Jun I

156A AVE. Laurier Ouest, Montreal
juni.ca

If I had one line to describe Jun I I would steal what my boyfriend always says and tell you that it’s understated elegance.
Sincerely though, Jun I is that.

A sushi standout since it's open in 2005, Juni is home to top Japanese sushi chef Chef Junichi Ikematsu, one of Montreal’s finest. The menu is beautiful and Jun I has off menu fish for nigiri and sushi that are always worth asking about. The restaurant is small and intimate and evokes a calm and cool with its Japanese simplicity. A mix of French and English ingratiate the space evoking the memory of a time when two languages in Québec (and possibly more) were encouraged, not reprimanded. Jun I presents as an upscale sushi restaurants that isn’t trying too hard. It doesn't have to.

Firstly, the maki rolls are creative and delicious. Jun I has some very fun rolls that are different, fresh and flavourful. The nigiri and sushi is always cut to perfection and is easy beyond. Always ask for the off-menu fish items. So worth it. The sake options are perfect and they have a great appetizer menu for those wanting to enjoy warm or cold Japanese favourites. A couple personal faves include the Gindara which has black cod, fish stock, turnips, lion’s mane mushrooms, leeks, and ginger is excellent and the Tsubugai which includes grilled whelks, home-made yuzu-kosho, celeriac puree, butternut squash and a rutabaga salad, yuzu-miso. Are you salivating yet?

Jun I has long been a favourite neighbourhood restaurant to the Outremont folk, however is well worth the reservation and drive down no matter where you are. For a special eve, a date night, a solo seat at the bar or simply a sushi destination for delicious raw fish, this is THE place to go to, in my opinion. One thing is for sure, when I see how fast reservations get made I know I’m not the only one who feels this way.