Quick Answer: Montreal's best brunch spots include L'Avenue for creative dishes, Beauty's Luncheonette for classic diner fare, and Olive et Gourmando for European-inspired pastries. Most serve brunch weekends from 9 AM-3 PM, with prices ranging $15-30 CAD per person.
Montreal has long been a haven for food lovers, and after eight years of living here and brunching my way through over 50 cafés, bistros, and diners across the city, I can confidently say our brunch scene rivals any major North American city. What makes it special? We've perfected the art of blending French culinary sophistication with hearty North American comfort food—think duck confit benedicts, Montreal-style bagels with house-cured lox, and maple-drizzled pancakes that could feed three people.
In this guide, I'm sharing the brunch spots I genuinely return to month after month, complete with insider tips I've learned from countless weekend mornings spent exploring neighborhoods from Plateau Mont-Royal to Old Montreal. Whether you're hunting for the perfect eggs benedict, need a vegan-friendly spot, or want to experience a piece of Montreal history, I've got you covered.
Montreal's weekend brunch culture isn't just about the food—it's a cherished ritual that reflects our city's unique identity. We take our time here. Brunch typically runs from 9 AM until 3 PM, and locals treat it as an unhurried social occasion, often lingering over second (or third) cups of locally roasted coffee.
What sets Montreal apart is how we've woven together our French heritage with North American brunch traditions. You'll find classic croissants and quiches sitting comfortably alongside fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict. Many restaurants source ingredients from nearby Jean-Talon Market or feature Quebec-made products like artisanal cheeses, maple syrup from the Eastern Townships, and smoked meat from local institutions.
The city's best brunch spots are concentrated in historic neighborhoods—each with its own personality. Plateau Mont-Royal offers trendy, Instagram-worthy cafés; Mile End brings a hipster, health-conscious vibe; and Old Montreal delivers European charm with cobblestone streets and heritage buildings.
Location: 922 Avenue du Mont-Royal E, Plateau Mont-Royal
Price Range: $$-$$$ (Expect $18-28 per person)
Best For: Groups, Instagram photos, adventurous eaters
If you're looking for a brunch spot that delivers both on flavor and visual appeal, L'Avenue has been my go-to for special occasions since I first moved to Montreal. Located in the heart of Plateau Mont-Royal on Mont-Royal Avenue, this restaurant is known throughout the city for its oversized portions, whimsical décor featuring vintage toys and bold colors, and genuinely creative takes on breakfast classics.
What I Always Order: Their eggs benedict with smoked salmon is legendary—the hollandaise is velvety and perfectly balanced, and they don't skimp on the fish. But honestly, their breakfast poutine (yes, you read that right) is what keeps me coming back. Imagine crispy hash browns topped with cheese curds, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce. It sounds indulgent because it absolutely is, but after trying it once in winter 2024, I've been hooked.
Insider Tip: I've learned the hard way that weekend waits can stretch to 90 minutes after 10 AM. My strategy? Arrive right when they open at 8 AM on Saturdays, or go on a weekday when the vibe is more relaxed. They don't take reservations, so timing is everything.
Why It Ranks So High: Beyond the food, L'Avenue represents what makes Montreal brunch culture special—it's unpretentious despite being popular, the service is warm and bilingual, and every dish feels like someone put genuine thought into it. For visitors exploring Plateau Mont-Royal's brunch scene, this is an absolute must-visit.
Location: 4320 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
Price Range: $ (Budget-friendly at $10-18)
Best For: Families, bagel lovers, nostalgic vibes
For a more laid-back, authentically Montreal experience, I head to Bagel Etc. on Saint-Laurent Boulevard. This retro diner has been serving breakfast to locals since 1993, and walking in feels like stepping into a time capsule. The red vinyl booths, checkered floors, and the intoxicating smell of fresh-baked Montreal bagels create an atmosphere that modern brunch spots simply can't replicate.
What Makes It Special: Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than New York bagels—they're boiled in honey water before being baked in wood-fired ovens. At Bagel Etc., you get these iconic bagels paired with generous portions of cream cheese and smoked salmon that's sliced right in front of you. I also love their classic three-egg omelets, which come with perfectly crispy home fries.
My Personal Favorite: Get the "Bagel Etc. Special"—a Montreal bagel loaded with smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomatoes, onions, and capers. Pair it with their homemade strawberry jam on the side (trust me on this), and you've got the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Local Knowledge: This place flies under the radar compared to trendier brunch restaurants in Montreal, which means shorter wait times even on Sundays. It's cash-friendly but they do accept cards now. The staff has been there for years and remembers regulars—that's the kind of neighborhood gem that makes Montreal's food scene so special.
Location: 25 Av. Fairmount O, Montréal, QC H2T 2L9
Price Range: $$ ($16-24 per person)
Best For: Health-conscious diners, coffee enthusiasts, brunch dates
When I'm craving something fresh and thoughtfully prepared, Fabergé in Mile End never disappoints. This modern café opened in 2015 and quickly became a favorite among Montreal's health-conscious brunch crowd without falling into the trap of being pretentious or overpriced.
