The 5 Best Panna Cottas in Montreal
We present to you our list of the 5 Best Panna Cottas in Montreal — one of our absolute favorite desserts!
Between the winding streets of the Plateau-Mont-Royal and the charming windows of Old Montreal, a delicious culinary duel is taking place: the battle of the panna cotta. This Italian dessert, simple in appearance — sweetened cream set with gelatin, scented with vanilla, finished with subtle flair — is elevated here by chefs who give it a whole new dimension. In a city that celebrates both bold creativity and refined simplicity, panna cotta has become an elegant guilty pleasure: silky texture, light gels, fruity or spiced accompaniments, and that perfect “wow” finish.
Far from being a mere table dessert, it now takes center stage as a signature dish, a creative twist, or a purist classic — wherever texture, local ingredients, and meticulous plating are key. Many food critics even describe it as one of Montreal’s iconic desserts.
That’s precisely what drives our quest: to share five Montreal addresses where panna cotta isn’t an afterthought but rather the star of a memorable finale. From trembling ramekins to minimalist plates where a delicate panna cotta stands proudly on its own, each entry invites you to taste — and then decide which one wins your heart. Expect that perfect balance: tender but not firm, subtly perfumed, and utterly irresistible. One of them even appears in our list of Montreal’s 10 most iconic desserts!
For more sweet inspiration, check out our list of the city’s best pastry shops.
Stellina
Located in the heart of Old Montreal, Stellina is one of our favorite Italian restaurants — known for serving some of the city’s best pasta. But the magic doesn’t stop there: their desserts are just as impressive. Chief among them, the olive oil panna cotta. This subtle creation perfectly marries sweet and savory, balancing delicate and pronounced flavors. Like the rest of the menu, it’s all about authenticity and letting the ingredients speak for themselves.
Montréal
Pasta Pooks
Pasta Pooks is arguably the most talked-about opening of 2025 — and for good reason. Luca, Victor, Kai, and Martin have created something truly special. This small Sardinian-inspired fresh-pasta counter impresses at every turn. The concise menu features a few starters, three pasta dishes, a couple of sandwiches, and just as many desserts. While their handmade pasta (crafted daily by Luca) rightly gets all the praise, their desserts deserve just as much love. If the panna cotta is on the menu — don’t miss it! The flavor changes often: we’ve tried it with candied lemons straight from Italy, or infused with buckwheat — and every time, it’s been unforgettable.
Montréal
Restaurant Parapluie
Parapluie is one of our favorite wine bars, and their vanilla panna cotta is a quiet masterpiece. Topped with olive oil, fleur de sel, honey, and pollen, it’s a dessert of rare delicacy where every note — sweetness, saltiness, floral nuance — finds perfect harmony. Much like the place itself, it’s refined, elegant, and impeccably balanced.
Montréal
Impasto
Impasto, by Stefano Faita, is a true Montreal institution, where Italian classics are treated with care from start to finish. Given the chef’s pastry background, it’s no surprise that the desserts always shine. The panna cotta changes with the season’s fruit, but one thing never does: it’s always delicious.
Montréal
Barcola Bistro Audio - Italian Restaurant - Tasting Menu - Listening bar
Barcola is a discreet little Italian restaurant on Parc Avenue. Though under the radar, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves great Italian food. It’s also one of Jean-Philippe Tastet’s favorite spots when the craving for perfect pasta hits. Their panna cotta is exemplary — soft, silky, and just sweet enough.
Montréal
