Schwartz's Deli is widely described as a Montreal institution and a must visit for smoked meat lovers, with the signature sandwich praised for tender, flavorful meat that melts in the mouth, offered in lean, medium, or fatty cuts and served on rye with pickles, often accompanied by fries or poutine; despite a famously long line, the sandwich is seen as worth the wait, and the old school, bustling atmosphere feels like a time capsule. Reviews vary on service and value: some report fast, friendly, efficient service and a communal seating vibe, while others recall rude or hurried service, higher prices, or crowds making the dining experience intense; occasionally the poutine or fries fail to impress, and some note quirks like payment methods or takeout lines, but many still call it a legendary Montreal staple that lives up to its hype and draws locals and visitors back again and again.View restaurant profile
Fameux Viande Fumée Et Charcuterie is described as a cozy, casual deli with a huge, diverse menu that covers breakfast all day, pizza, lasagne, club sandwiches, poutine and other comfort dishes, making it a reliable spot to sit, eat and linger. Service is often fast and friendly, with the atmosphere repeatedly called warm and welcoming and the place seen as a local institution where the crowd ranges from regulars to visitors. Standout items include the smoked meat and the poutine, while some reviews caution that certain dishes like eggs can come cold, formats such as the large size may be misrepresented as larger than medium, and a few kitchen results can be inconsistent. The vibe is casual and unpretentious, with good value for money and a place that suits late night meals or casual dinners after exploring the area, though some patrons feel the experience can be ordinary or not particularly memorable. Overall, Fameux Viande Fumée Et Charcuterie seems to offer a dependable, welcoming dining option with broad appeal, presenting a mix of wins and misses that reflects a lively neighborhood favorite.View restaurant profile
Reviews describe Reuben's Deli as an inviting, retro styled spot with comfortable seating and a warm, attentive atmosphere. The menu centers on generous smoked meat sandwiches with big portions, crispy fries, and desserts like cheesecake that many call a must, while a few notes mention bread or dressing not to taste and occasional flavor imbalances. Prices are considered surprisingly affordable for the vibe by some, though others see them as a bit high for the overall experience. Service stands out for friendliness and thoughtful gestures that lift the visit, and the overall vibe is cool, nostalgic, and easy to chat in despite a lively kitchen backdrop. Taken together, the reviews portray a solid choice for a satisfying meal and dessert in Montreal with strong food and hospitality, even amid occasional inconsistencies.View restaurant profile
Dunn's Famous is widely described as an iconic Montreal institution offering classic smoked meat with huge portions and a no frills atmosphere. Reviews consistently praise the smoked meat for tenderness and rich flavor, and the famous sandwich is a standout along with other options like Reuben and club sandwiches. Portions are described as generous with hearty servings that make it easy to share. Several comments praise quick, friendly service and the lively Montreal deli vibe, while a few note busy times and occasional service gaps. Prices are sometimes described as high, but many feel the value matches the large portions and satisfying dishes. Late hours and central location are highlighted as convenient for a casual dinner or late night bite, with poutine and gravy getting particular attention for flavor. On the flip side, there are mentions of some dishes being less impressive, fries being soggy or under salted, and some visits noting cleanliness or upkeep concerns. Overall, the reviews paint Dunn's Famous as a dependable, historic spot to sample Montreal smoked meat and traditional deli fare, with strong emphasis on the meat quality, generous portions, and solid service.View restaurant profile
Montreal Poutine delivers a warm, rustic Old Montreal vibe with courtyard dining, where generous portions and a wide range of poutines attract crowds. Many reviews praise the fried chicken poutine and smoked meat poutines, noting cheese curds, rich gravy, and filling portions that can easily feed two. Service is frequently described as friendly and multilingual, with quick and attentive staff in many visits, though a few experiences mention slower service or pressure to depart. Water is often a gripe, as tap water is not offered and bottles must be purchased, which can feel off to some guests. Prices are sometimes considered high for the size, but the big portions and solid flavors tend to justify the cost for those sharing or seeking a hearty meal, and the atmosphere is repeatedly highlighted as charming and lively, especially on the terrace or in the courtyard with good music and a welcoming staff. Overall, Montreal Poutine is seen as a must try for an iconic Quebecois dining experience, particularly for first-time visitors looking to sample a classic poutine in a distinctive Old Montreal setting.View restaurant profile
Reviews overall depict Pinnacle Wagyu as a must try for meat lovers, with standout wagyu steak and cheesesteak sandwiches and truffle fries that fans describe as addictive. The meat is repeatedly praised for quality, juiciness, and balanced seasoning, and the fries, especially the truffle and animal style, are highlighted as a perfect pairing. A deli vibe and a warm, friendly staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere in Old Montreal and the Old Port, with some comments noting a vibrant, casual scene and even outdoor patio options in summer. The menu is celebrated for variety, including burgers, loaded fries, and multiple sandwich options, with many calling the cheesesteak and steak frites among the best in the city. On the softer side, a few reviews mention hours not always aligned with posted times, occasional service hiccups, small sauce portions, or price points that feel steep for some items. Still, the prevailing tone is that the Wagyu meat quality and inventive fries justify the visit, making Pinnacle Wagyu a go to for flavorful sandwiches and a memorable casual dining experience that draws repeat visits.View restaurant profile
