Pikolo Espresso Bar’s been in downtown Montreal since 2011, captivating folks with exceptional coffee and an inviting ambiance found at both its original location on Avenue du Parc or its current spot on Clark Street. Named after the Italian word for "small", patrons often go with its signature Pikolo Latte, a nod to Australian coffee culture. Co-owner Marie-Ève Laroche infuses transparency and expertise into every cup, sourcing beans from Canadian roasters. Partnering with local bakeries, their pastries perfectly complement the rich brews. Good for both a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely pause, Pikolo promises friendly service and a great atmosphere.

Myriade’s a Montreal institution known for pioneering the city's craft coffee movement. With several locations including a chic hideaway beneath Club Monaco on Ste. Catherine, its principle and barista Anthony Benda curates blends from top roaster 49th Parallel. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond locally sourced pastries to an ethos centers on community and discovery, evidenced by their rotating selection of guest roasters. Behind the scenes, Anthony's passion for perfection drives the café’s success. Doesn’t matter which address of theirs you go to—they’re all on point.

Café Dispatch’s commitment to exquisite coffee and transparent sourcing is unparalleled. Owner Chrissy Durcak's journey from mobile café on wheels to a roastery and multi-location café brand reflects her dedication to the craft. Dispatch's largest outpost on St-Laurent Boulevard epitomizes minimalist elegance, with a sleek design that accentuates its primary focus: Exceptional coffee. Baristas engage patrons in lively conversations at the long, Apple Genius Bar-like counter, sharing insights and techniques. It’s perfect for their farm to cup approach to meticulously brewed coffee in a warm ambiance.

Montreal's Sud-Ouest is a coffee destination thanks largle in part to Dreamy. Located inside the Canadian Roasting Society’s HQ next to the Lachine Canal, it’s where you can watch skilled artisans roast beans and brew third-wave coffee. Founded by Andy Kyres and Richard Baghdadlian, they specialize in pairing artful drinks with delectable biscuits served with cream and jam. The café's proximity to the canal makes it an ideal pitstop for cyclists and locals walking by as well, which easily makes for a welcoming atmosphere to engage people both supremely knowledgeable and passionate about coffee, and educational for those looking to learn more.

Located within a former Royal Bank of Canada building in Old Montreal, Crew Collective & Café blends grandeur with contemporary functionality. Ascend the marble staircase into a space where neoclassical elegance meets startup innovation amidst vaulted ceilings and brass chandeliers. This is the spot where teleworkers and ornate surroundings improbably mix. Powered by Dispatch and Traffic Coffee Club brews, the café offers a curated menu showcasing satisfying sandwiches, gourmet pastries, and more. Whether indulging in espresso or collaborating in co-working pods, Crew Collective & Café inspires creativity in a setting steeped in history.

Tucked away in Little Italy since 1956, Caffè Italia is a cherished local gem. Stepping inside feels like a journey across the Atlantic to a bygone time thanks to the preservation of its operators, the Serri family. It's a place where generations have gathered, forging bonds over steaming cups of espresso and pastries. While recent renovations aimed to preserve its essence, regulars find comfort in the familiar sights and sounds, from the bustling front table to the aromatic brews that have kept patrons coming back for decades. It’s a second home for many Italo-Montrealers.

Since 1979, Caffè San Simeon’s authentic Italian charm has drawn in locals and tourists with the aroma of freshly ground beans. Here, it’s a tight-knit community that loves two things: Espressos and animated conversations. Owned by the Palma family, it’s where Giovanni De Palma's legacy lives on through his son and grandson. Classic Italian fare adds to the café's allure, while the unmistakable scent of quality Italian coffee permeates the air.

Mile End’s Caffè In Gamba is where Italian tradition meets modern flair through organic beans from renowned roasters like Intelligentsia and Counter Culture Coffee. With its vintage Faema E61 espresso machine, it's been a pioneer in Montreal's craft coffee scene, drawing a loyal following. Owner Dominic Drouin explains that "In Gamba" embodies doing things well, a philosophy evident in their diverse offerings and award-winning latte art and baristas.

