Da Emma serves traditional Roman cuisine characterized by authentic techniques and bold, simple flavor profiles. The menu focuses on artisanal pasta preparations, wood-fired roasting methods, and the integration of fresh, seasonal Mediterranean produce. Diners encounter a rustic atmosphere defined by exposed brick masonry, wooden structural elements, and vaulted ceilings that reflect a historical architectural aesthetic. Culinary offerings highlight hearty regional staples such as salt cod, artichokes prepared in the Jewish style, and robust meat dishes cooked to precise temperatures. Each selection emphasizes the fundamental qualities of high-quality ingredients sourced to maintain genuine flavor integrity. The establishment maintains a consistent focus on the culinary heritage of central Italy by providing substantial portions prepared according to generational practices. This approach ensures a direct connection to the specific food culture found in the heart of Rome.
Da Emma is widely regarded as a standout destination in Old Montreal, celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine and remarkably atmospheric, cellar-like setting. Many diners praise the high quality of dishes such as the suckling pig, lamb, and various pastas, noting that the food often feels like a genuine home-cooked meal. While the service is frequently described as professional and friendly, opinions on the dining experience are mixed, with some visitors expressing concerns regarding noise levels, pricing, portion sizes, or inconsistency in service quality. Despite these varying perspectives, the restaurant maintains a strong reputation for providing a memorable and traditional Italian dining experience.
Visited Da Emma recently with my girlfriend. While the food itself was solid, the overall experience left a lot to be desired.
Right off the bat, we felt like we weren't taken seriously, maybe because we're young, but that's no excuse for dismissive service. I asked the waiter to surprise me with a drink since I'm open to anything, & instead of a recommendation or even a suggestion, I got a flat,'I don't know, it's your choice.' Not the end of the world, but it's not exactly rocket science to pitch your signature cocktail or something you're proud of.
What really took the cake though, cash only. In 2025. With zero heads up until the bill arrived. I don't carry $500 in cash around, & being told to walk to the dep up the street to grab cash? Completely unprofessional.
There are plenty of great places in the city where hospitality is actually part of the service. I'll be supporting Beatrice instead, where we're treated with respect, not judged by age.
Will be telling everyone who goes to MTL to try this restaurant!! First glance at the menu doesn't give enough credit to how delicious this restaurant is. The roasted lamb was so yummy, is very large easily shareable. We also got the Gorgonzola pasta which looks small but is very filling.
The soup of the day was a pastina & reminds me of home, might have been the best part of the meal. The artichokes were marinated in oil & were also very delicious
Overall would come back & would recommend
Jul 27, 2025
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Nice outdoor setting, relax atmosphere, italian music.
Great cocktails & amazing wine list. Bruschetta was tasty, a very nice touch to start the meal.
Food was ok. Aragula salad seasoning was good, mushrooms pasta was cooked to perfection (but the portion was so small), tiramisu was delicious. No bread was offered to us, we had to ask for pepper & cheese. I had to refill my glass of wine myself, the staff was busy chatting with each other.
Service was not attentive, it could have been better. A little detail, the hostess at the entrance was dress sloppy ( baggy jeans, large hoodie & flip flop!), very odd for a refined italian restaurant. Restroom was dirty with no toilet paper, had to chase a server for it...
Maybe it was just on off night & i was not lucky but i dont think that i will be back...
Le service est impeccable. La nourriture est exceptionnelle. Je garde toujours de beaux souvenirs du Da Emma. Je le recommande à tous mes proches qui désirent manger dans un restaurant italien. Ça vaut le coup d'arrêter dans le vieux-port pour goûter à ces plats savoureux ! Pour vous dire, je n'ai jamais été fan de lasagne, mais leur lasagne est succulente & délicieuse, j'en rêve encore.
No cap, this place is one of the worth the money experiences. I've always wanted to try authentic italian food without being in Italy. If this is the taste, Italy here i come.
Excellent experience. Top level service, good wine list with variety in regi9nal selllections & price. Food was exceptional (coming from guy who married into an Italain family)
