With March break in full swing, so is midterm season, and sometimes, working from home can feel uninspiring. There's just something about settling into a cozy café with a warm latte that makes tackling that dreaded study session or never-ending paper a little more bearable. Luckily, Montreal is home to countless inviting coffee shops that offer the perfect environment to boost productivity.
Whether you're a student deep in exam prep or or a remote worker in need of a change of scenery, this list has you covered. But don't worry, this isn't just another roundup of overly crowded, Instagram and TikTok-famous spots. While those have their charm, we're focusing on cafés that truly set you up for a productive work or study session. Every spot on our list meets key criteria: ample space, reliable WiFi, affordable food and drinks, cozy vibes, and yes, a touch of aesthetics, because let's be honest, ambiance matters.
Read also:
Montreal's Best Cafés: Favorite Spots for Coffee Enthusiasts
Without further ado, here are our top picks for the best coffee shops in Montreal when you're looking for the perfect place to focus and get things done.
300 Rue de la Montagne, Montreal, H3C 2B1
With multiple locations across the city, Le Petit Dep in Griffintown is easily the go-to spot when you need to get some work done. While its Old Montreal and Mile-End counterparts are definitely worth a visit, they tend to get a bit crowded. The Griffintown location, however, offers a much more laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of space to settle in.
Whether you prefer a cozy couch, a classic table, or bar seating, you'll find a comfortable spot to stay productive. The abundance of natural light is another huge plus, especially during the winter months when motivation can be hard to come by. Add to that the charming decor, a great selection of drinks, and a brand-new evening menu-perfect for unwinding after a day of studying or working-and you've got the perfect work-friendly café.
294 Rue Sainte-Catherine O., Montreal, H2X 2A1
"What is an anticafé?" you might ask. Simply put, it's the ideal spot to get work done. Not only do you get plenty of space, but anticafés also offer unlimited food and drinks, all for a flat hourly rate. At Anticafé Montreal, you pay $4 for the first hour, then $2 per additional hour, with a maximum of $12 for the entire day. No pressure to keep ordering, just a cozy and productive atmosphere. Plus, it's conveniently located at Place-des-Arts, right in the heart of downtown Montreal and just a short walk from the metro
1104 Rue St-Zotique E, Montreal, H2S 2H1
You know those ultra-modern, minimalist coffee shops with concrete walls and uncomfortable seating? Yeah, this isn't one of them. Café des Habitudes, located in Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie, feels more like a second home than a café. Think cozy seating, lush greenery, and plenty of natural light, perfect for a relaxed and productive work session. Bonus: they're proudly eco-friendly, and their entire menu is 100% vegan.780 Avenue Brewster, Montreal, H4C 2K1
Okay, we know we said we wouldn't include super viral cafés, but let's be real, this list wouldn't be complete without mentioning Savsav. Not only is this coffee shop spacious, cozy, and aesthetically pleasing, but it's also designed with productivity in mind. When you order a drink, they serve it in a pitcher, so you're set for your entire work session. Plus, if you get hungry, they offer a vast lunch menu with plenty of delicious options to keep you fueled. Fair warning, though, it can get a bit crowded, so don't forget your headphones!
1250 Rue Ontario E, Montreal, H2L 1R6
Café Sfouf is another spot on this list that checks all the boxes for the perfect workspace coffee shop. It offers cozy seating, free WiFi, and plenty of natural light, with plants adorning the space for that warm and inviting feel. Their menu is Lebanese-inspired, adding a delicious touch to your work session, and to top it all off, they're dog-friendly! Can't get better than that!3498 Avenue du Parc, Montreal, H2X 2H5
How often do you come across a coffee shop that's open 24/7? Milton B is truly a gem for students and remote workers. Conveniently located near McGill University, this spot is spacious, offers free WiFi, and has an extensive selection of food and drinks.
From breakfast to dinner, pastries to smoothies, and even bubble tea, there's something for everyone. Plus, the staff is always warm and welcoming, making it an even better place to settle in and get things done!
1221 Rue Crescent, Montreal, H3G 2B1
La Poubelle Magnifique might just be Montreal's best-kept secret. With three floors, a charming patio, and an eclectic maximalist decor, this café is more than just a cute hangout spot, it's a hidden gem for students and remote workers alike.
Not only does it offer a cozy and inspiring atmosphere, but it also boasts a wide selection of affordable food options, top-quality coffee, and incredibly friendly service. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to study or a unique setting to unwind, this spot has it all!
1883 Rue Centre, Montreal, H3K 1J1
Tucked away in Pointe-Saint-Charles, Café Cosé may not be the most spacious spot, but its calm and low-key atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for a peaceful and productive work session. If you're tired of ordering the same old latte, this café will shake things up with its unique Vietnamese-inspired drinks. Think egg foam coffee, matcha, or their signature Saigon Fog, a twist on the classic London Fog, topped with rich egg foam. And if you're feeling hungry, their Sandwich Cosé is an absolute must-try!
