Olive et Gourmando

Opened in 1997 by Dyan Solomon and Eric Girard, Olive et Gourmando is a bright café-bakery on Rue Saint-Paul Ouest in Old Montreal. It is known for its pastries, artisanal breads, generous sandwiches and brunch, and for the line that forms at the door when the weather is good.

How to get there

The café is in the western part of Old Montreal. Square-Victoria–OACI and Place-d’Armes metro stations (orange line) are each about a seven-minute walk. The Old Port and the Pointe-à-Callière museum are a few blocks away.

What to order

The hot paninis are the house signature; the Poached Egg On Your Face panini and the Cubano sandwich are among the best sellers. Salads, seasonal soups, French toast and brunch plates complete the menu. Do not leave without a pastry, the homemade brownie or a loaf from the bakery counter.

Atmosphere

The room is warm and casual, with wooden tables and an open counter. It works well for solo diners, couples and small groups. Take-out is available.

Plan your visit

Olive et Gourmando is a daytime spot, so plan it as breakfast, lunch or a mid-afternoon break during a walk through Old Montreal. Saturdays are the busiest; weekday mornings are the easiest time to grab a table. Take-out pastries or a sandwich make a good picnic in the Old Port, a few minutes’ walk south, where you can sit by the river. The Pointe-à-Callière archaeology museum and the Notre-Dame Basilica are both close by. If you are visiting with children, the café’s sandwiches and pastries make an easy, crowd-pleasing lunch.

Good to know

• Nearest metro: Square-Victoria–OACI or Place-d’Armes (orange line)
• Neighbourhood: Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
• Cuisine: Café, bakery, brunch
• Budget: $$
• Best for: Breakfast, lunch, sightseeing breaks
• Tip: Daytime only; the café has been closed on Sundays, and weekdays are calmer than Saturdays

Why it is on our list

In a historic district full of tourist traps, Olive et Gourmando is a dependable address loved by locals and visitors alike. See our brunch guide.

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