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 offers wood fired, thin crust pizzas with a vast range of toppings and a menu that balances classic Italian staples with inventive options, all baked to perfection in a real Italian oven. The crust is consistently crisp and flavorful, the ingredients are fresh, and gluten free crust and lactose free cheese options are appreciated by many diners. The service is repeatedly described as fast, friendly and attentive, with staff making guests feel welcome and cared for even during busy periods. The atmosphere is lively yet cozy, making it a great spot for casual dinners, family nights or a quick bite after visiting nearby sights, and the location downtown Montreal adds to its appeal. Desserts like tiramisu and cannoli are frequently praised, and the wine and beer selection complements the meals well. Overall, this spot is widely regarded as one of the best pizza places in town, a must visit for pizza lovers, with many guests planning to return.
We were honestly surprised at how much we loved Pizza Il Focolaio. My husband & I have been diehard pizza enthusiasts for years & most places are very middle of the road. But this place had great service, a really efficient team, & pizza combinations that are interesting & delicious. One of the best things about this place was the chili oil they will bring out to the table at request. We split the Capo Franco pizza & were very full! Although the pizzas are on the smaller side, any one of them can easily feed two people comfortably because they really load on the ingredients. That being said, despite lots of toppings, the pizza's crust was still crisp, slightly chewy, & maintained a nice char without being soggy. If we ever go back to Montreal, we'll be sure to visit again!
May 19, 2025
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Franchement! Trop bonnes pizzas! Il y a beaucoup de choix. La pâte est délicieuse, la sauce tomate est délicieuse & les aliments extrêmement frais. Une des meilleurs pizzeria à Montréal selon moi. Loin des coins fancy mais le line-up témoignage de la réputation de ce lieu. Peut être bruyant si vous mange à l'intérieur par contre. Je termine en mentionnant les cannolis qui sont un pur moment de bonheur. Photo à l'appui
Ouvert depuis plus de 40 ans (1984). On y sert une vaste variété de délicieuses pizzas au four à bois. Presque toujours un line-up à la porte mais le roulement est rapide. Le service est aussi agréable & les serveurs multiethniques sont très souriants.
La clientèle inclus un bon nombre de touristes étrangers.
Sangria, bières en fût/bouteilles & vins.
Face au Square Philippe.
Parking payant dans la rue sinon métro McGill.
De très bonnes pizzas non bourratives. Le personnel est au petit soin. Je recommande. Cependant ne pas être pressé car pas beaucoup de tables & donc de l'attente.
Meilleure pizza que j'ai jamais mangé!
Toute ma famille a appréciée.
Beaucoup de choix, les employés sont attentionnés, beaux moments en famille pour nous hier soir. Je recommande fortement.
May 9, 2025
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A pizza place from the 80-90s & still running must mean it's the best, well yes, it was great. The sauce & pizza are amazing, you can choose from your 70 options of pizza.
I'd definitely recommend, but the line up is an issue.
Pizza Il Focolaio in Montreal downtown exceeded my expectations. The CAMPAGNOLA, adorned with hot pancetta, was a flavorful delight. The Danisi, featuring hot capicollo, was equally impressive. The attentive service stood out as they diligently refilled my water every 2 minutes. A delightful dining experience that solidifies Pizza Il Focolaio as one of the best pizza spots in the area.
Great pizza, calzones, & dessert! Super popular place so they turn the tables over quickly. Service is very friendly & quick. Lively atmosphere but not too loud. Great spot in Montreal for a quick & delicious meal
Pizza & service were great with good selection, I'd recommend ordering over sitting in to eat, the chairs were some of the most uncomfortable I've ever sat in
