Il Fornetto has been doing rustic Italian right on the banks of the Lachine Canal since 1984. Equal parts neighbourhood institution and destination dining spot, this place doesn’t rely on trends—just a solid grip on the classics, a wood-fired oven, and a two-tiered terrace that practically demands a long, slow dinner at sunset. Inside, the décor balances modern touches with a warm, trattoria-style charm. Outside, the waterfront view steals the show.
The menu is an encyclopedia of Italian staples: fried calamari, housemade meatballs, veal, eggplant parm, and wood oven pizzas loaded with fresh mozzarella and blistered crusts. There are platters built for two, like the Antipasto Il Fornetto with squid, sausage, and marinated vegetables, and generous mains made for lingering over a bottle of wine. Whether you’re here for a casual lunch or a date night escape, Il Fornetto makes a convincing case for staying a little longer and pretending you’re in Venice.
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