Bagel Etc is described as a nostalgic classic brunch spot with a warm, efficient staff, retro decor, and music that evokes a Montreal past. Reviews celebrate fresh, well executed staples like eggs Benedict on bagels, house made salsas, generous portions, and bagels that are always chewy and delicious. The coffee and orange juice are highlighted as freshly prepared, with quick service on weekend mornings and a lively atmosphere that makes it feel like a local ritual. Several comments praise the welcoming vibe and the sense of community, though a few note occasional service hiccups, potential extra charges, slow meals when busy, and questions about cleanliness or a wasp presence outside. Cash or debit are often preferred since credit cards may not always be accepted. Overall the place is seen as a beloved Montreal gem offering strong brunch, classic dishes, and a memorable vibe, with some caveats to consider.
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
Bagel Etc is a CLASSIC plateau establishment. Their potatoes are *unreal*. I visited for the first time in a few yrs (been living away from MTL) & it was even nicer than I remembered. Turns out it was bought by one of the line cooks & a waitress! The vibes were good, now they've retained vibe & are augmenting!! Their benedicts are all served on bagels. The French toast is made with challah. Unlimited drip coffee. Weekends are busy which makes things difficult for the waitstaff at times, be patient!! it's worth the wait. Takes cash or debit. Former haunt of famed son of MTL Leonard Cohen. Congratulations again on the purchase of the business, so happy we'll have Bagel Etc for generations to come!!
Sep 9, 2025
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I recently visited Bagel Etc. for breakfast while in Montreal, & overall, it was an okay experience - nothing exceptional, but not disappointing either.
The breakfast portions were reasonable, though I wouldn't say they were particularly generous or memorable. It felt pretty standard, & while it filled me up, it didn't really stand out compared to other breakfast spots in the area.
The highlight, as you'd expect from a place with'Bagel' in the name, was definitely the bagels.
They were fresh, nicely toasted, & had that classic Montreal-style chewiness, which I really enjoyed. If you're coming here for a bagel, you won't be let down.
One thing that's important to know before visiting: they don't accept credit cards - only debit or cash. There is an ATM on-site, but like most restaurant ATMs, it's always better to have cash on hand to avoid fees or any inconvenience.
The atmosphere is casual, & the service was fine, though nothing particularly warm or memorable. It's a simple, no-frills kind of spot - good for a quick, decent bagel breakfast if you're in the area.
Would I go out of my way to return? Probably not. But if you're nearby & craving a solid Montreal bagel, it's worth a visit.
Skip Beauty's & come here. Huge portions, the best staff, old world feels, no lines, & awesome Challah/bagels/Russian bread. If you're lucky you'll get the table by the window to people-watch. FYI it's cash/debit only
Been going here since the 80's. Love their burgers but today had the club sandwich. Service was excellent & the decor brings you back to a bygone era. The club was tasty & would recommend as was the Salad Nicoise. The tuna was excellent. Only disadvantage was the line up to pay at the cash, Extremely inconvenient & not fun making customers wait so long. Recommended.
TO BE AVOIDED BY FOREIGNERS. They just take some specific Canadian debit method or cash, so you will just either pay extras at their ATM or lose time finding another way. & no wifi. Yes, you could read the little yellow sign in the entrance, but come on this is Montréal! Food & staff service is good though.
Aug 8, 2024
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Food was basic, but the atmosphere is where it's at. The feeling in there is vintage that takes you back to an old fashioned diner. One downside is cash or Canada debit only. If we wanted to use American dollars, it was the same dollar price as the Canadian, no exchange on it. We paid via cash using their ATM. Lines were long but it was good enough for a breakfast.
