet chilli, duck laab studded with duck hearts, and a rotating slate of specials that reward repeat visits. Those might veer toward firefly squid with nam jim talay or grilled offal finished with sharp, herb-forward relishes. Everything is built for sharing, and everything lands with intent. The room hums with energy—tight, boisterous, unfussy—backed by a low-intervention wine list that understands spice.

Its rotating menus of upscale, seasonal fare will keep you guessing, but the buzzy ambiance and service at this Saint-Henri eatery will make you feel like you’re immediately at home.

Perched on the banks of the Lachine Canal, Terrasse St-Ambroise showcases McAuslan Brewery’s finest creations. This laid-back beer garden is a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking a refreshing break; the ambiance is relaxed, and the laid-back vibe is enhanced by views of the canal and the Canada Malting factory. Complemented by classic bar food and wood-fired pizza available from Thursday to Sunday, Terrasse St-Ambroise is a perfect summer retreat for beer enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Since 1942, Beauty’s Luncheonette has been a beloved staple in Montreal’s Plateau, serving up hearty, Jewish-inspired breakfast and lunch fare in a retro 50s diner setting. Founded by Hymie Sckolnick and his wife Freda, this iconic spot has remained true to its roots, with little change to its classic menu or timeless décor. Famous for its signature dishes like the “Beauty’s Special”—a St-Viateur bagel piled high with cream cheese, smoked salmon, tomato, and onion—and the legendary “Mish-Mash” omelette loaded with salami, hot dogs, peppers, and onions, Beauty’s continues to attract crowds.

Today, run by the second and third generations of the Sckolnick family, Beauty’s retains its old-school charm, complete with vintage blue booths and aluminium accents. It’s a Montreal institution that never disappoints.

Opened in January 2020 on Notre-Dame Boulevard West, Stem Bar is a stylish, modern venue created by the owners of September Surf Café. Designed by Ravi Handa, the decor blends sobriety with vintage touches, offering a relaxed ambiance. The space seats 57, with a dedicated bar area for those waiting for a table. Its chef’s seasonal menu focuses on fresh, shareable plates, providing a delightful culinary experience. The drink menu, regularly updated, features small independent wine producers and local breweries. Stem Bar is a charming place to unwind and enjoy exceptional food and drink in Little Burgundy.

Atwater Market, a cornerstone of Montreal’s Southwest borough, is renowned for its Art Deco architecture and rich history dating back to 1933. Open year-round, the market flourishes in the warmer months, with stands overflowing with flowers, herbs, and fresh vegetables. Visitors can explore butcher shops, cheesemongers, and horticultural vendors offering local and hard-to-find gourmet products. Its seasonal restaurants feature an array of options, from Vietnamese to Southern barbecue. The market, accessible by bus or Metro, also offers ample parking. Atwater Market is the perfect destination for discovering high-quality, seasonal produce and enjoying a picturesque picnic by the canal.

Bar Otto, a chic addition to Notre-Dame Street West, offers a blend of conviviality and elegance in Japanese dining. A project by Hanhak Kim, this venture builds on the success of Otto Yakitori and Bistro Otto (now known as Kitano Shokudo). The menu features grilled skewers, ramen, mazemen, and exceptional sashimi. Bar Otto’s curated drink menu highlights natural and biodynamic wines alongside a fine selection of sakes. Designed by Israël Noël, the decor merges traditional Japanese elements with modern aesthetics, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

Since 1947, Restaurant Greenspot has been a beloved institution in St-Henri, offering comforting Quebec diner food in a charming retro atmosphere. Originally located at the corner of Greene and Notre-Dame Ouest, it moved across the street in 1989, bringing its original 1947 decor along. Owned by Jon Pavlakos, Nick Ioannidis, Louis Stavropoulos, and Stellios Kiliaris, Greenspot is known for its extensive menu featuring over 30 variations of poutine, classic breakfasts, pizzas, and smoked meat. Chef Denis Vavougios, a kitchen legend, ensures that every dish maintains its traditional quality. With fresh, homemade ingredients and a welcoming vibe, Greenspot remains a cherished Montreal landmark.

Established in 2011 in Westmount, Park Restaurant showcases chef Antonio Park’s unique culinary vision. Combining Japanese techniques with Korean and South American influences, Park offers a menu rich in flavor and creativity. The restaurant's elegant yet unpretentious design, featuring abundant wood and custom tables, creates a welcoming atmosphere. Renowned for its fresh, high-quality fish, the menu includes sushi, sashimi, and daily tasting options. The wine list, curated by knowledgeable friends and a sommelier, features biodynamic and natural selections, while the cocktails draw inspiration from the restaurant’s rooftop garden. Park Restaurant continues to impress with its innovative approach and exceptional cuisine.

Le Kioko, located in the vibrant Saint-Henri district, offers a fusion of Japanese cuisine with a focus on fresh sushi, poke bowls, and tartares. Easily recognizable by its eye-catching neon sign, Le Kioko invites you to enjoy its culinary creations in a soothing atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on using high-quality ingredients to craft innovative and colorful dishes. From unique sushi rolls to Hawaiian-inspired poke bowls with a Japanese twist, Le Kioko ensures a memorable dining experience with an emphasis on nutrition, sustainability, and minimal food waste.