Emma Cardarelli’s favourite restaurants in Montreal

Nestled in a semi-basement on Park Avenue, Double's Late Night embodies a contemporary dive bar ethos on the Mile End scene. It’s a great place to unwind over drinks, games, and bites. The decor, with traditional dive bar elements infused with modern twists, features a long bar, pool table, and TVs broadcasting sports. Chef Danny Smiles’ simple menu highlights signature burgers, onion rings, fish and chips, and a revolving set of other delicious options (oftentimes Italian) when his mood strikes.

Mon Lapin has forged its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the city thanks to its impeccable consistency on all levels. The restaurant on Saint-Zotique Street has distinguished itself since its opening by offering refined cuisine, personalized service, an exceptional wine list, and a unique atmosphere.

Bistro La Franquette takes the idea of a neighbourhood bistro seriously, even in a part of the city not known for understatement. Opened by chef Elias Deligianis with sommelier and co owner Renée Deschenes, the restaurant leans into clarity rather than show. The menu is concise and seasonal, built around well executed plates that favour balance over excess, from pastas and poultry to seafood and classic steak frites.

The room is warm without being precious. High ceilings, handmade details, and a steady hum of conversation give it a lived in feel, while the service stays attentive and unforced. Wine plays a central role, with a list that leans European and rewards curiosity. La Franquette works because it resists the urge to overdefine itself, letting good cooking and hospitality carry the evening.

In Saint-Henri, Elena emerges as a testament to Italian cuisine reimagined. Opened in early 2018 by the team behind Nora Gray, this spot pays homage to inspiring individuals like Elena Pantaleoni, whose spirit infuses the establishment’s warm, unpretentious hospitality. It integrates seamlessly into the neighborhood, reflecting its evolution with a vibrant, inviting space designed by Kyle Adams Goforth. The menu, crafted by Emma Cardarelli and Janice Tiefenbach, showcases dynamic iterations of Italian classics—from artisanal pizzas to homemade pastas, all complemented by Ryan Gray’s meticulously curated natural wine list. This new culinary landmark not only promises exquisite dishes but also embodies a modern trattoria's soul, where every detail underscores a commitment to quality and community.

Back when we got in touch with the chef running the show of this new spot in Villeray, Charles-Tristan Prévost, we were told that while Casavant is a proper French brasserie, it’s very much meant to be the kind of place you could roll through in shorts in the summer. That means this place from vinvinvin alumni and other industry vets is making a point of keeping things fun and casual while upholding quality. In a slicky designed place by MRDK, the kitchen churns out classics like tartare, tartes Provençale, chanterelle risotto, and more thatès carefully with wines from owner Matisse Deslauriersès wine import agency, À Boire Debout, which pulls in bottles from Italy and France with a bit of the States, Spain and Germany as well.

Pho Tay Ho is a beloved Vietnamese restaurant located on Saint-Denis Street, celebrated for its comforting and flavorful northern Vietnamese cuisine, especially its pho soups. Established decades ago by the Tran family, who immigrated from North Vietnam in the late 1970s, the restaurant offers dishes that reflect a rich culinary heritage. The signature pho ga, a chicken pho with a clear broth, and the traditional Hanoi dish bun cha with grilled pork and vine leaf-wrapped dumplings, are standout offerings. With a welcoming ambiance and a dedication to authenticity, Pho Tay Ho remains a cherished institution in Montreal's Vietnamese dining scene.

Kazamaza has quietly become a beloved institution in Montréal’s dining scene, offering a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern flavours in a cozy, unpretentious setting. Since its opening, the restaurant has captivated locals with its warm, exposed brick interior and a menu that celebrates the diverse culinary traditions of Syria and Lebanon. Under the guidance of chef Marcelino Younes, each dish is prepared with meticulous care, whether it’s the simple yet flavourful kibbe nayyé or the richly layered fatteh. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging diners to explore a variety of meze and entrées that showcase the vibrant, aromatic spices of the region.

The ambiance at Kazamaza is relaxed and inviting, with a focus on enjoying good food at a leisurely pace. Whether you’re savouring a glass of arak or diving into a plate of makanek, the experience feels both familiar and transporting. For those seeking a genuine taste of the Middle East in Montréal, Kazamaza offers an exceptional and affordable culinary journey.

Pizza Bouquet, a beloved slice shop in Little Italy, has grown from humble beginnings at the Notre-Dame-des-Quilles bar to its own dedicated space across the street. Founded by André Thériault, the pizzeria is known for its no-frills approach to food while retaining their inimitable goofy charm, serving up 16-inch New York-style pies that balance a great crust with creative toppings. Whether it’s the soppressata with spicy honey or the upside-down options, each offer reflects quality and simplicity.

The new location, opened in 2021, allows Thériault and his team to triple their pizza output, thanks to a thoughtfully designed kitchen that addresses the space constraints of their original setup. Despite the expanded capacity, Pizza Bouquet remains true to its roots, focusing on a straightforward menu that has earned it a loyal following. Pizza Bouquet continues to be a go-to spot for Montrealers seeking a delicious, unpretentious meal.