Opiano — Restaurant in Montreal

Had my first visit there this week and my experience didn't live up to the expectation based on others' reviews.

The price range was still on the favourable side (11-13$ currently but may go up after August). And the tip was not asked for at the till as at almost all other eateries.

The ambience: Nestled inside a semi-basement level of a tall building, the place was pretty dark, almost like in a late night bar. Much less than in other reviewers' photos. Plus, when seated facing the counter, all sorts of serving supplies stacked high everywhere were in view and it certainly made feel like a closet. Even the display fridge beside the counter (that usually holds drinks or desserts at most places) was empty and blocked off with some panel put inside. 'Sitting in a dark closet' wasn't appetising or pleasant.

The food: The portions were big, perhaps too big for our preference. My bibimbap came with a side miso soup, extremely salty. Had to pour a whole cup of drinking water to dilute it. The presentation of the bibimbap was alright, but I missed having cut lettuce for more moisture in the dish. Rice was cooked very chewy and al dente per Korean standard, yet over-portioned to the rest and the gochujang sauce was again saltier than required, losing the balance of sweetness/saltiness and hotness. My friend's beef japchae didn't have enough meat, according to him, not Korean but had eaten at several places. This dish was also so big, it stuffed him, he said. The moochim mandoo had good texture of fried dumpling and rice cakes to chew. Only the sauce, I found it on the sweet and greasy side lacking the balance. Maybe there's too much corn syrup for the thickness but, even if it was runnier with less sugary overtone, the overall taste would have been better.

I don't think I'd feel tempted to go back to this place but would rather...

15-Aug-2024 Came back and they are newly renovated! You now order on a touchscreen and when the food is ready they call your number. Food is as delicious as always! The moochim mandu, pork bone stew, bulgogi, jeyuk and bingsoo are stellar and at such an affordable price. Wish they were also open on weekend. ———————————

So I’m writing this review based off my dozens of visits to opiano. This place was my go to place as a student (and still come as a non student) because of the delicious Korean food, the quick service and the friendly staff. It’s a order at the counter type of place where you order and then they give you a number. They display your number on this digital clock looking thing and once your food is ready, you pick it out at the front. The owner was always so friendly to us! I used to come here for their AMAZING red bean bingsu but now they don’t seem to be selling it anymore. I also LOVE their tteokbokki, Pork bone soup, tofu stew and spicy pork plate. This place will always have a soft spot in my heart, so...

Decent little place near campus that is quite convenient. The food is solid, not bad at all but nothing special. Portions are pretty large and pretty good value. I’m a bit hesitant to branch out and try other meals on the menu but the chicken and rice is good.

On a side note I always appreciate interesting aspects of restaurants whether they improve or take away from the dining experience. Here it was the art, it reminded me of an artist from my hometown. Kinda neat not sure what to think of the painting I posted tbh but cool.

PS thanks for all the new followers I really appreciate it. I promise to stay loyal to the truth and speak my heart on a dining experience. See you in the...