Since 1984 clients have been coming to Il Focolaio to get that authentic Italian taste that is reminiscent of their grandmother’s cooking. Il Focolaio, in fact means fireplace in Italian. The name depicts the maple wood burning oven where each and every one of our pizzas and roasted ingredients are cooked. Our fireplace, as in the old country, not only brings forth the food but also becomes the gathering place for our clients who always feel welcomed and right at home. Our recipe for success is simple, serving up pizza using ingredients that only a true pizzaiolo would use, such as extra virgin olive oil, top quality tomatoes and only the freshest ingredients, all prepared with passion and a love for cooking to bring you the end result that you will never forget. We invite you to come and enjoy the taste of Italy with a nice glass of wine from our wine list. Enjoy it all on our terrace in the middle of downtown during the summer months.
Il Focolaio is widely celebrated for its extensive menu of authentic, wood-fired pizzas featuring a perfectly thin and crispy crust. Guests consistently praise the fresh, generous toppings and the variety of choices, which include options for vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions. The atmosphere is described as lively, energetic, and welcoming, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. While the restaurant can become quite busy and occasionally loud, the service is generally highlighted as efficient, friendly, and professional, often leaving a lasting positive impression on those who dine there.
There is a reason this place shows up on everyone's reviews. Awesome spot for a quick meal. Not authentic Neapolitan & they're not trying to be. But the crust was light, airy & crisp. Lots of options for everyone. Don't go expecting high end.
I used to be a long time fan of their pizza, but it's become mediocre. The crust wasn't great like it used to be nor the flavours impressive. It's sad but true.
Love the outdoor deck right by our hotel. I had the Campagnola, bf had the Said. Both were excellent. I judge my pizza on the crust, at this crust was delicious, crispy, & wonderful! Am definitely getting the Ceasar salad next time after reading the reviews!
Jul 1, 2026
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Absolutely one of the best wood-fired pizzas I've had! The crust was perfectly crisp with that authentic smoky flavor, the toppings were fresh & generous, & every bite was delicious. The staff were friendly, the service was excellent, & the atmosphere made the whole experience even better. I'll definitely be coming back & highly recommend this place to anyone looking for authentic wood oven pizza! 🍕🔥
This review is long overdue. Having read lots of positive reviews ourselves & feeling like a really good wood fired thin crust pizza, we stopped in for a very late'long' lunch on our last day in Montreal. The outside is really quite unassuming - easy to miss - but it is the food that is worth going in for. Trade was quietening down (had clearly been very busy). The choice of pizzas was immense (never seen so much choice). We were assisted by a great guy (who's name I have sadly forgotten - should have done this review sooner - sorry). He asked what we liked, gave recommendations, followed by time to ponder. He also highlighted that some of the Calzones could be done as a'regular pizzas'. Decision made- two pizzas, salad to share & a bottle of red wine - absolutely delicious! Seemed almost rude not to consider a dessert. More recommendations - cheesecake, cannoli & limoncello. - Done! Wow fantastic! Completely exceeded expectation, which was already high. & amazing value. I cannot recommend highly enough! (Shame they can't deliver to the UK.)
Walked in & was immediately greeted & seated & within 10 minutes I was chowing down the pictured arugula & prosciutto pizza (they have like 75 pies to choose from). The atmosphere was lively & convivial & wait staff incredibly attentive but the star of the show was the food & it didn't disappoint. The crust & all the components I opted to have piled on top were a symphony of flavors. If you're craving pizza in Montreal I can't imagine there are better options than this joint.
By far, the best pizza I've had in Montreal. I went with a group of 7 friends. All our pizzas arrived in a reasonable time. I ordered a simple peperonata pizza. The crust was perfect in crustiness & the tomato sauce was rich & well balanced. Our waiters were very welcoming, friendly & professional. I highly recommend Pizza II Focolaio. They have over 70 options to choose from in terms of toppings combinations, so I'll definitely be coming back to try another!
By far, the best pizza I've had in Montreal. I went with a group of 7 friends. All our pizzas arrived in a reasonable time. I ordered a simple peperonata pizza. The crust was perfect in crustiness & the tomato sauce was rich & well balanced. Our waiters were very welcoming, friendly & professional. I highly recommend Pizza II Focolaio. They have over 70 options to choose from in terms of toppings combinations, so I'll definitely be coming back to try another!
