Midterm season may be over, but this doesn’t mean that it is time to put away the books just yet! November is the perfect time to catch up on all those readings before finals kick in and to get started on all of those research papers that seem to have all of the same due dates. Although I do love a nice quiet afternoon reading or writing at my favorite library spot, I usually prefer to settle into a nice coffee shop when it comes to buckling down and getting my writing on! November is an awkward and somewhat gloomy month, so in order to beat the November blues, when it comes to studying I like to go to a comfortable environment that inspires me, all the while providing me with just the right amount of distraction. This idea of limited distraction is a philosophy I have been carrying around with me for most of my undergrad degree, and now, halfway through my senior year, I definitely know what study and paper writing habits work best for me. Lighting, comfortable seating, and the possibility to refuel on coffee and food are always a plus. Here are three coffee shops that should be added to your study routine!
Café Myriade: 1432 McKay
This trendy coffee shop just West of campus could be straight out of a hipster scene in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The friendly baristas definitely know their coffee, as Café Myriad definitely caters to the coffee connoisseur, but don’t worry if you are new to the coffee scene; this is a great place to embark on your coffee journey! With early hours and a no-Wifi policy, this old school simple café definitely means business. This is a great place to meet up with a friend, but also a great place to study. Although it tends to get busy with the hustle and bustle of back and forth students getting their coffee fix, if you get there early enough it is also a great place to focus on all those papers, and just the right amount of distraction to look at when you take a break.
Pikolo Espresso: 3418 Avenue du Parc
Dubbed a “paradise for espresso lovers,” Pikolo Espresso Bar is located in the heart of the McGill ghetto. Its hip and modern atmosphere make this coffee shop the ultimate student destination, whether it is to pick up a cup for the road, or for a Saturday afternoon study session. For me, good coffee and delicious food are a must, and combined with Pikolo’s friendly service, this little shop provides an exciting alternative to, well let’s face it, the library. The coffee here is simply the best, especially for all those coffee enthusiasts looking for a real cup of joe. The Pikolo latte and their famous banana bread are my favourites and are definitely a must when working on all those papers. The cozy yet trendy vibe here is just what you need to not fall asleep, to stay focused, and to get your work done all while enjoying some of the best coffee Montreal has to offer.
La Croissanterie St-Catherine: 1909 St-Catherine West
Located on St-Catherine Street West, near St-Marc, La Croissanterie is a hidden gem that will most certainly not disappoint. La Croissanterie bakes everything on the spot the morning of, and I must say that they have some of the best-baked goods in town. If you are like me, food is a must when writing papers, and this place’s chocolate croissants are to die for — I would even go as far as to say that they are the best I have ever had! You can usually find a mix of students taking over multiple tables at the back end of this friendly neighborhood café. La Croissanterie also serves a great variety of comfort food, allowing you to prolong your studying from morning to night. With friendly owners always there to greet their customers, free Wifi and some of the city’s most tasty treats, this low-key coffee shop is most certainly one of the city’s best-kept study secrets!