Beauty’s Luncheonette

Beauty’s Luncheonette has served breakfast and lunch at the corner of Avenue du Mont-Royal and Rue Saint-Urbain since 1942. It was founded by Hymie and Freda Sckolnick, who first served hot lunches to garment workers, and it is still family-run. After a major renovation, it reopened in 2021 with its vinyl booths, counter stools and friendly service intact.

How to get there

Beauty’s is on Avenue du Mont-Royal Ouest, at the foot of Mount Royal Park. Mont-Royal metro station (orange line) is about a 10-minute walk east; the 97 bus along Avenue du Mont-Royal stops nearby.

What to order

The Beauty’s Special is the classic order: a sesame bagel with smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomato and onion, a combination credited to Freda Sckolnick. The Mish-Mash omelette, pancakes, blintzes and homestyle breakfast plates are also popular.

Atmosphere

The 1950s-style décor, with blue booths and a long counter, makes it feel like a step back in time. Weekend brunch lines are a neighbourhood tradition, and the clientele mixes families, students and regulars of several generations.

Plan your visit

Beauty’s is a breakfast-and-lunch restaurant, so it fits perfectly before a walk up Mount Royal, whose trails start a few blocks west via Rue Saint-Urbain and Avenue du Parc. On weekends, expect a line by late morning; weekdays are much quieter. Avenue du Mont-Royal itself is a lively shopping street, and a stroll east toward Boulevard Saint-Laurent and Rue Saint-Denis takes you through the heart of the Plateau with its cafés, boutiques and colourful outdoor staircases. Families with children are welcome, and the menu has plenty of simple breakfast options for younger diners.

Good to know

• Nearest metro: Mont-Royal (orange line), about a 10-minute walk; or bus 97
• Neighbourhood: Plateau-Mont-Royal, near Mount Royal Park
• Cuisine: Diner, brunch
• Budget: $ to $$
• Best for: Weekend brunch, families, a breakfast before hiking Mount Royal
• Tip: Arrive early on weekends

Why it is on our list

Beauty’s captures Montreal’s brunch culture at its most nostalgic and welcoming. Read our brunch guide and our Montreal bagel guide.

Hours, menus and prices change often. Confirm opening hours and reservation policies directly with the restaurant before you go.