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.
A group of us went to dinner on April 4, 2024. Our server was inattentive, opinionated & lacked of patience which gave all of us the sense of rushing our dinner experience. The food was okay but nothing to brag about. We were not asked how so we like our meat to be cooked. Our preference for extra shaved Parmigiano cheese were argued by the server. I'm sad to say that I will not return to once was a great restaurant.
Been to Da Emma 2-3 times before. Visiting from Toronto, I always make sure I make resos here. I took 5 family members & amped up the restaurant so much. The food was incredible but our waiter was awful. So rude. Barely gave us the time of day. Took only some of our order. Constantly walked away before we are done ordering. He had glasses & a bun. Honestly I would have walked out if I knew all night would be this way. I asked him if he could tell us the history of what Da Emma was all about - & he said when it's less busy. It died down completely & he ignored us completely. We waited 20-30 minutes after he dropped off our bill. So disappointed. For the amazing level the restaurant is this guy should NOT be working there. Can't handle the service. Can't handle the customer service. Ruined all the hype I made the place to be. Again, food 10/10 but that guy has to go.
Une petite gemme au coeur de Griffintown ! La qualité de la cuisine & du service est excellente, la sélection de vin est intéressante & l'ambiance est calme & feutrée. Le prix est tout à fait correct au regard du niveau gustatif des plats proposés. Ce restaurant a un charme incroyable & je ne peux que le recommander.
Feb 14, 2024
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A Must Do. What a beautiful historical Space! Service is important to make an experience memorable. Serge our server was attentive. As soon as we were seated, a delicious bruschetta was served. Affordable wine selection is always a bonus, u der 100$. Menu selection is varied & perfect for every palate , also at a great prices. We each had an entree & each a main course & shared a dessert, we were stuffed! Cant wait to go back!
Dined at Da Emma for the 2nd time in 2 weeks, & it's undoubtedly Montreal's best Italian restaurant. The impeccable quality, reasonable prices, & cozy ambiance make it a standout. The service led by Luca & his staff is truly exceptional-creating a welcoming & comfortable experience. Highly recommended!
Jan 27, 2024
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I had astronomically high expectations following recommendations from friends. Da Emma did meet many of those expectations however the price:quantity ratio left a somewhat bitter aftertaste. Service was good if a tad slow despite it being a relatively quieter weekday evening. We found ourselves having to catch the attention of the waiter in order to get some service (bread basket was empty, etc) so it did lack some attention given that it was a 5* establishment. Food quality was good. The suckling pig was definitely the highlight of our evening. The meat was tender & well marinated & totally impeccable & out of this world. The veal ravioli was also exceptionally tasty with a classic simple but delicious red sauce. The lamb, however, was dry & tough & certainly not the melt in the mouth, pull it apart with a fork experience that we had anticipated. What was terribly disappointing were the appetizers. Dont get me wrong. The smoked salmon & prosciutto were fresh & tasty but I would suggest you think twice before ordering $25-$30 (each) appetizers that had nothing more than 3 slices of prosciutto or salmon or one burrata. Those steep prices would have easily warranted far heartier quantities. In Italy, this would have created a riot in the streets! :p All in all, a good night was shared by all but I certainly wouldn't go all out to dine at Da Emma's since there are other Italian places that offer a far better bang for your buck. Unless seeing & being seen is your utmost priority, both your tummy & wallet could be happier elsewhere.
