Mastard: a neighborhood star, by Simon Mathys

Awarded a Michelin star in spring 2025, Mastard is the neighborhood restaurant—warm, precise, and deeply human—of chef Simon Mathys and his partner Vicky. Tucked away on Bélanger Street, the 54-seat restaurant showcases Québec terroir through refined technique and confident creativity, without ever losing sight of what matters most: the pleasure and comfort of its guests.

Opened on January 6, 2021, Mastard has only been around a few years, yet it feels like it has always belonged to the neighborhood. Simon says it best: everything moved fast. A small team at the beginning, a dining room that quickly came to life, then almost vertiginous growth—driven by a clear vision and rare consistency.

In the meantime, the restaurant has also transformed itself. A complete renovation, work on acoustics, a sober and carefully considered décor, and rethought comfort—all with the goal of creating a place where people feel good, where you can talk, laugh, and take your time. A beautiful space, yes—but above all, one that feels lived in.

And that’s exactly what makes the difference: Mastard is a starred table that never makes you feel like you don’t belong.

100% hospitality

At Mastard, you come for a carte blanche experience: a five-course tasting menu, with optional pairings. Here, you let yourself be guided—and that’s part of the charm. Before the evening begins, the team takes the time to check allergies and preferences, adjusting the menu as needed.

Price-wise, it’s a gastronomic experience that remains accessible for the level of quality, with an extra cost for the wine pairing. As for the glassware, the house offers a beautiful wine selection, including several private imports and a particular focus on natural and biodynamic bottles.

Talking with Simon, one thing becomes clear: his cuisine is serious, but ego is not at the helm. What drives him is making people happy—period. An approach that sounds simple, but says it all: Mastard exists to host.

A product-driven cuisine

Before Mastard, Simon honed his craft in impactful kitchens, where he learned both rigor and instinct. One strong throughline in his journey: learning to “think in product.” Recognizing quality at first glance. Understanding that a great plate starts before technique—with freshness, seasonality, and precision. The result is a cuisine centered on ingredients: alive, evolving, and always guided by what’s best.

And the name?

“Mastard” is a word that makes you smile: in the dictionary, it means something like “big and sturdy.” Simon found it funny—and kept it.

And in the end, it fits perfectly: sturdy in execution, gentle in its welcome. A Michelin star… with the true heart of a neighborhood restaurant.

For all these reasons, this establishment proudly earns its place on our list of Montreal must-visit addresses.

Enjoy discovering this delicious spot!

Written by Sophie Monkman
Photography by Mastard -

Last update: January 26, 2026

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