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Oncle Lee Kăo: A Refined Chinese Address in the Heart of McGill Street

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In the former location of Ikanos and Garde-Côte, Oncle Lee Kăo opened its doors in late January 2025, to the delight of Chinese cuisine enthusiasts. This new establishment is the younger sibling of the beloved Oncle Lee, a well-known spot on Laurier Avenue West that quickly became a neighborhood staple.

Oncle Lee Kăo – The Latest Addition from the Team Behind Bouillon Bilk

This new venture is led by chef Andersen Lee, alongside chef Émile Collette, front-of-house manager Marie-Alexandra Dahouet, and restaurateurs Mélanie Blanchette and François Nadon, already well known for their other restaurants: Bouillon Bilk, Cadet, and Place Carmin. With Oncle Lee Kăo, the team set out to create something distinctly different from their Plateau address: a relaxed and contemporary take on Chinese cuisine, with a special focus on “Kăo”, the Mandarin word for grill.

The stunning space seats 80 guests and offers a warm yet refined atmosphere—perfect for a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or a business meal. Designed by the team themselves, the expansive room is marked by soaring ceilings, lending it undeniable elegance. “We wanted to keep the décor chic and minimalist, highlighting the simplicity of noble materials,” explains Andersen. Wood is a central element throughout the space, accented with touches of burnt-orange leather that complement the overall aesthetic. Chinese artworks adorn the walls, while a few red lanterns add an authentic and cozy feel. At the back, a private room can host 12 to 36 guests, making it an ideal spot for more intimate events. The ambiance is lively, yet retains a sense of chic subtlety—perfect for a refined dining experience.

Grilled Flavors at the Heart of Oncle Lee Kăo’s Cuisine

In the kitchen, chef Andersen Lee presents a menu that celebrates Chinese culinary tradition with a modern grilled twist. The menu is divided into four categories: seafood, vegetables, meat, and rice & noodles. Diners can enjoy delicately crafted dishes like:

  • Shrimp and kimchi toast

  • Octopus and lap cheong skewers

  • An impressive seafood platter

  • Green papaya salad

  • Five-spice duck platter

  • Spicy peanut noodles with avocado
    …and plenty more surprises.

Designed for sharing, the menu is priced between $12 and $55, aligning with the neighborhood’s upscale yet accessible gastronomic scene. A special mention goes to the desserts, which are indulgent and full of flavor.

The cocktail menu, created by Connor Scott (Place Carmin), features original creations thoughtfully crafted to complement the Asian flavors of the dishes. Refreshing and delicious, cocktails range from $10 to $15, and a selection of classic cocktails is also available to satisfy all preferences.

On the wine front, Gabrielle Desmeules and Minh Ioan have curated a diverse list combining well-known labels with hidden gems, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Bottles are priced between $60 and $150, offering something for every kind of wine lover.

Oncle Lee Kăo is the perfect place to enjoy a refined yet comforting meal in Old Montreal—an exciting new chapter for the city’s culinary scene.


Photography by Alison Slattery





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