Review by Tony Medeiros
Elio Pizzeria, a Montreal culinary treasure with over six decades of history, captures the essence of Italian cuisine with finesse. During my recent visit, I felt as if I had been transported to Italy. My family and I have been regular patrons of this fine establishment for years, and each visit has been thoroughly enjoyable. Our latest visit was no exception, as we indulged in some excellent Italian food and were absolutely delighted.
If you have a fondness for the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine, you absolutely must make your way to Elio Pizzeria. This charming establishment offers a culinary experience that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The menu at Elio Pizzeria boasts a tempting array of Italian delicacies, making it a top choice for those seeking a bona fide dining experience.
The crowning glory of my experience at Elio Pizzeria was, without a doubt, their Italian pizza. It was a culinary masterpiece, a harmonious symphony of flavors that left an indelible impression on my palate. The brilliance of their pizza lies in its simplicity, allowing the high-quality ingredients to take center stage. Each bite was an exploration of taste, showcasing the best that Italian cuisine has to offer. The pizza at Elio Pizzeria is a true testament to their commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience. Local customers prefer to pick up their pizza from the front counter. The area is bustling with foot traffic.
Elio Pizzeria has a wide array of scrumptious pizzas to choose from, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would undoubtedly be the Pizza Gambari. This particular pizza has captured my heart and taste buds, making it a standout choice among the many delectable options on their menu. My wife and I prefer the Gambari Pizza, we both ordered the same pizza.
The Gambari Pizza at Elio Pizzeria is a true masterpiece. Its allure lies in the harmonious combination of ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Succulent and perfectly cooked shrimp, combined with a medley of fresh and savory toppings, form the core of this culinary delight. The balance of flavors and textures on the crispy yet tender crust is a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into every pizza at Elio Pizzeria.
My daughter had their exquisite Spaghetti Pescatore, a classic Italian pasta dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression. This quintessential Italian pasta creation is bound to captivate your taste buds and leave an indelible mark on your dining experience. This meticulously crafted dish showcases the culinary prowess of the restaurant, featuring a medley of impeccably cooked seafood, including succulent shrimp, tender calamari, and briny mussels, all enveloped in a sumptuous tomato-based sauce that exudes the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
For seafood lovers and Italian cuisine connoisseurs alike, this dish is a culinary journey to the coastal villages of Italy, where the freshest catch of the day is transformed into a dish that embodies the essence of the sea. Whether you’re a newcomer to Italian cuisine or a seasoned aficionado, the Spaghetti Pescatore at Elio Pizzeria is a gastronomic experience that promises to linger in your memory and beckon you back for another memorable encounter with the flavors of the Mediterranean.
The Spaghetti Pescatore at Elio Pizzeria is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to delivering a veritable Italian gastronomic experience. Each strand of pasta is perfectly al dente, providing a harmonious canvas for the symphony of oceanic flavors that dance on your palate. The velvety sauce, infused with a subtle hint of garlic and a dash of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick, complements the seafood, resulting in a dish that strikes a perfect balance between bold and delicate tastes.
Her boyfriend opted for the timeless Bolognese spaghetti at the restaurant, a dish that offers the flexibility of pairing with various pasta shapes, allowing diners to choose their preferred pasta variety. In this case, he embraced tradition by selecting the classic spaghetti option.
The Spaghetti Bolognese, a staple in Italian cuisine, is a harmonious marriage of rich, meaty tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. What sets this dish apart is its ability to adapt to different pasta types, ensuring that each diner’s palate is met with a personalized experience. While there is a plethora of pasta options to select from, ranging from penne to fettuccine and beyond, her boyfriend decided to go the conventional route by embracing the ever-popular spaghetti.
This choice not only speaks to his appreciation for the traditional but also highlights the enduring appeal of the classic spaghetti. Its slender, long strands provide the perfect backdrop for the hearty Bolognese sauce, which clings to the pasta, delivering each bite with a delectable combination of flavors. Whether it’s the familiarity of tradition or simply the allure of spaghetti’s versatility, her boyfriend’s selection exemplifies the timeless charm of Bolognese spaghetti and its capacity to satisfy a spectrum of tastes, one plate of pasta at a time.
What sets Elio Pizzeria apart is not just its delectable food but also the unique blend of traditional recipes, a welcoming ambiance, and a rich historical charm that is impossible to resist. With every bite, I felt like I was not just savoring a meal but also a piece of history. The warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant only added to the overall appeal, making it a place that you’ll want to return to time and time again.
When it comes to dessert, Elio Pizzeria continues to impress. Their mouthwatering parfait, cannolis, and tiramisu are nothing short of spectacular. The moment you take your first bite, you’ll be transported to the heart of Italy, savoring the flavors that make this cuisine so beloved.
Elio Pizzeria also takes pride in offering a selection of house wines that have received rave reviews from their satisfied patrons. A glass of their delicious house wine perfectly complements your meal, enhancing your overall dining experience.
As you savor the culinary delights, don’t forget to complete your meal with a cup of their exceptional espresso. It’s a delightful way to conclude your visit to Elio Pizzeria and ensure that your dining experience is truly unforgettable. So, if you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, this establishment should be at the top of your list for your next dining adventure.
Elio Pizzeria’s rich culinary heritage, coupled with its dedication to providing an authentic Italian dining experience, is a testament to its enduring popularity in Montreal. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a traveler passing through, this pizzeria is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Italy in the heart of Montreal.
Elio Pizzeria is located at 351 Rue de Bellechasse. You can order from ubereats.com, doordash.com, or call (514) 276-534. Full menu at eliopizzeria.ca.
To ensure a smooth dining experience, I suggest making reservations ahead of time, given the popularity of this restaurant. The Libro app is perfect for securing a spot, it is a user-friendly platform that allows for hassle-free modifications to our party size and reservation time.