Montreal is a city that takes its coffee culture seriously, but not in a pretentious way. Here, the café is an extension of the living room—a place to hide from the brutal winter chill, debate politics, or simply watch the snow fall while nursing a perfectly pulled espresso. Unlike the grab-and-go culture prevalent in many parts of the United States, Montreal encourages you to slow down. The baristas know their regulars by name, and the concept of "terrasse season" (patio season) is practically a civic religion.
The neighborhoods dictate the vibe. In the Plateau, you will find students and artists hunched over laptops in converted old-school corner stores. In Old Montreal, you’ll find sleek, minimalist spaces serving beans roasted in-house to tourists and locals alike. Mile End offers a mix of Italian heritage and hipster innovation, where a third-wave flat white sits comfortably next to a traditional Italian espresso. No matter where you are in the city, you are never more than a few blocks away from a quality cup.
Because Montreal is a bilingual city, the terminology can shift between French and English, but the universal language of a good roast needs no translation. You might order a café allongé (an Americano) or a café filtre (batch brew), but the quality standards remain high. The city has largely moved past the dark, over-roasted beans of the 90s and embraced the lighter, fruitier profiles favored by specialty roasters.
For visitors from the US, the café scene offers a welcome respite from the ubiquity of large chains. While you will find the occasional Starbucks, the local culture actively champions independent roasters. These shops often double as bakeries, art galleries, or vinyl shops, making them the perfect anchor points for exploring the city’s distinct neighborhoods on foot.
Navigating this scene can be overwhelming, especially if you only have a long weekend to explore. You want to avoid the tourist traps and find the places where the locals actually line up on a Tuesday morning. That is why we have curated a list of the essential stops, balancing legendary institutions with newer spots that are pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be.
Whether you are looking for the best almond croissant in the city, a quiet corner to read, or a place to network with the city’s creative class, there is a spot for you. Below is a curated list of the 16 best cafes in Montreal that you absolutely cannot miss.
Crew Collective & Cafe
| Address | 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, QC H2Y 1P5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 285-7095 |
I had a great experience at Cafe Crew Cafeteria overall. The atmosphere was welcoming, the food tasted fresh, and the staff were friendly. Everything looked well prepared and flavorful.
The only thing I would mention is that the portion sizes felt a little small compared to the prices of the food items. The quality is definitely there, but slightly larger portions would make the experience even better.
That being said, the pecan pie was absolutely incredible. Honestly the best pecan pie We’ve ever had. Perfect flavor, fresh, rich, and not overly sweet. It completely made our visit memorable and is something we would definitely come back for again.
One of the most stunning cafes I've ever visited!
Crew Collective & Café is housed in Montreal's former Royal Bank headquarters (built 1926). Walking in feels like entering a cathedral — 50-ft gold ceiling, marble floors with the original bank emblem, brass chandeliers, and old-school teller counters. Absolutely breathtaking.
We ordered avocado toast and smoked salmon bagel — simple, fresh, and perfect for a relaxed breakfast. Sitting in this century-old banking hall, sipping coffee and soaking in the grandeur, was such a vibe.
Pro tip: Check opening hours — they're closed on Saturdays!
This is a gorgeous cafe as it used to be a bank. Good atmosphere and definitely photogenic. In terms of food, it was so so. Cold brew coffee is so weak, I feel like drinking colored water. Chocolate croissant with very little chocolate. Almond croissant has good taste, but those croissants are not airy, no layers, not the type of croissant we expected. For service, they only have 1 counter, 1 staff takes orders from every single customer. This staff also serves pastry and drinks. That's why the line there is unnecessarily long. The hostesses were busy chit chatting to themselves, waste of manpower of doing nothing.
Many people praise this cafe, probably due to the atmosphere and the stunning building. I don't think it worth the time to line up for food there but worth to visit for pictures only.
Crew Collective & Café is worth a visit. I loved the concept and how they preserved the beautiful historic building. The space is stunning and has a really unique atmosphere. I had the pistachio latte and the amandine, and both were delicious. I would definitely come back but there is always a line up here.
Crew Collective & Café is one of the most beautiful cafés in Montréal, located inside the historic Royal Bank building in Old Montréal. The grand banking hall, huge windows, high ceilings, and ornate details make the interior feel more like a historic landmark than a café.
The coffee and food are good, but the architecture and atmosphere are the real reason to visit. Definitely worth stopping by even just for a coffee and to admire the building.
Café Cosé
| Address | 1883 Rue Centre, Montréal, QC H3K 1J1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (438) 380-7512 |
I’ve been going here ever since they opened and the drinks are always amazing and I make sure to try any new menu items!
It’s small and sometimes it’s hard to find a seat but the staff are always welcoming (even if I come to lock in for 3-4 hours) so this has become my go-to cafe. Great ambiance and drinks 🫶
I came here on a boiling humid day in Montreal, but got recommended this place by a friend.
