Regulars praise Al Dente Trattoria for good food, friendly service, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with well chosen classics. Diners rave about dishes like lobster pasta, osso buco, and a standout rack of lamb, with some calling the lamb the best in town. The BYOB option is a popular plus, contributing to affordable, enjoyable meals. Still, some visits reveal a more uneven side, including crowded nights, moments of overwhelmed staff, and occasional issues such as dry pizza or cold mussels. The overall vibe is lively and nostalgic, with a family feel that keeps guests coming back. Despite the occasional hiccups, many leave satisfied and planning a return.
By far one of my favorite experiences in a restaurant. Emilio was a brilliant host, his warmth & openness coupled with the cozy feeling the restaurant itself welcomes you with is wonderful. After any kind of day, a restaurant like this is worth frequenting for Italian food. My mother & I thoroughly enjoyed the entire experience & I will most definitely bring anyone I can by. Thank you for the service!
Feb 10, 2025
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I'm from New Brunswick Canada & I'm far from being vegetarian but we had vegetarian pizza & it was the best, anyone not satisfied with this place is in the wrong place, can't wait to go back
Je n'avais pas trop d'attentes, mais j'ai été surprise par la qualité de tous les plats, l'ambiance festive & le service hors pair. Apportez votre vin en plus!
Don't expect refined culinary expression of Italian cuisine. This is wholesome, simple, & traditional cooking. You know? Like your Mom & Aunt would serve. We had a couple of different pizzas, the salsiccia balsamico, a caesar's salad, & a few homestyle soups in minestrone & tortellini. Solid from start to finish. The restaurant has stood the test of time. It's not that spacious & tables are very small. I guess it's been there 40 years, give or take. Tarek was a great server. Bring your own wine.
Sandra was a 5 star server. Food is very good ambiance great. Only issue is I wish they'd change the table dhote once in a while. Byob. Reasonable prices.
Oct 26, 2024
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Too crowded. Too noisy. Can not have a decent conversation. Tables are not distant enough from each others. Food is okay but the service is great though!
Oct 6, 2024
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Good food & service. The new extra charges for whole wheat pasta & whole wheat pizza crust mean we visit less often. The Parmesan they offer with pasta dishes no longer tastes like real Parmesan from Italy. It has little flavor bowl
I used to go regularly but it had been several years since my last time, & last night was my last time. I ordered pasta with clams & I got a bowl of overcooked pasta swimming in cream with bits of things that maybe were clams.It wasn't even tasty. Oh, any the bread was stale. Serving bad food, & keeping it too cheap results in losing customers. P.S. Typically "pasta con vongole" does not have cream.
Aug 26, 2024
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Excellent italian restaurant, we had pizza but the osso buco looked amazing as well (planning to try it next time). Dont forget to bring your own bottle of wine as this restaurant is strictly bring your own wine!
Underrated quaint Italian restaurant. Their Osso Bucco would make a vegan reconsider their diet. BYOB aswell , with SAQ conviently located 3 blocks east in center of Monkland Village.
