Walking into Jatoba, you are struck by the beauty of the restaurant. From the intricate mouldings to the gorgeous marble-top bars, no detail was overlooked in the designing of this space. Downtown is finally getting back to being known as a destination for eating out in Montreal.

Of course we decided to sit at the bar, because in my opinion, that is the best way to really get to know a restaurant. Our sweet and friendly waitress guided us to our seats (equipped with purse hooks- woohoo!) where we began looking through the extensive menu. There is an interesting array of items- dumplings, tartare, tataki, fish, meats, and unique vegetarian dishes. We ordered a good mix of Tuna Tataki, Shrimp and Napa Cabbage Dumplings, Fried Tofu with Crushed Avocado and Cucumber, King Oyster Mushrooms, and of course Dessert (their famous Suki Sandwich Square). Next time I would try the Brussels Sprout Chips, the Jatoba Salad, and the Ginger Lobster. See the pictures and descriptions of what we ordered below!

On recommendation, we ordered the “drink in a pineapple” (for lack of a better title), which arrived in a huge pineapple-shaped glass with sparklers (just for fun!). A couple of friendly people at the bar wished me happy birthday, and I then proceeded to sip on this eccentric and DELICIOUS drink that was unlike any I have had before. It had tons of fresh ginger, and a bunch of other tropical ingredients that were unidentifiable once mixed together. An interesting spice leaves a tingling at the back of the throat and intrigues you to keep on drinking. I would say it is the equivalent of 2 or 2 and 1/2 cocktails (priced @ $28 – not that bad considering specialty cocktails were mostly priced around $14), so maybe share it with a friend………….or don’t…totally up to you (no judgment here!). 

The Suki Sandwich Square- toasted marshmallow, dulce de leche, and pecans sandwiched between two blondies and topped with French vanilla ice cream- can only be described as decadent. It is definitely sweet, so I recommend sharing, but it was absolutely delicious. Another option is their Chocolate Bomb- red velvet cheesecake enrobed in a chocolate sphere that “explodes” as the waiter pours hot chocolate sauce all over it. I will definitely try this on my next visit. 

*IF YOU COULD ORDER JUST ONE: SHRIMP & NAPA CABBAGE DUMPLINGS*

 The dumpling wrappers are so delicate and fine, it makes you wonder how the filling manages to stay so perfectly wrapped inside. The light broth compliments the dumplings, while allowing the shrimp and napa cabbage filling to shine through. Highly recommended.

Overall I would recommend Jatoba for a night out of drinks and a couple of plates for sharing with friends, a solid date night spot, or for special occasions. The menu has something for everyone and the atmosphere and beautiful décor are incomparable to nearby restaurants.