As a Viet, this is more Viet meets Modernism but with a tasty twist! There are some Viet flavours on the menu like the Coffee with Condensed Milk, Coconut, and Bananas. I ordered mine for "to here" of an Iced Banana Matcha Latte with a Chocolatine for roughly $13 CAD with taxes. Prices are average like your other coffee shops in Montreal.
For the ambience, it's pretty cute, modern condo-style, and chic (beige, white, brown), but with limited seating spots. No plugs (I think or it's limited) but there is WiFi, you just have to ask for the guest password.
Service wise, it may be slow, so please be patient when ordering and waiting. When I came close to 19h, there was only one nice barista serving and ordering for everyone. He was nice! Luckily I didn't have to wait too long for my order (around 5 mins), but I'm sure on other days might be chaotic.
Flavour wise, the Iced Banana Matcha Latte is pretty good, not too sweet. I personally liked it as I was able to taste the Bananas. Chocolatine was $4 and flakey and less chocolate.
It's a cute spot, roughly 10-15 mins away from Charlevoix metro. I do recommend coming here with friends or want a quick refresher, but beware of the last g wait and crowd!
I had the sweetest and most warm experience at Cafe Cose. We were visiting out of town, and really wanted to try this place. However, we arrived 5 minutes after closing. One of the employees, Joseph, could tell our excitement to try this place and so kindly offered to make our drink despite technically being closed.
In regards to the drink, it was quite literally the best banana matcha I’ve ever had. The matcha quality was fantastic! Definitely will be visiting again.
Love visiting this place when I’m in Montreal. I ordered their seasonal mango matcha sticky rice, it was yummy! I found my drink didn’t have enough matcha flavour originally so I asked the cashier if she could top it off with a little more matcha and she did without hesitation! So sweet of her. Customer service and drinks here are great 🙂
enjoy my super un-aesthetic pictures of the drinks
sea salt early gray matcha sounds like a whole lotta buzzwords but its actually FIRE
Café Olimpico
| Address | 124 R. Saint Viateur Ouest, Montréal, QC H2T 2L1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (514) 495-0746 |
You don't stay in business for more than 50 years and establish several locations and have lineups of customers if you weren't great, and this basically Café Olimpico in a nutshell.
Excellent coffee, decadent gelato and exquisite desserts, in a welcoming environment that proudly showcases its history, coupled with exceptional customer service that's both attentive and friendly.
This was my first visit to Café Olimpico, and if I lived in Montréal, I would've been a regular. You must try this café, you'll be impressed like I was.
We came twice in one day - once at 10 AM and again at 3 PM. And there was always a queue. It's definitely a popular spot!
My Favorite:
- Cappuccino: The foam on top pairs well with the coffee. This was my favorite coffee of my entire Montreal trip!
Nice to Try:
- Tiramisu: They soak it with maple syrup. Personally, I thought it was an interesting local twist, but it was a bit too sweet for my taste. I still prefer the traditional version.
- Affogato: We paired it with pistachio gelato. It was also a little too sweet for me, but it was wonderfully rich and creamy!
Overall, it's a great place to just come, relax, and enjoy the city with a really good coffee.
Very popular spot in Montreal, lines were long but definitely worth the wait. Got the remix in large (bottle) and the flavor was strong, bold, and well balanced. They were out of the cafe di creama so I got the affogato and it was perfectly balanced and so delicious! The cannoli was also so good! So worth the wait!
There’s only one bathroom and wait times can be quite long. The coffee line moves faster than the bathroom line.
i had the remix coffee and it was definitely worth the hype. i didn't expect it to be as good as everyone was saying but it for sure exceeded my expectations. i had it in the bottled option cause im a bit late to the trend cause im having it in the winter and they mentioned that the clear cups weren't available rn. but i think it made my pictures look better tbh. but yeah it was a perfect mix of creamy sweet and bitter and if i had this cafe near me id come here almost everyday but i think its a good thing its not so i get to save money.😅🤣i will say its a bit overpriced i think i paid about 10 ish dollars? maybe 11 if i round it up. its not exactly worth it for the price but its definitely worth trying if you haven't. if you can afford it than i wouldn't recommend getting anything else if you like drinking your coffee cold. it's different from the regular iced coffee and most blended drinks are usually wayyyyyyyy too sweet but this one is just right. i was planning on sitting in the shop a bit but there werent any spots. it was too crowded and there was a funky vibe but the barista who took my order was pretty nice and fast too so i didn't have to wait too long in there thankfully.
A café recommended by several travel reviewers, and I can see why. The coffee was good, and the sandwich was tasty as well.
The place has a lively atmosphere and a lot of character. Service was quick and efficient, though not especially warm or friendly. That said, everything ran smoothly.
Overall, it's a nice spot for coffee and a light meal if you're exploring the area.
Tommy Café
| Address | British Empire Building, 200 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H2Y 1T3, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 903-8669 |
Tommy Café in Old Montréal definitely lives up to its popularity.
