Château Maneki: A Pink Japanese Snack Bar

We have been eagerly awaiting this new project from the team behind Maneki Comptoir Asiat in Hochelaga. Here it is at last! At Château Maneki, get ready to enjoy flambéed sushi, exquisite tartares, tasty cocktails, and much more.

Kevin Lee, Michael Chan, Mandy Zeng, and Michael Tran have been best friends since high school. They realized the dream of every food-loving group of friends by opening their own restaurant: Maneki. Today, they are making our dream a reality (!) by reviving the old Châteaubriand ice cream parlor located by Highway 40. If you’ve passed by, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the pink and blue castle that the team has restored while maintaining its old-fashioned charm. The result is a picturesque spot brimming with nostalgia.

“We wanted a space a bit like Orange Julep where people come to order at the window and can eat our dishes almost anywhere in the parking lot, in their cars, or on our terrace,” says one of the owners, the vibrant Kevin. Château Maneki aims to be a snack bar serving Japanese-inspired dishes, perfect for satisfying cravings or gathering with friends in a laid-back setting. It’s charming and casual, but the dishes are especially delicious!

“We love sushi, and we wanted to add a different twist to it. That’s where we got the idea to flambé it with a torch to create a partially cooked effect,” explains the team. On the menu, you’ll find the famous oshizushi (pressed and flambéed sushi) as well as delectable tartares, which are also available in bowls. In addition to all that, to pay homage to the castle’s former purpose, the new owners have incorporated soft serve ice cream into the menu. We had the chance to try the pineapple and vanilla flavors: a delight! To drink, expect cocktails that highlight Japanese flavors with their own twist. Here, we’re not sticking to traditional, but you’ll find bold flavors, and you’re welcomed like friends!

Long live Château Maneki!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: October 10, 2024

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