Montreal is a city where Italian cuisine holds a special place, with numerous restaurants specializing in pasta. In every neighborhood, establishments that blend tradition and modernity offer recipes that celebrate homemade pasta.
Whether in cozy neighborhood trattorias or more refined restaurants, the quality of ingredients and the authenticity of the preparations are always guaranteed. Lovers of authentic dishes will find joy in carefully crafted recipes that highlight local ingredients and traditional techniques.
Among the most popular dishes, classic tagliatelle bolognese is a must for those seeking a comforting meal. Gnocchi cacio e pepe, with their elegant simplicity, evoke the purity of Italian flavors. For those who prefer bolder combinations, truffle mac & cheese or linguine frutti di mare offer an experience that blends tradition and innovation. Each dish is a true homage to Italian cuisine, where respect for the classics is combined with constantly renewed creativity.
This article invites you to explore the best spots in the city to enjoy pasta that honors Italian tradition while exploring new flavors.
Whether you are someone who loves classic pasta dishes or are in search of new experiences, these restaurants will meet all your expectations with creations that warm the heart and delight the palate.
Read also:
Authentic Italian Cuisine: The Best Traditional Italian Restaurants in Montreal
Multiple locations
With locations in Mile-End (the original), at Time Out Market, in Old Montreal (Il Miglio Express), and soon at RoyalMount's FouFou food court, Il Miglio has established itself as a go-to for pasta lovers in Montreal. Dishes like tomato sauce gnocchi, campanelle with mushrooms and truffle, and rapini pesto orecchiette are just a few examples of the savory offerings. The concept, crafted by chef Michele Mercuri, marries the simplicity of Italian tradition with the freshness of local ingredients, creating a comforting meal to enjoy on-site or to go.
116 Rue McGill, Montréal, H2Y 2E5
Located in Old Montreal, Graziella is a benchmark for modern Italian cuisine. This restaurant, open for lunch and dinner, serves fresh pasta made with local ingredients, such as ricotta and lovage cappelletti, ricotta and Grana Padano gnocchi, and duck confit fagottini. The refined setting and attentive service make every meal a true experience. Recognized by The Restaurant Guides 2023: Top Italian Restaurants Gambero Rosso, Graziella is an essential destination for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine in Montreal.
7130 Boulevard St-Laurent, Montréal, H2S 3E2
L'Osso, in the heart of Little Italy, is a gem for pasta and Mediterranean cuisine lovers. Chef Renato Ferrante offers creations like truffle-scented mushroom ravioli and tagliolini Pescatore. All the pasta is handmade, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to Italian tradition. The warm atmosphere and attention to detail make every visit memorable, while the meat and fish dishes round out a menu that celebrates the richness of Italian flavors.
6127 Avenue Monkland, Montréal, H4A 1H5
Bistro Amerigo, located in Monkland Village, is renowned for its fresh pasta and traditional Italian recipes. The nero di seppia pescatore, truffle gnocchi, and spaghetti puttanesca are must-tries. With a relaxed atmosphere and a summer terrace, this restaurant is perfect for a comforting meal with friends or family, showcasing Italian classics made with quality ingredients. Don't leave without trying their homemade tiramisu cake!
7495 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, H2R 2E5
In the Villeray neighborhood, Moccione Pizza, led by Luca Cianciulli, winner of the Quebec competition "Les Chefs," embodies the authenticity of Italian cuisine. The menu, though limited, is meticulously executed, featuring dishes like venison bolognese maccheroni and sausage ragù casarecce. The intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of Italian trattorias with its few tables, creates the perfect setting for savoring fresh pasta and comforting dishes. The carefully curated selection of wines and cocktails adds a festive touch to every meal.
777 Rue de la Commune O, Montréal, H3C 1Y1
Located in a former women's prison in Old Montreal, Da Emma immerses diners in Italian tradition. This charming underground restaurant offers fresh pasta dishes such as agnolotti al ragù and fettuccine ai funghi porcini. The rustic setting, reminiscent of Roman taverns, enhanced by a generous wine cellar and a sunny terrace in summer, offers a comforting refuge for lovers of classic Italian cuisine.
Photo Credits: mtlfoodiecentral
1346 Rue Notre-Dame O, Montréal, H3C 1K7
In Griffintown, Lulu's Pasta Bar offers a unique experience where each pasta dish can be customized to your taste. Italian classics like bolognese sit alongside bold creations such as chipotle chicken or cheeseburger pasta, all made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. The nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of 70s and 80s snack bars, and the warm welcome from the owners-a dedicated couple-make you feel like you're being hosted in a family home. This blend of tradition and innovation makes Lulu's a perfect spot for a comforting meal.
257 Rue Prince, Montréal, H3C 2N4
In the industrial-chic setting of the Darling Foundry, Le Serpent offers a unique contemporary Italian experience. Italian classics are creatively reimagined here, such as linguine with speck and truffle or paccheri with wild boar ragù. The decor, blending raw concrete and modern lines, perfectly complements the refined dishes crafted by chef Michele Mercuri. Since its opening in 2013, this restaurant has become a pillar of the Old Montreal dining scene.
12 Rue Dante, Montréal, H2S 1J5
Situated on Dante Street since 1999, Lucca is a cornerstone of Montreal's Little Italy. This restaurant stands out with its homemade Italian dishes, such as pomodoro and sausage gnocchi or seafood linguine. Every day, the chalkboard menu evolves based on seasonal ingredients, ensuring comforting dishes that honor Italian tradition. The elegant setting and warm atmosphere make Lucca a sought-after destination for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine.
1212 Rue St-Zotique, Montréal, H2S 1N5
Luciano Trattoria, opened in 2015 in a former garage on Saint-Zotique Street in the Rosemont Petite-Patrie neighborhood, combines simplicity and authenticity. Chef Luciano D'Orazio offers a limited but perfectly executed menu, featuring classics like spaghetti cacio e pepe, ricotta gnocchi, and mushroom ravioli. The restaurant, with its garage doors open to the street in the summer, offers a convivial and comforting experience, where each dish is a homemade meal steeped in Italian tradition.
Photo Credits: inmyfoodsteps
410 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, H2Y 1S1
In Old Montreal, Stellina is a pastificio that celebrates Italian tradition with fresh, homemade pasta. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering dishes like agnolotti with sugo d'arrosto and rigatoni alla carbonara. The chic ambiance, inspired by New York trattorias, and the opportunity to watch the artisans at work add to the charm of the place. With a tasting menu and a selection of Italian wines, Stellina offers an experience where tradition and modernity meet.
363 Rue St-François-Xavier, Montréal, H2Y 3P9
At the corner of Saint-François-Xavier and Saint Paul's streets, Dinette Marcella captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine in Old Montreal. Dishes like spaghettoni quadrati with seafood, truffle gnocchi, and cavatelli alla pesto showcase homemade pasta in a warm and intimate setting. Open daily for lunch and dinner, this restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, perfect for enjoying comforting dishes, accompanied by private import wines and a fine selection of cocktails.
Multiple locations
Pizzeria Sofia, located at Quartier Dix30, Rosemère, and Laval, offers Italian cuisine that harmonizes tradition and modernity. The homemade pasta, such as tagliatelle bolognese and gnocchi cacio e pepe, is crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The elegant ambiance and attentive service provide the perfect setting to enjoy comforting dishes. At the same time, unique creations like truffle mac & cheese or linguine frutti di mare will delight pasta lovers. The charm of la dolce vita is reflected in every detail, from the private import wines to the finely crafted cocktails, making each meal a truly comforting and pleasurable experience.
Check out the list of the best restaurants to enjoy pasta in Montreal and find your next culinary destination.