As a student, it’s far too easy to fall into repetitive patterns. Routines can be comforting and convenient, especially when your schedule is packed. But if your days in Montreal are starting to feel like a sequence from Groundhog Day, it might be time to switch things up. Whether you’re looking for a new cafe, bar, or restaurant, The Tribune has rounded up your current favourites—and the alternatives we recommend to shake things up.
If you love Mae Sri, try Pumpui
Tucked away on Rue Milton, Mae Sri is a McGill student favourite for lunch and dinner. Serving up hearty, flavourful Thai cuisine at student-friendly prices, this spot is beloved for its no-fuss charm. If you’re a fan of Mae Sri, you’ll want to check out Pumpui in Little Italy. Its vintage Thai diner aesthetic and streamlined menu deliver a casual but delicious dining experience reminiscent of Mae Sri’s appeal. Pumpui’s rotating curries are warming, complex, and sure to spice up your Montreal restaurant rotation.
If you love Bar Biftek, try Fitzroy
Bar Biftek is a St. Laurent staple, an iconic spot for late night rounds of pool and pitchers. But with few billiard tables and a steady crowd, getting your hands on a cue is like winning the lottery. Enter Fitzroy: a spacious loft hangout equipped with no less than 15 pool tables. Ideal for larger groups or anyone craving a bit more elbow room, Fitzroy promises a night of less waiting and more playing.
If you love Bar Darling, try Bar Henrietta
McGill students can always count on Bar Darling to deliver an evening of creative cocktails and delicious plates. If you’re looking to add a similar spot to your late-night rotation, Bar Henrietta is sure to impress. Like Bar Darling, this Mile End classic strikes the balance between chic and laid back, featuring a terrace that’s perfect for relaxing with friends and indulging in people-watching. With menu offerings from popcorn to scallops, this versatile spot is ideal for date nights, catch-ups, and everything in between.
If you love Cafe Saint-Barth, try Olive + Gourmando
Cafe Saint-Barth enthusiasts appreciate the comfort of a classic brunch and the reliability of a good cup of coffee. Luckily, Montreal has a wealth of spots that not only match this criteria but encourage you to wander away from the campus bubble. One such gem is Olive + Gourmando. Serving Montrealers since 1998, this Old Port bakery-cafe-restaurant hybrid has grown a cult following. Although you’ll often find a line out the door, the buttery pastries and satisfying sandwiches are well worth the wait.
If you love Bar Suzanne, try Else’s
Bar Suzanne is a cozy favorite known for its lush greenery, welcoming vibe, and late-night dumpling menu that keeps customers coming back. If you’re a fan of Suzanne’s intimate, dimly-lit atmosphere and satisfying small plates, Else’s offers a kindred experience. Just a short walk away from Bar Suzanne, Else’s is a similarly warm and eclectic hideaway—perfect for seeking refuge as Montreal winter approaches. With a menu that ranges from tacos to butter chicken, it pairs comforting food with a relaxed bar setting, creating the perfect spot to unwind from the stresses of student life.
If you love Nouilles Zhongua, try Nouilles de Lan Zhou
Deservedly popular, Nouilles Zhongua resides across from the Roddick Gates, making it a convenient spot for students craving fresh noodles and warm broth during the week. But if your weekend plans can take you a little farther, Montreal’s Chinatown offers a deeper dive into the city’s world of handmade noodles. Nouilles de Lan Zhou often tops the list of best Chinese noodle spots in the city. With its fast service, substantial portions, and bustling atmosphere, Nouilles de Lan Zhou provides the ultimate motivation to make your way out of the McGill bubble.
