Café Civil: Mastering the Art of the Pause in Chinatown

“A café for the people”: that’s the idea behind the name Café Civil, explains Zacharie Gauthier, who opened it with co-owner William Goulet. The idea comes to life in its sunny Chinatown room, where sets of dominoes wait on the tables. With snacks that change from week to week, there’s every reason to come back, and above all to stay a while.

The two partners have long worked in the restaurant industry, mostly front of house in fine dining establishments. Zacharie cut his teeth at Bar George, while William grew within the Joe Beef group. Civil is their first business venture, designed as a place to share a moment with your table neighbours, or simply with yourself.

Chinatown wasn’t part of the original plan, but the partners found their space there, along with a community that welcomed them with open arms. The neighbourhood quickly left its mark on the project. The statues and objects uncovered while clearing out the space were kept and now set the tone for the decor, and the menu also draws on the area’s influences.

The sweet potato matcha is a fine example. The sweet potato lends it a slightly sweet note while bringing out its umami. The coffee comes from a custom blend developed with a Montreal roaster.

The rotation of desserts and snacks runs from Basque cheesecake to onigiri, but the caramel flan, made in-house, stays on the menu permanently.

With about forty seats, the space lends itself well to working or studying. The sound system is top quality, and the music stays at a volume that leaves room for both focus and conversation.

Keep an eye out for the events Café Civil will host in the evening, outside its regular opening hours. DJ sets and jazz nights have already livened up the space, and Zacharie and William, who have been immersed in the industry for years, have plenty more ideas in mind.

Written by Marie-Ève Godin
Photography by Alison Slattery

Updated on September 16, 2026

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