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.
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.
The best restaurant in all of the city. Amazing service from Alex, & even more so from the owner! The food is amazing & probably the most authentic Italian food you can get it Montreal, & the service is simply exceptional. I now come weekly & highly recommend this restaurant!
Très bruyant, service plus ou moins rapide , mais serveur sympathique. Cuisine correct mais sans plus. Les pâtes au bleu avaient le goût d'une crème mal assaisonnée, pâtes aux champignons très grasses & aillées sans goût de champignons... Pas vraiment l'impression de voyager en Italie. Dommage. Petit plus : ils ont un parking !
Yes met all expectations. 3'out of 4 of us had the roasted pig. Superb. For appetizer we had the Burrata with prosciutto. Delicious. Recommended. Check out the wall of celebrity photos who had visited this historical location. Restaurant is an old prison in the below ground cellar.
Did a 20 person party there. Food was fantastic, not big portions. Service was very slow, it was a Saturday night, we were a big group I guess. Its not cheap, maybe better for much smaller group.
Jun 12, 2024
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Mediocre Italian food. Really not worth the hype or money. Way too expensive for the portions. Waiters take & move plates around while you're eating instead of waiting until you're done.
I came here about two years ago when I visited Montrèal for the first time. Had the Gorgonzola Ravioli & honestly couldn't stop talking or thinking about it the whole time when I was back in the US. I came back this year to show my parents this restaurant & they were amazed. (They're hard to shock so it's pretty impressive in my book). Had the same Gorgonzola Ravioli & had the most lovely waiter I've had 2 lovely experiences here & it'll always be one of my top restaurants both for the food & memories.
May 26, 2024
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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.
I didn't like the service. It felt like I they didn't want to serve me with carelike other costumers with their Nona's. It's a shame the food was good, except by the pasta (should be al dente but was borderline to undercooked). Ambient is great tho, unfortunately I didn't feel welcome & cared & it changed my overall experience. I really liked their Tiramisu, it's a must for dessert there.
