It’s exam period and we all know what that means. It’s a time of endless coffee indulgences and all-nighters. More importantly, you’re spending hours at a time in the library. However, it can start to feel a little stuffy in there and even a little claustrophobic. Especially, when you see all these other students scrambling to memorize their notes and type away on their laptops. Well, don’t worry because there are other options. We have compiled the five best independent cafes in Montreal for you to take a much deserved break or to spend hours studying in. Not only are these places intimate, but they serve great coffee and the staff is friendly. It’s time branch out of the library and out into the world for a more productive day. Â
Pikolo Espresso Bar
Location: 3418 Parc Avenue, Montreal
For More Information: http://www.pikoloespresso.com/
Not only is this close to campus, but it provides an ambient, yet comfortable atmosphere for you to relax and refuel before you have to hit the books again. Its artistic interior will inspire you by featuring large photographs of their coffee drinks and utensils against the wall. Additionally, the ceiling-strung lamps and lights will have you transported to another world where romance and intrigue comes alive. Once you’re done taking a break, you’re free to stay and study. Everyone who comes through is in their own little world and conducting their own tasks, so you can get into your own rhythm easily as well. Then, of course, you have amazing coffee to keep you company as well.
Kitsuné Espresso Bar
Location: 19 Prince Arthur Street West
For More Information: http://on.fb.me/1lXUhF9
This is probably Montreal’s best kept secret. With little social media activity (they do not have a Facebook or Twitter account) and without a personal website, it virtually seems as though the cafe does not exist. While its hipster interior seems slightly intimidating, the staff are incredibly friendly. In fact, one gets a sense of community as s/he enter the building to see wooden tables that are characteristic of an outdoor park and indoor bike rack. They have everything that is characteristic of a third wave artisanal coffee shop, whether you prefer Arabica beans or Colombian, jasmine green tea, and even iced beverages, like lychee tea. No matter who you are, there is something for everyone here. Â
Cafe Code Black
Location: 4059 Saint Laurent Blvd.
For More Information: http://codeblackcoffee.com.au/
From Melbourne, Australia to Montreal, Canada, this coffee shop is as international as they get. A self-described laboratory for making coffee, Cafe Code Black sources “high-grade green beans from international farms and growers.” Afterwards, its baristas roast the beans and put them into bags for wholesale or individual purchasers. The employees here are trained in producing specialized coffee with these beans and, if you wish, you can make a coffee that suits your own taste. A great study and quiet spot with people coming here from all over to work, study or simply to relax. Not only will you learn about coffee, but you’ll get work done too.
Cafe Replika Â
Location: 252 Rachel Street East
For More Information: https://www.facebook.com/cafereplika
Have a taste for the exotic? Ever wanted to go to Turkey, but never have gotten around to it? Well, you’re in for a Turkish delight, because this new Montreal cafe has just about everything that you’re looking for. There are Turkish-style bagels, coffee and sandwiches. The owners come from Istanbul, so you know what you’re getting is authentic. The cute interior also helps, with round wooden tables and plush, mismatched furniture. If you’re looking for something creative and extraordinary, this is the spot for you.
Flocon Espresso
Location: 781 Mont-Royal Avenue East
For More Information: http://floconespresso.com/
Don’t let the Japanese language website scare you away because this is one of the best places in the plateau for coffee. While it may be a little out of the way, if you’re looking for a place to go without having to see people you know, this is the place to be. With its brightly-lit brick wall interior and glass ceiling lamps hanging over wooden tables, the cafe is aesthetically unique. Not only is this the best place to be inspired, but the staff is incredibly friendly and it’s small which means that there are usually not more than a few people inside at once. So, you can pop in your head phones and study away, while the caffeine pumps through you.
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Photos Retrieved From: http://s3.media.squarespace.com/production/1025822/13394545/2011/11/piko…, http://www.urbanexpressions.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/kitsune-2.jpg, http://www.alamodemontreal.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Code-black_caf…, http://cultmontreal.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Replika.jpg and http://images.lpcdn.ca/641×427/201106/09/339116-flocon-espresso-on-sait-….