We had the spicy tuna sandwich and the salmon avocado toast, and both were fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.
The ingredients tasted high quality, and the portions were satisfying for brunch.
The café was very busy and we had to wait for a table, but the atmosphere made it worth it. The space has a stylish, vibrant design that fits perfectly with the charm of Old Montréal, making it a great spot to relax or catch up with friends.
Despite how crowded it was, the staff remained genuinely friendly, welcoming, and efficient throughout our visit.
If you’re exploring the area and don’t mind a bit of a wait during peak hours, Tommy Café is definitely worth stopping by for both the food and the overall experience.
Stumbled upon this gem during f1 weekend 2026. We needed coffee and this sounded nice but not nearly as nice as we expected. Small inside but offer a large personality from the decor to the staff and the food. The food, I order the shakshuka which im familiar with but never tried before. INCREDIBLE 10/10 roasted red pepper sauce was full of flavor and eggs cooked to perfection, only recommendation is order and extra side of toast. My party also tried the Georgia toast AMAZING sweet roasted peaches, tange creamy goat cheese with the sweet heat from the hot honey. The addition of homemade chili oil was a great touch. The drinks SENSATIONAL! Ordered espresso martinis and its hands down the best one I have ever had, strong espresso flavor perfected sweetness with a cinnamon decoration on top added the scent of cinnamon without being overpowering. Finally the staff, during the crazy busy f1 weekend people in and out the staff handled everything very well even with people waiting out the door the kitchen was keeping up and wait times were perfectly reasonable. Aidan was our server and was amazingly kind and helpful throughout our experience.
This cafe is very very nice on the inside, I highly recommend studying here or having breakfast here because it is very lovely and busy! Their ice latte is sooo good, it’s not bitter and it’s sweet! The avocado toast is very big, I recommend that if you come in pairs to share it with one person, it’s also quite bland, but it’s a light and good breakfast to start your day with. The croissant egg avocado is yummy, and I liked the garden salad that came with it! The croissant adds flavour to the dish.
Really impressive inviting and warm modern decor for a cafe, with funky staggered layered seating that works. I also found the corner stair entrance in a Victorian building charming architecture. I don't usually comment much on decor, but for a cafe atmosphere this location is stand-out.
The almond pastry and beef sandwich with side salad were high quality and fresh, as well as a fresh iced mango drink and iced latte. My only nitpick is that I wish they gave nicer cups for the iced drinks. Overall, a memorable cafe and excellent choice.
Beautiful cafe with loads of comfortable seating options. The service was very kind and accommodating even during busy times. The avocado toasts are delicious and HUGE. Very easily shareable item. The bread they used was soft yet structured with the perfect amount of grill.
La Finca Café | Café, Marché Local Lunch De Quartier Dans La Région De Montréal
| Address | 1067 Rue de Bleury, Montréal, QC H2Z 1N1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 903-8911 |
Stopped by La Finca Cafe for brunch and really enjoyed it! We had the Croque Madame, focaccia sandwich, canelés, and macchiatos, and everything was so good. The cafe has a really nice, cozy vibe, and the service was super friendly.
The canelés were especially amazing — so good that we ended up ordering another one to take with us on the way out. Definitely a spot we’d come back to if we’re in the area again!
Great food, it was all fantastic,the foccaci bread was the best sandwhich I have eaten in years. Coffee was very good, service was really fast as well. I will go.back soon very reasonable prices. Nice pastry as well
Excellent shop. Super friendly, great coffee, and nice atmosphere for working. I also had shakshuka which was great-on the mild side but tasty. The fact that they have some good food options makes for a great place to work a while which is what I did.
The only place I stopped by twice on my trip to Montreal. Staff is friendly and helpful. But we need to talk about the bagel blt! I am still thinking about it now months later. I like the bagel. I love the filling. Wasn’t loving the coffee as much as the sandwich. But I did have the sandwich twice! It’s that good. One of the best bagels I’ve ever had. And the best bagel sandwich I’ve ever had.
This place really needs to step up its service. From the moment I arrived, I waited in line for about 15 minutes just to place my order. After that, we were given a table but told we might have to move if a smaller one opened up — which didn’t make for a very relaxing start.
My friend and I ordered together, but our dishes arrived 15 minutes apart. He only got his meal after going back up to the counter to ask about it.
As for the food, I ordered the croque madame, which was unfortunately quite bland. Overall, I was really disappointed with both the food and the service. The atmosphere was okay, but not enough to make up for the rest of the experience.
Café Alphabet
| Address | 5765 Rue Clark, Montréal, QC H2T 2V5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
This place is worth the hype! We absolutely loved the Freddo Lattes. We also got a small coconut tarte that was exquisite! They allow dogs on the terrace and we got our dog a pupcup which he loved. The music was also honestly super nice. Staff is friendly. We loved the experience and would definitely recommend.
