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Restaurant Top Pick

Da Emma

Old Montreal
4.4$$$
OPEN6 pm - 11 pm
Monday
Tuesday
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Sunday
Da Emma Montreal Restaurant: Menu, Reviews & Reserve (2026)
ItalianFine Dining / UpscaleGreat selection of wines
Restaurant Da Emma, located in what was formerly Montreal's first prison for women, won prizes for its design in 1999. Da Emma serves traditional Italian cuisine with Roman specialities. As for the food: seafood antipasto (squid, mussels, shrimp, and octopus drizzled with olive oil), fettuccine with porcini mushrooms, and suckling pig roasted with garlic and rosemary are among the highlights. Terrace available accommodating up to 70 people.

Amenities, services & more

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5★
68%
4★
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3★
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2★
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1★
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Da Emma was featured in the article(s) below.

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Reviews for Da Emma

Food
Service
on Google4.4 (1100+)
*as of 2026-04-01
5★
68%
4★
13%
3★
11%
2★
6%
1★
2%

Review Summary

Da Emma is described as an authentic Italian dining destination housed in a historic basement, offering a warm, intimate atmosphere and a strong wine list. Many reviews highlight simple, well executed dishes with pasta and meat dishes praised, and standout items like burrata, meatballs, lamb, and a homemade feel. Service is generally regarded as attentive and friendly, though some experiences note slow or intrusive service and occasional missteps. Several guests mention a busy or noisy dining room and, at times, a lack of attention or hot dishes, and a cash only policy that can be inconvenient. Overall, the restaurant is seen as a top Montreal Italian spot for those seeking traditional, flavorful cuisine in a heritage setting, with many guests planning returns. Complimentary bruschetta, good bread and olive oil, and a refined but comforting menu are commonly cited positives, while some feel the portions may be smaller for the price. Atmosphere and authenticity are repeatedly praised, making Da Emma a go to for romance, family gatherings, or celebrations.
Page 1 of 1 - 8 Reviews

My favorite Italian restaurant on every visit to Montreal. Great menu, exceptional service, very cool underground vibe while staying au to authentic to its homegrown Italian roots.
Can't wait to go back!

Mar 30, 2025
on Google

This was the first place I thought about when my guests from Toronto told me that they wanted to visit Old Montreal & they wanted Italian food. The food was delicious, from the entrees to our main dishes & finally dessert. The service was great. Our waiter was very friendly & very attentive. The place was a total vibe. Would definitely recommend & would 100% go back.

Dec 7, 2024
on Google

Da Emma was good, but nothing standout to me. I went because I like to use eater & it was close by. The restaurant itself is cool & it's got a good vibe was very crowded. I just didn't think anything I had was exceptional. Definitely questioned the boxed pasta at what is marketed as traditional Italian. I liked it but wouldn't go back.

May 6, 2024
on Google

I used to love this place. It went from good to average. Still has nice vibes, friendly staff, & good service.

Apr 8, 2024
on Google

New authentic setting.... great vibe!

Dec 19, 2023
on Google

Wow. Doesn't even look like a restaurant from the outside. More of a speakeasy vibe, but with awesome food that is not crazy-priced.

Dec 6, 2023
on Google

Classic Italian restaurant vibe. In the basement & a lot of celebrity pics here. Good vibe, friendly staff, good service & best of all. Amazing food! Came from Calgary on a visit & enjoyed the real authentic Italian flavour. Will visit again

Oct 13, 2023
on Google

I've been to Italy (amazing food) many times & also to the best/hottest restaurants in Los Angeles & NYC. This place fuses the two together perfectly. If you want authentic, delicious Italian food & & a great vibe & atmosphere, Da Emmais the place to be! Emma's meatballs are to die for!

Aug 27, 2023
on Google