Monsieur Smoked Meat (Lerster's Deli or Mr Smoked Meat) is situated in the beautiful Outremont, on the north side of Mount Royal, in the heart of Montreal. Lesters Deli has maintained a reputation for serving some of the finest hot smoked meat sandwich in Montreal since 1951! Mr Smoked Meat also offers you delicious Montreal Smoked Meat, freshly cut, vacuum-sealed and ready to be heated whenever and wherever the craving arises.
Overall, Lester's Deli blends an old fashioned, nostalgic Montreal deli atmosphere with consistently tender smoked meat and generous sides like dill pickles, coleslaw, and fries, often accompanied by fast, friendly service and a warm, local vibe. Many reviews praise the meat as rich, juicy, and flavorful, with some calling it among the best in town and a standout option for those looking for an authentic Montreal smoke meat experience. The experience is described as approachable and affordable for the portion size, though a few readers note price increases and portions that feel smaller or meat that is leaner than before. Takeout and dine in both attract loyal fans, and the counter style with retro memorabilia adds to a sense of community and tradition. Some comments mention occasional service hiccups or long lines during peak times, while others highlight exceptionally friendly staff and hospitable gestures that feel like a visit to a friend. Sides such as house made pickles, coleslaw, and poutine are frequently praised for freshness, though fries or bread may be noted as too salty or some meat not as brisket like as expected. Overall the deli is considered a Montreal classic and a must visit for smoked meat lovers seeking a nostalgic, flavorful bite and a taste of local deli history.
Lester's Deli is a hidden gem in Montreal's vibrant food scene, steeped in history & serving up some of the best smoked meat sandwiches in the city. Tucked away in Outremont, this family-run spot may be lesser-known than its famous counterpart, Schwarz's, but it absolutely holds its own-& dare I say, might even outshine it!
I had the smoked meat sandwich with Swiss cheese, & it was pure perfection: tender, juicy, & packed with flavor, all nestled between perfectly toasted rye bread. The Swiss added a creamy, melty touch that elevated every bite. Paired with crispy, golden fries, tangy pickles, & a refreshing cherry pop, it was a meal that hit all the right spots. The atmosphere is cozy & nostalgic, with a charm that reflects decades of tradition & love for deli craft.
The service was warm & welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. Lester's is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Montreal smoked meat with a side of history. I'll definitely be back for more!
4.4 / 5 is a great score. Takeout Uber - arrived in 20 mins on a Wednesday lunch to my hotel.
Fries were handmade & delicious (but soggy as a wet dog by delivery). No ketchup, mayo or any condiments included.
Smoked meat was large & delicious! Extra mustard requested & added. Would eat this 10x in a row. Got the Swiss cheese. Doesn't make a huge difference. The meat is the star. Only thing I'd change - I think it's medium hand cut & I prefer shaved. But, this was so good I might switch.
Hot dog (glitzy). I think it was $6 so I had high hopes for low cost. It was okay. Tasty but smushed. Would skip on delivery maybe try in person.
The classic smoked meat sandwich is simply phenomenal. The meat is tender, flavorful, & perfectly seasoned, making each bite a delight. It is one of the best sandwiches you can find. 🥪❤?
But don't overlook the sides! The dill pickles, potato salad, coleslaw, & peppers are all fantastic accompaniments. Each side is fresh & adds a nice variety.
& I have to give a special shout-out to their poutine! 🍟🤤 It is fantastic on its own, but when you add the delicious smoked meat topping, it takes this classic dish to an entirely new level. The combination of flavors & textures is simply irresistible.
We also had to wash it all down with the necessary cherry soda in their signature frosted mug, which hit the spot just right.
With its rich history, mouthwatering smoked meat, & great sides, it is a place that truly shows the history of our city through culinary traditions.
Mar 5, 2025
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We got the smoke meat sandwich & pickles. Both were too salty, the smoke meat texture felt like cheap deli meat. No bueno at all. Service & vibe were very good.
Lester's Deli took me back to childhood. For me it had that nostalgia of the old Jewish delis that I grew up going to.
My husband had the Montreal smoked meat with fries & pickles. I had the egg salad sandwich with a side of pickles. The pickles reminded me of the pickles my baba would serve growing up. The fries were also that stereotypical diner style that is absolutely delicious. The prices were also very affordable, especially given the amount of food you get.
The service was also fabulous. It has that family feel that you often don't get at restaurants nowadays.
I love restaurants that have been open for many decades. The décor is very retro. It almost looks like it did at the opening of the restaurant, but that is the charm of the place. The staff are super nice & very friendly. The smoke meat was delicious & the pickles too. To go to the bathroom, you have to pass a very narrow corridor, & there is only one bathroom.
Jan 12, 2025
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J'y suis allée pour la première fois ce soir & j'y retournerai assurément. La serveuse était super efficace & très gentille ! La nourriture était vraiment fraîche & bonne. Les cornichons étaient probablement les meilleurs cornichons ever (& je suis fan de cornichons!). Je conseille fortement le cheesecake, il est frais, délicieux & très moelleux. 10/10, très contente de mon expérience !
Lester's Deli is absolutely amazing. The Montreal Smoked Meat is incredible. Don't forget to get a loaf of their rye bread, a bottle of their homemade mustard, & of course their delicious pickles. I rate Lester's Deli 5 out of 5 Mustaches. Uncle Carmine loves deli's, but this one I'd marry 😁.