Pastel Rita is one of those whimsical havens that brought a fresh take to Mile End’s café culture with creative flair. Under the helm of Jocelyn Despres, Elise Bertrand, and Jean-Vivier Lévêque, the café’s got a Wes Anderson-esque charm that pairs well with its menu crafted in collaboration with local eateries like Moccione and Mousso, as well as—of course—finely crafted coffee. Delectable bites? Check. Natural wines? Double check. It's got everything you need, and it does it with an effortless swagger.

Nestled in Rosemont, Café 8 oz. beckons coffee aficionados with its meticulous brews and inviting ambiance. Named after the ideal latte ratio, the café boasts a menu curated with precision, from perfectly portioned cappuccinos to free tasting sessions for the curious palate. Sourced from Portland's revered Tandem Coffee Roasters, each sip transports patrons to Maine's coffee haven. Paired with delectable treats from Patrice Pâtissier and house-made sandwiches by chef Raphaël, it's a gastronomic journey not to be missed. Whether seeking a cozy study spot or a leisurely morning reprieve, Café 8 oz. promises a delightful escape in the heart of La Petite-Patrie.

This charming nouveau Greek café in Mile End is the brainchild of brothers Tony and Tom Argiropoulos, where they pay homage to their heritage through decor and meticulously crafted coffee. Roasted by Ambros, their specialty coffee roasting company, each brew is easily savored either straight or in one of their signature Freddo cappuccinos, a Greek classic, or their Instagrammable Freddo Matcha Amours. Beyond beverages, Alphabet has great pastries and sandwiches, and all told, it’s a superb hangout where community and culture converge.

Mile End’s Le Falco is where Japanese culture surrounding cuisine and artisanal coffee is best enjoyed. Co-owners Yuko Toda and Frederik Froument infuse their establishment with fair-trade siphon coffee, a rarity in Montreal, and space for creatives in a reclaimed warehouse space. The industrial-chic spot is complete with siphon-lined counters and communal seating, and the menu boasts Japanese bites like onigiri and donburi bowls made by chef Naomi Nonaka (though prepared in limited quantities daily). Whether you're here to savor a unique cup or get into a productive work session, there isn’t much else like Le Falco in the city.

La Finca’s cafe and coworking space invites folks to make themselves at home while they work. Since 2016, co-owners Geneviève Lavoine-Houle and Marie-Laurence Guindon have fostered a welcoming atmosphere where laptops are not just tolerated but encouraged. Sip on carefully crafted coffees from local roaster De Mello Palheta as you snack on baked goods. When the shop fills up, retreat to the cozy outdoor space in the summer or book the private room for collaborative sessions if you’ve got friends to hang out with.

This cozy cafe comes from Gatineau-born Gabrielle; after spending a year and a half on the road in her van "Cass," she’s planted roots in Montreal, bringing her love for the area and passion for sustainability to life. Completely reimagining the former Chez Serge, Gabrielle co-designed the space herself, creating a warm café that’s 100% vegan, eco-conscious, and proudly local. From Dam milk to Binocle coffee, every detail is about reducing waste and carbon emissions. Drop by for a grilled cheese, a wrap, or just a great coffee. The event space in the back is quite a looker, too.

Café Dei Campi offers a taste of Italy with a plant-based twist. Founded in 2016 by barista Nicola Vardaro and pastry chef Isabelle Duchamps, it's a cozy spot where every bite’s a surprise. From savory pizzs to pastries, everything is vegan here. The café's unassuming location amidst warehouses adds to its charm; as you sip your espresso, take in the aroma of freshly baked goods and appreciate the eco-friendly ethos behind every creation here.

Found behind the Italian destination restaurant Elena, Club Social P.S. is discreet yet vibrant addition to the Saint-Henri scene with a blend of coffee, wine, and bites. It's a chic yet casual spot where what’s culinary meets conviviality: Bright interiors adorned with canary yellow accents exude energy, while the lush terrasse is great for al fresco enjoyment. By day, savor Italian pastries, sandwiches and Roman al taglio pizza, while evenings out Elena's renowned pies with curated wines. Good for a quick bite, leisurely meal, or social gatherings.

