McGill Ghetto Presse Café
le Cagibi
3501 AvE du PARC 514.844.1101
5490 ST. LAuREnT 514.948.3303
the tons of plants, huge wood tables, wireless internet and long hours of this presse café make it the best pick in the ghetto. lattes for $3.80 and a selection of cakes, paninis and salads also available. Note: Watch out for the cranky lebanese owner, though some might say he just adds to the quirky charm of the place?
this mile end favourite used to run under the name of ‘esperanza.’ after a protracted closure, they have been back in business for some months now. the place is huge with good coffee, cheap burritos and jugs of beer. It’s a good place to study and keep an eye on their schedule as they have loads of cool stuff happening. hAnnAh ByRnE
Plateau
Papineau
Else’s 156 ROy EAST 514.286.6689
We are big fans of this little gem just east of st. laurent on roy. comfortable, colourful and with a sweet old-fashioned bar, this spot to grab a coffee and read or chat can easily lead into an evening pint or some whiskey when your work is done.
Café Pi 4127 ST. LAuREnT BLvd 514. 286.4828
the long and narrow space known as pi is dedicated to all things chess, but amid the groups of old russian men huddled over games you will find a number of students taking advantage of the atmosphere, the wireless and the menu. pi now exhibits art and recently got a television screen for european sporting matches and hockey. a latte sets you back $2.25.
Mile-End Art’s Café 201 fAiRMOunT WEST 514.274.0919
this is one of my favourite cafes in the city, especially during the summer. there is a terrace along the side which is great for a languid afternoon coffee. It’s a laid back place and not impossible to tap into the wireless while nursing a slow coffee. they have a bunch of night time events with art exhibits, bands etc. so ask the staff. they also do a mean breakfast. hAnnAh ByRnE
Bistro In Vivo
4731 ST. CAThERinE 514.223.8116
With different menus every day, wireless, music dance and theatre in the evenings and a bunch of plants, this café coop is great for those doing a bit of study on the east side of the city. lattes for $3.50, pressed hot or cold cider and beer cocktails also available. Note: the tea, coffee, sugar and chocolate sold here are all fair trade.
Honourable Mentions: Nocochi
2156 MACKAy 514.989.7514
patisserie/café with wireless and a selection of unique goodies to snack on.
Zawedeh 3407 PEEL ST 514.288.4141
best spot just west of mcgill to have a coffee and a bite while studying or reading. student-friendly with “some” wireless.
Club Social 39 dAnTE ST 514.272.7386
Friendly and popular with locals, serving good coffee with terrasses. WIFI.
27/