2604 Rue Saint-Patrick, Montreal, H3K 1B8
By now, who hasn't heard of Café Redwood? Famous for serving some of the best matcha lattes in the city, it definitely earns its spot on this list, though that's not the only reason why! With its spacious tables, welcoming ambiance, and plenty of natural light, this café offers the perfect setting for both group study sessions and solo work days. Plus, its prime location right across from the Lachine Canal makes for a refreshing and inspiring workspace. And the best part? They're expanding their food menu, so there will be even more delicious options to enjoy alongside your coffee!
1215 Rue Berri, Montreal, H2L 0H6
Café Léo is the definition of simple, minimal, and unpretentious, the kind of spot that lets you stay focused and get things done. Conveniently located near the Champs-de-Mars metro station, this cozy café is a go-to for those looking for a no-fuss workspace. And let's talk about their lattes. They never disappoint! With a new latte flavour every month, there's always something new to try while you power through your to-do list.
1430 Rue Balmoral, Montreal, H2X 2A3
Café Constance Signé Bazin is one of the dreamiest cafés in Montreal, and it's not just about the aesthetics, it's also a great place to get work done. With ample seating, big tables, and plenty of natural light, this gem offers the perfect ambiance for productivity.
Beyond the stunning light fixtures and decor, they serve a wide selection of French-inspired dishes, pastries, and delicious drinks. Plus, they've recently acquired their liquor license, making it the ideal spot to enjoy a drink while powering through an evening work session.
921 Rue Ste-Catherine E, Montreal, H2L 2E5
If you're looking for another great spot to work late at night, La Graîne Brûlée is the place for you. This boutique/café hybrid feels like a playzone for grownups, with its vibrant colors, unique seating options, including floor seating, fun decor, cozy cabins, and even a TV room.
Open from 7 AM to 10 PM, they serve a variety of colorful lattes, delicious food, and even cocktails, making it just as great for a productive work session as it is for a fun, laid-back evening. Whether you're grinding through deadlines or just looking for a refreshing change of scenery, this quirky café has you covered!
1030 Rue St-Alexandre, Montreal, H2Z 1E3
Recently opened near the Square-Victoria metro station, Café Paperhill is a charming and study/remote-work-friendly spot. With plenty of space, a welcoming ambiance, and a diverse seasonal menu, this café-bar is open from 7 AM to 7 PM. Its greenery-filled decor adds a cozy and inviting touch, making it a soothing space to focus. It also offers evening aperitifs, along with books and newspapers, creating the perfect setting to unplug and recharge between intense work sessions. Plus, for those celebrating Ramadan, Café Paperhill has a special Iftar menu to enjoy after sunset!
12 Rue Maguire, Montreal, H2T 1B8
Located in the Mile-End, this coffee shop feels like stepping into a friend's kitchen. Small yet cozy, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. It's a simple, no-fuss spot where distractions are minimal, and high-quality coffee is always guaranteed. They also have a selection of books for those who want to sit back and enjoy a quiet moment.
Multiple locations
With five locations across Montreal, including some conveniently situated near cégeps and universities, Café Myriade is a go-to spot you can always count on. From delicious drinks and freshly baked goods to a welcoming atmosphere and free WiFi, it has everything you need. Plus, with ample space and friendly staff, it's the perfect place to settle in and get work done. Most locations stay open until 6 or 7 PM, depending on the spot!
1188 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montreal, H3A 1H6
Situated near McGill University and Concordia, Améa Café is a hidden gem for students and remote workers. With plenty of comfortable seating, accessible plugs, and free WiFi, it's an ideal spot to settle in and focus. Housed inside the historic Maison Alcan building, this café also serves up delicious pizzas and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their lattes are a must-try, and if you need a little sweet motivation, their New York-style croissant rolls are absolutely heavenly! While the café itself closes at 4 PM, you can still stay inside the building to finish up your work.
150 Promenade des Lanternes #10, Brossard, J4Y 0L1
Finally, a spacious and stylish coffee shop in Brossard! Recently opened in the heart of Quartier Dix30, this café has everything you need for a productive study or work session: great coffee, comfortable seating, and plenty of natural light. Plus, if you're powering through an evening work or study session, they also serve wine to keep the inspiration flowing.
Multiple locations
With two locations in Montreal, this low-key and cozy coffee shop promises quality coffee and food, but it's also a great third space to work in groups while grabbing a bite. From breakfast items to grilled cheese sandwiches and soups, it's the perfect spot to settle in for a productive day. The warm ambiance, friendly staff, and steady wifi make it an ideal choice for those looking to combine work and comfort. Whether you're fueling up for a study session or just need a quiet place to focus, this café has you covered.