From charming atmospheres to exceptional coffee, these six MTL cafés are must-tries in the city.
Café Olimpico
Price: 💸💸
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: Café Olimpico, or "Open Da Oly," is a Montreal classic for a reason. The vintage charm, incredible coffee, and fresh pastries make Olimpico an incredible spot to savour the finer things in life.
Open until midnight in Old Port and Mile-End, it's a well-known city-wide favourite for a cozy evening coffee. The atmosphere, filled with dark woods and vintage wall art, makes you feel like part of the family. Its flagship café, located on the bustling St. Viateur Street, is one of the most popular spots in the city.
Few places can match the lively atmosphere of Olimpico. If you want a seat, it's best to avoid peak hours, but you'll always find a variety of people at Olimpico: families enjoying an espresso and cannoli together, artists drawing in sketchbooks, students and entrepreneurs working, and others just enjoying the moment.
Café Olimpico website
Café Conca D'oro
Price: 💸
Address: 1660, rue Dante, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Café Conca D'oro brings you right into the heart of Little Italy. With excellent espresso, tasty snacks, and drinks that hit the spot, this place is a must-visit.
Open until 11:30 p.m. on weekdays and 2:30 a.m. on weekends, Conca D'oro is the spot for a night out in the city. The atmosphere, buzzing with lively chatter, makes you feel instantly at home. The spacious terrasse is also a great spot to unwind on a warm summer evening. And the sandwiches and pastries never disappoint. Seriously, the sfogliatella is incredible (and the prices are actually unbeatable).
Whether you want a coffee with friends, to kill it at karaoke, or a place to enjoy a little pastry, Conca D'oro must be on your list of places to visit.
Café Conca D'oro website
Café Expresso Lina
Price: 💸
Address: 1874, rue Jean-Talon E., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Tucked away in the branches of the blue line in Villeray-St Michel, Café Expresso Lina is a hidden treasure. Open until 3 a.m., it's ideal for night owls and students alike.
The friendly staff, cozy brick walls, and warm wooden interiors make it feel like a home away from home. In fact, it's one of the best places to work from home in the city. The internet is fast, and it's close to a metro (Fabre) and bus lines (5, 93, 45, 372), but the best part is how the staff never makes you feel rushed. You can really enjoy your time at Café Expresso Lina; there's no hurry!
With a simple yet delicious menu, it's a great spot to chill or study for hours. They also host football watch parties, but they're pretty popular―often standing room only―so make sure you get there early!
Café Expresso Lina website
Café Club Social
Price: 💸
Address: 180, rue Saint-Viateur O., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Café Club Social is a Mile End gem, open until midnight. It's got a laid-back vibe with a touch of old-world charm, making it a great spot for everything from work to play.
The blend of good coffee, tasty treats, and a relaxed ambiance makes Café Club Social a beloved destination for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the company of friends. Enjoy a fantastic shot of espresso with some tiramisu, and soak up the welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you're catching a football game, having a late-night coffee, or playing cards with friends, this place is all about chill times and great company.
Café Club Social website
Café Orr
Price: 💸💸
Address: 5364, av. Papineau, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Café Orr is one of the most aesthetic coffee shops in the city. This two-story Rosemont gem has everything a coffee lover could want in a café. From art adorning the walls, cozy lighting setting the perfect mood, and lush greenery surrounding you, the vibes can only be described with one word: incredible.
The attention to detail spills over into everything―from the glassware to the food and drinks to the decor (try the tartine à l'avocat, it's really good). You can also enjoy a game night with friends, catch a weekly movie night, or enjoy some fresh air.
This cafe is also a great spot to bring a date; it's cute, romantic, and has some intimate corner seats for private conversations. You can even flex your chess skills, peruse a coffee table book, or have an art viewing! The best part? It's open until 11 p.m. every night.
Café Orr website
Café Central Portugais
Price: 💸💸
Address: 3892, boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Step into Café Central ortugais for an authentic taste of Portugal right here in Montreal. This staple spot is famous for its authentic pastries, Portuguese fast food, fantastic espresso, and lively atmosphere.
The staff treat you like family, and the food is exceptionally delicious. This place is all about good vibes and friendly faces; catch a game, enjoy an espresso on the terrasse, or enjoy some delicious Pastéis de Nata. Most of the regulars are older and likely Portuguese, making it a fantastic place to practice Portuguese if you're learning, listening to some great stories, or watching a game.
The clientele is truly integral to the charm; if you're open to it, everyone is really friendly, and you can learn a lot from them.
Perfect for late-night hangs and making new friends, it's open as late as 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 12 a.m. on most other evenings.
Cafe Central Portugais website
Whether you're in the mood for an evening coffee, a late-night snack, or just a spot to hang out with friends, these cafés have something for everyone.
So, next time you find yourself out late in the city, check out the good vibes, friendly faces, and delightful flavours at any of these incredible cafés!
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