Café Olimpico - Mile End

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"An old-school Italian café famous for its cappuccinos."

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"A cherished coffee-and-pastry institution whose outpost at a central hotel is recommended for a local-style breakfast and casual neighborhood coffee culture." - Julia Eskins Julia Eskins Julia Eskins is a writer and editor covering travel, design, and culture. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Vogue, National Geographic, and more. She’s traveled to more than 50 countries, lived in five, and currently calls Toronto home. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

The Best Cafes in Montreal | Eater Montreal

"Founded by the late Rocco Furfaro in 1970, this Italian coffee shop promises to stay “open da night” — a clever branding move after some of the original window decals stating “open day and night” peeled off. While its original location continues to operate as a landmark on the bustling Mile End scene, recent expansions include smaller shops in Old Montreal and Downtown." - Daniel Bromberg

Montreal’s Most Iconic Foods | Eater Montreal

"Fine, a latte is not exactly a “dish,” but Italian coffee shop Olimpico is a true Montreal icon — it’s cheap, it’s hot, and the atmosphere can’t be beaten. For an alternative that’s similarly notable but less touristy, consider Little Italy’s Caffe Italia." - Valerie Silva

"Classic Montreal: (Cafe) Olimpico Olimpico is one of those places I visit whenever I return to Montreal . It is the quintessential cafe in the heart of Mile End. The decor is a mish-mash of sports bar and old-time hang out; there's a lot of Team Italia posters and soccer regalia plastered over the walls and a TV tuned into the sports channel in the corner. Of course, a Canadian flag hangs above the door. The old (French) Italians are gone and the hipsters congregate, anchored by the mustachioed barista. All kidding aside, this place is where you'll find the locals mingling interchangeably in French and English. I solely come here to people watch. Olimpico is old-school all the way: there's no cash register; order and leave your change at the counter. You can drink at the counter as well. This is not a place for frappucinos or chai lattes. At Olimpico, I order straight-up espresso. Olimpico is very traditional, but full of character—just like Montreal."