I noticed a while back that below the back counter they have bags of Caffè Italia home roast espresso beans. $14 for a chic little white bag of hefty nutty flavor, these beans make some good brew. This is now my caffeination of choice - fresh ground at home and bubbled up in my caffettiera on the stove top, it's like having Italia in my apartment any time I like. Minus the swarthy, serious baristos.
Sidenote: the Mayor of Montreal walked in here the other day followed by a photographer, shook everyone's hand while the pap snapped and left quick. Paying homage to the real powers that be in MTL? Maybe! Looking for a friendly neighborhoody photo op while dealing with ongoing student strikes? Golly gee, seems likely.