The Best General Tao in Montreal
Montreal is full of restaurants that compete in creativity to offer their own take on the famous General Tao — that iconic dish where crispy, sweet, and spicy flavours come together in a perfectly addictive harmony. Whether you order it as a main dish, a side, or simply to satisfy a craving, this Chinese-American classic has won over the taste buds of Montrealers, and many establishments in the city have made it their specialty.
In this list, we’ve gathered our favourite spots where General Tao stands out thanks to high-quality ingredients, expertly executed frying, and a beautiful balance of flavours. Some places stick to a traditional recipe that honours the essentials, while others explore bold variations with local touches or unexpected ingredients that elevate this iconic dish. Extra-crispy chicken coated in a rich, sweet-and-spicy sauce — how could anyone resist? It’s comfort food at its finest!
Whether you’re a purist searching for the most authentic version or a curious food lover eager to discover creative twists, this list offers an excellent overview of the best restaurants to enjoy General Tao chicken in Montreal. Grab your chopsticks and bring your appetite — we promise generous, crispy, tender bites well worth the trip. And don’t forget to check out our list of the best Chinese restaurants as well as our guide to the best dumplings in Montreal!
Noodle Factory
Noodle Factory is a little Montreal gem that charms with its authenticity and bold flavours. Modest in appearance, this restaurant draws fans of Chinese cuisine with its traditional dishes, its handmade noodles, and its General Tao — the undeniable star of the menu.
Montréal
Restaurant Impérial (Brossard)
The Imperial Restaurant is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a great General Tao or deliciously authentic Chinese cuisine!The restaurant was born from the owners’ desire to showcase the richness, finesse, and communal spirit of Chinese gastronomy. On Boulevard Taschereau in Brossard, you’ll discover what the owners proudly call “real Chinese cooking.”
Brossard
Restaurant Chinatown Kim Fung
Mon Nan is a pillar of Chinatown and a must-visit if you haven’t been already. Open since 1982, the restaurant continues to grow in popularity! Here, you’ll enjoy an impressive selection of classic and traditional Chinese dishes. The authenticity of rich Chinese cuisine is at the heart of this beloved spot, which has been delighting its customers for decades.
Montreal
Restaurant Mon Nan
Mon Nan is a pillar of Chinatown and a must-visit if you haven’t been already. Open since 1982, the restaurant continues to grow in popularity! Here, you’ll enjoy an impressive selection of classic and traditional Chinese dishes. The authenticity of rich Chinese cuisine is at the heart of this beloved spot, which has been delighting its customers for decades.
Montréal
Restaurant Keung Kee
At Keung Kee, you’ll be served Chinese and Cantonese specialties. It’s a great destination for late-night cravings since they don’t close until 1 a.m. Seafood — clams, lobster, and scallops — are among the favourites, but their General Tao is a true delight. You can also expect very generous portions!
Montréal
Dynastie
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Dynastie stands out with its classic Cantonese dishes that transport you straight to the bustling streets of Hong Kong. As for us, we were won over by several of the house specialties: the wonton soup, the shrimp dumplings, the General Tao, and the Yi Mein noodles.
Montréal
Le Piment Rouge Beaumont
Situated just steps from the MIL campus, Le Piment Rouge wins you over with its impeccable hospitality and refined Sichuanese cuisine, true to the restaurant’s heritage. Their General Tao, made with their signature “Le Piment Rouge” sauce and prepared with capon instead of chicken, immediately stands out. Crispy, fragrant, and perfectly balanced, it’s a polished rendition that showcases the restaurant’s expertise — and more than earns its place among the best in the city.
Montréal
