Where strong Wi-Fi, good coffee, and delicious menus are waiting for you!
With finals just around the corner and the recent pandemic pushing more and more people to work from home, having a designated, quiet and productive workplace at home is crucial.
But when your home gets too noisy or you crave a change of scenery, where else can you go to? Where else can you sit comfortably, listen to pleasant music, find quality Wi-Fi, drink a warm cup of coffee, and maybe even munch on a good snack?
As more people work and study from home, coffee shops are stepping up to meet the demand. They’re not just places for coffee and food anymore, they’re also comfortable and functional spots to get lots of work done. And in Montreal, whether you need a quiet place to focus or a space that sparks creativity, there’s a coffee shop for everyone.
So here are some of my favourite places to be productive away from home β where I rate each criterion on a scale of 1 to 3 with fun emojis!
1. BrΓ»lerie Urbaine
5252 CΓ΄te-des-Neiges Road
MontrΓ©al, QC
H3T 1X8
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π
Outlets: π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
If you’re like me and you love the Starbucks caramel frappuccino drink, but can never find a free seat to work at, then you should definitely check out BrΓ»lerie Urbaine. Located just a two-minute walk from the CΓ΄te-des-Neiges metro station, not only do they serve an incredibly delicious version of that drink, it’s also the perfect spot for productivity with lots of quiet work space. Oh, and be sure to try their chocolate chip cookies!
2. CafΓ© Milano
F-46 Brunswick Boulevard
Pointe-Claire, QC
H9B 2L3
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π
Outlets: π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
If you’re from the West Island, you’re no doubt familiar with this cafΓ©-eatery. But now try and think of CafΓ© Milano as a work or study spot. Since the cafΓ© has amazing sandwiches, great coffee, the most amazing cannolis, plenty of seating space, and is open until 1 or 2 AM everyday (late night studying FTW), recognizing Milano as a cafΓ© for working isn’t a difficult feat! And if the West Island is too far for you, they also have two other locations in Laval and in the East End!
3. CafΓ© SAT
6 Place du MarchΓ©
MontrΓ©al, QC
H2X 2S6
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
There’s no better place to study for your SATs than at CafΓ© SAT. Overlooking the majestic trees of Peace Park, the cafΓ©’s charm lies not only in the quality of its Wi-Fi, but also in the luminous sunlight and post-industrial design. With an emphasis on affordable prices and locally sourced ingredients, it’s a haven for students, artists, and office workers alike. And every Friday evening, you can also unwind with music from Shift Radio!
4. Crew Collective and CafΓ©
360 Saint-Jacques Street
MontrΓ©al, QC
H2Y 1P5
Opening Hours: βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π
Seating: πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
The Crew Collective and Café is absolutely gorgeous, making you feel like a top businessperson. Conveniently located next to Square-Victoria-OACI metro, the café boasts the most comfortable seating and reliable Wi-Fi. Although it closes quite early at 4 PM, membership unlocks access to private office rooms and conference spaces, with 24/7 service. Plus, their delicious coffee and food will keep you fueled and focused the whole time!
5. Leaves House CafΓ©
RDC-A, 1800 McGill College Avenue
MontrΓ©al, Quebec
H3A 3J6
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯
Price: π΅
The Leaves House CafΓ©‘s been around for a while. But their new McGill location is a total game-changer, especially for students. Whether you’re cramming for exams or working on a group project, here, you’ll find everything you need for a productive study session: multiple power outlets, wide seating with movable furniture, and panoramic windows that fill the space with lots of natural light. And for all the early birds eager to get a head start, they even open at 7:30 AM!
6. Lili & Oli
4554 Wellington Street
Verdun, QC
H4G 1W7
Opening Hours: βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Price: π΅
Whenever I’m in the Verdun area, Lili & Oli is my favourite spot for getting work done. The atmosphere is incredibly inviting, and the staff always goes above and beyond to make you feel at home. With plenty of outlets available, you can keep all your devices fully charged while taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi. The top-notch coffee they serve is a game-changer, and their amazing salads and granola bowls make it easy to stay healthy while working hard!
