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.
Came here for brunch with my friends & we loved the trendy style/ambiance of the place.
We each ordered a specialty platter, where they ranged anywhere from $15 to $23. I personally got the Mont Royal, which I'd highly recommend.
It was a very flavorful omelette packed with meat & peppers, & it was great with the home fries & bread. Despite the bagels being from Fairmont, they were pretty disappointing. Get the challah! Side note, the french toast was DELICIOUS.
The service was also great! The waitress noticed I had an empty water bottle from outside & offered to refill it. I was very impressed since I've never been asked that before lol. However, it took quite a while to get the bill because the restaurant was so busy.
Despite the restaurant's name, if you skip the bagel, I'd highly recommend getting brunch here!
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.
I visited Bagel Etc. for lunch with my family-it's actually my parents' favorite brunch spot in Montreal, so my expectations were pretty high going in.
We were seated at an outdoor table, which was nice in theory, but I definitely regretted not dressing warmer. Something to keep in mind depending on the weather.
The restaurant was very busy, & it took about 30-40 minutes for our food to arrive. The food itself was good, but not quite at the level I had built up in my mind.
Unfortunately, I did find a fairly large piece of eggshell in my Eggs Benedict. To their credit, the staff handled it well-they apologized promptly & offered complimentary fruit, which I appreciated.
My parents also mentioned that it didn't feel quite as good as they remembered from previous visits.
Overall, it was still a positive experience. With faster service & perhaps an upgrade to crispy roasted potatoes instead of the current ones, this place could really elevate the dining experience.
Super lieu pour prendre des brunchs, les serveurs sont très agréables & professionnels. L'ambiance est top & la nourriture délicieuse! Nous y retournons souvent!!!!
