Montreal is a vibrant and beautiful city that's often regarded as the “Paris of North America.” And you know what? The comparison makes sense. They're both French cities, they're both bustling metropolises, and they both offer a bit of old-world charm. Not to mention share the same love for cafe society too. It's no secret that the cafes in Paris are some of the finest in the world. And here in Montreal, there are a few hotspots, namely Café Parvis, La Croissanterie Figaro, Café Pista, Café Cherrier, and Duc de Lorraine, that evoke the same ambiance, vibe, and perhaps even culinary excellence as those in the French capital.
Café Parvis
Located on Rue Mayor, Café Parvis just has this lived-in, almost nostalgic quality to it that's oh so Parisian! No matter how long it's been around, you get a good sense that the space itself has existed for centuries. And the addition of hanging plants and vines to provide botanical bliss further elevates its Parisian appeal. And while they don't exactly serve haute cuisine here, the food at Café Parvis isn't to scoff at either! Think beef tartare, four-fromages pizza, or orzo salad. These are the kinds of dishes that will leave you craving more after every bite.
Source: Café Parvis
La Croissanterie Figaro
What's more Parisian than a croissant? If you truly want to experience those Paris feels in Montreal, then look no further than La Croissanterie Figaro on Rue Hutchison! The place itself has a
Belle Époque quality to it. From its mirrored walls to the hanging lights, you can easily imagine the likes of Salvador Dali or F. Scott Fitzgerald hanging out here. As for what to order, it's already in the name, isn't it? Croissants! Spread some butter on it and pair it with coffee and you'll feel as if you're dining in the French capital yourself!
Source: La Croissanterie Figaro Facebook Page
Café Cherrier
Despite how modern it looks, Café Cherrier on Saint-Denis Street still pretty much feels like Paris. Sure, it may not have that old-world charm that the French capital is known for, but it has the city's signature vibrancy and chic energy. In a way, it also evokes a 1950s American diner feel, doesn't it? And that's the kind of vibe that Paris has also embraced over the years. Though, weirdly enough, Café Cherrier's specialty is carbonara pasta. It couldn't get any more Italian than that! It's as if eating here takes you on a trip around the world!
Source: Café Cherrier Facebook Page
Duc de Lorraine
As one of the
finest cafes in Montreal, Duc de Lorraine is a popular hotspot among locals and tourists alike. Part of it is, of course, its Parisian appeal. With its tented terrace area and alfresco vibe, it's downright impossible not to think of the French capital when you dine here. Even more so when you see what they serve! From filet mignon to beef tartare, it's haute cuisine all the way. And then there are the French desserts. Think eclairs, St. Honoré cake, and
macarons! If these won't remind you of Paris, what will?
Source: Duc de Lorraine
Café Pista
And finally, there's Café Pista on Rue Beaubien E. Known for its ethically produced coffee beans, this place is as organic as can be. It's chill and contemporary, far from the nostalgia-inducing cafes in Paris that often make for great content for
travel inspo Instagram accounts. But if you've actually been to the many coffee shops in the French capital, you'll find that countless of its hotspots look like Café Pista! Various new businesses taking over the more gentrified areas in Paris are going for a more modern look for their coffee shops.
Source: Café Pista Facebook Page
What do all these fine cafes in Montreal have in common? Apart from their great coffee and delicious menus, they offer the right ambiance and the perfect vibe to make you feel like you're in Paris. Pretty cool, right?