7. OSMO X MARUSAN
51 Sherbrooke Street West
MontrΓ©al, QC
H2X 1X2
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
Nestled in the Plateau area, OSMO X MARUSAN is a cozy spot with a really cool vibe. It was recently redesigned with a modern brutalist style, featuring large windows and lots of comfy seating. During the day, they serve tasty Japanese sandwiches, curry, and delicious baked goods. And then stick around after work for a 5 Γ 7 with a live DJ, some natural wine and sakes. So heads up: since it can get pretty loud in the evenings with the music, maybe it’s best for work during the day!
8. Pigeon CafΓ©
5625 Monkland Avenue
MontrΓ©al, QC
H4A 1E2
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π
Outlets: π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π
Noise: π₯ π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅ π΅
I have to admit: Pigeon CafΓ©‘s turned more into a cafΓ©-resto, so it can get quite loud. However, I’ve found that the lively atmosphere is perfect for discussing with colleagues or getting creative. I like coming here to draw, edit videos, or even write fun blog posts. Known for delicious brunch offerings like smoked salmon avocado toast and blueberry pancakes, Pigeon CafΓ© has everything you need to get into a more laid-back frame of mind. And if you need an extra boost, their espresso is sure to charge you up for a productive work session!
9. SAVSAV
RC-015, 780 Brewster Avenue
MontrΓ©al, QC
H4C 2K1
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Food: π΅ π΅
SAVSAV is a Saint-Henri insiderβs secret… thatβs becoming less and less of a secret! It’s part cafΓ©, part restaurant, and part bar. I love coming here during the day to bury my nose in my laptop or admire the bright decor, while indulging in a good cup of coffee and delectable snacks. Then in the evening, you can unwind with creative cocktails, and enjoy a delicious dinner inspired by a mix of Italian, Asian, and Nordic cuisines.
10. Second Cup
1166 Saint-Catherine Street West
MontrΓ©al, QC
H3B 1K1
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯
Price: π΅
I’m usually not a big fan of restaurant chains, but Second Cup has won me over. What sets it apart is its extended operating hours, which make it perfect for those late-night work or study sessions. I especially love the CΓ΄te-des-Neiges location that’s open 24/7, but the downtown location is another favourite of mine, with two whole floors of seating. They offer very affordable drinks and snacks, with the added bonus of delicious cheesecake. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t crave a tasty dessert while working?
11. Tommy CafΓ©
200 Notre-Dame Street West
Montreal, QC
H2Y 1T3
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π
Seating: πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: βοΈ βοΈ βοΈ
Food: π₯ π₯ π₯
Price: π΅ π΅
There’s something about Tommyβs that makes it the perfect place to get work done. Whether it’s the exposed brick walls or the natural light flooding through the large windows, there’s something special about this spot that always helps me have a productive work session. They offer excellent coffee and a variety of food options. Plus, whenever I need a break from working, I can enjoy people-watching along the streets of Old Montreal!
12. Tsujiri
1418 Crescent Street
MontrΓ©al, QC
H3G 2B7
Opening Hours: βοΈ βοΈ
Location: π π π
Outlets: π π
Seating: πͺ πͺ πͺ
Internet: π π π
Noise: π₯ π₯
Coffee: π΅ π΅ π΅
Food: π π π
Price: π΅ π΅ π΅
If you’re more into matcha than coffee, then Tsujiri is the place for you. With lots of seating space, great Wi-Fi, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to be productive. Treat yourself to some top-notch Japanese matcha, soba noodles, rice bowls, or delicious desserts to keep yourself going. Sure, it might be a bit on the pricier side, but I promise the food and drinks will not disappoint. And depending on your work mood, you can opt to work in the bright and airy downstairs area or the cozier, dimmer upstairs section.
There you have it, my favourite coffee shops in Montreal for work or study. Whether youβre looking for a quiet spot to get some serious work done or need a place to meet up with a client or colleague, there’s sure to be a cafe on this list that’s perfect for you.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your laptop and head to one of these spots to get productive!
The Lilac Blog 