Kif Kif: A New Breeze from the Middle East in Westmount

At Tastet, we love introducing you to the latest gems on Montreal’s culinary scene. That’s why we went to visit Kif Kif, a new restaurant celebrating Middle Eastern cuisine in Westmount, brought to life by chef Dan Geltner under the supervision of general manager Pierre Magallanes.

A Story of Passion

Dan Geltner’s journey is nothing short of impressive. From the Michelin-starred kitchens of Château du Domaine St. Martin to Bar Boulud in New York—where Daniel Boulud himself chose him for the opening team—to beloved Montreal addresses like L’Orignal, Suwu, and Le Kitchen, the chef has long navigated between French refinement and Montreal conviviality.
After several years as a sought-after private chef and consultant, Dan returns with Kif Kif, a deeply personal, warm, and vibrant project.

So, what does “Kif Kif” mean? In both Arabic and Québécois slang, kif kif means “same, same.” “When guests ask if they should order the chicken, beef, or lamb, we say ‘kif kif’—because they’re all equally delicious and made with the same love,” the team explains. That philosophy comes through from the very first bite.

Cooking from the Heart

At Kif Kif, every dish seems to tell a story. Much of the menu is inspired by Dan’s grandmother’s cooking—the taste of home, simplicity, and authenticity that he wanted to bring to life here.

In the kitchen, he’s joined by chef de cuisine Alireza Yousefinia, originally from Iran, who brings his own emotional touch. His saffron rice, for example, is a traditional Iranian dish his mother used to make for him as a child.

We loved everything at Kif Kif! The dips are irresistible—silky hummus, bold muhammara, and smoky grilled eggplant—all served with warm, fluffy house-made pita, easily among the best in town.

The mezze are just as delightful: colorful salads, crudo salmon with pickled onions and lemon-fennel dressing, and especially the Moroccan cigars, stuffed with mushrooms, nuts, and celery root—crispy, earthy, and perfectly seasoned.

From the grill, the feast continues: chicken, beef, salmon skewers, and even lamb lollipops—each unique, each delicious. Two dishes stand out in particular: the braised lamb, meltingly tender on a bed of freekeh with caramelized onions and almonds; and the chicken schnitzel, beautifully crisp with a secret sauce that brings a quiet hush of admiration around the table.

Cocktails & Atmosphere

Behind the bar, Eyal Azimov has crafted a cocktail menu as sunny as the food itself. The rose cocktail is the star—floral, delicate, almost poetic. Every drink is fresh, balanced, and designed to pair perfectly with the generous menu.

A Warm, Family Spirit

The décor is colorful and full of life, perfectly capturing the essence of Kif Kif: fun, family-oriented, and a little nostalgic. The murals tell stories of traditions, celebrations, and everyday joy—with one clear message: forever young. Eat, drink, dance, even at 90.

As the evening unfolds, the ambiance shifts—from soft and cozy for family dinners to vibrant and intimate as the night goes on, ideal for sharing plates with friends or a relaxed date night.

Kif Kif is a journey through childhood memories, the warmth of sharing, and the refinement of flavor. Bon appétit!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet


Last update: November 08, 2025

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