Joe Beef
Joe Beef 2491 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal
4.6
71 evaluations
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Reviews / Ratings for Joe Beef

Photo of Sasa Misaljevic
19 Apr 2026
Source: Google
4.7

As expected food was excellent, all good and wholesome ingredients, well made. Pricey for what they offer, nothing that I could not make my self, at home, using prime ingredients and doing everything right. I guess they sell name and reputation as well

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Photo of Emily Baker
18 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

This place is next level. Good music. Happy servers. Incredible food. Great wine recs. Special place to go to celebrate for sure. If you're thinking about going, just go, you won't regret it.

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Photo of Zach Caylor
17 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Not a foodie but was absolutely worth the stop while we were in Montreal - may have been one of the most intentional, flavorsome meals in my life. Staff was kind and attentive. atmosphere was superb. Price worthwhile Would visit again.

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Photo of Highball
17 Apr 2026
Source: Google
4.3

Joe Beef was highly recommended but the overall quality was mid. Just didn't measure to my expectations. The staff was amazing and helpful. The atmosphere is very lively.

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Photo of Paul Rafferty
16 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Excellent…

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Photo of JG C
14 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

By far the best restaurant in Montreal. Great food , good options , service is fun and the ambiance also. It s not a snob place you have a great time while eating great food at a reasonable price.

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Photo of Maxine McCarthy
12 Apr 2026
Source: Google
1.0

I have been looking to dine at Joe Beef for years. I could only get a reservation at Liverpool House the last time I visited Montreal in August of 2022, and based on how high that experience was, wanted to ensure I got in this round. We got a reservation at 9:15 at the bar. Which really did not make a difference. We showed up a few minutes early but it was five minutes of servers and staff alike walking by us, obviously busy, without a smile or we’ll be right with you. I work in hospitality and regardless of what you have in your hands or how busy you are, you greet, say hello, flash a smile and let the guest know we’ll be right with you. But all members of the staff were more concerned with resetting tables than addressing that we were standing at the door for 5+ minutes. When the host finally greeted us she said they were setting it up. Another 15 minutes go by. When we finally get at the bar they were apologetic. The host with the long nails brought us an INCH of Prosecco each, but we appreciated the gesture anyways. The chairs seemed like one seat where they shoved two stools into, but we were determined to enjoy the night that we had been looking forward to regardless. She offered us martinis (which were not comped), and streamlined them making sure we got them right away that we appreciated. It was a few minutes before we got offered water. They were obviously busy so we did not mind since we had a little bit of Prosecco in front of us. The chef on the oyster bar went into great depth about the specials.. he was kind but maybe a little flustered? Normally I love in-depth menus but it was almost overkill, and he was almost yelling at us? Unsure if they were drinking on but.. We got the shrimp cocktail which was good, tartare and snails were just okay. They were able to move us to a table but the service was inconsistent. All members of staff seemed more occupied with taking shots with VIP table in the window than actually effectively running a renowned restaurant. The only members who seemed to care about their jobs was the brunette host without nails, the brunette male server they transferred us to (he had the section across from the bar), and the blonde male bartender with circle glasses. Lobster pasta was one dimensional. Steak was super mid. We skipped desert because the blaring disco music was so loud that we could not hear one another. Overall, a 1/5 is being generous. We left in disbelief of the experience, one of our nights in MTL and $400 completely wasted.

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Photo of clive bethel
10 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

We had an outstanding time dining at Joe Beef. For my 2 colleagues and myself, it exceeded expectations. Well worth a trip.

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Photo of Kyle Rich
10 Apr 2026
Source: Google
4.7

Had a really nice dinner here to celebrate a birthday. Servers were amazing and the vibes in the restaurant were impeccable. We really liked the stuffed poultry - it was a special off menu option for the night. Would highly recommend anytime it’s available.

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Photo of Kate Lau
9 Apr 2026
Source: Google
1.0

One of us got stomach pains and needed to throw up after eating the seafood platter. He skipped the rest of the dinner in the washroom. The busgirl dropped the container full of sauce over my son’s shoulder but continued to serve the dishes without taking any action or apologize. Very disappointed with the experience for the price.

Photo of Charles lo
8 Apr 2026
Source: Google
4.3

Food was good. Very small portions so they discourage sharing dishes. Second time here and I don't think I will go back again. Lots of other places to try for this amount of money. Not sure I can recommend you to come here unless you have too much money to burn.

