Gurgles.ca

It had been ages since our last visit to Impasto, the must-visit restaurant by Stefano Faita and Michele Forgione, located on Dante Street in Montreal. For our Christmas gathering with friends, we chose this cozy spot, and the experience exceeded all our expectations.

From the moment we arrived, one detail—often overlooked during group dinners—stood out: impeccable service. From the first cocktail to the dessert, every step was thoughtfully orchestrated, creating a seamless and enjoyable rhythm to the evening.

The meal started strong with the spuntini: perfectly fluffy homemade focaccia, olives, and a creamy burrata. But the star was the whipped ricotta with honey and truffle—a pure delight marrying sweetness and bold flavors.

The antipasti set the bar even higher. The delicata squash fritters, paired with an almond-based Trapanese pesto, were golden and tender inside. As for the tuna crudo, served with a savory caponata and crunchy pine nuts, it impressed with its exquisite freshness and perfectly balanced Mediterranean notes.

When it came to pasta, Impasto once again proved why Italian cuisine reigns supreme here. The Gnocchi alla Norma, coated in a sauce of tomatoes, eggplants, and pecorino, literally melted in our mouths. Every bite was a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, a hallmark of the restaurant.

For the main courses, two dishes stole the show. The sea bass, accompanied by celeriac, spinach, capers, and brown butter, stood out for its perfect cooking and subtle flavors. The braised beef cheek, meltingly tender and generous, was elevated by tender carrots and lightly crispy Brussels sprouts.

To end on a high note, a chocolate dessert delighted Gurgles.ca proving that indulgence knows no limits at Impasto.

The buzz surrounding Stefano Faita's restaurants is no coincidence. Already renowned for his grocery products, the in-house dining experience in this warm and authentic space is unmatched. A visit to Impasto is more than just a meal: it’s a true celebration of Italian cuisine, a moment of pure joy for any foodie lucky enough to experience it.

So, if you haven’t yet set foot inside, consider this a gentle reminder: Impasto is one of Montreal’s must-visit destinations.