10 Best Coffee Shops in Montreal | Local Café Guide
Looking for affordable coffee shops in Montreal? Check out my list of 10 of the best coffee shops in Montreal.
Montreal is known for its incredible food scene, delicious desserts, and vibrant café culture. Throughout the city, you'll find everything from family-owned afés and independent coffee shops to well-known local and international chains.
I have explored numerous coffee shops throughout Montreal and compiled this list to share some of my favourite spots for enjoying a cup of coffee alongside a delightful pastry. Each café offers something different, whether it's the coffee, desserts, atmosphere, location, or overall experience; this list is for everyone.
This guide features coffee shops in some of Montreal's popular neighbourhoods, including Mile End, Old Montreal, Monkland Village, Downtown Montreal, and more. Along with coffee, many of these cafés offer pastries, desserts, breakfast, lunch, and other food options, making them excellent places to spend some time while exploring the city.
Whether you're a local looking to discover a new favourite café or visiting Montreal for the first time, I hope this guide helps you find a coffee shop that suits your taste and your plans for the day.
Café Olimpico - Vieux-Montréal
Address: 419 R. Saint-Vincent, Montréal, QC H2Y 3A6 Phone: (438) 386-9071
Café Olimpico is a popular Montreal coffee shop known for its Italian-style coffee, desserts, and relaxed atmosphere. The menu includes signature lattes, caffè di crema, biscotti, and other Italian-inspired treats.
The most frequented location is in Old Montreal at 419 Rue Saint-Vincent. I enjoy stopping by, as they offer an array of delicious baked goods and the best café latte. If you're unsure of what to order, I highly recommend the tiramisu, cannoli, biscotti, and caffe di crema. I have tried them all, and they pair well with their hot drinks. What I enjoy most about this location is the cozy atmosphere. It's a nice place to take a break while walking around Old Montreal. Seating is very limited; this location can only accommodate around 10 people at a time, so be prepared to wait for a seat during peak hours.
Why You Should Visit Café Olimpico
☕ Italian-Style Coffee: Enjoy classic Italian-inspired coffee drinks, including signature lattes and caffè di crema.
🍰 Delicious Desserts: Try the tiramisu, biscotti, and other Italian-inspired treats that pair perfectly with your coffee.
📍 Great Old Montreal Location: The Rue Saint-Vincent location is conveniently located in the heart of Old Montreal, making it an easy stop while exploring the neighborhood.
🏡 Cosy Atmosphere: Relax and enjoy your coffee in a welcoming café setting.
👫 Great for Meeting Friends: Café Olimpico is a nice spot to catch up with friends over coffee and dessert.
⭐ My Recommendation: I regularly visit the Old Montreal location and especially enjoy stopping here for coffee and tiramisu.
Café Rì Yuè
Address: 333 Av. du Président-Kennedy, Montréal, QC H2X 4C7
If you love blueberry cheesecake, matcha drinks, and unique lattes made with osmanthus flowers, Café Ri-Yue is a café worth adding to your Montreal coffee list. I've visited several times and have thoroughly enjoyed the desserts and drinks I've ordered.
The menu features a wide variety of desserts and drinks. The items that are the most popular are the panna cotta, cheesecake, lattes, matcha drinks, and vanilla cakes.
Café Ri-Yue is located at 333 Avenue du Président-Kennedy in Downtown Montreal, just steps from Place-des-Arts Metro station. The convenient location makes it an easy stop while exploring Downtown Montreal, and I find the atmosphere very inviting. The staff have also been exceptionally friendly during my visits.
Why You Should Visit Café Ri-Yue
🫐 Blueberry Cheesecake: A delicious choice if you're a fan of creamy cheesecake and fruity flavours.
🍵 Matcha Drinks: Choose from a variety of matcha-based drinks if you're looking for something different from traditional coffee.
🌸 Unique Lattes: Try a latte featuring osmanthus flowers for a distinctive floral flavour.
🍮 Panna Cotta: The café's panna cotta is another dessert worth trying.
📍 Great Downtown Location: Located just steps from Place-des-Arts Metro, making it convenient to visit while exploring Downtown Montreal.
😊 Friendly Staff: I've always found the staff welcoming and helpful during my visits.
