Cardynal - Bar à Espresso is described as a cozy, welcoming spot with excellent coffee, chocolate, and pastries where friendly, efficient baristas create a calm atmosphere suited for work, conversation, or a relaxed visit. A seasonal soup of creamy sweet potato and squash with croutons is a standout that guests return for, and the menu also includes gluten-free treats and raspberry muffins. Espresso and drip coffee receive high praise, while the matcha latte is noted for a balanced sweetness and earthy aftertaste. Outdoor seating is appreciated, sometimes shared with neighboring restaurants, and ingredients are clearly labeled to aid choices. The overall impression is that Cardynal is a reliable place for coffee and tea on the Plateau Mont-Royal, ideal to start the day or spend time with friends, with a pleasant decor, steady vibe, and a suggestion from some to curate the music a touch for a calmer reading backdrop.
The potage du saison here was soooo good. When we were there, it was a creamy sweet potato & squash soup with croutons, we came back over & over just for that on our Montréal trip! The people are lovely too!
One of the best places in the area for coffee & tea. My espresso was excellent. I liked their outdoor seating area, which they seem to share with neighboring restaurants.
J'adore ce café ! Le personnel est toujours chaleureux & attentionné. Le café est excellent, & le cadre est vraiment agréable ! parfait pour se détendre, travailler tranquillement ou chiller entre amis.
À très vite !
Aug 6, 2025
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Stopped by on a road trip around the Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood. The baristas were friendly & efficient, & the place overall is very cozy on a Sunday.
Honestly I still think about the matcha latte - it's a little sweet & a little bitter, with a non-overwhelming earthy aftertaste. The drip coffee also had a smooth taste.
Will be coming back!
Jun 1, 2025
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It was exactly what I needed. I was just coming from the doctor's office & after that visit needed some comfort. I needed an internal hug so I thought coffee & googled near by coffee shop. I found Cardynal & saw awesome reviews & thought why not.
The ambiance was perfect. Cozy, warm & just a great place to sit, eat & enjoy a moka latte like I did. I also got this amazing raisin & cinnamon foccacia with melted Brie cheese. Although there was just one person here kindness & professionalism brighten my day. This small moment that I got to spend with myself at the cafe definitely changed the trajectory of my day.
(updating review from a few months ago) Ordered an single shot Americano, they gave me a big cup with the same amount of water as a double shot Americano. Obviously, the "coffee" looked like dirty water! What kind of a coffee shop, on Mont-Royal Ave. no less, doesn't know how to keep the correct proportions on a cup of coffee! When I challenged them, i found out that they made a double espresso, then throw out half the coffee & filled the big cup with water! &, then charged me for two shots! Their excuse, their machine doesn't make single espressos! Lol. I got a replacement cup that was better proportioned, but the coffee was actually not very good, especially when you pay 5 freaking dollars for an espresso with hot water. Definitely not coming back!!!
Cozy cafe with a good vibe & good coffee. I just ordered a spicy decaf latte & it was really good. Staff is chill & yeah just a good experience. Wifi & indior & outdoor tables to work. It's a bit small so will fill up quick.
Points forts - Bonne musique - assez propre Points faibles - 6,89$ pour in chai latte moitié mousse - serveur blasé (pas impoli, mais genre pas très accueillant non plus)
