Introduction
Montreal’s streets are steeped in the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, a city beloved for its vibrant café culture and the sheer variety of coffee experiences it offers. From the well-known big chain cafés to charming, privately-owned gems, Montreal has a spot for every type of coffee enthusiast, local, traveller, and especially our senior travellers who have a penchant for a delightful cup and the joy of people watching. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my personal take on where you can find that perfect cup of joe that is enticing to the nose, deliciously balanced in flavour, and leaves no lingering aftertastes—just the memory of a coffee experience done right.
Note: these are my personal opinions based on my tastes and are not meant to be definitive by any means. Try them out and let us know which you like the best.
5 Best Big Chain Coffee Shops in Montreal
1. Second Cup
The Second Cup stands out for its commitment to quality coffee served with a personal touch. Their beans are diverse and rich, each blend aromatic and flavourful without overpowering bitterness.
A few years ago, I would have said they were the sweetheart of the Canadian coffee shop scene. But over-expansion at too fast of a pace led to financial difficulties. Now their shops are hard to find.
But in Montreal, along St. Catharine Street and up in the “plateau” area, you will find a few of the remaining shops. If you see one, get in and grab a coffee and a pastry (or two).
Coffee: is a 4 out of 5
Atmosphere: gets a 4 out of 5.
Service: gets a 4 out of 5.
2. Tim Hortons
A Canadian staple, Tim Hortons brings familiarity in every cup. It’s the go-to for consistent taste and quick service, perfect for when you need your fix on the go.
Unlike Second Cup, you will find a “Timmies” just about everywhere. They can easily become your rest stop after touring about the city. Go in grab a French Vanilla brew along with a Boston Cream Doughnut. Your energy will pick back up quickly.
Coffee: gets a 4 out of 5
Atmosphere: this can vary widely from a 3 or 4/ 5
Service: is 3.5/5
3. McDonald’s
Yes, I know what you’re thinking: Not McDonald’s! But I feel their McCafe offering has made great strides in the past few years. Good value; tastes great – my only comment is it is served way too hot. (But that could just be me!).
Coffee: for me, it is a 3.5/5
Atmosphere: I am going to average all my experiences from 2 to 4 and give it a 3/5.
Service: is 3.5/5
4. Van Houtte Cafe
I first encountered Van Houtte coffee while attending the National Bank Open Tennis Tournament in Montreal. I fell in love with the coffee. The taste was robust but definitely for me didn’t leave an aftertaste.
Van Houtte boasts a sophisticated coffee selection in a cozy setting. Their expertise in roasting is evident in every inviting sip that you have.
A drawback is that they are smaller in size compared to the big chains and can be harder to find. They tend to be tucked away in food courts (at least in the downtown core where I spend 99% of my time).
Coffee: 4/5
Atmosphere: 3.5 or 4/ 5
Service: 4/5
5. A&W
This may not be a brand with which non-Canadians are familiar. But I replaced Starbucks with them as I find their coffee on par with McDonald’s. If I am in the mood for a fast-food breakfast, I will find an A&W. They have real breakfasts with good coffee. What more could a traveller ask for?
Coffee: 4/5
Atmosphere: 3.5/5
Service: 3.5/5
5 Best Privately Owned Coffee Shops in Montreal
In my many trips to Montreal, I have wandered many of the streets in search of that perfect cup of coffee and pastry. In particular, in spring and summer, I enjoy finding one with a nice patio to people-watch.
That said, with small shops they come and go sometimes faster than I can keep track of. So this list is made up of most that I have personally tried but a couple are recommended by close friends. I will get to those this year!
Note: again coffee and pastry is a personal thing. You may not like the coffees that I like. That’s okay. Trying new things is what travel is about. I also have if one is available linked the coffee shop’s website under their name so you can find out more about them.
1. Le Petit Dep
I found this shop to be a quaint and delightful spot that takes its coffee seriously. Aesthetic and inviting, it’s an escape within the city that offers a truly artisanal coffee experience.
Coffee: 5/5 (excellent)
Atmosphere: 5/5
Service: 5/5 (I could go higher).
2. Cafe Olimpico
A local legend! Cafe Olimpico is a local legend known for its robust coffee and lively atmosphere. It’s a meeting point for coffee lovers who enjoy a vibrant scene along with their brew.
Coffee: gets a 5/5
Atmosphere: is also a 5/5
Service: (it was slow but I was there at what seemed to be an unexpected rush) 4.5/5
3. Amea
This shop presents a minimalist approach to coffee that focuses on quality ingredients and simplicity. It is a serene spot for those who appreciate the art of coffee making.
Coffee: 4.5/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Service: 4/5
4. Cafe Paquebot
A maritime-themed spot, Cafe Paquebot delivers on creativity and charm. Their selection of coffees is adventurous, and the atmosphere inspires relaxation, reading, listening to music or just getting together with friends.
Coffee: 4.5/5
Atmosphere: 4.5/5
Service: 4.5/5
5. Cafe Bravo
Artistic, eclectic are the words my friend used in his note about Cafe Bravo. He raved about their flavourful coffee. He described it as truly a neighbourhood coffee shop with artistry and a sensory delight. I’ve got to check it out.
Coffee: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4.5/5
Service: 4/5
3 Best Coffee Shops with Outdoor Patios for People Watching in Montreal
As I have mentioned ad nauseam, one of the reasons to go to Montreal is to people-watch. Here are my three fav spots.
1. Shaughnessy Cafe
The perfect spot for indulging in both your love of coffee and the art of people-watching. This cafe has the scenic patio to enjoy both!
Coffee: 4/5
Atmosphere 5/5
Service: 4/5
Outdoor Seating: 5/5
2. Pigeon Espresso Bar
Pigeon Espresso Bar combines quality coffee with a streetside view. Grab your coffee and head out onto their patio and watch the world go by.
Coffee: 4.5/5
Atmosphere: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Outdoor Seating: 4.5/5
3. Cafe Nocturne
Cafe Nocturne offers an intimate outdoor setting that’s perfect for leisurely sipping your coffee while soaking up the bustling Montreal atmosphere.
Coffee: 4/5
Atmosphere: 4.5/5
Service: 4/5
Outdoor Seating: 5/5
Ready to book your flight? Check Here:
Conclusion
The charm of Montreal’s coffee scene is as much in its variety as it is in the quality and care that each venue pours into their craft. Whether you’re a local in search of a new favourite or a tourist seeking the warmth of a freshly brewed mug, the city’s cafés are a testament to its love for coffee. Are you ready to explore the cozy café corners of Montreal or the famed coffee shops in Montreal? Do some people watching in some of the city’s nicest cafes or find a haven among the coffee houses in Montreal. Your perfect cup is waiting somewhere in the delightful streets of this caffeinated city.
Please note: The opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences after 40-plus years of business and vacation travel. My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours. Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Most of all have happy travels and see you out there on the road!
Al of Al Murray Travel & Photography: From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world.
My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona. I spent more time on trains and buses than I did in class.
After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way. But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education!
It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again. First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.
I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University. I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.