⭐ My Recommendation: I've visited Café Ri-Yue several times and would recommend it if you enjoy Asian-inspired drinks and desserts.
Kouzina Niata
Address: 221 R. Saint Viateur Ouest, Montréal, QC H2T 2L6-Phone: (514) 446-1821
If you're looking for homemade phyllo pies and a delicious Greek-style coffee, Kouzina Niata is a café and restaurant worth visiting. This family-owned restaurant is located at 221 Rue Saint-Viateur Ouest in the Mile End area.
Kouzina Niata is particularly known for its Greek Freddo Cappuccino, a cold coffee that is strong, smooth, and refreshing. I tried the coffee along with some of their baked goods and really enjoyed the combination. The Freddo Cappuccino pairs especially well with the selection of homemade pastries and phyllo pies.
What I also enjoyed about Kouzina Niata is the inviting atmosphere. It's a cozy place to sit down, enjoy your coffee and food, and take a break while exploring the neighborhood.
Why You Should Visit Kouzina Niata
☕ Greek Freddo Cappuccino: Try their signature Greek-style iced cappuccino, which is strong, smooth, and refreshing.
🥧 Homemade Phyllo Pies: Enjoy a selection of freshly made Greek baked goods and savory phyllo pies.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Owned: Experience the welcoming atmosphere of a family-run Montreal business.
🍰 Great With Coffee: The baked goods pair wonderfully with the Greek-style coffee.
🏡 Cozy Atmosphere: A comfortable place to relax and enjoy a coffee and something to eat.
⭐ My Recommendation: I've personally tried the coffee and baked goods and enjoyed them. If you're exploring Mile End and love Greek coffee and pastries, I'd definitely add Kouzina Niata to your list.
Leaves house (McGill)
Address: 1800 McGill College Ave RDC-A, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3L2-Phone: (514) 843-0888
If you're looking for a vegan coffee shop in downtown Montreal, Leaves House is a great option to consider. Located at 1800 McGill College Avenue, this café focuses on plant-based drinks and treats, making it a convenient choice for anyone looking for delicious vegan options in the heart of downtown.
One of the things that makes Leaves House stand out is its focus on plant-based ingredients and more sustainable practices. Their coffee is prepared with 100% oat milk, and the café also offers a selection of vegan pastries and treats.
I highly recommend their raspberry scone. It is flavorful and packed with raspberries and dark chocolate. It pairs nicely with the coffee, making Leaves House a great spot to stop for a drink and something sweet while exploring Downtown Montreal.
Why You Should Visit Leaves House
🌱 Vegan Options: Enjoy a menu focused on plant-based coffee, pastries, and treats.
☕ 100% Oat Milk Coffee: Their coffee is prepared with oat milk, making it a great option if you prefer plant-based milk.
🥐 Vegan Pastries: Try their selection of vegan baked goods and sweet treats.
♻️ Sustainable Practices: The café places an emphasis on eco-friendly practices and packaging.
📍 Downtown Location: Conveniently located on McGill College Avenue in Downtown Montreal.
⭐ My Recommendation: If you're looking for vegan coffee and pastries in Downtown Montreal, Leaves House is definitely worth checking out.
Café Vasco da Gama
Address: 1472 Rue Peel, Montréal, QC H3A 1S8-Phone (514) 286-2688
If you're looking for a top cafe in the heart of downtown Montreal, then you need to visit Café Vasco da Gama. They are located in the heart of downtown Montreal at 1472 Rue Peel. Close to Peel and McGill Metro.
The menu features a selection of hot drinks, breakfast dishes, sandwiches, omelets, and baked goods. During my visit, I sampled their omelet served with fresh fruit and toast. I complimented it with a cafe au lait, which was a solid 10/10.
What I like about Café Vasco da Gama is that you can enjoy more than just coffee. It's a convenient spot for breakfast or lunch, and the patio makes it especially enjoyable during the warmer months.
Why You Should Visit Café Vasco da Gama
☕ Illy Coffee: Enjoy coffee made with Illy coffee beans, including a delicious café au lait.
🥚 Breakfast: Choose from a variety of breakfast options, including omelets and other morning favorites.
🥪 Sandwiches & Lunch: The menu also offers sandwiches and other options if you're visiting later in the day.
🌞 Great Patio: During the warmer months, enjoy your coffee or meal outside while taking in the activity along Peel Street.
