Olive et Gourmando operates as a cornerstone of the local culinary landscape, focusing on artisanal baked goods and high-quality prepared provisions. The menu prioritizes substantial sandwiches constructed on house-made breads, featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic flavor profiles. Grilled cheese selections serve as a signature highlight, utilizing curated cheeses melted to perfection within crusty, toasted sourdough slices. Patrons encounter an environment defined by rustic aesthetics, exposed brick walls, and a constant, bustling atmosphere generated by the high-volume output of the open kitchen. The selection emphasizes fresh, seasonal produce paired with savory meats and refined condiments. Efficient service manages a steady flow of visitors seeking consistent, hearty fare throughout the day. Every element reflects a rigorous commitment to scratch-made quality, maintaining high standards for every item across the varied and robust menu offerings.
Olive et Gourmando is widely regarded as a must visit destination in Old Montreal, celebrated for its high quality pastries, exceptional coffee, and creative sandwiches like the Cubain and various paninis. While many visitors praise the cozy, bohemian atmosphere and friendly service, the experience is often characterized by busy crowds and inevitable wait times due to its popularity. Although some reviewers find the prices high and the seating limited, the majority agree that the fresh, flavorful food and unique café vibe make it a standout spot that is well worth the visit for breakfast or lunch.
For a self-proclaimed foodie destination, this place just got crossed off this foodie's list. Admittedly we showed up after the lunch rush, but the place had been absolutely ransacked. The server seated us without warning, & when we went to order, each item we requested had run out. No Cuban, no chicken melt, no several other delicious sounding things. She gave us 10 more minutes to look over the menu & come up with a plan B. Truthfully I wanted to jump ship, but couldn't because our drink orders were already in, & I was captain of this gastronomic journey. We'd set sail without proper forecasting!
We settled on the baked egg & salmon bowl, neither what we were exactly craving. The baked egg was fairly tasty, a shakshouka-esque experience accompanied by rustic bread for hasty dipping. The salmon bowl was excellent, with delicious dressing, but the salmon portion was oh-so-meager. It made me wonder if the lunch rush had given the kitchen such a beating that they had split my salmon filet in half & served it to me & my neighboring table friend. Check out my photo & tell me if that portion seems right?
The lore says Michael Jordan worked his rear off every game because he always told himself there was probably at least one kid in the stands who came there to see THE Michael Jordan. Well this kid in the stands caught Olive & Gourmando taking the night off. There is a risk for peril if you choose this restaurant, especially if you are in Montréal for a limited time!
It's not 20-30 per person. A sandwich is >$25 before tax or tip. No sides. Nothing. Coffee another $7. Expect to spend ~ $100 for breakfast for 2 ppl. But it's still packed. Oh no AC either. Sweaty & gross in July.
Cuban had a nice sauce but not a lot of protein. I'm used to these being stacked thick. Did I mention no sides?
I can't tell how much of this is enshitification/profit maxxing vs legit costliness of running a business in OM.
This place was super busy & is a hop away from the Basilica. The almond croissant we had was not your typical shape of a croissant, but it was perfectly flavored with just the right texture not too soft not too crunchy. Even though I had to eat this on the street because the place was too full for dining in. It was definitely the best croissant I've had ever.
Super endroit où nous avons petit déjeuné avec 2 enfants. La brioche à la cannelle & le scone à la fraise valent le détour ! La limonade framboise maison est également un régal . Le lieu est un peu bruyant mais le personnel ultra sympathique & tout est bon, même le café ! On recommande sans hésiter.
Vibrant, bustling atmosphere & a line out the door at 9am on a dreary Thursday - certainly a popular spot!
I tried the cinnamon brioche after seeing raving reviews, but as someone with a very mild sweet tooth, it was way too sweet for me :( Wish I tried something else to be more excited!
The space was loud & energetic, so great for a date or hanging out, but definitely not a cafe to sit & work from. Not a place for'laptop time' as one of the other reviews suggests.
Went on a Friday morning with my friend who recommended the place as one of her favorite brunch spots in the city. We got there around 11 am & there's already a line of people waiting in front of the restaurant. 50 minutes later, we finally got seated at one of the small tables inside the restaurant (we could probably get seated a bit quicker if we're willing to sit at a shared table, but since we wanted a private table, we waited a little longer).
What we ordered:
🍑 🍞 Peach Cobbler French Toast • 8/10
This was good, but it was a little bit too sweet for my personal taste. Still finished the whole thing though.
🍳 Tex-Mex Baked Eggs • 8/10
This was also pretty good. Might also be the healthier choice between our two orders.
All & all, I think the food here is pretty solid. They have a selection of delicious looking pastries & baked goods too that we didn't get to try cause we were full (maybe next time). The restaurant itself is pretty cozy with that warm atmosphere of a friendly neighborhood brunch spot. There's usually quite a wait for a table so make sure you come early or be prepared to wait for a bit.
