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 regarded as a charming Montreal institution, praised for its cozy retro atmosphere, nostalgic decor, and connection to the city's cultural history. Many patrons enjoy the classic breakfast menu, specifically highlighting the eggs Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, and fresh bagels, often noting the quick and friendly service provided by the staff. While the establishment is a favorite for its unique vibe and welcoming character, some visitors have experienced inconsistencies in food quality, service delays during busy hours, and concerns regarding the cash-only payment policy, which has caused frustration for those unaware of the requirement beforehand.
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 don't get the hype ?!? Other than the staff who are super friendly & welcoming the food is mediocre . The potatoes lack flavor , the pancakes were dense . Overall, the food failed to live up to all the positive reviews I read before choosing this place . However , the great service made the visit pleasant .
The service was pleasant, the food mediocre, not the best bagel, cold potatoes. Then I went to pay with a Canadian Revolut card that I have been successfully using for 3 days in every establishment I have visited. Here it doesn't work, neither does an EU debit, & it just so happens they have an ATM in the café where I was charged 3.49 transaction on 20 dollars. I don't appreciate being so blatantly ripped off.
Apr 17, 2026
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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.
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.
It's a shame, I used to really like this place. The service was really quite poor despite the friendliness of the staff. For example, my coffee was cold when I got it (after waiting a while even though it wasn't busy) & my water only got refilled at the end of the meal after I paid my bill. I was asked if I wanted fake or real maple syrup but didn't know the real stuff cost an extra $4 until I saw the bill - we're in Quebec so that's fairly egregious. Customers should be warned they'll be charged extra for something like that. The potatoes are always a slam dunk but the pancakes tasted like they were made from Bisquick mix; they were awful.
Nice patio, cool place to grab brunch, but the food is overpriced for sure. The potatoes are terrible, & the side salad is also mediocre. I'd say get a pancake or the turkey & swiss on a bagel, but avoid much else on the menu or you'll be disappointed. The waitress assumed things without asking, & was kinda cold too.
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!!
Returning to an old huant after almost 40 yrs. Still has its charm & & awesome menu & staff. Stopped in for a midweek brunch as we'd been in town to see a show. The plateau & main are the same & yet different than I remember.
Bagel Ect, still a gem! They served up one of the best brunches we've had in Montreal. I ordered the classic Benedictine Eggs Benedict-perfectly poached eggs, rich & velvety hollandaise, all on a fresh, fluffy base. My partner had the Romanov, a version with lox, which was equally delicious-the smoked salmon was silky & flavorful without overpowering the dish. A special shoutout to their sautéed potatoes-crispy, well-seasoned, & the ideal companion to our meals. Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, & food done right. Forgot to mention, thier latte are perfect...Highly recommended!
