Bistro Vitalia

If you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience in the Gatineau area, look no further than Old Aylmer and Bistro Vitalia. The restaurant is housed in a quaint little building with limited seating but amazing decor. The menu is simple, which is often a sign that everything is homemade. In this case, it’s true - they make all their pastas and sauces. I had the gnocchis and they were fantastic, they melted like butter in my mouth. Even though it’s on the expensive side, I will be going back soon!

I took my mum in law here for her birthday and the food was our of this world. We skipped the appetizers knowing that the pasta would be filling. I had the Pescatori while my mum had the bolognese. The food was perfect. When it came to desert I mentioned that it was my mum's 88th birthday and the waiter was quite receptive and even made her blush. I had the chocolate brownie which was delish and mum had the coffee cheesecake. It was a wonderful surprise when the waiter came out with a birthday candle glowing on mum's plate, she was thrilled. We finished off with cappuccino and latte. All in all a very special night. The wine was perfectly matched to our meal, the ambiance was comfortable and conducive to conversation and mum went down memory lane talking of her time living in Italy 50+ years ago.

Bistro Vitalia has an excellent menu, with delicious Italian meals in a cozy well decorated setting. We went for a work Christmas dinner with a party of approximately 25 people and the waiting staff and kitchen belted out consistently delicious food, and service. Tasty food, a good atmosphere, and friendly staff make for an all round great experience.

We were here on a Friday night, it was busy, and it reflected on a slow service. However, the staff was nice and the food was good. We ordered different type of appetizers, the hit were the deep fried risotto balls. The pasta plates had mixed reviews, but overall positive. The best plate we had was Agnello (braised lamb shank).