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Photo of Evan Portelance
7 Apr 2026
Source: Google
2.3

I went to Joe Beef for the first time 10 years ago on a visit to Montreal, and that was one of the best experiences of my young life. This past weekend I decided to take a trip back solely to recreate that feeling. Our group was extremely excited for dinner and unfortunately we were extremely disappointed. This is not the same restaurant as it was in its prime.There is no sense of care or passion anymore. The atmosphere left our party anxious and uncomfortable the entire time. They stuck the three of us (we're all six feet plus) on an extremely small two top in the corner of the back dining room. That room was crammed to say the least and there was no sense of privacy or intimacy. The music was far too loud, our group wasn't able to even have a conversation, and I couldn't hear the waitress talk as she described the specials. She was lovely but the descriptions of the items were misleading. The food was bland, unthoughtful, and rather cold. Prices were steep which don't necessarily bother me. I would've paid twice as much if the food was half as good as the first time. I don't want to be that guy that complains about portion sizes, but they marketed some entrees and special as enough for three people to share. Maybe it's just me but 9oz of sole (fish) on a plate with 1oz of overcooked lobster isn't a sharable dish worth $125 dollars. It appears to me that the reason this place is still popular is tourism. They are living off of their reputation from past years, and packing the place with first timers. Maybe some people today would be satisfied with the clout they posses. I just want to feel the love in the food when I go to any restaurant. Lastly this place is suffering from an identity crisis. Is it fine dining? Is it rustic? And why is there cheesy disco ball in the restaurant? I don't see how Joe Beef gets back on track.

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Photo of Mira Dodokh
5 Apr 2026
Source: Google
4.7

Went to Joe Beef for a dinner for 4 on 04/04/2026. Food: the lobster pasta was a standout, as was the duck. The fries are a must! The tartare and shrimp cocktail were excellent appetizers. The beef faded into the background to be honest! Service: we loved the sommelier! He had a great white wine suggestion, and was very thoughtful in suggesting a rose instead of a red (we had 2 red wine haters on the table!). Without him, we wouldn’t have ordered a second bottle - a real testament to his charm and skill! He was very attentive - I noticed something in my glass (perhaps some sediment from my wine?) and he immediately replaced it, without even being asked - he was clearly paying attention to the table! A tablemate found her drink too strong and the sommelier/waiter took finding her a delicious alternative very seriously (without charging for the first drink!). Plates and cutlery were changed between courses, which was so appreciated. Overall, the service added to the experience - we wanted to order more food and drink because we felt so welcomed! Atmosphere: busy, warm, and comfortable. Overall, it’s worth a stop in Montreal. The warm, attentive service makes you feel welcomed and happy, the food is just wonderful. You get the bill and truly feel that it was money well spent - a rare experience these days!

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Photo of Sara
4 Apr 2026
Source: Google
3.7

Food was great. We had the smoked salmon and croquettes to start, the croquettes especially were delicious. For mains we got the lobster spaghetti and filet de boeuf. The spaghetti was the best thing I ate my entire stay in montreal, delicious! Steak was pretty good too, not the best I've ever had but pretty good for not being a dedicated steak restaurant. We did get the layered cake for desert, I was not a huge fan (very sweet and a bit dry) but my companion quite enjoyed it. Service on the other hand was not impressive, he was quite condescending and not at all attentive, but maybe he was just having a bad day. Our food did come out quickly and they brought the bill right away.

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Photo of Belinda Leung
1 Apr 2026
Source: Google
5.0

The food here was delicious! We tried the Lobster Spaghetti, beef tenderloins, and a side of carrots. The lobster spaghetti was very flavorful and well coated with sauce. The beef tenderloin was perfectly cooked and served on top of ham and bread with an egg on top, and the carrots were very flavorful and paired well with the mains. Definitely recommend this restaurant, and we made a reservation since the tables book up very quickly! We also tried mocktails and a marjolaine 24-layer cake for dessert. The cake was delicious and not too sweet, with alternating layers of chocolate, cake, caramel, and cream. Our servers were very attentive, and we loved eating dinner here!

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Photo of N Hamil
31 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Fantastic food and exceptional service, the waiter had great recommendations throughout the meal and I really couldn't have asked for more. The restaurant was bustling and clearly we were not the only people enjoying it.

