Matto crafts an authentic Italian experience centered on the art of traditional pasta and artisanal pizza preparation. The kitchen utilizes high-quality flour and imported ingredients to construct complex flavor profiles across a diverse menu of regional specialties. Patrons observe an open environment where the mechanical precision of pizza ovens dictates the rhythmic flow of the kitchen. Every plate serves as a testament to classic preparation techniques, favoring bold textures and fresh seasonings over unnecessary ornamentation. The structural integrity of the handmade noodles provides a consistent backbone for rich, balanced sauces that define the culinary identity. This establishment maintains a rigorous focus on the fundamental pillars of Mediterranean cooking, ensuring that every served dish reflects a commitment to simplicity and technical mastery in every bite.
Matto offers a vibrant and authentic Italian dining experience in Quebec City, widely praised for its flavorful pastas, fresh seafood, and signature meat dishes like veal and beef cheek. While many guests rave about the warm atmosphere and the exceptional, attentive service provided by the professional staff, some visitors note that the restaurant can become quite busy and noisy, leading to tight seating arrangements. Although the vast majority of experiences are highly positive, with many diners considering it a must-visit destination, a small number of reviews mention inconsistencies with dish preparation or speed of service during peak hours.
Sadly, we did not get to try the food. But I heard that it was very good .
We were staying in Auberge St Pierre ( a wonderful hotel by the way- see my review) we got in late & walked by the restaurant which is off the lobby of the hotel- I saw a few seats open so I thought I would just ask the maître d' (John) if anything was available. A simple'I'm sorry, no.' would have been fine.
Instead I get a very haughty' No! We have nothing!' which was delivered in an angry tone. Like he couldn't be bothered to talk to me. So… I explained we were staying in the hotel, I knew reservations were required, but thought I would just check. He replied we have NOTHING until 10:30, then we close at 11:00! Again, a very irritated tone. I then said'well John, it was a simple question I asked… but you can read about it in my review.' At that I went to return to my room & I was a little surprised that he followed me into the lobby … basically asking'what are you talking about ?!?'
I told him that I didn't like the antagonistic response . At all. At that point he stormed back into the restaurant saying I have work.
Anyone can have a bad day. I get it. Just don't take it out on your customers .
Malheureusement, nous n'avons pas eu l'occasion de goûter à la cuisine. Mais j'ai entendu dire qu'elle était excellente.
Nous séjournions à l'Auberge St Pierre (un hôtel merveilleux, soit dit en passant - voir mon avis). Nous sommes arrivés tard & sommes passés devant le restaurant, qui jouxte le hall de l'hôtel ; j'ai remarqué quelques places libres & j'ai pensé demander simplement au maître d'hôtel (John) si quelque chose était disponible. Un simple « Je suis désolé, non » aurait amplement suffi.
Au lieu de cela, j'ai eu droit à un « Non ! Nous n'avons rien ! » très hautain, lancé sur un ton colérique. Comme si le simple fait de me parler l'ennuyait profondément. Alors... je lui ai expliqué que nous logions à l'hôtel, que je savais que la réservation était requise, mais que j'avais pensé vérifier tout de même. Il m'a répondu : « Nous n'avons RIEN avant 22 h 30, & nous fermons à 23 h 00 ! » Là encore, sur un ton très irrité. J'ai alors rétorqué : « Eh bien, John, ce n'était qu'une simple question... mais vous pourrez lire ce que j'en pense dans mon avis. » Sur ce, je me suis dirigé vers ma chambre, non sans une certaine surprise de voir qu'il me suivait dans le hall... me demandant, en substance : « De quoi parlez-vous ?! »
Je lui ai dit que je n'avais pas apprécié sa réaction hostile. Pas du tout. À cet instant, il est retourné précipitamment dans le restaurant en disant : « J'ai du travail. »
Tout le monde peut passer une mauvaise journée. Je le conçois tout à fait. Mais ne vous en prenez pas à vos clients.
May 26, 2026
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Staff was friendly & welcoming. Lovely restaurant.& atmosphere. Unfortunately the food was just okay. Carpaccio was warm & seemed like it had been out for quite some time. More Brown than red. Although the sauce & the things on it were good. We were sent here by the hotel desk clerk. Place was packed. I'd give it a shot again.
Lively restaurant serving genuine Italian dishes within the Hotel 71.
We were seated at the bar & loved the action & the drinks.
The food was great (we had calamari, bruschette & wonderful scaloppine) & it came fast despite the place being packed. Great staff made us feel very welcome. Book in advance!
Le personnel de cet établissement est vraiment extraordinaire, c'est le meilleur service client que j'ai reçu depuis longtemps!!! Non seulement la nourriture est excellente, les gens sont tellement gentils que ça donne envie d'y aller chaque soir de la semaine! Merci, on y retournera très bientôt!!
Matto was great. - we shared a pizza - which was perfectly cooked & a pasta which was fresh & yummy. Service was great - friendly professional & timely. Loved this place. Dont skip dessert - the cannelloni was a highlight.
Le service est excellent : je me suis sentie comme une cliente VIP du début jusqu'à notre départ. La nourriture est délicieuse, un vrai bonheur pour les amateurs de cuisine italienne. Je recommande vivement !
A very nice restaurant with a pleasant & cozy atmosphere. The setting features soft lighting, creating a relaxed & enjoyable environment, even though the place is not very large.
We started with tomato bruschetta & then had scaloppine served with pasta - both dishes were very good, well prepared, & satisfying.
The service was also good, attentive without being intrusive.
Overall, a great option for a relaxed meal with good food & a welcoming ambiance.
