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!
The Huevos Rancheros (with bagel) was absolutely delicious.
This was my first time having a salsa like this - not a blended sauce, but one with large, fresh chunks of tomato, which made it feel really vibrant & fresh. The tomatoes had a nice natural acidity, paired beautifully with the chewy bagel & finished with a soft, runny egg yolk. The combination of tangy, chewy, & creamy textures was really memorable & definitely worth trying.
That said, the French toast was pretty average & didn't stand out compared to the other dishes, so I wouldn't particularly recommend it.
Dec 21, 2025
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.
Discovered it this morning while waiting for a winter tires change...
Wow!.. Awesome experience!
Food, ambience, service!
They even can accommodate celiac people like me with gluten free bread!
Highly recommend for anyone who is killing time & wants to venture around!
Amazing place!
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!
