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| - Restaurant Da Emma was the highlight of a quick visit to Montreal, and the recommendation of our hotel concierge.
It was a cold and rainy night, so being unfamiliar with the city, we took a cab. We found that the cab rules are more relaxed in Montreal than you find in spots like NYC, and were able to easily and without extra charge load 5 people into a sedan for the 10 block ride.
The entrance to the restaurant is a dark, descending staircase. We held the cab thinking that the restaurant must be closed. Happily, the door opened and so began a delicious and memorable meal.
The interior design of the restaurant is very pleasing and full of character, adding to the specialness of the visit. The menu is delivered in French and table side on a chalkboard. A flavorful bruschetta is served up pronto to tide over hungry patrons - you'll appreciate the offering since you'll need time and reflection to consider all the options.
My children wanted to modify their orders with "hold this" & "can I substitute that..". Our waiter's voice of reason came to my rescue, explaining to the children with directness that they would be wise to enjoy these special dishes in the way the chef intended.
A mother wanting to expose her boys to worldly cuisines will appreciate the intervention; it gets tiresome when you're constantly talking your kids into new culinary experiences.
Happily, my children took our waiter's advice and enjoyed their meals just as designed by the chef. One son thoroughly enjoyed the Lamb, another enjoyed Gnocchi for the first time, "they're like little pillows of deliciousness Mom", and my 3rd son enjoyed the Swordfish which was prepared with an unexpected, savory sauce. It was more food than we could eat, the portions are most generous.
If you follow me on Yelp, you know I favor Italian restaurants; I loved this place and will return on my next visit to Montreal.
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