From quaint cafés to picturesque parks, these local gems have all the vibes of a Euro summer without the need for your passport.
Café Olimpico
Price: 💸💸
Address: Multiple locations
Why You Need To Go: With the summer Olympics happening in Paris this year, get into the spirit at Café Olimpico! Scattered across the city, Café Olimpico's multiple locations are a beloved spots with deep Italian roots. As their website proudly states, "It's still run by people who are passionately committed to the Italian traditions of authenticity, generosity, and family."
The Café Crema, a perfectly blended ice drink, is a must-try. Its creamy consistency will keep you refreshed while enjoying people-watching from the patio. Pair it with a tiramisu for a delightful, sweet treat!
Café Olimpico website
Café Camas
Price: 💸💸
Address: 1372, rue Notre-Dame O., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Hidden on the second floor of an unassuming office building, Café Camas has become a favourite for both coffee and music lovers. It's a cozy café by day, but they also describe themselves as a mix of a social club and a multidisciplinary space. Their love for music is evident from the vinyls lining the shelves and the DJ dock. You'll often find yourself humming to a mix of jazz, rock classics, European electronic, and current hits.
The ambiance here is like a Scandinavian café straight out of Copenhagen, with minimalist design, colourful accents, and art-filled spaces. Their menu offers a variety of treats, including coffee, pastries, and toast. Don't miss their limited-edition matcha lemonade this summer, perfect for a hot day!
Located near parks and with a view of the Lachine Canal in Griffintown, Café Camas is perfect for enjoying beautiful weather. It's reminiscent of Copenhagen's café culture, where people take their drinks to go and enjoy people-watching by the harbour baths.
Café Camas Instagram page
Crew Collective & Café
Price: 💸💸
Address: 360, rue Saint-Jacques, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Housed in the historic Royal Bank of Canada building, Crew Collective & Café wows visitors with its stunning architecture. The gold accents on the tall ceilings are a sight to behold for both newcomers and regulars.
Walking into Crew Collective feels like stepping into a fairy tale. You'll often see wedding parties snapping photos outside. But this café is more than just a pretty face—it’s also a buzzing coworking space you can rent by the day.
Their drinks are just as creative as the space itself. Try the signature Dulce de Leche Latte for a sweet twist on a classic, or cool off with an Iced Peach Black Tea or a classic Arnold Palmer. The vibe here might remind you of a grand European train station, like the famous Antwerp Central with its long halls and gilded dome ceilings.
Next time you're in Old Montreal, drop by Crew Collective & Café. Enjoy a drink and soak in the majestic atmosphere—no need to rush to catch a train!
Crew Collective & Café website
Place Carmin
Price: 💸💸💸
Address: 740, rue William, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: Nestled between buildings at the crossroads of Old Montreal and Griffintown, Place Carmin is a charming French brasserie. Its ivy-covered facade makes it look like an old home, contrasting nicely with its modern interior design.
The menu offers a variety of flavours from French cuisine.One standout dish is the Orange Duck—juicy and tender. The Carmin burger is a must-try, with sauce options like chimichurri and béarnaise. For a vegetarian option, go for the Smoked Cauliflower; the truffle and almond add a nice smokiness that enhances the cauliflower. Sides like the gnocchi parmesan and asparagus with béarnaise sauce are great additions.
Don't forget about dessert! The Paris Brest here tastes just like one you'd find in a patisserie along the cobblestone streets of Paris. Initially invented in 1910, this iconic dessert features a cream puff dough filled with vanilla and praline cream. Place Carmin elevates it with hazelnut and sea buckthorn berries for a light yet sweet treat.
Place Carmin is the perfect spot for your next date night to feel like you've stepped into a Parisian brasserie.
Place Carmin website
BarBara
Price: 💸💸💸
Address: 4450, rue Notre-Dame O., Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: The summer patio at this spot lets you soak up the sun while enjoying fantastic food. The restaurant is airy and inviting, filled with flowers, wine bottles, and curated lighting that opens up the space.
The large portions at this spot are not just about the food; they are about sharing and bonding in true Italian tradition. It's a warm, family-style dining experience.
The Italian inspiration makes it feel like you’re on a terrace in Italy, sipping on wine and enjoying pasta. Some must-tries include the focaccia bread with ricotta and honey—the blend of flavours is the perfect starter. The Caesar salad and calamari offer just the right amount of saltiness for an appetizer, perfectly paired with your chosen wine.
Bar Bara website
Sans Soleil Bar
Price: 💸💸💸
Address: 1002, rue Saint-Urbain, Montreal, QC
Why You Need To Go: From dinner to the dance floor, Sans Soleil offers the perfect blend for a fun Europe-inspired summer night. Located underneath the Asian fusion restaurant Feurs et Cadeux, which provides the food menu, Sans Soleil has a cozy speakeasy vibe.
Start your evening with a must-try Udon with peanut sauce—a hearty meal—or opt for the fresh sushi and sashimi dishes. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., it's all about the food. Then, the DJ starts spinning music all night long.
After your meal, dance the night away and enjoy a cocktail from their curated selection. Their sound system features a mix of obscure tracks from the '70s to '90s hip-hop, perfect for discovering new songs for your playlist. The lively atmosphere at Sans Soleil is reminiscent of London's nightlife, offering the ideal recipe for food and fun.
Sans Soleil Bar website
Whether you're craving the charm of a Parisian brasserie, the cozy vibes of a hidden café, or the lively atmosphere of a summer patio, Montreal has it all!
Next time you're in the city, make sure to check out these spots and experience a little slice of Europe right at home.
Soak up some luxury at Maison Amex.Courtesy of American Express
Complimentary snacks at Maison Amex come courtesy of Chef Danny Smiles.Courtesy of American Express
Simply Spiked Signature Limeade can be sipped on its own or in a refreshing cocktail.