Top 10 Italian Restaurants in Montreal You Need to Try

Best Italian restaurants in Montreal

Montreal’s Italian dining scene is a beautiful blend of Old World tradition and modern innovation. From intimate trattorias tucked away in Little Italy to upscale establishments in the heart of downtown, the city offers an incredible range of authentic Italian experiences. Whether you’re craving perfectly al dente handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or classic osso buco, Montreal’s Italian restaurants deliver flavors that transport you straight to the boot. Our 2025 guide highlights the city’s most exceptional Italian spots, from budget-friendly gems serving perfect carbonara to special occasion destinations where every detail matters. These restaurants represent the best of Montreal’s Italian culinary landscape, each offering something unique for every palate and budget.

Quick Comparison

RestaurantRatingPriceBest For
La PanzeriaLa Panzeria 5.0$Best Value
Osteria MKTOsteria MKT 4.6$$$$Special Occasions
Le SerpentLe Serpent 4.5$$$Date Night
Trattoria TrestevereTrattoria Trestevere 4.5$$$Most Authentic
Bistro AmerigoBistro Amerigo 4.4$Casual Dining

The Complete List

For a deeper dive, here are the full profiles, insider tips, and signature dishes for all 10 of Montreal’s best Italian restaurants.

Le Serpent
1

Le Serpent

★★★★ 4.5 (181 reviews)
Italian$$$

Le Serpent stands out as Montreal’s premier Italian destination, combining exceptional handmade pasta with an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. Their handmade pasta is crafted daily, and the seared steak is cooked to perfection. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to their decadent desserts that provide the perfect ending to any meal.

Must-Try Dishes
Handmade PastaSeared SteakDecadent Desserts
💡Insider Tip: For the best experience, make a reservation and arrive early to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the bar.
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Ristorante Quattro
2

Ristorante Quattro

★★★★ 4.1 (154 reviews)
Italian$$$

Located in Old Montreal, Ristorante Quattro offers classic Italian dishes executed with precision and authenticity. Their arancini are perfectly crispy, while the spaghetti carbonara represents traditional Roman cooking at its finest. The osso buco is a standout dish that showcases their mastery of slow-cooked Italian classics.

Must-Try Dishes
AranciniProsciutto e MeloneSpaghetti Carbonara
💡Insider Tip: Arrive early or make reservations, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Trattoria Trestevere
3

Trattoria Trestevere

★★★★ 4.5 (70 reviews)
Italian$$$

This Crescent Street gem brings authentic Roman trattoria vibes to Montreal with consistently excellent food and service. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional Italian cooking methods and fresh ingredients makes every dish memorable. Their intimate atmosphere and attention to detail create an authentic Italian dining experience.

Must-Try Dishes
house specialtychef’s recommendation
💡Insider Tip: Call ahead for reservations during peak dining hours to secure your table.
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Impasto
4

Impasto

★★★★ 4.2 (93 reviews)
Italian$$$

Located in Little Italy, Impasto specializes in fresh, handmade pasta that rivals anything you’d find in Italy. Their carbonara is creamy perfection, while the spaghetti alle vongole showcases their ability to balance delicate flavors. The restaurant’s focus on traditional pasta-making techniques sets them apart.

Must-Try Dishes
CarbonaraSpaghetti alle VongoleHandmade Pasta
💡Insider Tip: Arrive early or make a reservation to secure a table, especially on weekends when the restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike.
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La Panzeria
5

La Panzeria

★★★★★ 5.0 (22 reviews)
Italian$

This hidden gem on Saint-Denis proves that exceptional Italian food doesn’t have to break the bank. With a perfect 5-star rating, La Panzeria delivers authentic flavors in a cozy setting. Their focaccia with mortadella is a standout, and the spaghetti all’assassina offers a unique twist on traditional pasta.

Must-Try Dishes
Focaccia with MortadellaSpaghetti all’ assas
💡Insider Tip: Arrive early to secure a table, as this cozy spot fills up quickly during peak hours.
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Da Vinci Ristorante
6

Da Vinci Ristorante

★★★★ 4.2 (66 reviews)
Italian$$$$

This upscale establishment on Bishop Street offers refined Italian dining with impeccable service and presentation. Their veal scaloppine is expertly prepared, while the linguine alle vongole showcases fresh seafood. The tiramisu provides a perfect sweet ending to any meal.

Must-Try Dishes
Veal ScaloppineLinguine alle VongoleTiramisu
💡Insider Tip: Arrive early or make a reservation, as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Bistro Amerigo
7

Bistro Amerigo

★★★★ 4.4 (47 reviews)
Italian$

This NDG neighborhood favorite offers exceptional value with generous portions and authentic flavors. Their linguine with clams is outstanding, while the spaghetti carbonara and lasagna represent comfort food at its finest. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for family dining.

Must-Try Dishes
Linguine with ClamsSpaghetti CarbonaraLasagna
💡Insider Tip: Getting a table can be tricky, as Bistro Amerigo doesn’t take reservations. Arrive early or be prepared to wait at the bar for a spot to open up.
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Café Bistro La Marinara
8

Café Bistro La Marinara

★★★★ 4.1 (75 reviews)
Italian$$

This cozy downtown bistro offers reliable Italian classics in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Their carbonara is creamy and rich, while the pesto linguine showcases fresh basil flavors. The lasagna and tiramisu round out a menu that focuses on comfort and satisfaction.

Must-Try Dishes
CarbonaraPesto LinguineLasagna
💡Insider Tip: Arrive early or make reservations, as this cozy bistro fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
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Osteria MKT
9

Osteria MKT

★★★★ 4.6 (33 reviews)
Italian$$$$

Located in the heart of downtown, Osteria MKT offers sophisticated Italian dining with modern touches. With the second-highest rating on our list, this restaurant consistently delivers exceptional food and service. Their focus on seasonal ingredients and chef’s specialties ensures a memorable dining experience every time.

Must-Try Dishes
house specialtychef’s recommendation
💡Insider Tip: Call ahead for reservations during peak dining hours to ensure you get a table.
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Ristorante Lucca
10

Ristorante Lucca

★★★★ 4.4 (32 reviews)
Italian$$$

Another Little Italy gem, Ristorante Lucca offers traditional Italian dishes with attention to detail and authentic flavors. Their linguine alle vongole is expertly prepared, while the minestrone soup provides comfort in every spoonful. The tiramisu is the perfect way to end your meal.

Must-Try Dishes
Linguine alle VongoleMinestrone SoupTiramisu
💡Insider Tip: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, and street parking on Rue Dante is available but can be limited, so plan accordingly.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Italian restaurant in Montreal?

Based on our research, Le Serpent stands out as the best overall Italian restaurant in Montreal, offering exceptional handmade pasta, perfectly seared steaks, and an atmosphere that’s perfect for special occasions. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail makes them our top choice.

Where can I find affordable Italian in Montreal?

For budget-friendly options, La Panzeria offers exceptional value with a perfect 5-star rating and very affordable prices. Bistro Amerigo is another great choice for families, offering generous portions of authentic Italian dishes without breaking the bank.

Which Italian restaurants are good for special occasions?

For celebrations, Osteria MKT and Da Vinci Ristorante offer upscale dining experiences perfect for anniversaries, business dinners, or special dates. Le Serpent is also excellent for romantic occasions with its sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional cuisine.

Final Thoughts

Montreal’s Italian restaurant scene offers something for every taste and budget. From the perfect carbonara at a neighborhood bistro to handmade pasta at upscale establishments, these 10 restaurants represent the best Italian dining the city has to offer in 2025.

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