Found on Centre Street in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Café Cosé is a welcome addition to the neighborhood's scene, boasting Vietnamese-inspired options in a cozy setting. Occupying the former Ton Quartier grocery store, it’s got a lot of warmth with a refined cream-toned decor. Owner Joseph-Tuc Minh Nguyen’s decade of hospitality experience boosts the menu brimming with specialty coffees like the rich Vietnamese egg coffee and a refreshing Saigon Fog. Chef Michael Ho's creations, from breakfast sandwiches to avocado tartines, complement the beverage selection, together inviting patrons to indulge in a vibrant atmosphere.

Griffintown’s Mano Figa, the vibrant sibling of Mano Cornuto, offers a quintessential Italian experience with a modern twist: As you step into its space, you're greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of Italian pastries and focaccia pizza. It's a grab-and-go spot combining tradition and skate culture, curated by its passionate owners. With speedy service and impeccable quality, Mano Figa recreates the Italian caffè atmosphere with rich, velvety coffees and homemade eats. Don't miss their gelato sandwiches.

In its cozy corner of Old Montreal, Micro Espresso Café offers a unique coffee experience in a compact space. Imagine a brainstorming session where quality coffee meets absolute minimalism, with locally roasted beans from around the globe. Their cortado is a must-try, blending rich espresso with velvety milk. Whether perched at the tiny bar or strolling through historic streets, it's an oasis. Specializing in classic espressos and micro-lot single origins, it's a haven for aficionados.

With its vintage allure and comforting food, Chez Mère-Grand has been looked to for a good cafe experience since its inception in 2018. Co-owners Romain Beiso and Barbara Rodequin's dedication to its open concept space and made-from-scratch menu embracing sustainability and local sourcing helps keep the community coming back as well: With homemade cheeseburgers on fresh bread, quiches, sandwiches, and carbonara with handmade pasta, it’s one of the few places that goes above and beyond with what goes on the table.

Located in Rosemont-la-Petite-Patrie, L'Étincelle illuminates Rue Beaubien Est with an inviting ambiance and heartfelt hospitality. Brothers Rémi and Benjamin Deloume behind the project infuse this neighborhood gem with warmth, thanks in part to its vibrant tapestry of colors and eclectic furnishings. They’ve got exceptional coffee blends here sourced with genuine connections, and they’ve a lot of eats ranging from homemade pastries to hearty paninis.

James Perse in Westmount seamlessly intertwines fashion and cafe finesse with its concept: Beyond a sleek retail space, Côté Cuisine emerges as the brand's inaugural café venture. Embracing James Perse's hallmark minimalism, the café exudes timeless elegance. Founder James Perse's vision of simplicity in fashion design translates into the café's ambiance, as Montrealers savor artisanal delights on the outdoor patio and become part of a narrative where style meets sustenance.

Le Café Big Trouble is the kind of spot where you want to hang out, chat with the folks behind the counter, and maybe end up staying longer than you planned. It feels like a throwback to the kind of no-nonsense, comforting spots you stumble upon in a city that still has an edge, a corner where you can get a good bite and good vibes, and no pretense.

Their menu hits like a blend of nostalgia and well-crafted simplicity. It’ll range from the Grand Slam—a hefty plate of two eggs, sourdough toast, bacon, sausages, home fries, and seasonal fruit— to breakfast sandwiches and “Paddington” ricotta pancakes topped with marmalade, milk crumble, and maple syrup. If you’ve had one too many the night before, the chopped cheese is a solid option, as is the poutine and spicy fried chicken sandwiches.

Le Petit Dep’s got charm in spades. Whichever location in town you land in, this quaint café-delicatessen fusion adorned with vintage accents and a signature aqua green facade is all about the table service cafe experience. Founded in 2015 by Magda Slezak, it's more than just a convenience store like the name implies; delectable pastries, locally sourced ingredients, fine coffee and more go so well with its restored furnishings and stained-glass lamps. Le Petit Dep is a treasure trove when it comes to cafe experiences in town.

Transport yourself to Italy at this stand-up bar in downtown Montreal’s Golden Square Mile, offering a 1990s Italian experience: Sip on espresso roasted in Rome, pulled from Vittorio Arduino machines, or indulge in aperitivo snacks served all day. Designed by Ménard Dworkind, the interior exudes nostalgia with checkerboard tiles, sky blue ceilings, and kitschy faux wood paneling. Lambert & Fils pendant lights hang from yellow telephone wire, adding to the retro charm. Whether seated on tan leather banquettes or standing at the counter, Caffettiera promises a taste of Italy's coffee culture.

