Italian restaurants

Il Pagliaccio

4.6 167 reviews Closed Canada, 365 Av. Laurier O, Montreal, Quebec H2V 2K3, Canada

Discover this place

Il Pagliaccio, an esteemed Italian restaurant nestled in Montreal, has garnered widespread acclaim for its culinary delights and warm ambiance. Diners rave about the Cacio e peppe agnolotti, a standout dish that captivates the palate with its rich flavors. The restaurant's service is marked by warmth and attentiveness, as seen in Nandini Mazumdar's experience, where chocolate semi freddo was offered on the house, adding a touch of sweetness to her visit.

Reviewers consistently highlight the perfectly cooked scallops and the ragu, although some suggested an enhanced flavor profile for certain dishes. However, the desserts garnered universal praise, affirming the restaurant's commitment to satisfying sweet cravings. Asli Ipek Alcinkaya emphasizes the remarkable hospitality of owner Manuel, who not only provides excellent service but also a welcoming atmosphere that makes Il Pagliaccio a perfect spot for romantic date nights or special occasions.

With a delightful menu and a cozy environment, Il Pagliaccio promises a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning for more. The combined excellence in food quality, timely service, and a charming setting solidifies its reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in the city.

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights

Great coffee
Great wine list

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Cozy
Romantic

Crowd

Groups

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Il Pagliaccio before visiting.

Reviews for Il Pagliaccio

4.6

167 reviews

100%

Review highlights

Based on 167 reviews

Il Pagliaccio is widely praised for its consistently high-quality Italian cuisine, with particular appreciation for well-executed dishes and creative flavors. Reviewers often highlight the cozy and intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for romantic evenings or special occasions. The restaurant's service is frequently described as attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, contributing significantly to the overall dining experience. While the majority of feedback is positive, some diners mention minor preferences regarding flavor balance in certain dishes. Desserts and thoughtful gestures from the staff also receive commendation, reinforcing the welcoming and memorable ambiance. Overall, Il Pagliaccio is regarded as a standout Italian dining destination in Montreal, noted for its combination of excellent food, inviting setting, and exemplary service.

Nandini Mazumdar

Jun 18, 2025

Delicious little Italian spot. The Cacio e peppe agnolotti is really delicious. Our server was amazing and gave us chocolate semi Freddo on the house! Cozy spot for a delicious Italian lunch.

Cora

Jun 11, 2025

Great service and friendly staff. The scallops were perfectly cooked and seasoned. The ragu was good but I wish there was a bit more flavour? The vongole was cooked well but had too much olive oil added as a finish where it overpowered everything. Desserts were lovely. Staff was lovely.

Asli Ipek Alcinkaya

Jun 10, 2025

Hands down my favourite restaurant in Montreal. The ambiance, the service and the amazing quality of food is really hard to beat. Every bite is better than the one before and everything on the menu is to die for. The owner, Manuel, is an amazing host, always kind and extremely knowledgeable. I highly recommend Il Pagliaccio for your next date night!

Ali Abrishami

May 16, 2025

The quality of food is excellent. Timing and atmosphere are awesome. Excellent place for a romantique date. One of the best italien restaurant in Montreal.

C S

Apr 28, 2025

We had a beautifull evening yesterday at il Pagliaccio. Amazing food and outstanding service. We will certainly go back. Thankyou to all the staff.

Jim Parsons

Apr 10, 2025

Very nice Italian. Food is simple and sophisticated. Date and I split each course at the recommendation of our waiter. Great idea. Had two antipasti, pasta, piccata and dessert. Left very full.

Alix Zmdfsh

Apr 07, 2025

By far the best italian restaurant in Montreal. You can be assured of consistency and high quality.

Andrew Cameron

Mar 20, 2025

Was looking to treat myself tonight. Mission accomplished. The endive salad to start. Gorgeous presentation contrasted with its very simple combination of flavours. When ingredients are quality a simple dish can shine. Tortiglione amatriciana for my main course. This was from their menu of Primi; there were also Secondi which sounded more substantial, which I didn't order this evening. The pasta were perfectly al dente. The lardons were crisp-tender. And there was just the right amount of sauce. The tiramisu was incredible and the strawberry raspberry compote transported me back to the summers of my childhood. All through my glass of limoncello, I couldn't stop smiling. And all this with friendly, attentive but self-effacing service, and little waiting for anything. Thank you for the lovely evening Il Pagliaccio; until next time! :)