The Philosophy: Everything here emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. During my last visit in January 2025, their menu featured winter squash, kale from Quebec farms, and eggs from a producer just outside the city. You can taste the difference in quality.
Must-Try Dishes: Their avocado toast sounds simple, but it's elevated with perfectly poached eggs, microgreens, house-made hot sauce, and sourdough from a local bakery. I'm also obsessed with their quinoa breakfast bowl—it's packed with roasted vegetables, a soft-boiled egg, and tahini dressing that ties everything together beautifully.
Coffee Talk: As someone who takes coffee seriously, I have to mention that Fabergé serves some of the best espresso drinks in Mile End. They rotate between local Montreal roasters, and the baristas actually know how to properly steam milk. Skip the brunch at your own risk, but definitely don't skip the coffee.
Why I Recommend It: Fabergé represents the evolution of Montreal's brunch scene—it proves you can offer healthy, ingredient-focused food that's still indulgent and satisfying. The atmosphere is bright and minimalist, perfect for a relaxed Saturday morning catch-up with friends.
Location: 351 Rue Saint-Paul O, Old Montreal
Price Range: $$ ($14-22 per person)
Best For: Pastry lovers, tourists, romantic brunches
Nestled in the historic streets of Old Montreal, Olive et Gourmando has been my top recommendation for visitors since I first discovered it in 2018. This European-style bakery and café is housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, and every detail—from the exposed brick walls to the artisanal coffee—feels carefully curated.
What Sets It Apart: Owners Dyan Solomon and Eric Girard opened this gem in 1998, and their commitment to quality hasn't wavered. Everything is made in-house, from the buttery croissants that practically melt in your mouth to the hearty quiches loaded with seasonal vegetables and Quebec cheese.
I Always Get: The Cuban sandwich (yes, for brunch—don't judge) is one of the best sandwiches I've ever had in Montreal, period. But if you're going the traditional brunch route, their mushroom and gruyère quiche paired with a fresh-baked rosemary scone is absolute perfection.
Atmosphere Matters: Grab a seat by the front window if you can. The people-watching along cobblestone Rue Saint-Paul is unbeatable, especially on weekend mornings when Old Montreal comes alive with both locals and tourists exploring the neighborhood's galleries and boutiques.
Fair Warning: This place is popular, especially with the downtown brunch crowd and visitors staying in Old Montreal hotels. Arrive before 10 AM or be prepared for a wait. They also don't take reservations for brunch service.
Location: 93 Avenue du Mont-Royal O
Price Range: $ ($12-20 per person)
Best For: Classic diner experience, Montreal history buffs, families
No guide to the best brunch in Montreal would be complete without Beauty's Luncheonette. This iconic diner has been serving breakfast to Montrealers since 1942, and honestly, not much has changed—and that's exactly why I love it.
The Experience: Beauty's is what I call "unapologetically old-school Montreal." The décor is basic, the menu hasn't changed in decades, and there's almost always a line out the door on weekends. But the food? It's classic North American breakfast done exactly right, with generous portions and prices that haven't skyrocketed like so many other places.
Signature Dishes: The Beauty's Special—pancakes, eggs, bacon, and a side of their famous "Mish-Mash" (a scramble with hot dogs, green peppers, and onions)—is what most people order, and for good reason. I'm partial to their challah French toast, which is thick, eggy, and served with real maple syrup. Their smoked meat sandwiches (available all day) are also exceptional, sourced from one of Montreal's legendary smokehouses.
What You Need to Know: Beauty's is cash only—this trips up tourists constantly, so hit an ATM first. The wait can be long (45+ minutes on Sunday mornings), but it moves faster than you'd think. Once inside, don't expect table service to be overly chatty; the staff is efficient and friendly in that classic diner way.
Why It Matters: Eating at Beauty's isn't just about the food—it's about experiencing a piece of Montreal's cultural history. This is where Leonard Cohen used to eat breakfast. It's where generations of Montreal families have gathered on Sunday mornings. When you're sitting in one of those worn vinyl booths, you're part of a tradition that spans eight decades.
Beyond the well-known spots, Montreal is packed with smaller cafés and neighborhood favorites that deserve recognition. Here are three places I love that don't always make the typical "best brunch Montreal" lists:
Location: 3990 Rue Saint-Urbain
What Makes It Special: This bohemian café has been a Plateau fixture since 1976, famous for its magical garden terrace that feels like a secret oasis in the middle of the city. I discovered it during my first summer in Montreal, and the charming outdoor space—filled with plants, mismatched furniture, and string lights—instantly won me over.
Their sandwiches are massive (seriously, they're knife-and-fork situations) and incredibly creative. Try the "Santropol Special" with chicken, avocado, and their house garlic mayo. They also offer great vegetarian and vegan brunch options, which isn't always easy to find at traditional Montreal breakfast spots. Bonus: a portion of proceeds supports community initiatives, so your brunch dollars go toward good causes.
Location: 5607 Rue de Lanaudière, Plateau
Why I Love It: This tiny French-inspired breakfast spot captures the intimate, neighborhood café vibe that makes Montreal special. With only about 15 seats, it feels like you're brunching in someone's cozy living room. The owner, who's often behind the counter, brings genuine French technique to classic breakfast dishes.
