If there’s one thing Montreal does exceptionally well, it’s coffee culture. On a recent trip to the city, I found myself wandering in and out of countless cafés, fueled equally by curiosity and a deep love for lattes. Between early morning pick-me-ups, midday breaks, and leisurely afternoons, cafés quickly became the backbone of my trip.
But here’s the thing—Montreal cafés are not just about coffee. They’re about atmosphere, food, and that distinct blend of charm that makes you want to stay longer than planned. Out of all the spots I tried, ten truly stood out. Whether you’re a caffeine devotee, a brunch enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good ambiance, these cafés deserve a place on your Montreal itinerary.
1. Tommy
Tucked into Old Montreal, Tommy was one of my first stops—and what an introduction it was. Think palm leaves, striped couches, and bright pops of color from a Veuve Clicquot vignette in the window. It’s as photogenic as it is delicious. Go for brunch, stay for the Bloody Marys, and don’t forget to people-watch.
2. Barley
Barley is not just a café—it’s Montreal’s first cereal bar. Located in Little Burgundy, it’s as fun as it sounds. With over 200 cereals from around the world, you can enjoy them with milk, blended into smoothies, or even served with ice cream. Not into sugar overload? Their granola bowls are a healthier but equally tasty choice.
3. Pigeon Espresso Bar
With a cheeky slogan claiming to serve the “World’s Worst Coffee,” Pigeon Espresso Bar had me intrigued. Spoiler alert: their coffee is anything but bad. They roast Stumptown (a favorite of mine) alongside local Montreal beans from Kittel. The space is small, the menu is simple, but the espresso is spot on.
4. VertU Bar Santé
After a night of indulgence at one of Montreal’s famed restaurants, VertU Bar Santé was my salvation. This health-focused café serves vibrant dishes like burritos, acai bowls, poke, and hearty soups. My pick? The tuna poke bowl with pineapple, soba noodles, and sesame dressing—a refreshing reset.
5. Café Olimpico
A true Montreal institution, Café Olimpico is all about strong Italian coffee and pastries. I visited the location at Hotel William Gray, but you’ll also find a second outpost in Mile End. Either way, expect a no-nonsense, authentic coffee experience.
6. Régine Café
Brunch lovers, this one’s for you. Régine Café serves breakfast classics all day, every day. The menu is packed with hearty dishes, but my favorite was Le Champi—Scotch eggs with rustic bread, mashed potatoes, red pepper compote, and mushroom sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the oeuf & boeuf, featuring beef cheek slow-cooked for eight hours.
7. Café Myriade
When a café has multiple locations and a partnership with Club Monaco, you know it’s beloved. Café Myriade, founded by Anthony Benda, is one of Montreal’s most respected spots for coffee. I popped into their location on Sainte-Catherine and enjoyed a latte on a tufted blue couch while the store below slowly came to life.
8. Cordova Coffee & Cocktails
For those who love the European concept of a café that transitions into a bar, Cordova is perfection. Also led by Anthony Benda and team, Cordova serves exceptional coffee during the day and craft cocktails with tapas into the night. It’s versatile, stylish, and the kind of place you’ll want to return to more than once.
9. Café Chiado No. 28
Inspired by Lisbon’s famed Chiado district, this café brings Portuguese charm to Montreal. With beans sourced from a Portuguese roaster, the drinks are rich and flavorful. The space is welcoming for freelancers—laptops are encouraged—and the menu of soups, sandwiches, and croquettes makes it easy to linger for hours.
10. Aloha Espresso Bar
Looking for a tropical escape in the middle of Montreal? Aloha Espresso Bar offers exactly that. Serving Kona coffee, poke bowls, acai, and even shave ice, the Hawaiian-inspired café is as refreshing as its menu. Its vibrant, Instagram-worthy décor makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
Final Sip
Montreal’s café culture is diverse, playful, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re in search of the perfect espresso, a hearty brunch, or a whimsical atmosphere that transports you elsewhere, this city has something to offer. For me, the cafés became more than just pit stops for caffeine—they were destinations in their own right.
So next time you find yourself in Montreal, take your time. Wander the streets, duck into a café that catches your eye, and let the city’s coffee culture warm you up from the inside out.