Taken together, reviews describe Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse as a bustling Montreal staple offering generous portions of tender smoked meat and classic deli sandwiches, with standout items like the original smoked meat sandwich and the Reuben, plus desserts such as a house-made strawberry cheesecake and a robust poutine. The atmosphere is repeatedly praised as lively and art deco in style, and service is generally friendly, attentive, and efficient, though a few diners report slow moments during peak times or a single rude experience; reservations are often recommended. While most guests feel the food justifies the price and view it as a must-visit for smoked meat lovers, some comments mention high prices, occasional menu misses, and one note about no gluten-free bread option. Overall, Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse is portrayed as a reliable, crowd-pleasing spot with big portions, strong flavors, and a memorable dining vibe.View restaurant profile
Rock'n Deli is described across reviews as a clean, stylish, and welcoming spot with a friendly, attentive staff and a busy, lively atmosphere. The halal smoked meat is the star for many diners, with meat that is tender and flavorful, and standout options like the smoked meat sandwich, Reuben and club, alongside excellent poutine and fries. Service is repeatedly praised for speed and warmth, with staff accommodating allergies and dietary needs, and guests appreciating the overall value and variety of sauces. The interior lighting and music add to the vibe, making it a good spot for families, groups, or solo meals after events. Some feedback notes are for more consistent portion sizes and meat thickness, occasional slower moments in the kitchen, and parking challenges; a few items can be too saucy or not as robust in flavor. Despite these caveats, Rock'n Deli is widely regarded as a must try for smoked meat lovers in Montreal, delivering fresh, flavorful food with an upbeat, hospitable experience and strong repeat appeal.View restaurant profile
Reviews describe Mad Hatter Pub as a lively, affordable dive bar with a big room, plenty of seating, pool tables, and a strong social vibe, where drinks are cheap and the staff is friendly on good nights. However, cleanliness and consistency vary, with several mentions of sticky floors, strong smells, and dirty bathrooms, and some guests report crowded spaces, noise, and slow or inattentive service or even rude reactions. More than one review praises the atmosphere, karaoke, and the chance to meet locals, while others advise against it for a quiet date or a refined experience. Overall, Mad Hatter Pub is seen as an authentic dive bar with character, good for a casual night out, games, and a lively crowd, but hygiene and service issues can take away from the experience.View restaurant profile
Rock'N Deli receives widespread praise for its smoked meat and fast, friendly service, with a casual, welcoming vibe that makes it feel like a reliable spot for lunch or a late night bite. Flavorful smoked meat is a common highlight, and the burgers, subs, and poutine often draw strong praise, along with generous portions and attentive staff. Some visitors feel portions are small for the price and note occasional saltiness or bland elements in certain sandwiches, while a few items miss on ingredients or texture. Sides like fries and poutine are frequently liked, though opinions vary and a few guests wish for improvements in bread or overall balance. The staff's helpful attitude and quick service are repeatedly mentioned, and halal smoked meat options appear to be a draw for some diners. Overall, Rock'N Deli is seen as a solid, value-conscious choice with many returning for the meat's taste and the easygoing atmosphere, even as a subset of reviews indicate room for better consistency.View restaurant profile
DELI 365 is seen by reviewers as a go to place for Montreal smoked meat, with many calling it the best in Montreal and praising the smoked beef sandwich for tenderness and a flavor that stands up to pastrami and even New York standards. One reviewer recalls trying a smoked meat sandwich for the first time, finding it pretty good but blander than pastrami. It is noted that there is no dine in space and that orders are takeout only. Some reviewers mention that the meat portion is small for the price, while others say the food is delicious and the prices are reasonable, albeit with Uber Eats prices described as extremely high. The establishment is described as kosher by at least one reviewer, and several say that Montreal smoked meat sandwiches are a must, with one comment that the sandwich was so good the reviewer forgot to take a picture. A few reviewers say they would not go back despite enjoying the taste.View restaurant profile
Taken as a whole, the reviews portray Lester's Deli as a Montreal institution with an old school vibe where tender smoked meat, generous portions, and friendly, efficient service are repeatedly highlighted. The meat is praised for being tender, juicy, and flavorful, with many calling it the best in town and a standout compared with other spots, though a few visits note leaner or less satisfying cuts. Sides like pickles, coleslaw, fries, and even poutine earn high marks, with some readers raving about exceptional coleslaw and the classic dill pickles. The atmosphere is consistently described as nostalgic and welcoming, a place where locals and visitors feel at home and where the staff add to the experience with warmth and humor. Value and pricing draw mixed reactions, as portions are large and affordable for some, while others complain about price increases under new ownership. Overall the sentiment is that Lester's Deli delivers a memorable, authentic Montreal smoked meat experience steeped in history, though the experience can vary by day and service, and a few readers suggest exploring multiple visits to judge its current consistency.View restaurant profile
