Our Favourite Italian Restaurants in Montreal

There’s nothing, absolutely nothing, like good authentic Italian food. Nothing says comfort like a big bowl of piping hot pasta or a classic Sicilian plate of fish. Simple as it gets really. As such, we wanted to point you all in the right direction…right though the doors of our favourite Italian restaurants in Montreal. Not only is the food at these places fantastic, but the vibe and the crowd is above par as well. Go hungry and leave full, and a little bit imbibed…that’s the best way to go.

Nora Gray1391 St. Jacques West
Just three months after they first opened their doors to the public, Nora Gray is proving to be one of the hottest spots for wine, Italian food, and good times in the city. Nearly impossible to get a last minute reservation in this small 45-seat restaurant, you absolutely must call ahead. It is here where you will find authentic Southern Italian food (menu changing with the seasons), rare wine imports, and some of the most beautiful and notable people in the city. Expect to see a hockey player or two.

Restaurant Lucca12 Dante
This is by far one of the very best Italian restaurants in the city. Located in the heart of Little Italy, Lucca serves market-fresh authentic Italian cuisine. Since the dishes change according to market availability, we cannot suggest anything to order, other than that pretty much saying anything on their menu will be one of the best dishes you will ever eat. This is a cozy small space and reservations are strongly recommended.

Tavern on the Square1 Westmount Square
For consistently amazing warm and friendly Italian inspired food, head to Tavern on the Square where head chef and owner Stephen Leslie runs a tight ship that has spun out some of the best food over the past decade. This has become a real neighbourhood spot; you should expect to see regulars every night of the week. Tavern offers up specials that change daily (and we do highly recommend you try something from the specials list because they are usually next level), but some of our fave staple dishes are the salmon tartar and the rigatoni with meatballs – the best meatballs in the city by far.