We came for the coffee and stayed for the smiles! Everyone has such great energy, the coffee is delicious, and the silky foam adds a nice touch. We’ll definitely be back! I didn’t get the chance to try the other drinks this time, but I’m looking forward to coming back for them.
This rainy spring morning felt made for a café visit — soft rain, mild weather, the kind of Montréal morning that invites you to slow down a little. The croissant here was unbelievably good, and you can tell they put real care into their coffee. Everything tasted rich and thoughtfully made.
The café itself is bright and spotless, and the staff are genuinely warm and welcoming. I especially loved the counter area — so many charming little details, playful and beautifully arranged. It was my first time here, but it was easy to fall in love with the place right away. Their matcha is excellent, too.
On a rainy morning like this, a deep, velvety cup of coffee somehow makes everything feel lighter and brighter.
This is a personal taste rating. I got an iced caramel Freddo latte and unfortunately I had to trash it due to it tasting like straight up syrup with no distinct flavor. However my sister said her regular hot latte was good. I thought the cold foam they put on top would have more flavor but it didn’t taste like anything. The Ferrero rocher cookie cup was also good. I’m glad I tried it even if my drink wasn’t good. The cashier was also helpful and suggested my sister choose a latte instead of a cappuccino since she wanted a sweeter drink.
Place is trendy and very busy with people studying--we had to wait for a table to free up. We only came for their matcha freddo, which i already had once before and remembered liking it. This time around, it wasn't amazing and it also costed 8$ for a small cup of matcha with 50% light foam. I didnt find the drink sweet, nor the foam but the matcha was good quality. I guess i'd recommend for you to ask for sweetener in your matcha if u have a sweet tooth.
Cafeterra
| Address | 243 R. Notre Dame O, Montréal, QC H2Y 1T4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (438) 380-8311 |
We really enjoyed everything we ordered today, especially the dessert. It was a little too sweet for me, but my husband absolutely loved it. The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. If you're visiting Montreal, I'd definitely recommend stopping by and giving this place a try!：）：）：）
Excellent café with a warm, charming atmosphere and great service. The creamy shrimp pasta was delicious, flavourful, and not too heavy, and the latte was excellent — smooth and very well balanced. The salmon croissant was also fresh and beautifully presented. A wonderful casual lunch spot in Montréal. Highly recommended!
We visited this place and absolutely loved it. The decor is beautiful, with carefully chosen artwork, charming walls, and a perfect combination of furniture that creates a warm and cozy atmosphere.
The breakfasts were beautifully presented, generous in portion size, and absolutely delicious. You can tell that a lot of attention goes into both the presentation and the quality of the food.
Overall, it was a wonderful experience, and it’s definitely a place we would love to visit again. Highly recommended!
This is a delicious breakfast location in the heart of Montreal. Honestly there's nothing I'd particularly recommend because everything I tried is good (Ex: Le Petit Dejeuner - Rustique, Croissant Oeuf / Egg and Bacon). Another cool thing about this restaurant is the fact that Jackie Chan actually dined here once. All things considered, this place is great.
I had the avocado egg toast (without the hollandaise sauce) and it was delicious! The fruit was refreshing and good portion. The avocado and egg with crunchy onion crumble on top was so yummy! Cafe was clean, inviting and noise level was just right!! Our waitress, Olana, was lovely and attentive. Highly recommend!
La graine brûlée
| Address | 921 Rue Sainte-Catherine E, Montréal, QC H2L 2G2, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 903-8550 |
I’ve been to La Graine Brûlée a few times, and what stands out the most is definitely the atmosphere — super colorful, cool, and really cozy.
If I’m not mistaken, the menu is entirely vegetarian, which is great if you’re into that. The coffee, however, wasn’t as good as it could be.
My sandwich was an interesting experience — it was a grilled cheese with apple inside, which was a first for me. The brownie was also just okay.
That said, I’d still come back to try other items on the menu, because the place itself is really nice and worth another shot.
It's a nice eclectic café. I like they have a spot with local merchandise to sell. The staff were super friendly. Brownie was delicious so was my latté. They charge 50 cents for take out cups. Bathrooms have strobe lights so if your are sensitive to that, I suggest not going in. All in all, really good experience.
Cute little cafe to visit. Nice selection of coffees and they also have cocktails. There's also a photo booth, crane machine. I really like they also have a small boutique with local marchandise.
One of the coolest cafes in Downtown Montreal . The ambience, coffee and wifi is top notch. Toilets are clean and well maintained. If you are a student, they give you a Monday only 50 % discount for your drinks. The only downside is, at times people who are on the street might suddenly come inside and grab your stuff if unattended. Although it doesn't happen so frequently, it can happen. But I guess irrespective of the place, any Downtown business faces this daily challenge. The staff is friendly who are perfectly bilingual. Their food is either vegetarian or vegan. If I am not mistaken, there is at least one option with Eggs. The food tase delicious.
