Mare: the chic new big brother to Stellina

The Old Port of Montreal welcomes a sophisticated new gem: Mare
This ambitious project from Novantuno Hospitality (Fiorellino, Stellina, Siamo Noi) is poised to become a new benchmark in high-end dining. The kitchen, led by chef and co-owner Jonathan Agnello, showcases the finest seafood — mare, Italian for “sea” — in a sumptuous setting with a refined ambiance.

A menu inspired by the Mediterranean
As its name suggests, the heart of Mare is the sea. Seafood takes center stage on the menu. Sicily, the chef’s native land, has a strong influence on the cuisine, but the entire Italian peninsula is celebrated through dishes that balance simplicity and elegance. The chef focuses on fresh ingredients, with fish delivered daily straight from the Mediterranean, ensuring exceptional quality.

On the menu, you’ll naturally find these outstanding fish, along with remarkable meats and pastas. The crudos, prepared at the raw bar in the center of the dining room, offer a true spectacle. Don’t miss the pasta dishes either — they’re equally deserving of the spotlight.

Another highlight of the experience is Mare’s bar. The team collaborated with a mixologist from Italy to craft a cocktail list that exudes Italian authenticity with a modern twist. Among the creations, the “Mare-tini” stands out — it literally tastes like the sea. “Tu vuo’ fa’ l’americano,” on the other hand, surprises with its 70% dark chocolate notes and a delicate amaretto and pear foam. A true work of art!

An exceptional venue
Mare is an ambitious venture — the “big brother” to Stellina, as co-owner Massimo Lecas described it. The space, designed by Sid Lee Architecture, lives up to the project’s ambitions. It’s divided into three distinct zones: an intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar, a raw bar, and a very elegant dining room. Styling by Kayla Pongrac blends modern and classic elements, evoking the timeless beauty of Italy. The walls feature iconic photographs of Italian figures, curated by art consultant Alessandra Salituri. The design of Mare is a perfect mix of understated luxury and comfort, with careful attention to detail — from the furniture to the choice of materials. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to dress up, relax, and enjoy an evening in a setting that bridges modernity and tradition.

The atmosphere at Mare is chic without being stuffy. It’s a place where you feel comfortable, where the music sets a vibrant tone without ever being overpowering. You can carry on a conversation without overhearing your neighbors.

The service, led by co-owner Francesco Minucci and Maxime Lachapelle, reflects the quality and elegance of the restaurant. Waitstaff, impeccably dressed in white shirts, bow ties, and white gloves, add to the refined ambiance. No detail has been overlooked. While the bill may be on the higher end, Mare is a place you’ll want to return to — not just for dinner, but to truly experience something unique in Montreal.

Enjoy the discovery!

Written by Jean-Philippe Tastet
Photography by Alison Slattery

Last update: July 15, 2025

Make a suggestion