Bagel Etc produces iconic Montreal style bagels characterized by a distinctively chewy interior and a golden, blistered crust achieved through traditional wood fired baking techniques. These hand rolled rings are boiled in honey water to ensure the signature flavor profile that defines the local culinary identity. Beyond the classic sesame and poppy seed varieties, the establishment offers a diverse selection of hearty sandwiches featuring premium meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables layered upon these dense, malted carriers. The interior environment emphasizes a functional and straightforward aesthetic that prioritizes the rapid delivery of high quality baked goods for patrons. Strict adherence to long standing artisanal methods maintains the specific textural integrity required for an authentic product. Patrons encounter a specialized menu focused on the fundamental elements of yeast dough preparation and savory protein pairings.
Bagel Etc. is widely cherished as a nostalgic Montreal institution, capturing the citys soul with its cozy, vintage atmosphere and connection to local legends like Leonard Cohen. Many patrons praise the friendly, welcoming staff and the authentic, comforting breakfast dishes, with specific favorites including the Huevos Rancheros, the Mount Royal omelette, and the delicious challah French toast. The restaurant is frequently lauded for its generous portions, efficient service, and charming decor, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists seeking a classic neighborhood brunch experience. While feedback on specific items varies, the overall consensus highlights a warm, vibrant place that feels like a meaningful piece of Montreal history, perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed and soulful morning meal.
Bagel Etc. - breakfast with a little Leonard Cohen magic
If you're following Leonard Cohen's footsteps through Montreal, Bagel Etc. is a stop you absolutely cannot skip. Located directly across Saint-Laurent Boulevard from Cohen's former home, this was one of his favorite breakfast spots-& he was a regular here for years, often sitting at the counter with his coffee. (Le Journal de Montréal)
Walking in feels like stepping into another Montreal era. It's cozy, old-school, slightly quirky, & completely unpolished in the best possible way. This isn't some trendy brunch concept designed for Instagram-it feels like a real neighborhood institution.
& knowing that Leonard Cohen could have been sitting at that very counter, drinking his allongé & quietly working on his thoughts, makes the experience pretty special. There's something almost poetic about having breakfast in the same little place where one of Montreal's greatest writers & musicians once spent his mornings.
For us, this was less about checking off another restaurant & more about connecting the dots of Cohen's Montreal-his house, the neighborhood, the murals, & now the place where he liked to have breakfast.
If you love Leonard Cohen, music, history, or simply authentic old-school Montreal, put Bagel Etc. on your list. A small place with a big story.
Don't go here. There are so many nice breakfast places in Montreal. The food & options were good, but the service was TERRIBLE. One of the servers in particular was so impolite, you wonder why she even works there. We were told this place was a classic & the owner seems nice but clearly he needs to take a look at how his staff treat customers.
My girlfriend & I were disappointed with our brunch breakfast plates.
For a place called Bagels Etc the bagels are not good & used to be better. They could at least source them from nearby St Viateur or Fairmount, or one of several better other bagel shops in town.
While disclosed on the menu, the plates suffer from a lack of fruit. Included potatoes & meat were standard as expected.
On the positive side, our server was good, aside from not bringing us condiments (minor) & the outdoor seating is very nice. No loud music so easy to enjoy a peaceful meal.
Jul 12, 2026
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Bagel etc truely deserves a 5 star review. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff & had the pleasure of eating an amazing breakfast in a lovely atmosphere! Plus the prices are extremely reasonable, it clearly shows that they do not cut any corners. I will definitely return! Thanks team Bagel
Very cool little spot for breakfast I found on my morning walk. Excellent, fresh ingredients, very friendly staff, & very accommodating. Will be back for sure, this time with cash (no credit, only cash & debit) 😀
Sweet little spot. Appreciated that they were open before 8am on a Sunday - I was the first one in & had quick & efficient service. Food & prices were decent. I ordered a classic breakfast. Coffee kept flowing without me needing to ask for it which i appreciated. I did ask for my potatoes to be crispy & they weren't, but they were still ok. Did enjoy the music selection as well - perfect chill Sunday morning vibes.
Although this place takes you to the 50 which I love , the service is really BAD! I order breakfast for take out the young waitress give me attitude because I was paying cash ! I used to love this place but will never go back
Classic diner with laid back vibes. A great place to get some fried eggs & a bagel while you're bumming through one of the better neighborhoods in Montreal. Going thrift & vintage shopping? Go here for breakfast first!
