Sometimes the small things are the ones you remember most.  

We have had an opportunity to stay in Montreal these past few days and have wondered at the choice available when it comes to gastronomy.  The same goes for coffee.

Unfortunately, as has been the case for a very busy and tiring last few weeks, much of our morning time has been focused on convenience.  In other words, quick stops at places that are nearby to get a quick hit.  Essentially, hitting the big brands – those that can afford to have 600 locations within steps of wherever you may be.

Waking up early this morning to a sunrise that was unexpected provided an opportunity for solace from the dreariness of convenience.  A quick search pointed us to a nearby cafe that had reviews that shone; and a brisk very early morning walk in the downtown core of this world-class, cosmopolitan city provided an oxymoronic calm and quiet that supported the tranquil gift we were handed.

What we searched for was “best bagels near me” which brought up countless closed boulangeries and patisseries – and none of the famous Montreal style bagels we had hoped for.  Another thing it brought up though, was Côte Café.

A bright oasis within a brutalist neighbourhood of concrete, the inconspicuous muralized building shone as we turned the corner of Guy and Sherbrooke.  Inside, a small but warm entry provided a warm greeting.  

Our sweet tooth wanted the Salted Peanut Butter Latte, but our rationality of the morning pushed us to the flat white we crave often.  A quick ask of dairy preference later and our eyes had already ordered us the apple turnover staring at us through the display case glass.

All this to say, our small flat white and crispy, fresh, and satisfying turnover brought forth a morning bliss that everyone deserves on a cold, Canadian, sun insprired November morning.  And if you happen to be in downtown Montreal and need a fresh start to your day, head to 3467 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges. Your prize?  Côte Café.  Maybe you’ll grab the latte that we will be going back for later today.

Small coffee.  Short walk.  Inspiration for a quick hit of writing and a beautiful start to the weekend.

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An analogue adjacent moment…

As an aside, we got back and sought out a playlist to support our writing. We know it’s not analogue, but it provided some wonderful moments of aural bliss through our ear pods in an otherwise quiet hotel room to go along with our inspirational morning. The list we chose? ‘Morning in a Loft in Montreal’ on Apple Music. It’s not for everyone… none are, but it matched our mood at the right time. Whoever @brennan is, well curated sir.