Kinka Izakaya in Montreal | A must for Japanese food lovers
Montreal is known for its diverse culinary scene, and one of the standout restaurants in the city is Kinka Izakaya. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, Kinka Izakaya offers a unique Japanese dining experience that combines great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere.
Before we dive into the details of Kinka Izakaya, it’s worth noting what an Izakaya is. An Izakaya is a type of Japanese bar that serves small plates of food, like tapas in Spanish cuisine. The focus of an Izakaya is on socializing, with a laid-back atmosphere and lots of drinks to go around. It’s the perfect spot to go with friends for a fun night out.
Kinka Izakaya opened its doors in Montreal in 2017 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the best spots for Japanese cuisine in the city. The restaurant is located on Rue Sainte-Catherine, which is one of the busiest streets in Montreal, making it an easily accessible spot for locals and tourists alike.
As soon as you walk into Kinka Izakaya, you’ll notice the vibrant atmosphere. The walls are decorated with Japanese lanterns, and there’s a large bar in the center of the room, where you can watch the bartenders make their signature cocktails. The restaurant has an open kitchen, which allows you to see the chefs at work, preparing delicious Japanese dishes.
Kinka Izakaya’s menu is extensive, with a wide range of dishes to choose from. The menu is divided into different sections, including Appetizers, Skewers, Rice and Noodles, and Specials. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available, as well as gluten-free options.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the Takoyaki, which is a popular street food in Japan. Takoyaki are small, fried balls of batter that are filled with pieces of octopus. They’re served with a special sauce and mayonnaise, and they’re absolutely delicious.
Another must-try dish is the Gyu Ponzu, which is thinly sliced beef served with a citrusy ponzu sauce. The beef is cooked to perfection, and the sauce adds a nice tangy flavor to the dish.
If you’re a fan of sushi, you won’t be disappointed with Kinka Izakaya’s selection. The restaurant serves a variety of sushi rolls, including the popular Spider Roll, which is filled with soft shell crab and avocado.
Kinka Izakaya is known for its great selection of drinks, including Japanese beer, sake, and cocktails. The bartenders are skilled at creating unique cocktails that pair perfectly with the food. One of the standout drinks on the menu is the Yuzu Margarita, which is made with yuzu juice, tequila, and lime. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and sour and goes well with any dish on the menu.
The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. They’re happy to make recommendations and answer any questions you may have. The service is quick, which is great when you’re hungry and looking to get your food as soon as possible.
If you’re looking for a fun night out with friends, or just want to try some delicious Japanese cuisine, Kinka Izakaya is definitely worth a visit. The lively atmosphere, great food, and excellent drinks make it a standout restaurant in Montreal’s dining scene. Be sure to come hungry, as there’s plenty of food to try!
Kinka Izakaya
1624 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest, Montréal, Québec H3H 2S7 Canada
Monday to Friday, 5 PM to 11 PM
Around $40 by person
Click here to book your table.
Looking for more foodie picks? You can read my review of Gon Bui.
