Women Entrepreneurs: 7 Businesses to Discover Downtown

On March 8, International Women’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the entrepreneurs who bring downtown Montreal to life. From cozy cafés to indie bookstores, wellness studios, and thriving boutiques, these passionate women are shaping the city with creativity and vision.

Discover 7 must-visit businesses led by inspiring women, where every stop is a testament to talent, dedication, and innovation.

Tunnel Espresso

Behind Tunnel Espresso is Elsa Ouagmi, a coffee enthusiast who found her calling in Australia before making a name for herself in Montreal’s specialty coffee scene. Taking over Tunnel Espresso, she transformed it into a downtown staple, with several strategically placed locations in busy tunnels and urban hubs—including one at the Time Out Market.

Her goal? To serve top-quality coffee while fostering a true sense of community among regulars.

1253 Avenue McGill College

705 Rue Saint-Catherine Ouest

1500 Avenue McGill College

1100 Boulevard Robert Bourassa

Kaizen Manga Café

Founded by Sara Neji, Kaizen Manga Café was born from her love of Japanese culture and her desire to create a space where fans could come together. This one-of-a-kind café blends manga reading with a cozy atmosphere, offering a place to enjoy a great coffee while diving into the latest releases.

1433c Rue Bishop

Mandy’s

Behind Montreal’s iconic salad bar Mandy’s are sisters Mandy and Rebecca Wolfe, who have redefined fast, fresh, and flavorful dining. Mandy’s is all about vibrant, generous salads served in a bright and beautifully designed space.

What started as a tiny salad counter in a clothing boutique has grown into a thriving business with multiple locations—including two right in the heart of downtown—firmly establishing its place in Montreal’s culinary scene.

2067 Rue Crescent

1241 Rue du Square Phillips

Marché aux Fleurs MTL

Since the age of 17, Lioudmila Zoueva has mastered the art of floral design with passion. As the owner of Marché aux Fleurs MTL, she brings her expertise to Montrealers, offering vibrant bouquets, fresh flowers, and a personal touch—where every arrangement tells a story.

Behind her counter, she balances creativity and hard work, always driven by her love for the craft and the desire to brighten her customers’ everyday lives.

459 Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Librairie Argo

Founded in 1966, Argo Bookshop found new life in 2017 when Adele-Elise Prevost and Moti Lieberman took over this Montreal institution. A true book lover and community builder, Adele-Elise has transformed this independent bookstore into a vibrant space where literary events and gatherings bring people together.

Her goal? To create a place where the love of books is shared and passed on—far from the anonymity of big chains.

1841-A Rue Sainte-Catherine Ouest

Ocean Bou

The story of Ocean Bou began with a spark—Bouchra Kamil fell in love with the designs of Marcia Thrasyvoulou, a Cypriot designer. This chance encounter led to a transcontinental collaboration, bringing to life a boutique where Mediterranean elegance meets Montreal’s vibrant energy.

Together, they create swimwear and apparel designed to make every woman feel effortlessly confident and refined.

1444 Rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Suite 200

Mtl Pilates Lab

After a life-changing cycling accident, Véronique Lefort discovered Pilates as a path to recovery—and never looked back. As the founder of MTL Pilates Lab, she created a studio where every movement is designed to improve posture, build strength, and reconnect with the body. Since 2017, she has been guiding Montrealers on their wellness journey, proving that passion can truly become a mission.

1440 Rue Peel