📍 Downtown Montreal: Its central location makes it a convenient stop while exploring Downtown Montreal.
⭐ My Recommendation: I've tried the breakfast with a café au lait and enjoyed it. I'd recommend Café Vasco da Gama if you're looking for a casual place to enjoy breakfast and coffee downtown.
Pigeon Cafe & Bar
Address: 2000 McGill College Ave suite RDC-7, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3H3-Phone: (514) 419-2997
Pigeon Café is one of my favourite restaurants to visit in Montreal. My previous experiences have always been positive, and the food is very reasonably priced. Pigeon Café's brunch menu offers something for everyone. The popular dishes include pancakes, omelettes, and shakshuka and smoked salmon. Additionally, the menu features coffee, desserts, salads, and sandwiches.
Why You Should Visit Pigeon Café
☕ Great Lattes: Pigeon Café is one of my favourite spots in Montreal for a latte.
🌞 Summer Patio: Enjoy your coffee and food outdoors when the weather is warm.
🥞 Delicious Pancakes: The pancakes are one of my favourite things to order here.
🍟 Waffle Fries: Don't overlook the waffle fries—they're another menu favourite of mine.
🍽️ More Than Coffee: The menu offers plenty of food options, making it a good choice for a full meal as well as a coffee stop.
⭐ My Recommendation: If you're looking for a café with good coffee, a beautiful patio, and a satisfying food menu, Pigeon Café is definitely worth adding to your Montreal café list.
Melk Café Monkland
Address: 5612 Monkland Ave, Montreal, Quebec H4A 1E3-Phone: (514) 508-5789
One of my favourite spots for coffee on Monkland Avenue is Melk Café. When you visit, you'll often find a lively café filled with students and people catching up over coffee. The combination of conversation and laughter gives the space a welcoming neighbourhood feel.
Melk Café also has a selection of delicious baked goods. I especially recommend trying the blueberry and chocolate scones, which are great choices to enjoy alongside your coffee.
The Monkland location is at 5612 Monkland Avenue, less than a five-minute walk from Villa-Maria Metro. This makes it an easy café to reach whether you're exploring Monkland Village or arriving by public transit. Melk Café also has other locations in Downtown Montreal, offering a similar menu and welcoming café atmosphere.
Why You Should Visit Melk Café
☕ Great Coffee: A popular spot to grab a coffee while exploring Monkland Village.
🫐 Blueberry Scones: A delicious choice if you enjoy fruity baked goods.
🍫 Chocolate Scones: Another treat worth trying with your coffee.
👫 Lively Atmosphere: A welcoming space where you'll often see students and friends enjoying time together.
📍 Monkland Village Location: Conveniently located at 5612 Monkland Avenue.
🚇 Close to the Metro: Less than a five-minute walk from Villa-Maria Metro.
⭐ My Recommendation: If you're exploring Monkland Village and looking for a lively neighbourhood café with good coffee and baked goods, Melk Café is a great place to stop.
Columbus Café Canada
Address: 5526 Monkland Ave, Montreal, Quebec H4A 1C7
If you're searching for an excellent coffee shop in Montreal, consider Columbus Café. It's a great place to grab a quick coffee and pastry, especially if you're in a hurry. The menu features a variety of hot and iced coffee drinks, matcha beverages, baked goods, sandwiches, and desserts.
One thing I appreciate about Columbus Café is the amount of seating available. The spacious layout makes it easier to find a spot whether you're meeting friends, studying, or simply taking some time to enjoy your coffee. I've also found the staff to be very friendly during my visits.
Columbus Café has multiple locations in and around Montreal, including several convenient locations in downtown Montreal. I also find the prices reasonable, especially if you're looking for a casual coffee and snack without spending too much.
Why You Should Visit Columbus Café
☕ Hot & Iced Coffee: Choose from a variety of coffee drinks, whether you prefer your coffee hot or cold.
🍵 Matcha Drinks: There are also matcha options versus coffee.
🧁 Baked Goods & Desserts: Pair your drink with a muffin, pastry, or other sweet treat.
🥪 Food Options: The menu also includes sandwiches and other options if you're looking for something more substantial.
📚 Great for Studying: The spacious seating makes it a convenient option for getting some work or studying done.
