Just because you can't travel as much as before doesn't mean you can't get away for a night out. To experience an authentic Italian dinner, I went to the restaurant Trattoria La Scala & La Piccola.

What's more, I took the opportunity to participate in one of their famous Opera evenings which have been held there for several years. I can hear you already thinking. "From the Opera? It's not for me! " Think again! I was also a bit skeptical before going there. But my philosophy is always to keep an open mind. And I was not disappointed.

The restaurant offers lunch, à la carte dishes and also table d'hôtes. However, during the Opera evenings which take place one Sunday evening per month, a predetermined 7-course menu is served. Joy! I was glad that I didn't have to decide on the impressive menu of authentic Italian choices.

We start with an aperitif, an Aperol Spritz, while a pianist puts us in the mood. The latter also provides musical interludes during the show. Then, the main program begins at the same time as the first starter is served: a salmon terrine. At first glance, I wonder if this is really a starter, the portion is so generous. The plate is really nicely presented. And the terrine turns out delicious on a bed of arugula drizzled with dill oil and balsamic vinegar reduction. A treat that I generously spread on slices of bread taken from the basket on offer.

As my ears and eyes get used to these majestic lyrical chants, the second entry arrives: arrancini with calabrese, pancetta and parmesan. A real cute sin! The softness of the risotto rolled up in a crunchy breadcrumbs is simply decadent. Without forgetting the final touch of the tomato and basil coulis. My favorite of the evening!

With a full stomach already, I wonder if I will still have room for the future. Fortunately, it was a cream of green peas and bacon that landed in front of me. This revisited version of our Quebec pea soup seduces me! Just like the melodies which are transported to my ears. To my surprise, I even recognize a few tunes in it!

A pear and vodka granita, then allows me to refresh my palet and prepare it for the main course: a tasting plate made up of beef Wellington with port sauce, salmon fillet with pesto, cream and prosciutto and tender veal cutlet. parmiggiana. When the plate arrives in front of me, my stomach is already full. I still make it a point to taste each dish and it turns out delicious! Unfortunately, I no longer have the space to finish this plate. But big appetites will be served!

The evening ends on a lighter note with long coffee and an aerial dessert: berry mousse and ends with thunderous applause.

When I get up there is no doubt: I would think I was in Italy. Anyone who has been there knows that you never get up from the table hungry again!

Note:
8.5 / 10

What struck me most about my visit:
Generous portions

The house specialty:
Italian food

The most expensive main meal on the menu:
Seafood platter, $ 52

The cheapest main meal on the menu:
Pizza Napoletana, 17.95

Do I recommend this restaurant:
Yes

What time of day did I visit:
Supper

Most :
- Attentive service
- Italian authenticity
- Music and special evenings