Reviews paint Second Cup Café as a cozy, welcoming spot that works well for studying or catching up with friends, with a calm atmosphere, friendly staff, and tasty coffee. The cake selection is a standout, especially carrot cake and chocolate cake, with generous slices and well balanced frostings, and vegan options like pumpkin bread loaf are appreciated. The cafe is popular with students and remote workers, often open with flexible hours that make it a reliable place to stay for a while. Some locations have excellent service and a warm vibe, while others note issues like outlets not working or crowded, noisy spaces during peak times. The arrangement of seating on two floors helps, and the back seating area is described as nice. Overall, the place delivers reliable coffee and desserts, a pleasant environment for study or socializing, and a strong cake program, with location specific drawbacks to consider.View restaurant profile
Fairmount Bagel Bakery is widely celebrated for its authentic Montreal style bagels, chewy and freshly baked in wood-fired ovens, with a range that includes sesame, everything, onion, garlic, pumpernickel, bozo, sun dried tomato, cranberry, and more; reviewers describe them as among the best in Montreal and often in the world, worth the wait in long lines that move steadily; the experience is typically take-out only, with no indoor seating and a cash or Canadian debit card payment policy, plus occasional notes about rising prices and smaller sizes; the bagels pair well with a variety of cream cheeses and toppings, and the smell of the bakery and watching bagels being prepared adds to the charm; several mentions highlight the friendly staff and the sense of tradition, while a few reviews flag inconsistent service or crowding at peak times; overall the place is regarded as a must try for Montreal bagel lovers and a signature stop for visitors seeking an iconic bite.View restaurant profile