In Montreal, traditional Italian cuisine finds a vibrant echo through a plethora of authentic restaurants that honor the ancestral recipes and timeless flavors of Italy.
Rooted in a passion for fresh ingredients, artisanal cooking methods, and respect for tradition, Italian cuisine is a celebration of life's simple pleasures.
From the rustic simplicity of family-run trattorias to the sophisticated delights of upscale establishments, each venue offers an authentic glimpse of culinary traditions handed down from generation to generation.
Immerse yourself in a feast of fresh pasta, fragrant sauces, mature cheeses, and fine wines, while soaking up the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that characterizes Italian cuisine.
This guide takes you on a tour of Montreal's must-try addresses, where every bite is imbued with the very essence of Italy. These authentic addresses will take you on a journey through the Italian regions, from the sunny coasts of Sicily to the verdant hills of Tuscany.
Read also:Trendiest Italian Restaurants in Montreal
777 Rue de la Commune O, Montréal, H3C 1Y1
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Located in Montreal's former women's prison, Da Emma offers traditional Italian cuisine and Roman specialties, honored with the city's design award in 1999. In the kitchen, they prepare dishes like agnolotti and osso buco, served in a warm setting reminiscent of Roman taverns. The generous wine cellar and sunny terrace complement the experience perfectly. A must-visit for a truly traditional Italian immersion!
7031 Rue Jarry E, Montréal, H1J 1G3
Since its foundation in 1991 by brothers Michele and Mario Lapadula, Il Pazzesco has become a much-loved Italian establishment among Montrealers. Today, under the management of Salvatore Rubbo, it continues to win over its clientele. Renovated in 2001, the restaurant offers two distinct rooms, one of which has a dance floor, providing privacy and attentive service to its guests. In addition to offering gluten-free options, Il Pazzesco is renowned for its signature dishes such as pizza al forno, linguine amalfitana, risotto ai funghi, and ossobuco con risotto al zafferano.
1229 Rue de la Montagne, Montréal, H3G 1Z2
BIS Ristorante, nestled in the heart of downtown Montreal for 35 years, offers exquisite Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. With a diverse menu and warm service, the talented team offers dishes ranging from unique white truffles to risotto al Tartufo and lamb ragout pasta. The sumptuous décor, adorned with bricks and woodwork, creates an intimate atmosphere, also a place where you can spot celebrities. The wine list offers over 200 Italian selections, chosen by the owner himself.
12 Rue Dante, Montréal, H2S 1J5
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Located in the heart of Little Italy, Lucca offers refined Italian cuisine and gourmet dishes prepared with fresh market ingredients. Since 1999, it has offered an exceptional culinary experience with homemade specialties such as seafood linguine and veal with polenta. Its wine list presents a captivating selection of Italian wines, perfectly paired with culinary delights. Lucca embodies the very essence of Italian culinary tradition in Montreal.
365 Avenue Laurier O, Montréal, H2V 2K5
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On Laurier Avenue West since 2010, Il Pagliaccio offers an authentic Italian dining experience. With a carefully chosen selection of quality ingredients, the restaurant offers simple yet delicious dishes. Its impressive wine list includes over 800 labels, guaranteeing an unforgettable tasting experience. In a classic and elegant setting, Il Pagliaccio offers attentive service and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for discovering Italian traditions.
116 Rue McGill, Montréal, H2Y 2E5
Graziella Restaurant offers modern Italian cuisine while remaining true to its roots. Chef Graziella draws inspiration from her childhood memories and places authenticity at the heart of her cooking. The wine list, carefully curated by a passionate team, perfectly complements the dishes offered. With fresh seasonal ingredients and homemade recipes, Graziella offers delicate and subtle cuisine in a chic setting, making it one of the best Italian restaurants in Montreal.
415 Rue Principale, Saint-Sauveur, J0R 1R5
Located in Saint-Sauveur, Feliciano Restaurant has been offering refined Mediterranean cuisine for over 20 years in a friendly atmosphere. Its spacious terrace, adorned with a fountain and lush décor, makes it the perfect place to enjoy succulent dishes and homemade desserts. The menu features specialties such as veal, as well as a variety of meat, seafood, and pasta dishes. With bring-your-own-wine options and advantageous meal combinations, an evening at Feliciano is memorable.
6127 Avenue Monkland, Montréal, H4A 1H5
Situated in NDG, Bistro Amerigo offers traditional Italian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Generous, authentic dishes, accompanied by exceptional hospitality, have been attracting customers for years. The restaurant showcases its seafood specialties as well as classics such as truffle gnocchi and spaghetti aglio e olio. In summer, a welcoming terrace offers the opportunity to enjoy Italian delights al fresco.
351 Rue Bellechasse, Montréal, H2S 1X1
Celebrating 60 years in March 2024, Restaurant Elio Pizzeria Ristorante in Montreal has a rich history. Opened by Elio and Nina, originally from the province of Avellino near Naples, it offers simple, authentic Neapolitan dishes. Originally seating 18, it can now accommodate up to 700 guests, with two terraces and function rooms, it's more than just a restaurant, it's a precious culinary heritage.
See our latest article about them, here.
4919 Rue Jarry E, Montréal, H1R 1Y1
Du Boucher à la Table combines a butcher's shop and a "bring your own wine" restaurant, offering a selection of quality meats and Italian specialties. The menu, varied weekly, showcases fresh local products, with options such as Quebec milk-fed veal and organic pork. With a capacity of 110 people, the warm atmosphere is ideal for large events.
192 Boulevard Ste Rose, Laval, H7L 1L4
Located in Old Sainte-Rose in Laval, Amato offers authentic Italian gastronomy in a historic house dating back to 1895. The restaurant is renowned for its superb terrace, adorned with a fountain and gazebo, offering an intimate atmosphere in a warm décor. With only 10 tables indoors and an outdoor capacity of about 35 people, Amato offers a memorable experience, recognized by Wine Spectator and the SAQ. Its founder, Mr. Tony Amato, was honored as a Knight of the Italian Republic in recognition of his commitment to authentic Italian cuisine.
Photo Credit: iaco_vino
Multiple locations
Nestled in Westmount and Chabanel, Café Gentile, founded in 1959 by Ignazio Gentile, is a pillar of Montreal's Italian community. Under the leadership of his son Antonio and wife Teresa, the café has become an institution, offering comforting Sicilian cuisine and delicious coffee. The new generation continues this tradition, offering classic Italian dishes in the evenings. The menu, unchanged for decades, is a blend of iconic dishes and new creations, accompanied by a carefully selected wine list by Andreas Vecchio.
1218 Rue Drummond, Montréal, H3G 1V7
For the past two decades, La Medusa has been a rising institution in downtown Montreal. Run by brothers Joe, Gino and Massimo, the restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. The menu features dishes such as savory veal, marinated meats, and grilled seafood, accompanied by a variety of antipasti and fresh pastas. A destination of choice for connoisseurs of Italian cuisine.
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