Damas
Syrian restaurant · Outremont ·
Upscale Syrian restaurant with ornate decor and plant-trimmed terrace
Upscale Syrian restaurant with ornate decor and plant-trimmed terrace
"A pillar in Montreal’s dining scene, upscale Syrian restaurant Damas orchestrates a full-on sensory experience. Chef and owner Fuad Alneirabeie plates some absurdly delicious dishes, from appetizers like multicolored mezze, fattoush salad, and kibbeh nayyeh (a minty blend of raw lamb and beef), to walnut-stuffed sea bass and a host of hefty char-grilled mains replete with sumac and Aleppo pepper. The 10-to-12-course tasting menu with wine pairings is the foolproof way to make the rounds — though it’s not without a splurge. Damas’s ornate dining room is its own feast, dripping with pendant lanterns, intricate patterns, and rich crimson hues. Know before you go: For something more grab-and-go, check out Folfol across the street, a street food takeout counter translating Damas flavors into sandwich form." - Valerie Silva
"This place exudes an infectious joie de vivre. Whether you're new to Syrian or pan-Ottoman cuisine or a connoisseur, the experienced and welcoming team will lay out a memorable feast for you. From dazzlingly fresh salads (such as fattoush) to succulent meats (including pastirma), each dish is bursting with color, flavor, and energy. The lamb, cooked in various ways, is a must. Tip: Opt for a table in the main dining area to watch the chefs as they prepare the bread and cook on the charcoal grill." - Michelin Inspector
"Damas is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal, with its red-and-black color scheme and hanging lamps, plus a Middle-Eastern soundtrack that hits just right. It’s probably a once-in-a-year-splurge for most people, but it’s worth it. The move here is to go for the pescatarian or omnivore tasting menus—they’re generous and really showcase the classic Syrian dishes that the team is justifiably proud of (and you won’t be missing out on their remarkable light baklava). And should you want to celebrate your decadent meal in style, they’ve got cocktails with saffron, cardamom, or sour cherries, and a wide range of arak." - ivy lerner frank
"Damas is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Montreal, with its red-and-black color scheme and hanging lamps, plus a Middle-Eastern soundtrack that hits just right. It’s probably a once-in-a-year-splurge for most people, but it’s worth it. The move here is to go for the pescatarian or omnivore tasting menus—they’re generous and really showcase the classic Syrian dishes that the team is justifiably proud of (and you won’t be missing out on their remarkable light baklava). And should you want to celebrate your decadent meal in style, they’ve got cocktails with saffron, cardamom, or sour cherries, and a wide range of arak." - Ivy Lerner-Frank
"Montreal has sizable Syrian and Armenian communities, so you’ll find some pretty great Middle Eastern food around town. Damas is perfect for a special night out filled with hand-rolled vine leaves, lemony grilled octopus salad, and whole sea bass stuffed with walnuts and vegetables. Both Québec and Alberta lamb are on the menu, too, with the preparations—grilled or braised—tailored to the uniqueness of each type of meat. For groups, consider going with either the omnivore or fish tasting menu that leaves all the decisions to the chef. Just make sure to save room for their homemade baklava and ice cream. " - ivy lerner frank, team infatuation