As many of you know, I’m originally from Montreal. But since moving to Paris a year and a half ago, I go into tourist mode each time I visit my hometown. With so many new and up and coming restaurants and cafes, I’m armed with a bucket list every time I’m home. Summer is in full swing and you should know that devout Montrealers take their summers very seriously – especially if there’s cold coffee and ice cream involved. Want to know what’s new and popular this summer in Montreal? Here are some new – and noteworthy – places I spent time at during my last visit.
Noble Cafe
Situated just outside of metro Laurier, Noble Café is the prime location for a quick coffee on the way to work or for enjoying an iced latte on their outdoor benches and stools. I already love this charming neighbourhood so coming here is always welcome – even more so with coffee! If you’re coming from Saint-Laurent Boulevard, look closely as this cafe is tucked in a residential area right in between apartments.
Photo courtesy of Butterblume / by Marie-Reine Mattera
Butterblume, the newest addition to the Mile End’s brunch scene, opened June 1st and has had a perpetual line-up ever since. On my visit, I instantly order their avocado toast (topped with smoked avocado, a poached egg, marinated mushrooms, greens, and duck jerky) after seeing photos on Instagram (here’s mine!). The result, as you can see, is near perfection. My brunch buddies and I also can’t help but share the pain perdu for dessert – it’s the cherry on top!
Cafe dei Campi
Want vegan pizza followed by dairy-free sweets and coffee? Located in Rosemont, Cafe Dei Campi is converting meat and dairy-loving skeptics, like me, into customers! Being a sweets aficionado myself, I couldn’t believe that the items I tried had no milk or eggs in them – especially my chocolate chip cookie and my cold latte made with a splash of almond milk.
Photo courtesy of Venice MTL
You’ve probably heard of Venice MTL as it’s the newest – and one of the first – Californian-inspired eateries that serves up an expertly-made avo toast and a mean poke bowl. Located in the heart of Old Montreal, this place is oozing with Venice beach vibes – from the servers to the decor. Go for the summery vibe and stay for their food and drink selection!
La Diperie
Nestled on Pine Avenue, you wouldn’t even be able to spot La Diperie if it weren’t for their blue wall! What is probably the most Instagrammed wall in Montreal, join the locals and snap a pic of your ice cream against the bright blue backdrop! As for the toppings, the flavour combinations are endless – I had my soft serve dipped in dark fleur de sel chocolate and decorated with sprinkles and coconut shavings.
Photo courtesy of Restaurant Moleskine / by Maxime Brouillet
Brought to you by the fine people behind Pullman, Restaurant Moleskine is the newest hotspot on Parc Avenue. Doubling as a pizza restaurant and paper goods-inspired wine bar, I was confused as to what kind of vibe this place was going for when I first tried it – but it works. Once my group of friends and I ordered a bottle of wine along with Italian appetizers and pizza to share, it became clear that their concept was a crowd pleaser. Along with sister wine bar Pullman next door, Moleskine is one of this summer’s best 5 à 7 spots.
Did I get your favourite new & notable summer spot in Montreal? Did I miss one? Let me know in the comments below!
Opening photo courtesy of Butterblume / by Marie-Reine Mattera.
That ice cream looks incredible…I visited Montreal once many years ago and would love to bring my son to visit
I’m sure he would love it! Hopefully, you get to visit soon 🙂
Paris is SO romantic. We were just there for our honeymoon. But I bet Montreal is just a good – these places look awesome
That sounds like an amazing honeymoon! Montreal’s pretty romantic as well. If you head to Old Montreal, you can almost feel that Parisian/European vibe 😀
I really want to go to Montreal! When is the best time to visit?
Summer is the best time! Unless you like colder temperatures and snow – then head over in winter 🙂
I love the layout and photography in this post. Montreal looks wonderful!
Thank you, Lisa! It is wonderful 🙂
I hope to visit Montreal next year. Thanks for the info.
Awesome! Have a great trip & let me know if you need any tips 🙂
Montreal looks like a place Id love to explore. Once I get the chance to leave my bubble here in the UK, I will uncover all the gems of the world! Montreal is now noted in my travel diary!
Awesome! Hope you make it out to Montreal soon, I’m sure you’ll love it 🙂
I went to Montreal years ago when I was really young but I still remember how beautiful of a city it was! I would love to go back now.
I’m sure you’ll love it just as much today – it’s a pretty awesome city for all ages 🙂
Montreal has always been on my list. Someday! That avocado toast looks amazing!
Hopefully, someday is soon 😀
Beautiful, warming pics! Just what I needed to see going through this dreary cold Australian winter. Summer in Montreal looks so dreamy – I need to go there!
Haha – hang in there! It will be winter for us again in no time…then you can brag 😛
Okay, as a vegan food blogger, I am ALL OVER that vegan pizza. I live in Vancouver but visit Montreal occasionally to see family. I will have to check that place out!
Haha 🙂 Looks like you need to visit Montreal ASAP! I definitely recommend paying them a visit – they have so many delicious things!!