There are a lot of great places to get shish taouk in Montreal, but which one is the best? Here is a list of the top shish taouk spots in the city based on reader rankings and reviews. Whether you’re looking for affordable eats or something more upscale, there’s sure to be a spot that satisfies your craving!
Best Shish Taouk in Montreal
If you’re looking for the best shish taouk in Montreal, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Some of them are listed below:
- Boustan
- Shish Taouk
- Damas
- Farrouj Express
- Restaurant Alep
- Antep Kabab
- Shawarmaz
Boustan
Boustan is a Montreal institution when it comes to Lebanese food. The restaurant has been serving up delicious shish taouk and other Middle Eastern dishes for many years. The secret to their success is simple: they use only the freshest ingredients and cook everything to perfection. The result is some of the best shish taouk you’ll ever taste!
- Downtown Montreal: This area is bustling with a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a likely spot for a Boustan location.
- Plateau-Mont-Royal: Known for its vibrant food scene, this neighborhood may have a Boustan restaurant for locals and visitors to enjoy.
- West Island: There might be a Boustan serving the residents in this western part of Montreal.
- Concordia University Area: Given the diverse student population, you may find a Boustan near the university campus.
Shish Taouk
Shish Taouk is another great spot for Lebanese food in Montreal. The restaurant offers a wide variety of Middle Eastern dishes, all of which are prepared with the freshest ingredients. The shish taouk is definitely a standout dish, and it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular with locals and visitors alike.
Damas
Damas is one of the most popular Lebanese restaurants in Montreal. The restaurant serves up traditional Lebanese dishes, including a variety of shish taouk options. The shish taouk here is some of the best in the city, and it’s definitely worth a try if you’re looking for a great meal.
Features of Damas:
- Diverse Menu: Damas provides a comprehensive menu that showcases the richness and diversity of Syrian and Lebanese cuisines, including various mezze (appetizers), grilled meats, and traditional dishes.
- Quality Ingredients: The restaurant is known for using high-quality, fresh ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually appealing.
- Atmosphere: Damas offers an inviting and warm atmosphere, often characterized by its elegant and somewhat exotic decor that reflects the cultural heritage of the cuisine it serves.
- Professional Staff: Reviews often highlight the knowledgeable and courteous staff who contribute to the overall pleasant dining experience.
Recommendations:
- If you’re considering a visit to Damas, making a reservation might be advisable, as popular restaurants tend to have significant demand, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Taking a look at their menu online beforehand can also help you get an idea of the dishes offered, pricing, and any specials or seasonal items they might have.
For Updated Information:
- For the most accurate and current information regarding their location, menu offerings, hours of operation, and reservation policies, you should refer to Damas’ official website or contact them directly. Online review platforms like Yelp or Google Reviews can also provide customer feedback and additional insights into the dining experience at Damas.
Location:
As of my knowledge cut-off in January 2022, Damas was located in the Outremont area of Montreal, but for the most accurate and current address and contact information, please refer to the most recent resources online.
Farrouj Express
Farrouj Express is a great option if you’re looking for a quick and tasty shish taouk fix. The restaurant specializes in Lebanese sandwiches, and the shish taouk sandwich is definitely a standout. The sandwich is made with tender pieces of chicken, tomatoes, onions, and garlic sauce, all wrapped up in warm pita bread. It’s the perfect meal for on-the-go!
Farrouj Express appears to be another wonderful option for those interested in Lebanese cuisine in Montreal. It sounds like a great place for quick, flavorful, and affordable meals, particularly if you’re a fan of shish taouk sandwiches and other Lebanese specialties.
Here are a few things to consider when visiting places like Farrouj Express:
Menu Options
- Besides shish taouk sandwiches, these quick-service restaurants often have a variety of other offerings, including falafel, kafta, hummus, and various salads. This allows you to enjoy a full, balanced meal or mix and match different items to suit your taste and appetite.
Convenience
- With a focus on quick service and takeout, places like Farrouj Express can be ideal for individuals looking for a convenient meal option while on the go or for those who prefer to enjoy their food at home.
Price
- Quick-service restaurants typically offer competitive pricing, making them a good option for individuals or groups looking for tasty food on a budget.
Customer Reviews
- Look up customer reviews online to get an idea of the overall quality of food and service you can expect. Reviews can also provide recommendations for popular or must-try items on the menu.
Location and Hours
- Make sure to check the restaurant’s official website or a reliable map service for accurate location details and hours of operation, as these details can change over time.
Restaurant Alep
Restaurant Alep is a wonderful location to get your Lebanese food fixed in Montreal. All of the restaurant’s dishes are authentically prepared with only the freshest ingredients. The shish taouk is definitely people’s favorite, but it’s easy to see how this place has such high reviews from both locals and travelers.
Restaurant Alep is indeed known as one of the premium destinations in Montreal for those who are fans of Middle Eastern, particularly Syrian and Lebanese, cuisine. The restaurant, as of my last update in January 2022, is celebrated for its authentic, flavorful dishes, warm ambiance, and stellar customer service.
Here are some key highlights of Restaurant Alep:
- Authentic Cuisine: Alep is praised for providing a menu that reflects the culinary traditions of Syria and Lebanon. The dishes are meticulously prepared with authentic recipes and techniques, which appeals to both individuals familiar with Middle Eastern cuisine and those trying it for the first time.