Their croque madame is the best I've had outside of Paris—perfectly grilled bread, quality ham, béchamel sauce, and a sunny-side-up egg with a gloriously runny yolk. I visited three times in one month last fall just to make sure it wasn't a fluke. It wasn't. Pair it with their café au lait and thank me later.
Location: 4105 Boulevard Saint-Laurent
The Vibe: If you're looking for a more festive, party-style brunch experience, Le Majestique on "The Main" (as Saint-Laurent Boulevard is affectionately called) delivers. This spot specializes in bottomless mimosas and Bloody Caesars (Canada's answer to the Bloody Mary, made with Clamato juice—yes, really, and yes, it's delicious).
The menu features elevated comfort food like their lobster benedict and duck confit hash. I particularly love their weekend brunch atmosphere—it's lively without being overwhelming, with great music and a crowd that's there to genuinely enjoy themselves. Perfect for birthday brunches or when you want something a bit more celebratory than your typical Saturday morning eggs.
After years of weekend brunch adventures across the city, I've learned a few things that can make or break your experience:
Timing Is Everything: Most popular Montreal brunch spots don't take reservations. Your best bet? Arrive before 9:30 AM on weekends or go later (after 1 PM) when the initial rush has died down. Weekday brunches are criminally underrated—same great food, minimal wait times.
Bring Cash: Many classic spots like Beauty's and some smaller cafés are still cash-only or prefer cash. There are ATMs around, but save yourself the hassle.
Embrace the Wait: Montreal brunch culture means lines are part of the experience. Most places will have a waiting area or you can grab coffee nearby. I often walk around the neighborhood—it's a great way to discover new shops and get a feel for different areas.
Don't Sleep on Neighborhoods: While Plateau and Mile End dominate brunch conversations, don't overlook spots in Verdun, Little Italy, or even Griffintown. Some of my best brunch discoveries have been in less-touristy neighborhoods.
Language Note: Montreal is bilingual, and most brunch spots operate seamlessly in both French and English. Don't stress if your French is limited—menus are typically bilingual, and staff are used to switching between languages.
If I had to choose just one spot to send a friend visiting Montreal for the first time, it would be L'Avenue for the full Montreal brunch experience—creative food, vibrant atmosphere, and quintessential Plateau energy. But honestly, the beauty of Montreal's brunch scene is its diversity. Some mornings call for Beauty's no-frills comfort food; others demand Olive et Gourmando's European sophistication.
My genuine recommendation? Don't just stick to one neighborhood or one style. Spend your weekends exploring different areas of the city through their brunch offerings. You'll discover that the best brunch in Montreal isn't just about the food—it's about the neighborhoods, the people, and the relaxed weekend culture that makes this city so special.
Most Montreal brunch restaurants begin serving between 8-9 AM on weekends, with service typically running until 2-3 PM. Some spots like L'Avenue open at 8 AM sharp, while others start at 9 AM. Weekday brunch hours vary—many cafés serve breakfast all day, while dedicated brunch spots may only offer weekend service.
The majority of popular brunch spots in Montreal don't accept reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Notable exceptions include some upscale hotel restaurants and larger establishments. For places like L'Avenue, Beauty's, and Olive et Gourmando, expect to wait during peak hours (10 AM - 1 PM on weekends).
Budget $15-25 CAD per person for most Montreal brunch spots, not including coffee or cocktails. Classic diners like Beauty's and Bagel Etc. tend toward the lower end ($10-18), while trendier spots like L'Avenue or farm-to-table cafés like Fabergé run $18-28 per person. Add $4-6 for specialty coffee drinks and $8-12 for brunch cocktails.
Absolutely! Montreal's brunch scene has evolved significantly to include plant-based options. Fabergé offers excellent vegan bowls and toasts, while dedicated vegan spots like Aux Vivres and LOV serve comprehensive vegan brunch menus. Even traditional spots now typically have at least one or two vegan options beyond just fruit and toast.
Absolutely! Montreal's brunch scene has evolved significantly to include plant-based options. Fabergé offers excellent vegan bowls and toasts, while dedicated vegan spots like Aux Vivres and LOV serve comprehensive vegan brunch menus. Even traditional spots now typically have at least one or two vegan options beyond just fruit and toast.
Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts. They're hand-rolled, boiled in honey-sweetened water, then baked in wood-fired ovens, giving them a distinctive slightly sweet flavor and chewy texture. The two most famous bagel bakeries—St-Viateur and Fairmount—have been making them this way since the 1940s-50s.
Plateau Mont-Royal and Mile End consistently offer the highest concentration of quality brunch spots, from classic diners to modern cafés. Old Montreal provides more European-style bakeries and upscale options, while neighborhoods like Verdun, Little Italy, and Griffintown have emerging brunch scenes with less competition for tables. My advice? Explore different neighborhoods to find your personal favorite.
I’m Shakhan I’ve spent years exploring Montreal’s neighborhoods, restaurants, and cultural events, sharing hidden gems and unique experiences with readers. I combine personal adventures with practical tips to help you enjoy the city like a local.
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