👫 Good for Friends: There's plenty of room to meet up and socialize.
😊 Friendly Staff: I've found the staff welcoming and helpful during my visits.
💰 Reasonable Prices: I find the prices reasonable for a casual coffee and snack.
⭐ My Recommendation: My usual order is a hot latte with a chocolate muffin. If you want a relaxed café with plenty of seating, Columbus Café is worth checking out.
Crew Collective & Cafe
Address: 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, Montréal, QC H2Y 1P5 Phone: (514) 285-7095
Crew Collective & Café is one of the most beautiful cafés to visit in Montreal. Located inside the historic Royal Bank Tower at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques in Old Montreal, the café combines coffee, food, and a striking architectural setting.
During my recent visit, I enjoyed the coffee and baked goods. The café also has plenty of seating, making it a convenient place to meet friends, work, study, or simply take a break while exploring Old Montreal.
One of the features that makes Crew Collective & Café particularly useful is its variety of seating options. You can find space for small or larger groups, and private rooms are also available to rent if you prefer a quieter place to work or study during the day.
Why You Should Visit Crew Collective & Café
🏛️ Beautiful Historic Setting: Enjoy your coffee inside the impressive Royal Bank Tower in Old Montreal.
☕ Great Coffee: The coffee was one of the highlights of my visit.
🥐 Baked Goods: Choose from a selection of pastries and baked treats to enjoy with your coffee.
👥 Plenty of Seating: There is space for individuals, small groups, and larger gatherings.
💻 Study & Work Friendly: The café offers a comfortable environment for working or studying.
🚪 Private Rooms: Private rooms can be rented during the day if you need a quieter space.
📍 Old Montreal Location: Located at 360 Rue Saint-Jacques, it's an easy stop while exploring Old Montreal.
⭐ My Recommendation: If you're looking for a café with beautiful architecture, good coffee, and plenty of space to work, study, or meet friends, Crew Collective & Café is worth visiting.
Café Le Moineau Masqué, Plateau Mont-Royal
Address: 912 Marie-Anne St E, Montreal, Quebec H2J 2Z4
If you're searching for a cozy café that exudes Lower Manhattan and Sex and the City vibes, Le Moineau Masqué is definitely worth a visit. I stumbled upon this café by chance, and the charming décor, combined with the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee, instantly caught my eye.
This café provides a welcoming atmosphere, serving quality coffee, delectable baked goods, and friendly service. I truly appreciated the overall experience, especially the cozy ambiance and the vibrant neighborhood vibe.
Le Moineau Masqué is located at 912 Rue Marie-Anne Est in the Plateau-Mont-Royal. It's approximately a five-minute walk from Mont-Royal Metro, making it easy to reach by public transit. The surrounding area is also filled with restaurants, cafés, and bars, so it's a great neighborhood to explore after your coffee.
Why You Should Visit Le Moineau Masqué
☕ Quality Coffee: Enjoy freshly brewed coffee in a cozy café setting.
🥐 Delicious Baked Goods: Pair your coffee with one of the café's baked treats.
🏙️ Lower Manhattan Vibes: The décor and atmosphere reminded me of a cozy café you might discover while exploring Lower Manhattan.
✨ Charming Décor: The interior immediately caught my attention when I unexpectedly discovered the café.
😊 Friendly Service: The welcoming service adds to the overall experience.
🚇 Close to Mont-Royal Metro: Just about a five-minute walk from the metro station.
🍽️ Great Neighbourhood: Located in the Plateau-Mont-Royal, surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and bars.
⭐ My Recommendation: If you enjoy cozy neighbourhood cafés with personality, good coffee, and a lively atmosphere, Le Moineau Masqué is definitely one to add to your Montreal coffee list.
Discover Amazing Cafes, Bakeries, and Bubble Tea Shops in Montreal, Old Port, Chinatown, and Monkland Ave.
If you're passionate about exploring new cafes, bubble tea shops, and bakeries in Montreal, take a look at some of my recent visits throughout the city. Uncover the finest mochi, lattes, donuts, and more. You'll find hidden gems that offer unique twists on classic treats, ensuring each outing is a delightful adventure for your taste buds. Don't forget to share your favourites with friends and make it a fun group outing!
If you're planning a trip to Montréal or have recently arrived