The 38 Essential Restaurants in Montreal

"An intimate dining room and savvy wine service set the tone for some seriously delicious Southern Italian fare at Nora Gray, a gem located at the crossroads of downtown, Little Burgundy, and Griffintown. Open since 2011 and bolstered by two acclaimed sister spots (Elena and Gia), it remains a top contender thanks to its thoughtful approach to pasta. Anolini stuffed with rutabaga in a chicken reduction; ricotta gnocchi with burnt seared leek, parsnips, and Jerusalem artichoke chips; and other dishes seamlessly intertwine tradition with seasonal twists. Venture into the antipasti for potato schiacciata and beef carpaccio, or look to the secondi for offerings like seared scallops, pork chop, and bavette." - Valerie Silva