Hidden in plain sight within the industrial bones of Griffintown’s Darling Foundry, Le Serpent plays it cool with its sleek, stripped-back interior and unapologetically sharp menu. This isn’t your grandmother’s Italian joint—expect refined plates that balance subtlety and boldness, with pastas like pappardelle laced with braised boar stealing the show.

The space is a study in contrasts: raw concrete meets moody lighting, while massive windows flood the room with daylight before it transitions into an atmospheric night spot. The kitchen doesn’t waste time on filler, focusing on clean, contemporary Italian flavours. The grilled fish and razor clams are highlights, but desserts by Masami Waki might actually outshine the mains. Pair it all with a bottle from the 250-strong wine list, and you’ve got a meal that feels as carefully constructed as the room itself. No frills, just finesse.