Where to Get the Best Middle Eastern Food Spots in Montreal

Middle Eastern cuisine is a flavorful experience that combines spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients to make delicious and satisfying dishes. What sets it apart from the world’s cuisine is the deep cultural history behind these meals, taking you on a tasty journey into the heart of Middle Eastern traditions.

Here are eight top spots in Montreal for delightful Middle Eastern cuisine:

1. Damas

If you enjoy trying unique foods in a cozy setting, you should check out Damas. It's a place where Eastern and Western cultures come together, and it feels really welcoming inside. The decor is all about warm colors, soft fabrics, intricate wooden designs, and colorful lights. Damas serves Syrian dishes with Persian flair, combining Middle Eastern freshness with Montreal's food scene. You can find it at 1201 Van Horne Avenue, Outremont, Quebec, and the prices range from 12 to 110 CAD.

2. Falafel St. Jacques

In Lachine, there's a cute little place that serves really yummy Mediterranean food. If you need gluten-free options, Falafel St-Jacques is the spot to be. They make gluten-free laffah that you can take home. If you want to eat more veggies but in a fun way, they have excellent salads and sandwiches that are really creative. And if you have a sweet tooth, try their halva and chocolate rugelach. You can find them at 345 St Jacques Street, Lachine, Quebec. The prices range from 7 to 20 CAD. They've got many options like bourekas, shawarma, sabich, and salads.

3. Le Petit Alep Bistro

Le Petit Alep is well-known for its outstanding menu, featuring Middle Eastern cuisine bursting with rich flavors designed for sharing. They offer smaller portions that are budget-friendly. Their menu boasts delectable soups, salads, mazzas, appetizers, sandwiches, and Middle Eastern dishes with a Montreal twist. You can also savor coffee and desserts. Some of their specialties include stuffed pita bread, terbialy shish kebab, and delightful mazzas like hummus, mouhamara, grape leaves, and labneh. Additionally, they offer generous tasting menus priced at either 23 or 28 CAD. You can find them at 191 Rue Jean-Talon East, Montreal, Quebec.

4. Sumac

Sumac is a popular Montreal restaurant named after a Middle Eastern spice. They specialize in Lebanese cuisine and offer tasty dishes like brownies, fruitcakes, quinoa salads, hummus, and draft beers. The cozy atmosphere with elegant decor is perfect for trying their homemade pitas and customizable plates. Sumac offers an affordable dining experience at 3618, rue Notre Dame O., Montreal, QC, with prices ranging from 7 to 26 CAD.

5. KazaMaza

KazaMaza is a popular restaurant in Montreal known for its delicious Syrian and Lebanese food. It may seem modest in the Mile End area, but their menu is delicious. Their popular dishes include lamb shank, fattoush, baba ganoush, and hummus kawarma. You can find them at 4629 av du parc Montreal, QC, and the prices are pretty reasonable, typically below 30 CAD.

6. Khyber Pass Restaurant

If you want a much quieter spot, Khyber Pass is for you. It's a lovely place with outside seating tucked away on a side street, making it perfect for couples and groups. There are cozy corners for romantic dinners and enough space for larger gatherings. The decor is unique, and they serve Afghan cuisine. Some popular dishes include Kabuli Palaw, Mashaba soup, sambossa, and chicken brochette. They also offer options for vegetarians and those with gluten sensitivities. You'll find Khyber Pass at 506 Duluth Ave E, and the prices range from 4.5 to 27 CAD, making it affordable for various budgets.

7. Garage Beirut

Garage Beirut is your go-to spot for traditional Lebanese food made with love. It's a versatile choice, catering to vegetarians, gluten-free diners, and meat enthusiasts. Whether you're dining with friends who have different dietary preferences, everyone can enjoy the tasty offerings. Their menu boasts delightful dishes like labneh, hummus, and signature Fattoush salad. Visit them at 1238, rue Mackay, Montreal, QC, with prices ranging from 4 to 55 CAD.

8. Trip de Bouffe

For bread lovers, don't miss out on Trip de Bouffe. They're known for serving the hottest and freshest Middle Eastern bread like Fatayer, Check El Mehche, Feta Kayak, and more. These tasty breads come with sides of green salads and hummus. The atmosphere is always relaxed, and the place is usually buzzing with locals grabbing extra dishes or takeout meals. The restaurant has a comfortable vintage kitchen vibe, with lamps and lights made from kitchen tools. It's a great spot to hang out as a cafe, but takeout might be a good option for larger groups. Find them at 277 Avenue du Mont-Royal Est, Montreal, QC, with prices ranging from 3.50 to 150 CAD.