Best Italian Restaurants in Gatineau
Curated guide featuring 7 outstanding restaurants, all rated 4.5+ stars
Gatineau's Italian restaurant scene punches well above its weight, offering a remarkable collection of authentic trattorias, modern Italian eateries, and beloved neighborhood spots that rival anything you'll find across the river in Ottawa. What sets these establishments apart is their commitment to quality – we're talking house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas with perfectly charred crusts, and recipes passed down through generations. The city's Italian dining landscape reflects both traditional regional cooking and innovative contemporary approaches, all delivered with the kind of warm hospitality that makes you feel like family from the moment you walk through the door.
This guide brings together 10 of Gatineau's highest-rated Italian restaurants, each boasting at least 4.5 stars and hundreds of genuine customer reviews. You'll discover everything from cozy spots perfect for a romantic date night to lively pizzerias ideal for family gatherings. Whether you're craving a classic carbonara, an authentic Neapolitan margherita, or creative Italian fusion dishes, these carefully selected restaurants represent the best of what Gatineau has to offer. We've done the research so you can skip straight to the memorable meals and find your new favorite Italian spot in the city.
Featured Restaurants
North & Navy
This upscale Ottawa gem has earned its stellar reputation with over 1,600 diners praising its refined atmosphere and consistently excellent execution across diverse menu offerings. Travelers consistently rave about the sophisticated yet welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for both special occasions and elevated casual dining. Book ahead for dinner service, as this popular Centretown spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends when locals and visitors alike compete for tables.
Giovanni's Restaurant
Giovanni's Restaurant is a lively Preston Street hotspot that seamlessly blends dining, drinks, and nightlife under one roof, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience Ottawa's Little Italy from dinner through late night. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, visitors consistently praise the vibrant atmosphere and versatile experience that transitions from quality meals to cocktails and dancing. Arrive early for dinner to snag a good table, then stick around as the energy shifts into nightclub mode for a complete evening out.
Don Floriano
Don Floriano has earned its stellar 4.9-star rating from over a thousand diners who appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu offerings that cater to various tastes. This Gatineau gem delivers consistently excellent food at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors exploring the Outaouais region. With such high praise across the board, you can feel confident ordering whatever catches your eye, though arriving early or making a reservation is wise given its well-deserved popularity.
DreamLand Cafe
This beloved Preston Street cafe has earned its stellar 4.6-star rating from nearly 800 reviews, making it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a cozy neighborhood spot with consistently good food and service. Locals and visitors alike return for the welcoming atmosphere and quality cafe fare at reasonable prices. Arrive early on weekends to snag a table, as its popularity means it can fill up quickly during peak brunch hours.
Cucina da Vito
Cucina da Vito has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from over 700 reviewers by combining authentic Italian market vibes with quality prepared foods and groceries. Travelers rave about this St Joseph Boulevard gem for its genuine atmosphere and reliable selection of Italian specialties that make it both a great spot to grab a meal and stock up on hard-to-find ingredients. Visit during off-peak hours to browse comfortably and don't hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations on their house-made items.
Ciao Italia
This beloved Somerset West gem has earned its stellar reputation with over 500 glowing reviews, drawing locals and visitors alike for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and consistently delicious food. Diners rave about the quality and generous portions that make the moderate prices feel like an exceptional value. Arrive early for dinner service as this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends when the neighborhood comes alive.
Roberto Pizza Romana
This beloved Chelsea gem serves authentic Roman-style pizza that has earned it an impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 500 enthusiastic locals and visitors. The combination bakery and specialty store means you can grab freshly baked goods and curated drinks alongside their signature pizzas, making it a perfect stop whether you're fueling up for a Gatineau Park adventure or picking up provisions. Arrive early on weekends when the locals flock here, and don't leave without trying their pizza al taglio, sold by weight in traditional Roman fashion.
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