Reviews describe Joie de Livres as a cozy, magical bookstore cafe with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes time slow down as shelves are browsed. The concept of a cafe and library hybrid is praised for offering a wide selection across fantasy, romance, horror, and other genres. Staff are consistently portrayed as friendly and attentive, providing helpful recommendations and a welcoming first impression. Occasional crowds or limited seating are cited as drawbacks when the space gets busy, with some guests finding the dining area cramped. Drinks and snacks are highlighted as a strength, with many noting delicious lattes, chai, cocktails, and desserts, though a few reviews mention higher prices. The ambiance is repeatedly described as calm, cozy, and conducive to reading, with decor that blends bookish charm with creative flair. Readers appreciate the bilingual book selection and the chance to explore titles in different languages within the same visit. Overall, Joie de Livres stands out as a must visit Montreal spot that blends literary discovery with hospitality, while suggestions to improve seating and crowd flow could further elevate the experience.
Beautiful bookstore with many beautiful books. A must see in Montreal, especially for the book lovers out there. The bar/cafe on site is a very big plus!
Mar 26, 2026
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Joie de livres est bien plus qu'un simple café-librairie : c'est un lieu qui nous transporte complètement !
Dès que l'on en franchit le seuil, le tumulte extérieur semble s'effacer pour laisser place à une atmosphère presque féerique qui nous rappelleraient un rêve enfantin. On s'attarderait bien des heures dans ce lieu d'une poésie sincère.
Les ouvrages disposés tout autour de la pièce invitent à l'errance intellectuelle, tandis que les arômes subtils du café enveloppent les sens avec une élégance discrète. Les cafés sont bons, originaux & soignés; les pâtisseries avaient l'air tout aussi bonnes bien que je ne les ai pas essayé.
Victime de son charme, le café-librairie peut être très achalandé, je conseillerai ainsi d'éviter les heures de pointes ou d'y être en plus petits groupes.
Great bilingual bookstore. The essais & nonfiction section is small, but the variety of fantasy books (their specialty) is vast with all kinds of book covers & editions for most titles. The bar has a cool book inspired menu, nice choice of coffees, teas or cocktails. I'd love to visit again just to work or read while sipping a nice drink ☕?📖🍹😌
A very warm & cozy place with a beautiful decoration. The concept of sitting among books while enjoying a coffee makes the atmosphere feel calm & relaxing. It's a great spot if you like quiet environments & literary vibes.
I didn't get the chance to try the coffee during my visit, so I can't comment on the drinks, but the atmosphere & the decoration alone make this place feel special & welcoming.
Un endroit chaleureux, convivial - belle humanité & délicieuses gourmandises - & ..'fabuleux' par le choix des livres proposés ! & oui,'la joie délivre' de mes préjugés 😄 Merci pour cette belle escale lors de mon récent voyage à Montréal !
Mar 7, 2026
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J'adore cette librairie café ! Elle est tellement rendu populaire qu'il est souvent difficile d'y trouver un coin pour s'asseoir. Toutefois ça ne retire rien au fait que j'adore y aller 🤭🩷
Such an amazing place! The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful - cozy, inspiring, & perfect for slowing down. The coffee & pie were delicious, & the interior design is truly unique & thoughtfully done.
A perfect spot to relax with a book & enjoy a peaceful moment. Highly recommend!
Super friendly staff! Love the concept of a small coffee shop that is also a library! Coffee & snacks were really nice, the only reason why it's not 5 stars is because they're so busyyyy my friend & I could barely sit when we arrived. Overall, I recommend strongly & will definitely go back to Joie de Livres!
Feb 24, 2026
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Took a trip to Montreal & found this lovely little book store. So much beautiful detail in their decor. Had a yummy creamy latte & my daughter had a refreshing peach iced tea. Staff were lovely & tolerated my broken French.
Absolutely lovely bookstore with a great horror section! Great food & cocktails & a space to sip & read. They hold great events & book clubs! Everyone who works there is so kind! Shout out to James for hosting a great hellraiser event!
I think it will become one my fav-save places in Montréal. I love the selection of books & the division by topics :D
& the best! The café-bar inside makes it a dreamed place.
I would like that the place can grow up & have more tables 😆😆😆 but is fine!
Thank to the person with the idea to create this place ☺?
Joie de livres est un café qui, selon moi, fait le bonheur des passionnés de lecture à Montréal - dont je fais partie. J'ai d'ailleurs eu la chance d'y savourer un excellent chai ainsi qu'un délicieux gâteau aux carottes. On y trouve également un vaste choix de livres, ce qui en fait un lieu particulièrement attrayant pour les amateurs de fantasy. Cependant, je m'attendais à un espace qui invite davantage à la lecture. Lorsque je lis, je privilégie des sièges confortables, comme des fauteuils ou des sofas, plutôt que des chaises de type restaurant. J'apprécie aussi les ambiances calmes & apaisantes, alors que l'atmosphère se rapprochait davantage de celle d'un restaurant que de celle d'un café littéraire. De plus, les prix du menu m'ont semblé relativement élevés & le service, bien que correct, manquait de chaleur, donnant parfois l'impression de déranger.
Cela dit, je crois sincèrement que ce café possède un très beau potentiel en tant que lieu de rassemblement pour les amateurs de lecture. Avec une ambiance plus propice à la détente & à la lecture, il pourrait devenir un espace encore plus inspirant & accueillant.
