Reviews describe Café Léo as a cozy, relaxed, and welcoming space with a warm vibe that invites long visits for work or study. The coffee and drinks receive frequent praise, from rich espresso builds to matcha and chai lattes, and the pastries and croissants, including options for gluten free, are often highlighted as standout treats, though some reviewers warn about cross contamination or limited gluten free choices. The atmosphere is described as bright, stylish, and conducive to concentration, with artful decor, rotating exhibitions, and plenty of seating that can accommodate individuals or groups. Staff are generally praised for friendliness and helpfulness, even when service varies by moment, and the location near the university is noted as convenient for students and travelers alike. Overall, Café Léo comes across as a popular, aesthetically pleasing place to sip well made drinks, enjoy a pastry, and get work done, while a few comments point to a desire for a larger food menu and more consistent service.
Great coffee, served by very friendly baristas - even when I didn't know how to say'whole milk' in french. Nice chill atmosphere for hanging out as well.
Stumbled upon this cafe as I was heading to my destination. Thought nothing of it & had no expectations but when entering, I immediately enjoyed the chill & vibrant atmosphere. I ordered an iced mocha made with 10%, my usual go-to during the summer. The drink was done in about 4 minutes, I kid you not, it was THAT good. It wasn't too sweet, not overly chocolatey, & the espresso beans perfectly complimented the drink; literally everything was at the right ratio. I had to go back to let the barista know & also purchased a bag of the beans they had used. If ever I go back to Montréal, I will definitely be coming back to café léo.
edit: finally got my film rolls developed!
1-year post-review visit: went back Aug 6 for the same iced drink I bought in my original review, I was genuinely excited (I even purchased a different bag of beans to bring back home) until: a) I realized the barista taking orders punched in an Americano instead & b) the barista making drinks said they don't make mocha's with cream even after being told & acknowledging what my drink will be. Talk about embarrassing-the experience was a complete 180 as previously above. Even if the food looks great & the dining area is amazing, a café is only as good as the service provided & consistent drinks being made.
Aug 7, 2025
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Was in town for Osheaga, & found this coffee shop conveniently located around the corner from our hotel. I love checking out new, cool cafes, & in that sense this spot hit the mark. However, the staff were not very welcoming. Perhaps it's different in Ontario, but usually one is greeted when entering, smiles all around, & just a warmth within the service. Barely a hello when approaching the counter, no smile at all, definitely no thank you. I still tip because I've been a Barista for over ten years, & understand the difference tips make to income. It's so EASY to be warm & welcoming...I couldn't help but think it was because I'm English speaking. I will say, the coffee is fantastic & unique, but consider adding a level up in the friendliness dept...greeting a customer when walking in the door goes a long way.
Beau, lumineux, café super bon.
Svp plus d'options véganes & choisissez des laits végétaux canadiens ou québécois! Le lait barista de Oatbox ou Natura est excellent! 💯 :)
Le service & la qualité des grains utilisés sont tous les deux exceptionnels. J'ai dit au barista quel type de grain de café j'aime - fruité, vif, funky. Elle m'a proposé plusieurs choix de grains selon mes préférences & m'a préparé un superbe V60. J'ai également aimé l'espace minimaliste, les ouvres d'arts, & les viennoiseries.
Super café, chaleureux simple des belles pieces d'art au mur du soleil qui rentre a plein les fenetres pour un espace de salle a mager travail collaboratif grand espacé utile. Mais le meilleure partie du café c'est l'equipe de Barista souriante qui s'amusent tout la journée qui mette de la musique de qualités & qui font rayonner tout la place plus fort que le soleil qui tente de s'immisser par les fenêtres Merci Leo
Came here for a quick coffee in the afternoon! Honestly was one of the best coffees I have ever had! The Staff was super friendly & the ambience of the space was perfect! Would strongly recommend coming here if you're looking for a nice spot to do some work! These baristas know what they are doing!
Aug 4, 2024
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Best flat white my friends & I have ever had. On top of that, the baristas are extremely friendly & are very willing to share their expertise with you! Love this cafe
