Overall, Second Cup Café is a popular, cozy spot for studying and meeting friends, with friendly staff, reliable wifi, and plenty of seating on two floors; open hours and a calm atmosphere make it a go-to for students and remote workers, though some locations can feel crowded or noisy. The menu gets mixed notes: coffee and baked goods are praised, with vegan options appreciated and carrot or chocolate cake singled out, but some pastries are dry and prices can feel high for the value, and there are critiques of limited gluten-free or healthier choices. Ventilation and cleanliness issues recur in some reviews, including strong kitchen smoke and non-working outlets or dirty washrooms, which can detract from the experience. Service is often described as friendly and attentive, yet a few comments point to inconsistent management or staff tensions. In sum, Second Cup Café serves well for a casual study break or late-night hangout, with great coffee and a welcoming vibe, but attention to air quality, hygiene, and price/value is needed to appeal across locations.View restaurant profile
Fairmount Bagel Bakery is widely celebrated as a Montreal staple with fresh, chewy bagels in a variety of flavors like sesame, everything, onion and the playful Bozo, described by many as the best in town or even in the world. The scene is lively with lines that move quickly and a visible craft of bagel making in wood fired ovens, and many reviews note the option to take bagels to the cafe across the street to make sandwiches, though some visits mention miscommunication about sandwiches and payment issues such as cash only or limits on non-Canadian cards. The bagels are consistently praised for aroma and quality, and staff are frequently described as friendly, but a few critiques cite high prices, crowded conditions or an uneven service.View restaurant profile