The Plateau Mont-Royal has a vibrant food scene, but finding a sushi restaurant that truly nails the combination of authenticity, pristine freshness, and an intimate atmosphere can be a quest. Food lovers know the secret: sometimes, the greatest gems lie just beyond the neighbourhood's official borders.
The answer is waiting just across the way, in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie: Aji Bar Sushi & Izakaya. This isn't just another restaurant; it's a destination for anyone who is serious about their sushi. Forget the all-you-can-eat buffets and generic rolls, this is the real deal.
- Address
- 929 Saint-Zotique St East, Montreal, QC H2S 1M9
- Neighborhood
- Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie (adjacent to the Plateau)
- Type
- Bring Your Own Wine (BYOW)
- Price Range
- $60 - $90 per person (before tax and tip)
- Reservation Phone
- (514) 272-2929
Why Aji Is the Plateau's Best-Kept Secret
First, there's the proximity. Located on Saint-Zotique Street East, Aji is a short walk or bike ride from the northern edge of the Plateau. This brief journey transports you to a different world, away from the bustle of Mont-Royal Avenue, for a more focused and elevated dining experience.
But the real reason to make the trip is the quality. Chef Yamamoto makes zero compromises on the freshness of his fish. Every piece of sashimi or nigiri is a masterclass in skill. It's the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with sushi in the first place: the purity of the ingredients, the perfect texture of the seasoned rice, and the delicate balance of flavors.
More Than Just Sushi: The Izakaya Experience
Aji isn't just a sushi bar. It's an izakaya, a type of Japanese gastropub where the focus is on sharing small plates in a lively, convivial setting. Beyond the world-class sushi and sashimi, the menu features a selection of hot and cold dishes that are not to be missed.
Think house-made gyoza, perfectly caramelized miso-marinated black cod, or a delicately seasoned octopus salad. The concept encourages ordering several plates for the table, sharing, and lingering over the meal. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it perfect for a date night or dinner with close friends.
The Craftsmanship of Chef Yamamoto
The heart and soul of Aji is its chef. With near-surgical precision and a profound respect for Japanese tradition, Chef Yamamoto transforms exceptional ingredients into small, edible works of art. His approach is rooted in classic techniques, but the result is anything but boring.
Watching the chef at work behind the counter is part of the experience. You can see the intense focus, the passion, and the years of dedication. This expertise ensures a level of consistency and quality that is hard to find. Don't hesitate to ask for his recommendations or go for the 'omakase', a tasting menu where you leave the choices entirely up to him.
Making the Most of a BYOW
In Montreal, the 'Bring Your Own Wine' (BYOW) policy is a cherished institution, and Aji is one of its finest examples. This perk allows you to control the final bill while enjoying a special bottle from your own collection.
To complement the delicate flavors of raw fish, consider a dry, mineral-driven white wine like a Sancerre or a Riesling. Of course, a quality sake is also a perfect pairing. The BYOW formula makes a high-end gastronomic experience like this much more accessible and personal.
- 1Aji Bar Izakaya is the top sushi recommendation for Plateau residents, conveniently located in the adjacent Rosemont neighborhood.
- 2It's a 'Bring Your Own Wine' (BYOW) restaurant, offering fantastic value for a high-quality culinary experience.
- 3Quality is guaranteed by Chef Yamamoto, who champions absolute freshness and traditional techniques.
- 4The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, perfect for a special evening away from the big crowds.
- 5Reservations are almost mandatory due to the restaurant's popularity and limited seating.