Such a great place! vives, food and drinks are so great, and the barista is very kind. I loved the videogame area
Café Olimpico - Vieux-Montréal
| Address | 419 R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y 3A6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (438) 386-9071 |
Without a doubt, one of the best café and gelato spot in Montreal! Café Olimpico — has the perfect mix of authentic Italian coffee, rich and creamy gelato, and an incredible atmosphere for desserts & refreshers.
The Affogato is an absolute must-try, and the Caffè Crema or Coffee Crema is unforgettable—smooth, refreshing, and packed with rich espresso flavor. Pair it with their coffee gelato for the ultimate treat. Their cappuccino is consistently excellent, making every visit feel like a little trip to Italy.
The staff are welcoming, the service is fast, and the cozy European vibe makes you want to stay for hours. Whether you're stopping by for a coffee, an affogato, or a scoop of gelato while exploring Old Montreal, this place never disappoints.
A true Montreal gem that I highly recommend to anyone looking for the best coffee and ice cream experience in the city!
Another Instagram hype find that actually lived up to the noise. When we first walked up to Café Olimpico, the line was massive—so long that we bailed and spent time wandering the streets of Old Montreal instead. But on the way back to our car, my wife, being a total coffee enthusiast, convinced me to give it one more shot.
This time around, the line moved fairly quickly and we were at the counter in about 12 minutes. We grabbed our drinks and a slice of their tiramisu, and damn... that cake was phenomenal. Absolute must-try. The coffee was equally spot on.
The staff was genuinely friendly and the whole space completely passed the vibe check. So glad we looped back—we'll definitely be stopping by again next time we're in town!
Café Olimpico is easily one of the most authentic Italian cafés I’ve visited in Canada. The atmosphere is effortlessly cool, with a lively vibe that makes it a great place to soak in the energy of Old Montreal.
The coffee was excellent, and the service was friendly despite the long lines. I had the Crema l, hot chocolate, and an iced mocha, and I even loved the glass bottle the mocha came in—I’ll definitely be reusing it. The hazelnut biscotti and the pistachio amaretti were outstanding, among the best I’ve had many years living in Canada. In fact, they’re right up there with some of my favorites from Italy.
The only reason I’m giving four stars instead of five is the breakfast timing. I arrived around 9:00 a.m. hoping for something savory, but sandwiches aren’t served until 11:00 a.m., so I had to go elsewhere after just to finish my breakfast. It was a bit inconvenient.
That said, I’d absolutely recommend Café Olimpico for anyone looking for authentic Italian coffee and exceptional pastries in Montreal.
Café Olimpico is a fantastic spot if you appreciate great coffee and fresh sandwiches. The smoked turkey sandwich was absolutely delicious, made with fresh ingredients and full of flavor. The coffee was rich, aromatic, and clearly made with care. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect place to relax or catch up with friends. Definitely one of the best cafés in Montreal. Highly recommended!
Visited Café Olimpico with friends and had such a great experience. We ordered the affogato and tiramisu, and both were absolutely amazing. The affogato was perfectly balanced with rich espresso and creamy gelato, while the tiramisu was fresh, soft, and full of flavor. The café has such a lively and cozy vibe, making it a perfect spot to relax and catch up with friends. Definitely a must-visit place in Montreal for coffee and dessert lovers!
Mintar
| Address | 3418b Av. du Parc, Montréal, QC H2X 2H5, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 553-9555 |
Im do glad we stopped at this Cafe it has a very cute snd cozy atmosphere. The drinks were perfect and made just right. I had to try the famous pancakes and I was not disappointed they were amazing and were so fluffy and light and had lots of flavor it was sweet but not overly sweet I would definitely come back again.
Our family of six had breakfast here. We ordered matcha latte, iced matcha, macchiato, cappuccino , steak and egg sandwich, chicken sandwich , egg and ham sandwich, and pancakes. Their pancakes tasted really organic and fresh; all sandwiches were freshly made and delicious, but the steak sandwich was particularly tasty. The space is tight though. But I love the city small cafe atmosphere.
I tried the pancakes yesterday and came back for a smoothie and sandwich today 🧡 Very very good service and everyone there is really nice. I’m a huge pancake fan and I’d say the pancakes were 10/10. Strawberry banana smoothie was also good and the halloumi & egg sandwich too. The side potatoes are nice. Coffee was a bit too bitter for me. Recommending this place!
stopped into Mintar and had the halloumi egg sandwich, absolutely delicious. The bread was perfectly chewy, and the halloumi had that ideal salty, satisfying texture. What really pulled it together was the savory sauce, which added tons of flavor without being overpowering. The fresh, crisp lettuce and tomato balanced everything out beautifully.
I’d highly recommend this place. I was here about a year ago and had their banana strawberry smoothie bowl, which was also amazing. Definitely a spot worth coming back to!
Visited Mintar Café with my friends and my heart is still smiling 💗✨ It’s honestly one of the cutest, coziest little places I’ve ever been to — everything just felt so warm and full of love.