Osmo x Marusan is the kind of place where creativity meets culture in the most effortless way. This subterranean hub and social club is where vinyl spins, coffee flows, and conversations between students, entrepreneurs, and trendsetters feel effortlessly cool amongst a space of minimalist brutalist design—think steel tables, exposed brick, and greenery—that invites you to stay awhile, maybe over a karaage sando or a steaming bowl of vegan curry.

On weekends, DJs take over the booth, spinning rare grooves, while patrons sip on natural wines or sake, turning this hidden gem into a laid-back social club. Osmo’s vibe is casual but sharp, a place where the Marusan-Japanese inspired menu pairs with a curated vinyl collection.

Little Burgundy’s September Café blends the city's love for great food and surfing culture. Originally a surfboard shaping room, it's now a spot for locals seeking exceptional coffee and delicious eats. Co-owner Mitch Martin was drawn to the neighbourhood's dynamic energy, and transformed the space into a slick spot serving Anchored Coffee and bites from the food-truck-inspired menu. With its laid-back vibe, natural light, and outdoor seating, September Café embodies a contemporary cafe at its best. Whether fueling up with the Deluxe Breakfast Sandwich or unwinding with a flat white, it's a must-visit gem.

Saint-Henri’s Cordova captures the laid-back essence of the neighborhood. The café's sun-drenched terrace is great for unwinding with a cup of locally or nationally sourced coffee while indulging in Spanish tapas or a satisfying sandwich. Opened in February 2018 by Anthony Benda, Aaron Polsky, and Elayne Teixeira-Millar, Cordova channels the spirit of Spain, offering authentic dishes like pan con tomate and marinated olives. The space, designed by Sabrina Barazin, is full of warmth and simplicity, making it a welcoming spot for locals to gather. The cocktails are on point here as well.

Café de’ Mercanti in Monkland Village stands as a cornerstone of the local coffee scene since its inception in 2012. With roots tracing back to Italy, this charming spot crafts its own signature blend, capturing the essence of Italian espresso culture. Founded by Gianni Battista and inspired by traditional espresso bars, the café has become a beloved fixture in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce. Guided by Gianni’s expertise gained from years of experience in Italy, Café de’ Mercanti delivers exceptional coffee and warm hospitality.

Located in Verdun, Pavillon Snack Bar is a refreshing addition to Montreal's café scene. With a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of the neighborhood's conviviality, it’s quickly become a local favorite since its opening. The brainchild of Andrew Soulis and Sean Hayes, Pavillon offers everything from mouthwatering pastries to savory dishes and classic cocktails or beer on tap. Their menu boasts breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and a must-try tortas. Complementing the food is their exceptional coffee, roasted by Trillium. The bright space with its emerald walls and wood accents invites lingering, especially on the terrasse during summer afternoons.

Pointe-Saint-Charles’s Café Bloom, while named after James Joyce’s character in Ulysses, has more than literary charm to it. Offering a vibrant ambiance complemented by delicious fare, especially a family recipe for French toast that steals the show with its creamy texture and rich flavor thanks to Carré au Lait bread from Arhoma, makes this a spot where community can thrive. Weaving together tradition and creativity, Bloom is a café with a familial embrace, where it all feels like home.

Clarke Café is the source of bustling Italian spots with rich history. Formerly a Mile End staple, it's been revived by owner Frank Servedio, whose family bakery was a local institution. The café locations the brand sports retain charm and authenticity, serving up signature 'sangwiches' and aromatic coffee. Boasting modern layouts that are perfect for enjoying a good meal, they’re still focused on community and tradition. Clarke Café continues to honor its roots while offering delicious, homemade fare, from porchetta to Nutella pastries.

Café Redwood is all about specialty coffee in a modern oasis with a minimalist design. A retreat for coffee aficionados and casual strollers alike, it’s a solid option for lattes adorned with lavender and decadent pastries, as well as all the standards. Situated across from the picturesque Lachine Canal and a stone's throw from Atwater Market, it's the ideal pit stop during canal-side jaunts or market excursions. With its relaxed vibe and scenic views, Café Redwood can be a great escape, perfect for solo reading sessions or lively gatherings.

