Lili & Oli functions as a refined pillar of the local coffee scene, prioritizing high-quality roasts alongside an array of artisanal baked goods. The interior features industrial design elements combined with exposed brick walls to create a focused environment for patrons. Freshly pulled espresso shots provide a robust foundation for an extensive beverage menu that caters to discerning coffee enthusiasts. Glass display cases showcase meticulously prepared pastries, ranging from buttery croissants to dense, flavorful muffins that rotate based on daily production. Every beverage reflects a precise brewing technique designed to extract maximum complexity from the beans. The atmosphere maintains a steady pace, driven by the rhythmic sound of grinding coffee and the steady flow of prepared trays arriving from the preparation area.
Lili & Oli is widely celebrated as a cozy, aesthetically pleasing neighborhood staple in Montreal that offers a consistently welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors. Guests frequently praise the high quality of the coffee, particularly the signature iced coffee cubes and flavorful lattes, alongside a delicious selection of pastries and savory bites. While the space is compact and can get busy, it serves as a popular destination for working, reading, or relaxing with friends, thanks to its charming interior and generally friendly, helpful staff who contribute to a memorable and comfortable experience.
The only downside is that I ordered a grilled cheese & had to wait 30 minutes to receive it, which is too long for such a simple sandwich. Also, it seemed like people were allowed to bring their own food, & there was a strong smell of garlic & fermented vegetables, which I don't think is ideal for a café environment.
I've visited this place three times. The coffee & desserts are excellent, but the service often feels cold or sarcastic, which can make newcomers feel unwelcome.
The menu shows that they offer food like salads or cheese toast, but when I asked, the staff responded with a cold'no.' It would have been better if they had clarified politely that these items may not be available at that time.
Overall, the place seems officially open to everyone, but the atmosphere & service could be improved to match the high quality of the products. I hope management takes this feedback seriously & creates a friendlier, clearer experience for all visitors.
Apr 6, 2026
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My friend & i walked in hoping to get a brunch, place seemed welcoming so we asked to browse their brunch menu..we got told they don't serve food there by the guy at the cash, surprising since there was people eating & once you walk in it smells like food..we walked right out. Pretty deceiving.
Un petit café très sympathique.
Le service est agréable & rapide. Bon produits, petit bémol pour le matcha, trop le goût du lait que du matcha.
Bon café filtre. Café authentique.
Small, cosy café, perfect for working on a rainy days. There is not much space & the tables are made for 1-2 people. Coffee is a bit pricey, however delicious, & the staff is very friendly & helpfull. You can also buy coffee beans here & enjoy this space with a unique aesthetic & great music.
If you're a local, sure, come. Food is good & I liked the coffee. But if you are an outsider (English speaker or not), be prepared for a dry sarcasm that will make you feel unwelcome. & the place is not really pet friendly, as pets are welcome when you ordering but cannot stay.
I would like to take a moment of silence for regular ice cubes, because once you've experienced the famed Lili & Oli coffee ice cubes, you'll be changed forever. As the saying goes once you go black, you never go back.
This iced latte does not dilute. It evolves. As the ice melts, it whispers sweet melodies of espresso into your drink. It is, quite literally, like a second coffee hiding inside your first coffee. A Russian doll of caffeine, if you will. A crescendo of caffeine-induced euphoria. A delectable stroke of genius so obvious in hindsight it makes you wonder how humanity survived without it.
Every sip, richer than the last. Time works in your favour here.
As for the shop itself: warm, welcoming, consistent. The kind of place that accidentally becomes part of your personality.
Anyone bold enough to leave a negative review should know this : hundreds, possibly thousands, of fiercely loyal patrons stand ready to rise in defence of these coffee ice cubes & you may very well risk being met with (freezing) fire & fury, the likes of which you've never seen. You've been warned.
& for those who haven't tried it yet, you're seriously missing out.