- Quality Ingredients: The restaurant is known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients to craft their dishes, contributing to the vibrant and delightful flavors that customers love.
- Diverse Menu: From shish taouk to various mezze (appetizers), grilled meats, vegetarian options, and traditional desserts, Alep offers a broad menu that caters to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Atmosphere: Customers often appreciate the cozy and inviting atmosphere at Alep, which enhances the dining experience. The decor typically reflects the cultural aesthetic associated with Middle Eastern heritage.
- Positive Reviews: As you mentioned, the restaurant enjoys positive reviews and high ratings from both locals and visitors. People often highlight the tasty food, friendly staff, and overall value for money.
Tips for Visiting:
- Reservations: Given its popularity, consider making a reservation to ensure you have a spot, especially during peak dining hours or on weekends.
- Menu Exploration: While shish taouk might be a favorite, don’t hesitate to try other dishes on the menu to enjoy a fuller experience of what Alep has to offer.
- Check Online: For the most up-to-date information on their location, hours of operation, menu, and any COVID-19 related changes or policies, check Restaurant Alep’s official website or trusted review sites.
Antep Kabab
Antep Kabab is another excellent spot for Lebanese food in Montreal. The restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Kurdish dishes, all of which are prepared with fresh ingredients. The shish taouk is definitely a standout dish, and it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular with locals and visitors alike.
Highlights of Antep Kabab:
- Authentic Dishes: With a commitment to authenticity, Antep Kabab serves traditional Kurdish and Lebanese dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of these regions. Their menu might include a variety of kebabs, shawarma, falafel, and more.
- Quality Ingredients: The use of fresh, quality ingredients is a key factor in the restaurant’s popularity, helping to ensure that each dish is flavorful and satisfying.
- Customer Favorites: While shish taouk is mentioned as a standout, Antep Kabab likely offers a range of customer favorites worth trying. You might want to explore different items on the menu to enjoy a comprehensive taste experience.
- Positive Reviews: Customer reviews might highlight the friendly staff, reasonable prices, and overall value provided by Antep Kabab. Positive feedback from both locals and visitors indicates that the restaurant is a reliable choice for delicious Lebanese and Kurdish cuisine.
- Casual Atmosphere: The establishment may offer a relaxed, casual setting that is suitable for family meals, gatherings with friends, or quick bites.
Tips for Visiting:
- Online Presence: Check online platforms, review sites, or Antep Kabab’s official social media profiles for the most up-to-date information on their menu, hours of operation, and customer reviews.
- Menu Exploration: Although shish taouk is a highlighted dish, considering trying other specialties and house favorites to get a well-rounded experience of what the restaurant has to offer.
- Reservations: If the restaurant accepts reservations, consider booking a table in advance, especially if planning to visit during peak hours or with a larger group.
Shawarmaz
If you’re in the mood for a delicious shish taouk sandwich, Shawarmaz is definitely the place to go. The restaurant specializes in Lebanese cuisine, and its version of this popular sandwich does not disappoint. It’s made with tender chicken pieces, fresh tomatoes, onions, and garlic sauce – all wrapped up in warm pita bread. Trust us when we say it’s worth every bite!
Highlights of Shawarmaz:
- Specialized Menu: As it specializes in Lebanese cuisine, you can expect a menu that reflects the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Lebanon, with shish taouk being a prominent item.
- Fresh Ingredients: As mentioned, Shawarmaz seems to prioritize using fresh and quality ingredients to craft their sandwiches, which is essential for bringing out the vibrant and authentic flavors of Lebanese cuisine.
- Popular Choice: The shish taouk sandwich at Shawarmaz appears to be a crowd-pleaser, receiving positive feedback from customers who appreciate its taste and quality.
- Casual & Convenient: If Shawarmaz follows the model of many similar eateries, it may offer a casual, friendly environment with the option for takeout or dine-in, making it a convenient choice for various dining needs.
Tips for Visiting:
- Explore the Menu: While the shish taouk sandwich is a highlight, consider exploring other items on the menu for a broader taste of what Shawarmaz offers.
- Check Reviews: Online reviews from recent customers can provide more insight into the restaurant’s service, atmosphere, and other menu recommendations.
- Visit Their Website: For the most accurate information regarding their location, hours of operation, menu offerings, and any current promotions or special deals, visit Shawarmaz’s official website or their profile on food delivery and review platforms.
What Is the Difference Between Shish Taouk and Shawarma?
Though both are made with chicken, a few key differences set them apart. The most noticeable difference is in the spices that are used in the marinade. Chicken shawarma relies on warmer spices like cinnamon, allspice, and turmeric, while Shish Taouk features a more lemony flavor profile.
This is due to the fact that lemon and yogurt are typically used in the marinade for Shish Taouk. As a result, Shish Taouk is often lighter and brighter in flavor than chicken shawarma. Another key difference is in the cooking method. Chicken shawarma is typically cooked on a vertical rotisserie, while Shish Taouk is usually grilled or baked. This gives chicken shawarma a slightly crispier exterior, while Shish Taouk remains moist and juicy throughout.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or something light and refreshing, these two dishes are sure to satisfy you.
The Bottom-Line
So there you have it! A guide to some of the best shish taouk in Montreal. Whether you’re looking for a quick sandwich or a sit-down meal, these restaurants are sure to have what you’re looking for. So go ahead and give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!
- Article based on personal opinion, experience and research.
- Photos from Unsplash & canva.