Café 2nd Gen offers a distinct menu centered on high-quality matcha and bold Vietnamese coffee. The drinks highlight complex flavor profiles, ranging from earthy ube and rich sticky date to decadent tiramisu. Alongside these signature beverages, the menu includes fresh sandwiches prepared with care. The physical space creates a vibrant atmosphere, complemented by available outdoor seating and a selection of games for a relaxed environment. While certain flavor profiles lean toward sweetness, the emphasis remains on the distinct quality of the ingredients used in every cup. Each element within the space contributes to a warm, cozy setting that remains true to its core identity.
Café 2nd Gen is widely celebrated as a premier coffee destination in Montreal, beloved for its creative and high-quality specialty drinks, particularly the signature ube matcha and various Vietnamese coffee concoctions featuring unique foam toppings. Visitors frequently praise the welcoming atmosphere and the exceptionally kind, attentive staff who contribute to a cozy and inclusive environment. While the space is relatively small and can become crowded, leading to limited seating during peak hours, the presence of an outdoor terrace during warmer seasons offers a pleasant alternative. Guests consistently highlight the thoughtful preparation of their items, including delicious sandwiches and pastries, making it a favorite neighborhood gem that earns high recommendations despite occasional wait times or noise levels.
One of the best iced coffees, if not the best iced coffee I've ever had. Everything from the location, service, & quality was top notch. 10/10 recommend
We ordered an iced matcha latte with ube foam, it was 9:50$ total. It was pretty good. I like my ube foam & the matcha was decent. Also, the service was friendly, the place is cool & they offer outdoor seating. I recommend grabbing a seat outside with a friend to chat & see dogs pass by.
Aug 11, 2026
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I went to Matcha 2nd Gen Café on March 1st with friends… one of those freezing winter evenings where you just want something soft & comforting after being slapped by the wind.
The first thing I noticed was how kind the staff were. It immediately set the tone. I was served by the owner, Sarah, who answered all my questions & gave thoughtful recommendations based on my mood. I'm very indecisive when I go somewhere new because I want to try everything… which is exactly why I bring friends. More options, more tasting… don't tell them I said that. Love you girls !!
We ended up trying a few drinks:
• Matcha 2nd Gen with coconut milk (my pick)
• Iced matcha with ube topping (Farzy's pick)
• Iced salted tiramisu matcha (Jules's pick)
My favorite flavor was the ube… but I'd ask for a little less ube topping & more matcha next time since it leans a bit sweet. Still really good, just depends on your preference.
One thing I appreciated is that the matcha base actually tastes like matcha. Not overly milky, not hidden under sugar. This is not a spot for fake matcha lovers… & I mean that in the best way.
We also tried their cinnamon brioche, & that surprised me. I'm usually more of a donut person & don't go for cinnamon rolls often , but the texture was soft, balanced, & not too sweet. It was done really well.
The space itself feels thoughtful… from the drinks to the little details like games you can grab & play at your table. They were playing'With You' by Chris Breezy along with other early 2000s R&B, which added to that cozy, nostalgic feeling I love.
The café is still very new, opened about 6 months ago by Sara, her husband, & a friend, & you can feel the care in everything. They also rotate seasonal drinks, so the menu we tried was their March selection.
It ended up being one of those simple outings that just felt good. Cozy time escaping the brutal winter winds… good matcha, good energy, & a place I'd come back to when I want a emotional support matcha or Vietnamese coffee .
I'm just a foodie & travel lover who enjoys trying new places & experiences & sharing them along the way. If you like scrapbook-style posts & discovering spots like this, come hang out with me on TikTok @foxy.appetite & IG @foxyappetite 🫶
I visited Matcha 2nd Gen Café on March 1st with friends, on one of those freezing winter days where you just want something warm & comforting.
The service stood out right away. The staff were genuinely kind, & I was served by the owner, Sarah, who took the time to answer my questions & guide me through the menu based on what I felt like having. It made the whole experience feel more personal.
We tried a few drinks:
• Matcha 2nd Gen with coconut milk
• Iced matcha with ube topping
• Iced salted tiramisu matcha
The ube was my favorite flavor, but I'd recommend asking for a lighter amount of topping if you prefer something less sweet & more matcha-forward.
One thing I really appreciated is that the matcha actually tastes like matcha. It's not overly milky or sugary, which makes this a great spot for people who enjoy a more authentic flavor.
We also had the cinnamon brioche, which was soft, well-balanced, & not too sweet. I'm usually not a big cinnamon roll person, but this one was definitely worth trying.
The space is simple but thoughtful, with small details like board games available & a cozy playlist (early 2000s R&B when we visited) that adds to the overall atmosphere.
The café is still relatively new, opened about 6 months ago, & you can feel the care behind it. They also offer seasonal drinks, so the menu changes regularly.
Overall, a cozy & well-executed spot for quality matcha & a relaxed visit. I'd definitely come back.
I was a bit lost at the start locating the cafe because it's not actually along rue William. The ambiance inside the cafe is very cozy. The staff are very welcoming & helpful. My only criticism is that I wish there was more seating space. I was hoping to sit at a table & take a photo of their drink in a clear glass but I looked around & resorted to ordering to-go (someone just happened to leave while my drink was being prepared).
I ordered the iced Matcha 2nd gen which apparently has condensed milk. I quite enjoyed the smoother texture & slight more sweetness.
Overall, really nice spot to enjoy a drink while reading a book!
