A new dawn is lighting up Saint-Laurent Boulevard as ZAMA unveils its latest culinary chapter, bringing a wave of Pacific inspiration to Montreal’s iconic Main. The restaurant, whose name means “sunrise” in ancient Mayan, is more than just a dining destination. It is a rebirth of passion, craftsmanship, and cross-cultural creativity.
ZAMA’s founders, Shawn Galego do Couto and Simon Pereira, are no strangers to Montreal’s nightlife scene. With decades of combined experience shaping some of the city’s most vibrant venues, they have mastered the art of balancing refinement with accessibility. Their mission for ZAMA is clear: to deliver world-class cuisine, cocktails, and design while keeping the experience within reach of the very crowd that fuels Montreal’s nocturnal heartbeat.
The restaurant’s design embodies this philosophy with poetic precision. Conceived artistically by Billy Kontos and crafted in collaboration with Taylor and Toby Gauley, ZAMA’s interior draws deeply from its Mayan roots. Stone, wood, and concrete come together in an organic palette that reflects authenticity and renewal. The result is a space where every element feels alive with the energy of transformation, inviting guests to embrace both connection and discovery.
At the heart of this rebirth lies the menu, a flavorful journey curated by Chefs Rodrigo Diaz and Juan Gonzalez, both alumni of Yoko Luna and now partners at Dirty Dogs St-Laurent. Their vision merges Japanese precision with Latin American soul. The result is a collection of dishes that feel both adventurous and comforting.
Among the highlights: Chimichurri lamb chops from the carne section, a Tiradito of salmon that glows with delicate flavor, and a standout spicy avocado sushi roll topped with salmon tartare and crunchy quinoa. ZAMA’s tacos also steal the show with handmade mango shrimp tortillas and beef tacos bursting with layered taste and texture. Each dish is a tribute to the idea that fusion, when done with respect and creativity, can transcend boundaries and build something entirely new.
The bar experience follows the same path of innovation. Mixologist Maxime Dubé has reimagined classics through the lens of global fusion, creating drinks that perfectly complement the culinary lineup. The Mexican Drive-by blends Volcan De Mi Tierra Blanco tequila, angostura, grenadine, lime juice & soda into a knock-out punch. The Saffron Sour, featuring Canadian whisky, passion fruit purée, and saffron syrup, balances warmth and brightness. Meanwhile, the Tokyo Mojito refreshes with Havana rum, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass syrup, mint, and soda for an aromatic journey through continents.
Beyond the flavors, ZAMA is designed as a fully immersive experience. Its Funktion-One sound system and cutting-edge lighting transform the space into a living rhythm, harmonizing gastronomy, music, and ambiance. Every visit becomes a sensory ritual that engages sight, sound, and taste in equal measure.
For Galego do Couto, Pereira, and their team, ZAMA symbolizes perseverance and the light that follows darkness. It stands as proof that from challenges can emerge renewal, and from passion can rise purpose.
After a thoughtful soft launch that allowed the team to refine its art and connect with its community, ZAMA now opens its doors fully to Montrealers ready to explore a new culinary horizon.
ZAMA
Location: 3709 Boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, Quebec H2X 2V7
Facebook: Zama
Instagram: @zamamtl
Website: zamamtl.ca