A cozy getaway at NILI: Moroccan flavors and comfort in the heart of Montreal
Sometimes, Gurgles.ca stumbles upon true culinary gems—exceptions to the usual gourmet menus and tasting experiences we typically review. On this chilly January evening, our Sunday night turned into a delightful gastronomic journey thanks to a meal at Nili, a charming little restaurant just a few doors down from the famous St-Viateur Bagels in Montreal.
From the moment we arrived, the restaurant's warm atmosphere embraced us. The rich colors and Moroccan-inspired decor created a setting that was both welcoming and transportive. At the table, every dish was a festival of flavors and a feast for the eyes. If you're looking for a dining experience that stands out, we can only urge you to give this place a try.
Cocktails & Wine: A Promising Start
Despite its small size, Nili's cocktail menu is surprisingly varied. The drinks we sampled were perfectly balanced and immediately set the mood. While there’s no official wine list, our server took the time to recommend an excellent red, simply served in a regular glass, which paired beautifully with our meal.
Starters: Comfort and Delight
To start, we opted for the warm artichoke and spinach dip, served with crispy baguette pieces. It was pure indulgence—perfectly comforting and ideal for a cold evening.
Main Courses: A Journey Through Moroccan Flavors
We then shared two main courses, each as flavorful as they were generous. The first, a Moroccan couscous, was a true masterpiece. Crunchy almonds, sweet dried fruits, flavorful vegetables, and perfectly balanced spices blended harmoniously. You can choose to add a protein—we went for merguez sausages, but chicken or tofu would have been just as delightful for a small extra charge.
The second dish was equally impressive: whiting fish balls simmered in a sauce of tomatoes, Kalamata olives, coriander, and yogurt. Every bite was a perfect balance of flavors and textures. We even scraped up the last bit of sauce with our accompanying rice—it was that good!
A Dessert Not to Miss
To end this memorable meal, we couldn't resist the orange blossom panna cotta. Sprinkled with pistachios and drizzled with an orange, honey, and cinnamon syrup, it was simply divine—a delicate, fragrant finish to a fantastic evening.
Final Thoughts
At Nili, you eat incredibly well for a very reasonable price. Whether you're a fan of Moroccan cuisine or simply looking for a warm and flavorful dining experience, this restaurant is a must-visit. And if you're on the hunt for a great breakfast the next morning, be sure to stop by St-Viateur Bagel right next door!
Price : $
Quality of food : 4,5
Quality of service : 4,5
Design, cleanliness and ambiance : 4
Quality vs price : 4,5
255 Rue Saint-Viateur O, Montréal, QC H2V 1Y1
Telephone : (514) 379-1400
