Sometimes, studying on campus feels impossible. The library is too crowded, your apartment is too loud, and the thought of another hour in the McLennan basement under fluorescent lights feels soul-crushing. That’s when you know it’s time to pack up your laptop and headphones and head to one of these gems around McGill. They’re more than just places to grab coffee—they’re sanctuaries where deadlines somehow feel less daunting.

#1 Anti-Café: Time Is on Your Side

This spot flips the script on traditional cafes—you pay for the time, not the coffee. At $3 CAD an hour, you get unlimited coffee, tea, snacks, and Wi-Fi, all in a cozy space perfect for marathon study sessions. I once cranked out an entire term paper here with nothing but their green tea and a plate of cookies to fuel me. The vibe? Chill but focused—like everyone’s quietly rooting for you to finish your work.

#2 Second Cup: Across from McGill, Away from Stress

Right across from campus, Second Cup is where you’ll always find at least one friend (or a classmate avoiding their reading list). The spacious seating and soft background music make it a solid spot for light studying or group projects. Pro tip: Order the caramel corretto—it’s comfort in a cup, especially on a dreary winter day.

#3 Gerts Café & Bar : Home Away From Home

Gerts isn’t just a bar. By day, it’s a cozy café where you can grab coffee or a bite between classes. It’s run by students, for students, which means you’ll always feel like you belong. I once spent a rainy afternoon here going over econ notes while sipping the cheapest (but surprisingly good) latte on campus.

#4 Rosetti: The Aesthetic Overachiever

Rosetti is where you go when you need a little beauty to inspire your brain. The minimalist design, soft lighting, and insanely good pastries make it a treat for all the senses. The first time I went, I meant to review lecture slides but ended up spending half the time admiring their latte art. Aesthetic distractions aside, the calm vibe makes it perfect for focused work.

#5 Columbus Café: Where Comfort Meets Focus

This cozy spot on Peel Street is like studying in your favourite aunt’s living room—if your aunt had excellent coffee and fresh pastries on hand. The plush chairs and warm lighting create the perfect atmosphere for hunkering down with a long reading list. Bonus: their chocolate chip muffins might just be the best in the area.

#6 Leaves House: A Breath of Fresh Air

If you’re in desperate need of calm, Leaves House is your escape. Imagine greenery everywhere, vegan treats that taste way better than you’d expect, and herbal teas that smell like a warm hug. The day before my history final, I came here to decompress, and I swear the lavender tea saved me from a breakdown.

#7 Humble Lion: Small but Mighty

This is the café for true coffee aficionados. Humble Lion’s espresso is the stuff of legends, and their minimalist setup means you won’t be distracted by anything except your work (or maybe the sunlight streaming through the windows). It’s a small space, so come early if you want a spot.

#8 Tommy Café 

If the harsh fluorescent lights of Schulich Library aren’t your vibe, Tommy Café offers a much-needed escape. With its cozy and inviting atmosphere, the second floor is a standout—complete with soft green couches and an ambiance that feels like a warm hug. It’s the perfect daytime retreat for unwinding or tackling some studying between classes. Just a heads-up: The top floor closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. 

#9 Le Cathcart 

Tucked inside a lively, cafeteria-style hub, Le Cathcart offers an eclectic array of dining and café options to suit every craving. From the swift, energizing brews at Café Veloce to the hearty, brain-fueling bites at Dirty Greens, there’s something here for everyone. What sets Le Cathcart apart is its versatility as a study and hangout spot. Whether you thrive in open spaces buzzing with energy, or prefer a secluded, dimly lit corner to focus, you’ll find your perfect nook. This dynamic space effortlessly combines vibrant food with cozy spots for productivity or relaxation.

#10 SoLIT 

SoLIT Café is a stunning study spot that feels like stepping into a serene urban oasis. With delicate lights intertwined with leaves hanging from the ceiling, the ambiance is both enchanting and inspiring. During the warmer months, their beautiful outdoor seating area adds an extra layer of charm—though that may feel like a distant dream on colder days. While the café has a no-computer policy (not strictly enforced), it’s an ideal place for diving into textbooks, catching up on class readings, or simply enjoying a mindful moment with a book.

Each of these spots has a personality of its own, just like the students who frequent them. Whether you’re cramming for midterms or procrastinating on a paper (it happens), these cafes are more than just places to study—they’re a little slice of comfort during the chaos. So, grab your laptop, find your perfect nook, and let the productivity—or procrastination—begin.