The best breakfasts in Montréal

Breakfast is on offer every morning at Arthur’s Nosh Bar in St-Henri: their swoon-worthy syrniki (cottage cheese pancakes), a latke smorgasbord with homemade gravlax and maple coldbrew have made a name for this institution. But it’s on the weekends that Arthur’s pulls out all the stops for their indulgent Montréal-inspired brunch platters: waffles layered with fried eggs, beef bacon and salami, generous shakshuka, or Moroccan toast offered with classic Middle Eastern salads. 

Breakfast in Montreal doesn’t have to be the full-meal deal; for something simple, Hochelaga’s premier sourdough bakery is the perfect destination after an early morning visit to the Olympic Stadium or Botanical Garden. Aube is the ideal spot to explore flaky croissants and chocolatines, breakfast sandwiches, and granola in an airy, light-filled space. Summertime sees special corn- and tomato-based viennoiseries, while it’s all about pumpkin seeds and spice in the fall and winter. These folks are up at dawn baking; take a baguette or focaccia home for later.

Bright and cheerful Beautys on Mount Royal is the ideal spot for a sunny morning spent noshing on a lox and cream cheese bagel or their signature hot dog and salami-filled ‘mishmash’ omelette. Beautys’ history goes back over eight decades, and they know exactly what the people want: a bottomless cup of filter coffee, eggs, bacon and home fries when it’s too hard to choose, and their famous fresh OJ as an introduction to this iconic spot where brunch culture first took root in Montréal.

The charming, tree-lined streets of Petit Laurier are home to Persian-owned and inspired Byblos café, where settling into the cozy sofa seating is an entirely reasonable way to spend a relaxed Montréal morning enjoying a leisurely brunch. The range of omelettes alone is worth repeat visits—with dates or a fragrant cardamom, rose petal and nut version—but don’t miss their halim, with cream of wheat, cinnamon and turkey for a hearty start to the day, served until 4pm on weekends.

Caffè Italia opened 70 years ago as a meeting point for newly arrived immigrants to find work and camaraderie, and it’s still a community hub. Open from the wee hours to late at night, the vibe has changed only slightly. Nonnos discuss the pressing issues of the day with a cappuccino and a slice of panettone at the round table in the front window; families ferry mocchacinos for the kids into the back room, gingerly balancing pressed paninis on plates; and deep discussions happen at the counter, where denizens watch the latest sports and politics, at breakfast and all through the day. 

Head to a quiet corner of the Plateau, where a fine-dining chef hung up his toque to make some of the best breakfast sandwiches in Montréal. Homemade spelt poppy seed buns are the canvas for Cam’s range of artfully constructed, filling bodega-style fare. Lunchtime options include a white-bean falafel, smoked salmon and avocado, and their very own Club. Tater Tots and barista-quality coffee round out the offerings; head to the self-serve fridge in the back for a range of local soft drinks.

No need to worry if it’s breakfast or brunch time at Montréal’s perennial favourite, Larrys; their all-day dining/all-day breakfast menu reflects a score of options from scones to kedgeree, diminutive pikelet pancakes, or yogurt and granola (along with a terrific wine list and fabulous burgers). The service-included model is a unique one in the city, and their clever waiting list app allows for some great browsing in the Mile End if a table isn’t ready immediately.

Bottomless glasses of tea accompany the generous brunch spreads at Ahuntsic’s Le Professeur, all ideal for sharing with a crowd of at least four or more. Plates of fresh radishes, cucumbers and olives, all enjoyed with the various hummus or yogurt dips, are just the beginning; when the homemade pita arrives, still warm from the oven, settle in with egg dishes dotted with soujouk, manouché flatbreads with cheese or zaatar (or both), and bowls of chickpea-laced fatteh, made to order. One of the best brunch spots in Montréal for larger groups.

This Mile Ex-adjacent space has a retro vibe and a budget-friendly diner(ish) menu that’s become a magnet for the neighbourhood’s breakfast crowd. Eggs Benedict and bacon and eggs are served, along with tofu scrambles and other vegan options. Then again, the Montreal-style breakfast poutine might also be the way to ease into the day, along with some filter coffee, a turmeric latte, or a Caesar, depending on the morning’s mood. 

This longstanding rustic bakery and breakfast spot is a Montréal must-visit for its homemade baked goods and beautiful chia breakfast bowl. From in-house croissants and turtle bars to sweet ricotta toast, a messy, delicious poached-egg panini, and a smashed warm potato salad, it’s all hearty and comforting. There are two locations now, both contenders for the best brunch around. At the original O+G in a rustic Old Montreal setting, take your chances and wait in line; reservations are accepted at the swish Royalmount mall in the west end of the city. [Various locations]