Montreal is more than just bagels and smoked meat—this city is a brunch-lover’s dream. From whimsical French toast towers to bold and spicy eggs Benedict, the brunch scene in Montreal is full of vibrant flavours and Instagram-worthy dishes that you won’t want to sleep through.

Whether you're a student on a budget looking for a treat, a local foodie, or just someone who needs a serious morning pick-me-up after a night out, this city delivers. Here are five unforgettable brunch dishes you’ll want to roll out of bed early for—and exactly where to find them.

1. Chicken & Waffles at Eva's (ROYALMOUNT)

📍 Address: 9600 Rue Meilleur, Montreal, QC H2N 2E3
🌐 Website: Eva’s at ROYALMOUNT

If you're craving something that hits both your sweet and salty taste buds, Eva's Chicken & Waffles is where it’s at. Located in the newly opened luxury food court inside ROYALMOUNT, Eva’s dish combines crispy fried chicken with fluffy Belgian waffles, all topped with maple syrup and served with a side of fresh seasonal fruit.

This isn’t your typical diner-style combo either. The chicken is spiced just right and perfectly crunchy, while the waffle is light and buttery with a golden edge. The maple syrup—because, of course, it’s Quebec—brings everything together in a sticky, sweet harmony.

The setting inside Le Fou Fou Food Court adds to the experience. It's chic, airy, and has communal seating perfect for brunch with friends or a casual weekend date. Bonus points: it's right near the new Time Out Market-style complex, making it easy to turn brunch into a full day out.

2. Truffle Benedict at Tommy Café (Old Montreal & Royal Mount)

📍 Old Montreal Location: 200 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, QC H2Y 1T3
📍 ROYALMOUNT Location: 9600 Rue Meilleur, Montreal, QC H2N 2E3
🌐 Website: Tommy Café

Tommy Café has earned its place on every foodie’s brunch list—not just for the gorgeous interiors, but for its creatively elevated classics. The Truffle Benedict takes a traditional eggs benny and brings it to the next level with asparagus, cheddar cheese, and prosciutto layered on multigrain bread, all topped with a decadent truffle hollandaise sauce.

Let’s be honest—truffle anything feels fancy. This dish is no exception. The richness of the sauce contrasts perfectly with the salty bite of the prosciutto, while the asparagus adds a fresh, slightly crunchy note. It’s beautifully plated, and yes, it tastes just as good as it looks on your IG feed.

Both locations deliver the same signature ambiance: hanging plants, tall ceilings, and a Euro-chic vibe that’s as photogenic as the food. Arrive early or be prepared to wait—it’s that popular.

3. La Folie French Toast at Tommy Café

Same locations and website as above

For those with a sweet tooth or a love of over-the-top brunch, the La Folie French Toast at Tommy Café is a sugar-coated dream. Thick slices of French toast are piled high with fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, cotton candy (yes, really), and a playful sprinkle of Lucky Charms cereal.

This dish isn’t just brunch—it’s a full-blown celebration. Think of it as the perfect Sunday morning reward after a long study week or post-party recharge. It’s the kind of treat that’ll make your brunch crew go “whoa” when it hits the table.

Despite the sugary presentation, the dish is surprisingly well-balanced. The toast itself is soft and eggy with a caramelized edge, and the fruit helps cut the sweetness of the marshmallow topping. You’ll probably need a nap afterward, but it’ll be worth every bite.

4. Love of Lux Toast at Spirulina

📍 Address: 1800 McGill College Ave, Montreal, QC H3A 3J6
🌐 Website: Spirulina Café

Need something a little lighter but still packed with flavour? Head to Spirulina, a clean-eating café that’s gained a cult following for its superfood-packed menu. Their Love of Lux Toast is a health-conscious yet indulgent dish, featuring creamy avocado, smoked salmon, red onions, and fresh dill on sourdough toast, all topped off with everything bagel seasoning and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

This dish is like the glow-up version of your average avocado toast. It’s protein-packed, filled with healthy fats, and doesn’t skimp on flavour. If you’re into “wellness brunch” without feeling like you’re missing out on taste, this is the one.

Located in the downtown core, Spirulina is ideal for students and professionals looking for a wholesome meal between classes or meetings. The minimalistic decor and calm vibes make it a great solo brunch spot too.

5. Chorizo Eggs Benedict at L’Avenue

📍 Address: 922 Mont-Royal Ave E, Montreal, QC H2J 1X1
🌐 Website: L’Avenue Restaurant

No list of Montreal brunch spots is complete without mentioning L’Avenue, an iconic Plateau destination where the food is as bold as the graffiti-covered walls. Among its many standout dishes, the Chorizo Eggs Benedict is a spicy, smoky, and utterly satisfying option.

Each plate features two perfectly poached eggs resting on English muffins layered with spicy chorizo sausage, smothered in creamy hollandaise. It’s served with potatoes and fresh fruit, making it a full, hearty meal. The spice level is just enough to wake you up, but not so intense that it overwhelms the dish.

L’Avenue is famous for its funky bathrooms, bustling brunch atmosphere, and creative plate presentations. Be warned: there’s usually a line-up, especially on weekends. But once you’re seated, you’ll understand the hype.

Final Thoughts

Montreal is known for its rich culinary heritage and cultural diversity, and that extends to its brunch scene. Whether you're treating yourself after a week of studying, showing a visitor around town, or simply craving something amazing to start your day, these five brunch dishes are worth waking up for.

From the comforting crunch of Chicken & Waffles at Eva’s to the health-forward elegance of Spirulina’s Love of Lux Toast, each spot offers something unique. And hey, even if you’re not an early riser, these restaurants serve brunch well into the afternoon—so you can still get your fix, no matter how long you hit snooze.

Bonus Tip for Students

Many of these brunch spots are located near key student hubs like McGill, Concordia, and UQAM. Pair your brunch with a study session, stroll through nearby shops, or catch up with classmates. Montreal might be cold in winter, but its brunch scene? Always hot.