Nozy: Japanese Cuisine in Little Italy

Nozy is a charming neighborhood restaurant serving delicious and affordable Japanese cuisine. Formerly located in Saint-Henri, it has just reopened its doors in Little Italy, right next to Mon Lapin. The establishment also ranks among our favorite Japanese restaurants in Montreal.

“Nozy is the nickname my friends gave me,” explains owner Nozomu Takeuchi. Originally from Hokkaido, Japan, he opened Nozy in October 2015 on Notre-Dame Ouest with the goal of creating a local restaurant that would serve the kind of home-style Japanese food found in everyday kitchens across Japan. In its new Saint-Zotique East location, that same spirit and authenticity that diners have loved for nearly a decade remain intact.

The new space is simple and cozy, offering around thirty seats and a lovely bar — the best spot to watch the chefs in action. The décor is understated, with neutral tones and minimalist details, while the atmosphere remains relaxed, intimate, and calm.

Nozy continues to deliver refined yet comforting Japanese fare. Starters include assorted sashimi, beef tataki, yuzu ceviche, and karaage (Japanese fried chicken). Signature mains include the famous Salmon Chirashi (tataki, sashimi, and tartare), Kaisen Don (assorted sashimi, sweet shrimp, salmon roe, and quail egg), Torro Tekka Don (bluefin tuna), Take Kago (a mix of cold and hot appetizers), and Uni Tuna Salmon Don (sea urchin, bluefin tuna, and salmon over rice). Our favorites: the vegetable crêpe, karaage chicken, and the raw fish dishes — especially the salmon.

Every Friday night, Nozy offers an omakase experience: a refined tasting menu that takes guests on a culinary journey through a series of delicate, expertly prepared dishes. Reservations for these special evenings can be made via their Instagram page.

The restaurant also features a weekly menu with new additions and a few Japanese desserts for those with a sweet tooth. Guests can accompany their meal with a selection of private-import sakes, as well as a concise list of white and red wines.

What we love about Nozy is its comforting, homemade style of Japanese cooking, its unpretentious atmosphere, friendly service, excellent fish quality, and fair prices. Little Italy has gained another culinary gem!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery —

Last update: October 10, 2025

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