Upon first glance, you would never believe this 19th century building (which once housed a women’s prison) would now house some of the most delicious Italian food to grace your palate. Da Emma, named after the chef and co-owner Emma Risa, has the outside subtleties of a swanky LA restaurant and the dimly lit indoor ambiance that will surely set the mood for a lovely evening.
As soon as you are seated, you are given a single serving of Bruschetta (a slice of toasted, crusty bread topped with diced tomatoes, drizzled with authentic olive oil and salt). A blackboard is placed at the head of the table with every item written in Italian. The waiters will gladly give you any and every translation necessary.
Keeping with traditional Italian meals, the menu consists of antipasti, main dishes of meat or pasta, and dessert. Our top antipasti pick is definitely the paper thin prosciutto slices draped over thick slices of cantaloupe. You can’t go wrong with this fresh, traditional dish.
Their most popular dish is the Fettuccine with Mushrooms, served with a draping of olive oil and chopped parsley. Emma also makes homemade gnocchi every Thursday morning that is served nightly until they run out!
The Bistecca Alla Peppe Verde (green peppercorn steak) is cooked medium rare, topped with a buttery and creamy green peppercorn sauce with a hint of brandy. All of the meat options are served with a choice of rapini, roasted potatoes, or a small bowl of fusilli pasta with tomato sauce.
The simplest and most delicious way to top off your evening would be with a serving of Emma’s homemade Tiramisu.
Try to sneak a peak of Emma in the kitchen to see her work her magic. The traditional cooking from her hometown Rome allows Emma to bring true Italian food to Montreal that will immediately remind you of your nonna. For those of you who are not Italian, well, Emma can be your very own nonna!
777 Rue de la Commune Ouest, Montréal, QC H3C 1Y1
(514) 392-1568
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- Photo: Instagram user @alexandravincelli
