For those who know, this is a place to linger: Tucked into a quiet stretch of Laurier Avenue West, Il Pagliaccio is a quiet rebuke to the trend-chasing noise of Montreal’s restaurant scene. Helmed by Manuel Silva, a veteran of Montreal’s hospitality, this Italian eatery trades on simplicity and quality. The name, which translates to “the clown,” belies a restaurant that takes its mission—delivering unfussy yet flawless Italian fare—very seriously.
Here, the pasta isn’t just handmade; it’s sourced from a small Italian artisan, while the olive oil and tomatoes make their way across the Atlantic for the kind of authenticity you can taste. Expect dishes like veal piccata brightened with blood orange, or gnocchi that Silva’s guests describe as “pillows of delicate dough.” The vibe is understated: crisp white tablecloths, a wine list favouring Italian classics, and a quiet elegance that lets the food do the talking.
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Benjamin Avilés's favourite things in Montreal
Where the spirited butcher and co-owner of Boucherie de Tours likes to eat, drink, and relax in the city.
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