Last weekend, my family and I visited 30 Juin Restaurant in Montreal, a spot known for its authentic Congolese cuisine. We were excited to dive into flavors that reminded us of home, and this meal did not disappoint. Our server, Claudia, warmly welcomed us and guided us through the menu, making us feel at ease right away.
To start, we ordered Sweet Potato Fries, Beef Samoussas (4), and Veggie Samoussas (5). Each bite was bursting with flavor and set the tone for the feast to come. For our shared, family-style entrée, we chose a variety of dishes: Makayabu (2) - fried cod that was perfectly seasoned and crispy, 1/2 Yassa Chicken - braised chicken marinated in a lemon, mustard, and onion sauce that was both tangy and rich, and Laid - stewed cassava leaves that brought a comforting, earthy taste. These entrées were paired with white rice and Fufu - a soft dough made from wheat flour, ideal for scooping up every bit of sauce.
This meal hit home in every sense. Not only was it hearty and delicious, but it also brought back childhood memories of eating similar dishes at my grandparents' house. The flavors were authentic and nostalgic, and with six of us sharing, there was still plenty of food left over to take home.
The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, and being among the first customers to arrive, we had a chance to enjoy the space before it filled up. Claudia's service was impeccable - she was attentive and kind, adding to our experience. That said, the bathroom could use some attention. While it was usable, it wasn't as clean or presentable as I would have liked.
Overall, 30 Juin Restaurant delivered a meal that felt like a warm hug from home. I love a good African cuisine, and this spot truly captured the essence of Congolese flavors. We'll definitely be back for another visit! read more