What made it truly special was the chef personally making and serving our food. You could feel the care, passion, and love in every single detail, and it made the whole experience so personal and unforgettable.
And the cotton cheese pancakes… oh my goodness 😍 they were pure heaven. So soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious — every bite felt like a hug.
Ferlucci Coffee Shop
| Address | 432 R. de Castelnau E, Montréal, QC H2R 1R3, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 379-6575 |
Great place for coffee that’s in a quiet area (although unfortunately there was major construction right in front of store when we went first week of alone 2026). It’s a throwback to 1950s and 60s. The tables look to be original vintage as does the menu board and some of the equipment, which all adds to the charm of the place.
Sooo charming! And the affogato is truly so so good maybe the best I’ve had. They are super sweet. The chocolate croissant was just a bit strange (lol) like too salty? Nevertheless my fave cafe in mtl
Finally made it here and I’m obsessed!
The espresso tonic was sooo refreshing and honestly one of the best I’ve had.
And the Nutella pastry… wow. You NEED to try it!
This a super cozy ✨️ cafe and the vibe is great. They always welcome you with beautiful 😃 smiles. They have amazing lattes. I really liked the affogato. Never had such an amazing affogato perfect 👌 espresso with Gelato.
Plenty of sitting space with outside patio too.
Small cozy Italian café with many seats outside to enjoy a great coffee. The also allowed us to take the real cups outside. Friendly staff. Very crowded with students. The Americano was great.
café léo
| Address | 1215 Rue Berri, Montréal, QC H2L 0H6, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 849-7724 |
I had a nice experience at Café Léo in downtown Montreal. The place is quite big and the vibe is really pleasant. There are many tables, which makes it great whether you just want to enjoy a coffee or sit down to work. They also have larger tables if you want to work with friends or in a group.
I ordered a latte with coconut milk and it was good. I also tried the cheese croissant, which was tasty and nicely crispy on the outside, with good cheese inside. It was a little pricey for a croissant, but that’s understandable for a downtown location.
The staff were friendly, and I also noticed they sell a few items like tote bags and T-shirts. Overall, I recommend this place.
Stopped in here to kill some time before my flight and I couldn’t have made a better choice. Super cute, spotless, and great AC during the heatwave. The people working behind the till were friendly and my drink was served up in what felt like seconds! Delicious pastry and drinks. I doubly appreciate the non-dairy options being available. 100% recommend for studying, working, or just taking a break from your day.
Super cute lots of seats to study and work. The strawberry matcha tasted a lot more like strawberry milk than anything else. Light green drink.
The homemade cookies and matcha latte were absolutely divine. The earthy, vibrant notes of the tea paired perfectly with the rich, buttery sweetness of the treats.
I came in for a latte and left with dessert in a cup.
A s’mores latte with rich chocolate ganache, crunchy graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows. Cozy, nostalgic, and dangerously delicious. ☕🤎 #CafeLeo #Montreal
Le Comptoir Café / COFFEE ESPRESSO
| Address | Hotel le Coach, 908 Boul。 de Maisonneuve E, Montréal, QC H2L 1Z1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Phone | (438) 455-4068 |
The employee was very friendly and welcoming, explaining the menu and giving us recommendations. We got the saumon de luxe and saumon fumé, and for drinks the orange pekoe iced latte and hot orange pekoe latte. Food was absolutely delicious, my bagel was loaded with guacamole, while drinks were rich and flavourful.
The bagels are great here but the drinks are more or less a scam. The iced versions cost more than DOUBLE the hot versions, ie I had a matcha that should have costed 4.25$ but the iced version is 10$ which is an insane price. Also the matcha is really low quality, it is more brown that green and has barely any taste. So the place is good to grab a bagel but poor for everything else.
Io sono Calabrese, di Ottawa! (I’m Calabrian🇮🇹from Ottawa!) and this was such a beautiful cafe! Me and my friend were greeted with such kindness and generosity from staff from the moment we walked inside. We got Smoked salmon bagels and it was SO fresh, with the perfect amount of cream cheese! Come here, you won’t regret it! Great vibes and amazing Montreal bagels!
Friendly owner, good service and nice bagels. Got the salmon bagel with dill cream cheese. Tastes great. Strong cafe as well. Owner was very friendly and helpful. Good breakfast.
I ordered the saumon fumé bagel and allongé. Bagel was delicious and had plentiful of salmon. Coffee was excellent as well. Service and atmosphere were great! Would return!!
Côte Café
| Address | 3467 Chem. de la Côte-des-Neiges, Montréal, QC H3H 1T4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 360-4026 |
I've come here several times and their lattes are consistently excellent! Though the place is tiny they have a great selection of delightful coffee beans, and asking Charles about the current stock and what he recommends me (and my boyfriend) is such a wonderful experience! This place is so, so good, each trip here is like a treat on its own!
