Il Cortile is frequently celebrated as a hidden gem in downtown Montreal, particularly for its stunning, traditional outdoor courtyard that transports guests to an authentic Italian atmosphere. Many diners praise the restaurant for its delicious food, with highlights including the gnocchi, seafood pasta, and fresh ingredients, as well as the generous portions and complimentary gestures like dessert or drinks. While experiences with the service vary, many guests highlight the attentive, warm, and professional care provided by the staff, which often makes celebrations and special events feel memorable. Although some visitors noted inconsistencies regarding service speed during busy times and occasional feedback on specific dish preparations, the overall consensus points to a welcoming venue that successfully offers a cozy and traditional European dining experience.
Food: delicious
The courtyard is a nice place to eat on a warm day.
Service: Needs much improvement. It opens at 5pm, & tables were still being set with water, oil & vinegar etc. We ordered a bottle of wine & waited 20mins, we asked our server, & he forgot! Some tables had a bread basket, other tables no water. We had to ask for the bread basket, oil&vinegar. The Wait Staff seems to all start at 5pm, but for a good 45 mins, there was mass confusion between them. They seem to all be under the age of 25, with no one to guide them or give direction, no mature overseer. The back of the house seems to have it together but the front of the house, needs help.
Amazing restaurant with a beautiful courtyard & delicious food.
James was polite & courteous & made our evening special.
Will definitely visit again soon.
Jun 6, 2026
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.
I had high expectations going to this restaurant but alas, left disappointed.
Positives: Nice courtyard, excellent service
Negatives: The only things Italian were the meal names & the music in the background. Weak welcome but very good service throughout.
Negatives: Very underwhelming food. Penne tasted store bought & the pesto on the tomatoes were flavourless. & the dessert menu? Key Lime pie? Blueberry cheesecake? Not exactly Italian staples!!
Given the very expensive meal, I wish I could have had a delicious meal & authentic experience. Hopefully the restaurant takes note & improves things.
Everything was great: food, service( had a great waiter), the courtyard. However, how can such a lovely restaurant, downtown, have less than a 3-star bathroom? Some of the decor feels a little tired, but a visit to the restroom made me feel a bit.... Icky.
My friends & I were able to visit for dinner & it was easily one of the best dining experiences I've had. Our server James was amazing & made time for us even while busy & went above & beyond to make our evening memorable. The food was delicious, every single dish was loved by everyone at the table. The courtyard is beautiful & makes the whole experience even better. Would highly recommend this place & we are looking forward to visiting again on our next trip!
Honestly , I have wanted to try this place for a while for its outdoor courtyard dining. As you enter the building & arrive at the Helm , no one is there to greet you . It could use a bit more charm . The courtyard is super cute & you expect that you are about to discover a hidden gem & most importantly eat an unforgettable meal . Before I begin , I want to mention that the service was exceptional. A lot of attention was given to our particular changes & requests in our order & this is something I greatly appreciate . Now the food was just ok . That part definitely needs to be worked on . It doesn't take much more to design flavors up a couple of notches. & please , if you talk about having fresh pasta , use more semolina . The pasta was not flavorful nor great quality . As for the sauces , definitely missing some Italian love , especially at the price point you're charging for those dishes . My daughter who adores lamb , would not eat her dish . You are in a great location & have the potential to do more . Glad I tried it but won't be returning . The thing that made me happy was being with my children on my birthday & their generosity.
Very charming place with a hidden courtyard in the heart of the city. The food was authentic Italian & was so good my father in law (a very picky eater) asked for another plate - which he inhaled!
Pricey at first glance, but then you realize your plate comes with an appetizer & the portions are very generous (Italian style!)
The food was solid. But I left the meal after 3 hours & they werent done. It was troublingly hot in the courtyard (not their fault). But after fanning yourself with a menu & multiple requests for more water, you just lose your appetite. I think a party > 6 may be too big for them.
Great atmosphere, was seated in the outdoor courtyard. The vibe was very pleasant.
The food was amazing, we went for F1 weekend, & the menu was very nicely put together. All of the entrees we tried was delicious, as well as the pasta, gnocchi, & desserts were amazing.
Hicham took good care of us, Dino & the other staff were excellent as well!
