Osmo X Marusan occupies a distinct underground space defined by an industrial aesthetic and a lively, resonant atmosphere. The menu emphasizes Japanese-inspired snacks such as crispy karaage and savory katsu sandos paired with delicate tamago. Guests encounter a selection of matcha and hojicha lattes prepared with deep, earthy tea profiles that balance the bold textures of the food. The venue integrates an expansive outdoor terrace that contrasts with the enclosed, modern interior design. Vibrant musical selections fill the space, contributing to the energetic environment that defines this unique hangout. These features combine to create a singular experience where minimalist architecture meets traditional flavor profiles in an unconventional setting.
Osmo X Marusan is a highly popular, uniquely designed spot in Montreal that blends an industrial, bunker-like aesthetic with a lively, social atmosphere. Guests frequently praise the high-quality matcha, hojicha lattes, and creative Japanese-inspired menu, particularly the various sandwiches and curry dishes. While many visitors find the environment perfect for working or socializing, others note that the space can become extremely busy and loud, occasionally featuring live DJ sets that may not suit those seeking a quiet retreat. Experiences regarding service and food consistency vary, with some patrons describing the offerings as fresh and delicious while others find certain items bland or the wait times excessive. Overall, the location is widely considered a trendy and memorable destination for those who appreciate a vibrant, artsy, and upbeat cafe experience.
This cafe was right beside where I was staying in Montreal, so I had to try it out. I was so pleasantly surprised - it is such a vibe! It's quite obvious which items are the most popular, including the egg sandwich which we ordered multiple of. It was certainly delicious, & not something you can order just anywhere!
I also enjoyed all the iced drinks, which came for free with the purchase of a bag of coffee beans.
Great Japanese cafe in the city. The matcha is strong, smooth & umami. Many alternative milk options as well. We got the egg sando & katsu curry. I really loved the curry & the portion was a proper meal size, it looks smaller in photos 😅 The egg sando was also good but, more of a quick/light bite since the bottom half of the sandwich is just mayo ahah. Either way, a must visit for good matcha!!
Before 11AM & when the lunch menu isnt available, the cafe is pretty much empty. But, afterwards it fills up quick. I'd recommend heading there slightly early, like 10min before if you want to get a table with friends or want to work there. Otherwise, there is a ton of seating!
Really enjoyed my visit overall! The matcha was rich & flavorful, & you could tell the mango was fresh rather than frozen, which made a big difference. The café has a lovely atmosphere & is a nice place to sit & relax.
It was quite busy during my visit, so it was a little noisy & made it a bit difficult to communicate with the staff. My food arrived about 15 minutes after ordering, which was reasonable considering how busy it was.
The egg sandwich looked amazing, especially with the perfectly jammy egg, & I was really excited to try it. While the presentation was excellent, I found the flavors a little milder than I expected. The bread was quite simple, & the sauce didn't add much flavor. I think a bit more seasoning or a more flavorful sauce would really make this sandwich shine.
Overall, it's a charming café with fresh ingredients, great drinks, & a welcoming atmosphere. I'd definitely come back & look forward to trying more items on the menu!
Jul 20, 2026
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Un café/restaurant super sympas avec des plats d'influence asiatique qui sont très bon & qui remplisse! Je recommande pour les pauses travails entre 12 & 2!
The quality of the foods were overall really nice & fresh. We ordered their famous karaage (fried chicken) sandwhich for 16.10$tx incl, tamago ( boiled egg) sandwich for 13.80tx incl, their chicken curry for 18.14 tx incl & an iced matcha latte for 6.90$tx incl. If you ask me, i ended up preferring the chicken curry over their sandwhiches. I like anything more saucy, so i found it more flavourul. I think the chicken curry was the same meat as found in the karaage sandwhich. Drenched in the sauce, it reminded me of eating a soggy general tao, not in a bad way, this was my favorite out of all dishes. Also the sauce was sweet & light & not spicy at all. It had a homemade taste to it that i liked. Suprisingly i liked the tamago (egg) sandwhich more than the karaage (fried chicken), it had some mayo inside & was rather simpler in ingredients. Whereas the chicken sandwhich had both some yuzu sauce & some fresh spring mix that i personally didnt find paired well. The chicken was also harder to eat in this one as their bigger in pieces, it kept falling apart. Anyway, im certain some people would disagree with me & would like the chicken sandwhich, however it was just not for me. Note: The sandwhiches once u pulled them out of their paper were no bigger & quite deceiving for its price. Lastly, my sister got the iced matcha latte & she called it smooth tasting. Nevertheless, i really the interior design of this cafe & found the place always busy & quite lively. It was well conditonned for those visiting in the summer. It was also quite loud, & i could barely hear myself talking. I was quite overstimulated & this place didnt live up to the hype I was expecting.
Delicious sandwiches, the karage chicken was the best, & the pork katsu was okay. Got the raspberry matcha & yuzu lemonade. Really cool cafe architecturally.
Tucked away in what almost feels like a hidden alley, Osmo x Marusan opens up into one of the coolest & most beautifully designed cafés I've visited. The modern interior is stunning, & once the sunlight hits the disco ball & reflects throughout the shared space, the atmosphere becomes something truly special. There's a reason there's always a line. The atmosphere for me is the biggest pull for this cafe.
We came early in the morning & tried the hojicha latte, matcha latte, the matcha with poured-over espresso, croissants, & both the chocolate & matcha cookies. The cookies were the standout from the pastry side-solid, satisfying, & definitely worth ordering. It's not seeet, right chewiness. The drinks were all very good, although I'd say Montreal already has many excellent cafés, so the beverages themselves weren't necessarily unique.
Another standout in this place is the overall experience from the crew, they were all fantastic-kind, welcoming, & genuinely helpful.
Brunch service starts at 11 AM, & we stayed to try the chicken katsu with rice & the pork katsu curry. Both bowls were crispy, tender, & beautifully executed. The biggest surprise was the chicken katsu: despite using breast meat, it was incredibly juicy & tender. They absolutely got it right. Topped it off with Hojicha tiramisu which felt good to seal off the appetite.
Taking everything into account-the food, drinks, service, & especially the atmosphere-this is easily one of the best café experiences I've had out of the hundreds that I've been to.
Today (June 24) late morning I went to this cafe to try their coffee, terrasse & food which were good. However, the issue is with the differential treatment I received from the cashier when I stood in the line. In front of me there was a white girl whom the cashier spoke to very nicely & ask how she was. When my turn came, the cashier's attitude suddenly shifted to a defensive attitude, cold smile, not the same treatment she offered the customer before me. An hour later I went to order some food & again the same attitude. I felt targeted by this lady.
To be fair, the people who were serving the food & making the coffee were much friendlier to me.