What a great find! The service was amazing, and the lady who served us was so kind and welcoming. The coffee was also delicious! ☕️ I highly recommend this place and will definitely be coming back!
Very cute, little cafe. Fortunately, most people buy to takeaway because there are only 4 tables. The sparrows enjoy this cafe, too. They are very fat!
Cute little coffee place for a quick start. We‘ve tried different coffee drinks a hot chocolate and some pastries.
All very good made with passion and served with a smile.
The small outdoor seating was perfect for us as we could enjoy the sunny but cold weather.
Nice place for some coffee to go, but definitely not to sit and hang out. Very small space inside and tables outside are tiny and right in the sun.
My matcha latte was a bit too strong and I could feel powder pieces in my mouth. And it’s a bit on a higher side price wise.
Don’t know if I would go again just for that, but if I pass by I might come get a drink.
Obviously place is greatly known in the community, barista knew names of some people and it was a nice sweet vibe in the place.
Bar Caffettiera
| Address | 2055 Rue Stanley, Montréal, QC H3A 0B7, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 507-2055 |
Straight out of 1990s Milan, everything from the drinks (w very strict rules) to the display of snacks and bottled drinks to the excellent Italian sandwiches and teal & pink color scheme. Love the macchiato, granita latte and anything with mortadella. Also, check out their EXCELLENT uniforms that make it look like a football team is working behind the counter. I love this attention to detail!! If you stay long enough, you will see waves of euro guys come in and out of this cafe with their espresso hydration breaks. The best!!
Cafe with focus on authentic espresso practices (many rules around preparation and what they will or will not do on drink modification requests listed at the entrance). I appreciate the strictness. I’m not well informed on all the reasonings why, but it seems to be for a respect of the craft - which I like the idea of. Hopefully I can make it out again for another cup before our Montreal visit is over
In the heart of downtown Montreal, there are plenty of places to grab a quick caffeine fix, but there is only one Bar Caffettiera. This iconic spot doesn't just serve food and drinks; it serves a masterclass in authentic Italian hospitality and style.
Walking into Caffettiera is like stepping through a portal directly into a bustling Rome or Milan café in the mid-1990s. The vibe is absolutely insane—in the best way possible. From the retro, colorful Memphis-group-inspired decor to the energetic buzz of conversation, the atmosphere is incredibly vibrant and effortlessly cool. They have perfectly captured the Italian sprezzatura (studied carelessness). Whether you are standing al banco (at the bar) to knock back a quick espresso or lingering at a table, you feel like you are part of an exclusive yet entirely welcoming club.
While the aesthetic is a massive draw, the coffee is what cements Caffettiera’s legendary status. The coffee here is superb, adhering strictly to proper Italian traditions. Expect rich, perfectly extracted espressos with a thick, beautiful crema, and cappuccinos poured with exact ratios—no oversized, diluted drinks here. It is strong, smooth, and served at the perfect temperature to be enjoyed immediately.
Beyond the coffee, the authentic Italian snacks, sandwiches, and pastries (especially the cornetti) round out the experience flawlessly. It is the perfect spot for a quick morning start or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up that transitions smoothly into their famous aperitivo hour.
Bar Caffettiera is an absolute Montreal institution. It offers an uncompromising, joyful celebration of Italian cafe culture right in the middle of the city. For anyone who appreciates superb coffee served with an unforgettable, lively atmosphere, this is a non-negotiable must-visit.
Bar Caffettiera is hands down one of the best coffee spots in Montreal. The atmosphere captures the authentic feel of an Italian espresso bar, simple, lively, and welcoming. The espresso is outstanding, the cappuccino is perfectly balanced, and the pastries and focaccia are fresh and absolutely delicious.
What makes this place special is the attention to detail and genuine hospitality. You can tell they’re passionate about serving high quality coffee the traditional Italian way. Whether you’re grabbing a quick espresso or enjoying a relaxed morning, every visit is a great experience.
If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Italy in Montreal, Bar Caffettiera is a must visit. I’ll definitely be back!
We came back on a beautiful sunny Sunday and once again loved everything about this place. It truly feels like stepping into an authentic Italian café—right down to the imported products and the atmosphere all the staff is great. Even though it was very busy, everything still felt smooth and welcoming.
What really stood out again was the service from Michael. He goes above and beyond in a way that is so completely natural. He was exceptional. Despite the rush, he's friendly, attentive and genuinely cares that you enjoy you're time there. He took the time to offer thoughtful suggestions, and every recommendation was spot on.
What impressed me most is how natural it all felt, attentive without being overbearing, friendly without being forced. He has a way of making you feel genuinely taken care of, which is rare, especially in such a busy setting.
Great café, incredible products—but service like Michael’s is what makes the experience memorable. We’ll absolutely be back. Thanks again Michael!
Café Lulu
| Address | 852 Rue Sainte-Catherine E, Montréal, QC H2L 2E3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (514) 848-0706 |
Had such a lovely experience at Cafe Lulu. Honestly, everything about this place just felt right - the food, the service, and especially the people.