Paquebot Café’s been a pioneer in Montreal's coffee scene since 2015, constantly innovating with new offerings and a laid-back ambiance. From introducing Montrealers to nitro cold brew to crafting coffee-based cocktails like the café-lemonade fizz, Paquebot pushes boundaries of coffee culture. While best enjoyed at its OG location that boasts lush greenery, exposed brick, and a curated selection of vinyl records, each café exudes a chill vibe. Specializing in beans from local roaster Zab Café, Paquebot serves up refreshing concoctions. Try the the Titonic, a cold brew blend with homemade tonic and rhubarb bitters.

Founded by Erika Lafleur and Antoine Lacroix-Vézina, Saison des Pluies quickly became a neighborhood favorite. The space, designed by Alphabet, offers a comforting ambiance enhanced by the aroma of Quebec-roasted beans from 94 Celcius. From homemade scones to locally sourced sandwiches and salads, every menu item reflects a commitment to supporting small businesses. Recently expanded to include a vegan ice cream counter, Saison des Pluies continues to offer personalized service and culinary delights—damn good coffee too, of course.

Café Chez Téta is a delightful blend of traditional Lebanese flavors and modern coffee culture. Opened in October 2020 by partners Antoun Aoun and Mélodie Roukoz, the café radiates warmth and nostalgia, aptly named after the Lebanese word for grandmother. The menu pays homage to Antoun's heritage, featuring man'ouché, hummus, and other Lebanese classics made with locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, their third-wave coffee offerings cater to Montrealers' discerning tastes while including classic Turkish styles. Renovated with meticulous attention to detail, the café exudes a sleek look worth spending a couple hours in.

Café Névé embodies the essence of cozy cafe hangs in the Plateau with exceptional coffee. Since 2009, this local favorite has been a haven for students and freelancers alike, offering a warm atmosphere and delicious brews sourced from Pilot Roasters. Whether you're at the original corner spot on Rachel or the snug nook on Mont-Royal, you'll find yourself immersed in comfy, worn wood décor, perfect for losing track of time with a good book or friendly conversation. From Nutella lattes to fresh-out-of-the-oven pastries, Café Névé promises a delightful retreat for both the stomach and soul.

Lili & Oli’s got an inviting Italian ambiance and heartwarming family angle: Founded by Patrick Hébert, a Westmount native inspired by his stint at Café Olimpico, this café is a labor of love shared with his brother, Daniel. From its humble beginnings to a second location in Verdun, Lili & Oli remains thanks to its classics of coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s fairly straightforward, but you’re not coming here to be wowed by trend recipes or jawdropping interior design—just to have a cafe experience that’s on point and from a local angle.

Hochelaga’s Aube Boulangerie didn’t take long to captivate Montrealers with its artisanal look, feel, and offerings. Opened in 2023, it's already a neighborhood favorite, drawing crowds to its unassuming location. Helmed by a talent including chef David Ollu, whose expertise shines in from nearby establishments, it's a haven for pastry lovers, and its ambiance is as inviting as the fare with elegant decor and a glass-enclosed kitchen offering glimpses of baking in action. From dawn till dusk, Aube beckons with freshly baked bread, decadent pastries, and aromatic coffee.

Downtown Montreal’s Café Parvis blends history and modernity, with a location that used to be a fur showroom and a name evoking the grandeur of cathedral courtyards. The café's interior from local interior designer Zébulon Perron is an urban oasis adorned with lush greenery and vintage accents. Patrons are drawn to its spaciousness and abundant natural light, but it’s the menu’s affordable gourmet fare—think delicious salads to al taglio-style pizzas—and pinpoint accuracy coffee that really makes the inviting ambiance sing. Folks love this spot, and with good reason.

Café Olimpico’s got a few locations in town that are all great, but it’s original Mile End location is the one that exudes timeless charm and a rich history dating back to 1970. Founded by Italian immigrant Rocco Furfaro, it began as a haven for sports enthusiasts before evolving into the beloved neighborhood institution it is today. With its classic ambiance adorned with flags of Italian football teams and Montreal Canadiens memorabilia, Olimpico transports patrons to a bygone era. Renowned for its simple yet authentic Italian coffee and sweets, it's a gathering place where locals are welcomed like family.