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Photo of Daichi Iyama
30 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

This restaurant has been on my bucket list for a long time, and I’m truly happy that I finally got to experience it for the first time. The hype and expectations were incredibly high going in, but somehow it still managed to exceed them. From the moment we arrived, the service was absolutely top-notch. Our server was professional, attentive, and extremely knowledgeable—not only about the menu, but also about the wine pairings, which really elevated the whole dining experience. We started with the beef tendon salad, and it was unbelievably good. It was the perfect appetizer to begin the meal—flavorful, well-balanced, and something quite memorable. For the mains, we had the duck with foie gras, skirt steak, dry-aged rib eye steak, fries, and skate fish. Honestly, everything we ordered was outstanding. Each dish was cooked beautifully and packed with flavor, making it clear why this place has such a strong reputation. I was initially a little intimidated by the price, but in the end it came to just a little over $100 per person for four of us, and the amount of food was more than enough. Considering the quality, portions, and overall experience, it felt absolutely worth it. Without a doubt, this is a place I would return to. Recommended items: Beef Tendon Salad, Duck with Foie Gras, Dry-Aged Rib Eye Steak

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Photo of Phil Carbo
29 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Very few top-tier restaurants live up to the hype but Joe Beef certainly does. The atmosphere is laid- back and lively. Not stuffy at all. My friends and I shared the arctic char and cote de boeuf. I couldn't tell you which was better. They were both incredibly phenomenal. We were also lucky enough to be there in a night they had razor clams. Unreal! Perfectly blended with spices and seasoning while leaving the clam as the star. This is a must visit when in Montreal.

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Photo of Christopher DeCicco
29 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Incredible food and service.

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Photo of Bryan
28 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Food was great. Service was greater. The rum drenched dessert was a great ending to the stellar meal.

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Photo of Elina Andreassen
28 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

The food, the service, and the atmosphere of Joe Beef was phenomenal. The veal dish was one of the most amazing meals I’ve ever had! Also, if you save room for dessert, get the rum cake!!! I’m going to be thinking about that cake for a very long time.

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Photo of Emily Huang
27 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

My server Camilo made me feel so welcome! Get the marjolaine cake!

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Photo of Jordan D
24 Mar 2026
Source: Google
2.7

I was really looking forward to this one but was a disappointment. Spent over 500$ for me and my wife but what a let down. We shared the rib plate and asked for medium but came in rare. We returned the plate , only to come back 5 minutes later still very rare. At this point we ate a bit of it and left. The piece of meat was drenched with two different sauces which completely altered the taste of the meat. Thanks for ruining our 10 year wedding anniversary .

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Photo of marven sejour
24 Mar 2026
Source: Google
5.0

Have to try apparently! Joe Rogan just shouted you guys out as one of the his favourite restaurants in the world! Coming next week

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Photo of Jenn Merritt
21 Mar 2026
Source: Google
2.3

We were really excited to try Joe Beef and made our reservation a month in advance, so our expectations were high. Unfortunately, the experience fell short. We were seated at an extremely small, crowded table where we had to physically move the table just to go between the tables to get to the seat. It made the entire meal feel uncomfortable from the start. On top of that it was so loud, we could hardly hear each other or the server. What stood out most was the service dynamic around us. The tables on either side appeared to be regulars or known to staff, and the difference in treatment was very noticeable. Staff were highly attentive and social with those tables, even sharing drinks with them and bringing them special dishes, while we felt largely overlooked. It created an awkward atmosphere where we felt like second-class guests. The hostess repeatedly bumped into my husband while engaging with the neighboring table, enthusiastically describing special dishes she planned to bring them, which added to the feeling that attention was being directed elsewhere. As for the food, it didn’t live up to the hype. The server strongly pushed starters, and while the drinks were good, the overall meal was underwhelming. Dessert was just okay. By the end of the evening, we were ready to leave. Overall, it was a disappointing experience, not worth it, and we won’t be returning.

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Opening hours

Dining room
  • Sunday Closed
  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday 17:00 - 22:30
  • Wednesday 17:00 - 22:30
  • Thursday 17:00 - 22:30
  • Friday 17:00 - 22:30
  • Saturday 17:00 - 22:30

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