It’s the perfect spot to start your day with a great breakfast. The staff were so warm and genuinely kind, it instantly lifted my mood. The food was just incredible. I tried crêpes for the first time and they were absolutely delicious, and the spinach and cheese omelette… wow, easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Even the coffee was exactly how I like it, which made it even better.
You can really feel the care they put into everything here. Definitely a must-visit if you’re in Montreal.
Merci beaucoup à toute l’équipe de Café Lulu pour ce service exceptionnel !
If you want to start your morning feeling happy and refreshed in Montreal, this is the place to go!
There’s something about the energy inside. The staff are genuinely warm, friendly, and seem like they actually enjoy being there, which makes a huge difference.
The cafe itself is small, but that’s part of its charm. It feels cozy, intimate, and full of this quiet, joyful atmosphere that’s hard to find. You walk in and immediately feel lighter.
The food was clearly made fresh, and you can taste the difference right away. Nothing felt rushed or pre-made. It had that simple, honest quality that makes you appreciate it more.
Also, I really appreciated that they took the time to explain the French menu in English without making it awkward or rushed. That kind of thoughtfulness sticks with you.
Overall, a small space, but full of happiness. Thank you!
We absolutely love having breakfast at Café Lulu whenever we’re in Montreal. Since it’s right across from our hotel, it has become one of the highlights of our trips, and we always look forward to coming back.
The crepes, omelettes, and sandwiches are consistently delicious, fresh, and satisfying. Their cappuccinos and Americanos are also amazing — the perfect way to start the day.
What truly makes Café Lulu special, though, is the warm and personal service. A very special thank you to Kelly, who recognized my daughter and me by name when we returned after an entire year. That kind of genuine hospitality is rare and incredibly meaningful. Also, special mention to owner Fadi and all the staff that work so hard and tirelessly for always being so welcoming and attentive.
Café Lulu feels more than just a breakfast spot — it feels familiar, friendly, and comforting every time we visit. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a wonderful breakfast experience in Montreal!
We had an excellent and delicious breakfast with fresh salad and crêpes. Even though it was quite crowded, the staff was very friendly, quick, and attentive. We really enjoyed the atmosphere and would definitely come back.
More cafes should be what Lulu is. Great simple food done incredibly well with and great coffee.
The atmosphere gives a feeling that encourages chatting. Also feels cozy and relaxed while still being active.
The sandwich was way better then it looked and then I expected. I got the chicken presto. Just great food.
The staff were very kind helpful and charming. I don't normally like talking to people. I liked the interactions I had with the people who work her they all seem like good people.
Tips for Enjoying Montreal’s Cafe Culture
To truly appreciate the coffee scene in Montreal, you need to adapt to the local rhythm and unspoken rules. It is a culture that values quality over speed and atmosphere over convenience. Going in with a bit of local knowledge will help you blend in and get the most out of your caffeine-fueled exploration of the city.
- Embrace the "Allongé": If you are used to an Americano, try the local variant, the allongé. While similar, the allongé often uses a slightly different extraction ratio, resulting in a flavor profile that is distinctively rich and is the standard order for locals who want a longer drink.
- Look for the "Torréfacteur" Label: If you want the freshest beans, look for cafes that are torréfacteurs (roasters). These establishments roast their own beans, often on-site. Buying a bag of beans from a local roaster like Dispatch or Kittel is the perfect edible souvenir to take back to the US.
- Don’t Skip the Pastry: In Montreal, coffee and baking are intertwined. Many of the best cafes either have an in-house pastry chef or source from legendary bakeries like Hof Kelsten or Automne Boulangerie. Always check the pastry counter; a good kouign-amann or a savory scone is half the experience.
- Mind the Language, but Don’t Stress: While Montreal is functionally bilingual, a simple "Bonjour" before switching to English goes a long way in establishing rapport with baristas. It shows respect for the local culture and usually results in warmer service.
- Cash vs. Card: Unlike many cashless spots in the US, some of the smaller, older "bring-your-own-laptop" cafes in the Plateau or Rosemont might have a minimum spend for credit cards or prefer Interac (debit). It is always wise to have a little Canadian cash on hand just in case.
- Patio Season is Sacred: If you are visiting between May and September, prioritize cafes with a terrasse (patio). Spaces fill up fast on sunny days, especially in areas like Little Italy or the Village. Be prepared to linger for an hour or two; nobody is going to rush you with the bill.
Exploring Montreal through its cafes is one of the most authentic ways to experience the city’s unique blend of European charm and North American innovation. Each neighborhood offers a distinct flavor, from the Italian roots of Little Italy to the artistic energy of the Mile End.
Take the time to wander, get a little lost, and follow the scent of roasting beans. Whether you are seeking a quiet moment with a book or a lively discussion with a local artist, the perfect cup is waiting for you just around the corner.
