If you’re heading to Montreal anytime soon, make sure to clear some space on your itinerary for cafés—lots of them. This city is bursting with cozy nooks, stylish coffee bars, and vibrant hangouts that are perfect whether you need a quick espresso shot, a leisurely brunch, or just a place to rest your feet after exploring cobblestone streets.
During a recent week in Montreal, I wandered through neighborhood after neighborhood, popping into countless cafés. What I discovered is that coffee in Montreal isn’t just a drink—it’s a culture, a ritual, and sometimes even an art form. While every spot had its charm, ten stood out as unforgettable.
Here’s my roundup of the cafés you absolutely need to add to your Montreal bucket list.
1. Tommy Café
Nestled in Old Montreal, Tommy Café is the kind of place that immediately makes you want to linger. Think leafy palms, nautical-striped couches, and pops of cheerful color that practically beg for an Instagram snap. I stumbled in on a Saturday morning when locals were deep into brunch mode, and I quickly understood the hype. The menu is packed with solid coffee options, but if you’re in the mood for something stronger, their Bloody Mary is a crowd favorite.
2. Barley
Breakfast dreams come true at Barley, a café unlike any I’ve seen before. Known as Montreal’s first cereal bar, this Little Burgundy gem offers over 200 types of cereal (yes, 200). You can have them the traditional way with milk, blended into smoothies, or even turned into ice cream for dessert. If cereal feels too indulgent, their granola menu has healthier picks that still pack flavor. It’s playful, nostalgic, and definitely worth the detour.
3. Pigeon Espresso Bar
With a cheeky slogan claiming to serve the “World’s Worst Coffee,” Pigeon Espresso Bar practically dares you to test it. Spoiler: the coffee is excellent. Their beans come from Stumptown and local roaster Kittel, so you know you’re in for quality. The space is tiny, but it’s perfect for a quick espresso and a buttery croissant when you need an afternoon boost.
4. VertU Bar Santé
After a decadent night of Montreal’s rich cuisine (foie gras, anyone?), VertU Bar Santé is the perfect place to balance things out. Recommended by my Uber driver, this spot specializes in wholesome, vibrant meals. The tuna poke bowl—with fresh tuna, pineapple, edamame, and soba noodles in a sesame-soy dressing—was a standout. Think hearty but healthy, and always satisfying.
5. Café Olimpico
Strong espresso, flaky Italian pastries, and a laid-back vibe define Café Olimpico. I found myself here after a morning photoshoot at Hotel William Gray, and it was exactly what I needed. With locations in Old Montreal and Mile End, it’s a beloved institution that locals frequent just as much as visitors.
6. Régine Café
Brunch lovers, this one’s for you. Régine Café serves breakfast favorites all day long, and the menu is packed with creativity. I tried “Le Champi”—a rustic dish of Scotch eggs with mashed potatoes, mushroom sauce, and red pepper compote—and it was pure comfort food with flair. Another hit? The slow-cooked beef cheek sandwich topped with a panko egg. Come hungry, and don’t skip the pastries.
7. Café Myriade
If you’re serious about coffee, Café Myriade should be high on your list. Owner Anthony Benda has made this café a local institution, with multiple locations across the city, including one inside Club Monaco on Rue Sainte-Catherine. I popped in for a latte and croissant and ended up staying longer than planned, sinking into a plush blue couch while the city buzzed outside.
8. Cordova Coffee & Cocktails
Cordova blends the best of two worlds: great coffee by day and craft cocktails by night. Created by the same team behind Café Myriade, this spot draws inspiration from European cafés that shift seamlessly from morning to evening. You can grab an expertly brewed coffee in the morning, then return later for tapas and an apéro cocktail. It’s stylish, versatile, and the kind of place you’ll want to revisit.
9. Café Chiado No. 28
Named after Lisbon’s iconic Chiado district, this café brings a bit of Portugal to Montreal. Their coffee is roasted in Portugal, and the warm, welcoming space makes it ideal for freelancers and students looking for a laptop-friendly environment. With hearty soups, sandwiches, and croquettes on the menu, you can easily make a day of it here. Bonus: they’re open until 9 p.m., which is rare for many cafés.
10. Aloha Espresso Bar
Bright, playful, and a little tropical—Aloha Espresso Bar feels like a slice of Hawaii in the middle of Montreal. While I originally stopped in for a juice, I stayed for the coffee and acai bowls. Kona coffee, dragon fruit bowls, and even shave ice round out the menu, all served against a backdrop of Hawaiian-inspired décor. It’s as refreshing as it sounds.
Final Sip
Montreal’s café scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Each spot has its own personality—some quirky, some indulgent, some dedicated to the craft of coffee-making. Whether you’re looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy brunch, a quick jolt of espresso, or a quiet corner to recharge, this city has something to offer.
So grab your walking shoes, bring your appetite (and your camera), and let the cafés of Montreal charm you one cup at a time.