Hélico Café, nestled in Hochelaga, has become a beloved spot for coffee lovers and brunch enthusiasts alike since opening in 2018. It brings a fresh and vibrant touch to the neighbourhood: The design, with its cheerful orange and white tones, creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying the café’s standout offerings.

Known for its exceptional homemade pastries including flaky croissants, decadent kouign-amanns, and one of the best brownies in town, the café also serves up a savory menu featuring seasonal, market-inspired dishes. Their breakfast sandwich, a local favourite, pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. Just as good for a pastry and coffee or a full lunch or brunch, Hélico Café is a bright spot.

Monkland Village’s Melk Café is a cherished gem celebrated for its artisanal sweets, intricate latte art, and top-notch coffee. Frequented by a diverse crowd of locals, students and artists, the café boasts a thoughtfully designed interior of simplicity and charm. With multiple locations that keep quality consistent, patrons can for example opt for the original terrasse setting or indulge in a touch of hockey history at the old Victoria arena spot. Helmed by a Prufrock College-trained duo, Melk Café's an experience that delivers with pinpoint accuracy.

Café Saint-Henri stands as a pioneer in Quebec's microroasting scene. Since its inception in 2011, it has since evolved from its original Saint-Henri location into a network of essential destinations for coffee enthusiasts across the city. With its sprawling headquarters boasting a coffee lab, classroom, and greenhouses in Jean-Talon Market to new downtown addresses, it embodies a commitment to specialty coffee. Their dedication to sustainability is evident in their direct sourcing from producers, complementing their meticulously crafted brews. They’ve also got a diverse food menu inspired by Australian cuisine where it’s served.

Café Sfouf’s been an inviting spot since 2014, embodying the essence of Montreal's warmth and diversity. Owner Gaby Kassas, hailing from Beirut via Italy, envisioned a space where all generations could feel at home. Named after the traditional Lebanese cake, the café keeps people coming back with its culinary offerings. The menu, featuring the signature cake and open-faced sandwiches, reflects Gaby's desire for simplicity without compromising quality. Collaborating with friends, she’s crafted a space adorned with plush sofas, wooden accents, and expansive garage door windows.

Station W is synonymous with a quintessential café experience, whether you're in Verdun or the Angus district. Bright interiors greet patrons looking for signature sandwiches and pastries, as well as cups of expertly brewed Kittel coffee. While the original Wellington spot has been a staple since 2013, the newer Technopôle Angus location boasts great architecture. Both fill a void in the local scene with charming industrial and chic ambiances. With classics like a renowned grilled cheese and revamped menu that include cocktails, Station W is a must on the local cafe scene.

This spot in Little Portugal captivates with greenery, leather accents, and steampunk-inspired, art deco charm. A premier Instagram hotspot, by day it's a café serving up Pilot Coffee Roasters' brews and delectable pastries, while it transforms it into a bustling bar by night. The brainchild of the Holder brothers, it occupies the former Les Bobards space with ever-changing menus that showcase seasonal dishes. Seamlessly transitioning from workday haven to vibrant evening haunt, it’s easily earned a spot among Montreal's best cafes.

Villeray’s Larue & Fils boasts three locations, each a great option for coffee aficionados seeking third-wave excellence. With a nod to timeless brews over passing trends, each spot offers a minimalist oasis adorned with white tiles and warm wood accents. Founded in 2009 by Charles Ugo Boucher and Sébastien Carelli, Larue & Fils is the kind of place to linger over lattes and indulge in pastries from local spots. From intimate seating to bustling street-side patios, their cafes embody the vibrant spirit of Montreal's coffee culture.

La Croissanterie Figaro has a timeless allure not often found in the city. Embodying a Parisian escape in the heart of the Plateau, its enchanting art nouveau décor and impeccable service makes Figaro the epitome of a quintessential café experience. Whether visiting for a leisurely coffee or indulging in French dishes, every moment has elegance and charm. The ambiance, reminiscent of a bygone era, invites patrons to unwind amidst stained glass, woodwork, and an art deco chandelier.