Bāgā: 100% local smash burgers on the Plateau

On the Plateau-Mont-Royal, a new addition has joined the growing list of smash burger spots: Bāgā. A simple, well-executed address that checks all the boxes when you’re craving a quick, satisfying, and unpretentious meal.

Behind Bāgā are Antoine, Clément, and Adrien, three partners who first met while working at P’tit Dep. Clément, trained as an architect, spent seven years there as director of sales and operations. Adrien worked at the Four Seasons before joining P’tit Dep, while Antoine handled marketing. The idea for Bāgā was born following a trip to France, inspired by the ultra-modern smash burger restaurant Dumbo. The entire project was imagined and brought to life by the trio.

At Bāgā, the menu is intentionally minimalist. There are three smash burgers: beef, chicken, or veggie. All are offered at the same price ($14), with fries available for $4—(very) reasonable, in our opinion, especially considering the quality of the ingredients. The only possible add-on: bacon. Instead of a classic brioche bun, Bāgā uses an egg bun, which holds together better and works perfectly with the smash format.

The restaurant focuses on 100% local products, both for food and drinks. The beef comes from Édouard et Léo, the aged cheddar is from Fromagerie Hamel, the antibiotic-free chicken is sourced from a suburban farm, and the fruit ketchup is made by La Pimenterie. With the exception of Coca-Cola (kept for its iconic appeal), every option is local. And even the Coca-Cola is produced in Quebec!

It’s the kind of spot you stop by for a quick solo bite, or for a casual date over burgers and drinks when you don’t feel like spending too much or lingering all evening. It’s not complicated—and it’s good.

Design-wise, Bāgā truly stands out. Inspired by Japan, the space is minimalist, calm, and furnished with very low seating. The light fixtures, designed by Studio Botté, are made from reclaimed stool legs—a subtle yet striking detail that perfectly aligns with the restaurant’s local and sustainable ethos. Nothing about the place feels like a typical fast-food joint: it’s beautiful, thoughtful, modern, and refined. A bright veranda opens onto an outdoor terrace, adding even more charm. Service is attentive, and a loyalty card rewards guests after eight trio combos. Bāgā is also available on Uber Eats for those who prefer to stay home.

Bāgā fits seamlessly into the Plateau: an unpretentious, well-conceived address where everything is done with care and attention to detail. An efficient, local, and cool new spot that has all the makings of a neighborhood go-to.

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Updated on February 16, 2026

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