Best Delis in Downtown (2026) - Reviews & Menus

Marché Artisans

Located in the Hotel Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

Opens Tomorrow at 7:30 am

(77)

Downtown

Breakfast Ice Cream Deli Sandwiches Salads Market

Mentioned in: Get Your Maple on in the City with These Urban Sugar Shack Experiences Best Hotel and Spa Restaurants in Montreal View More

Review Summary

Marché Artisans is described as a cozy, relaxed spot in Montreal with a welcoming atmosphere and a wide, well-executed menu that spans pizzas, tartares, crepes, sandwiches, sushi, pastries, desserts and drinks. Guests note fresh, nicely presented dishes, generous portions, and highlights like wood-fired pizzas and house desserts, along with a strong coffee and pastry selection. The ambiance and seating feel inviting for meals or a casual stop for coffee, with an emphasis on artisanal products and seasonal offerings that add variety. Service stands out for kindness, professionalism, and attentiveness, contributing to a sense of good value and a positive overall experience for families and friends alike.View restaurant profile

Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse

Open until 10 pm

(919)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Steakhouse Smoked Meat Deli BBQ

Mentioned in: The Best Smoked Meat in Montreal 18 Delis and Diners in Montréal Serving the City's Timeless Classics View More

Review Summary

Reviews describe Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse as a Montreal staple with a classic art deco vibe and a central downtown location, where generous portions of smoked meat and other hearty dishes are the main draw. The smoked meat sandwich and the original Reuben are repeatedly highlighted for quality, with meat that is tender and well seasoned, piled high, often accompanied by thick fries, poutine and sides that feel substantial. Desserts are praised, especially house-made cheesecakes that many consider addictive. The atmosphere is noted as warm and inviting, sometimes upscale, with a lively vibe and attentive service, though service can vary by visit and a few experiences mention slower pacing during busy times. Prices tend to be described as high, but many feel the value matches the quantity and quality, especially for the central location. Some reviewers mention a preference for dining in rather than takeout, while others appreciate quick service and generous portions for those heading to events. Overall, Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse emerges as a must-visit for smoked meat lovers and those seeking a bold, classic Montreal dining experience with memorable meat, strong flavors, and a festive ambiance.View restaurant profile

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Rock'n Deli

Open until Midnight

(183)

Downtown

Smoked Meat Burgers Sandwiches Poutine Deli

Review Summary

Rock'n Deli in downtown Montreal is widely praised for halal smoked meat that is juicy, tender and well seasoned, with standout halal smoked meat sandwiches and a Reuben, plus unique smash burgers and solid poutine. Guests note generous portions at times but some sandwiches can be small and prices felt high for the size, while the fries are often only okay. The menu includes a club smoked meat, Philly steak sub and smoked meat trio, and the service is consistently described as friendly, fast, and attentive in a clean, lively setting with a modern vibe and good music. Occasional communication hiccups for non-French speakers and rare ordering mistakes are mentioned, but there is broad enthusiasm and repeat visits, especially for a halal option in the downtown area and the restaurant's signature sauces.View restaurant profile

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Épicerie Du Bazaar

Open until 10 pm

(23)

Downtown

Halal Bakery Deli

Review Summary

Épicerie Du Bazaar is described as a small yet surprisingly well stocked Persian and Middle Eastern market with a broad range of Iranian products, spices, pickles, ready-to-cook items, rice and grains, and halal meats and chicken, along with herbal waters and hydrolats, and the staff are consistently praised for friendly, knowledgeable and helpful service, including welcoming interaction at the counter and practical recommendations such as Persian plum lavashak fruit paste, while the outside may not reveal the depth inside, and overall the reviews highlight good quality, a wide variety of imported products, and a welcoming atmosphere for a small location.View restaurant profile

Deli Planet

Open until 10 pm

(177)

Downtown

Deli Sandwiches Grilled Cheese Breakfast

Review Summary

Deli Planet is described as a convenient, fast option inside Montreal Central Station where generous portions and reasonable prices meet a broad menu that includes smoked meat sandwiches, pizza, burgers, and breakfast items, with frequent praise for tasty, fresh dishes such as a goat cheese salad, a smoked meat sandwich, and a notably good pizza. Service is consistently described as friendly and attentive, delivering meals quickly and making travelers feel welcome, and the atmosphere is noted as calm and unhurried for some and livelier when events or a comedy show are in the space. The experience is often highlighted as a solid pre or post travel stop, with many comments about great wings and ribs sauce and a strong overall value. Occasional critiques mention a lack of atmosphere or simple decor, but overall sentiment points to reliable quality and a willingness to return when in town.View restaurant profile

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La Dolce Vita

Loved by customers for over 20 years

Open until 9:30 pm

(105)

Downtown

Ice Cream Desserts & Sweets Café Deli

Review Summary

La Dolce Vita draws praise for a wide and often generous selection of gelato flavors, with standouts like pistachio, hazelnut, lemon crunch and lemon yogurt crunch mentioned by many, and a number of reviewers calling the texture smooth and the flavors bright. The portions are described as generous and the service as friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While many reviews are highly positive and some call it the best gelato in town, a few experiences note inconsistent flavor quality or texture and even disappointment with certain flavors. The shop is also appreciated for variety including lactose free and vegan options, and several reflections mention good value for the price. Overall, La Dolce Vita is seen as a top gelato spot by many, offering enjoyable flavors and attentive service, though expectations may vary by flavor and visit.View restaurant profile

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Reuben's Deli

Built in 1976, this familiar joint's menu ranges from smoked meat sandwiches to ribs & cheesecake.

Open until 9 pm

(47)

Downtown, Golden Square Mile

Deli Smoked Meat BBQ

Mentioned in: 18 Delis and Diners in Montréal Serving the City's Timeless Classics

Review Summary

Reuben's Deli comes across in these reviews as a go-to downtown spot known for generous smoked meat sandwiches, hearty portions, and a warm, atmospheric setting that blends old-school deli charm with a modern touch. Diners praise the rich flavors and careful preparation, as well as dessert options like cheesecake, with service described as efficient, attentive, and friendly even in busy moments. Several comments note solid value for the price and a vibe that feels comfortable and stylish, though a few reviews mention smaller post-pandemic portions or price levels that can feel high for everyday dining. Some critiques point to bread and dressing not suiting every palate or to occasional inconsistencies such as the texture of fries or the presentation of sandwiches. The overall tone is that Reuben's Deli delivers a memorable smoked meat experience worth a return visit, bolstered by a convivial, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors.View restaurant profile

Dunn's Famous

Open until 5 am

(879)

Downtown

American Smoked Meat Burgers Deli Grill Salads

Mentioned in: The Best Smoked Meat in Montreal Late-Night Dining in Montreal: Essential Stops for After-Dark Gourmets View More

Review Summary

Dunn's Famous is widely regarded as a Montreal landmark for classic smoked meat, with sandwiches that are huge, tender and flavorful, often accompanied by great poutine and crisp fries. The atmosphere blends diner charm with a lively sports bar feel, and the service is typically fast and friendly, making it a reliable late night or post game option. The smoked meat is the star for many, praised for rich flavor and generous portions, though a few notes mention occasional dryness or price concerns and some side dishes needing salt or freshness. Staff are frequently commended for attentiveness and recommendations, while a few experiences cite uneven service or maintenance issues like cold bathrooms. Overall Dunn's Famous delivers comforting, filling meals and a nostalgic Montreal dining experience that many visitors and locals return to for a dependable classic.View restaurant profile