Monday

10 am - 9 pm

Tuesday

10 am - 9 pm

Wednesday

10 am - 9 pm

Thursday

10 am - 9 pm

Friday

10 am - 9 pm

Saturday

10 am - 9 pm

Sunday

11 am - 3 pm

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.

Reviews for Lesters Deli

Food

Service

on Google4.4 (1300+)

*as of 2026-04-01

4.5 363 ratings

5★

72%

4★

14%

3★

2★

1★

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Reviews often mention

Display All smoked meat(128) sandwich(67) deli(38) frie(38) pickle(32) recommend(23) poutine(20) tender(17) viande(13) highly recommend(11) schwartz's(11) local(11)

Review Summary

Page 1 of 1 - 11 Reviews

Ben

5.0

Tried this back to back after visiting Schwartz's & honestly loved it even more! The meat was smokier & to me had more flavour. The deli itself also had that historic diner feel. Highly recommend if you're visiting Montreal!

Mar 17, 2026

on Google

Lester's is a must try if you're visiting Montreal! We live nearby & have visited multiple times over the years & have always had great service & great food. Without spoiling it, the staff played their famous prank on my mom when she came to visit & we still laugh about it. The restaurant itself has tons of cool memorabilia & has that vintage vibe that you won't find elsewhere. I highly recommend the super deluxe smoked meat sandwich combo & a Stewart's orange pop to finish it off!

Jul 29, 2025

Susan

Highly recommend! Food is amazing.

May 10, 2025

Aria

It is a true hidden gem & definitely one of the best Montréal Smoke Meat sandwiches that I have ever had. My meal was made with love, & I highly recommend coming to Lester's for a truly authentic Montréal Smoke Meat.

Mar 10, 2025

Tovah

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 highly recommend going to Lester's Deli!!

Feb 5, 2025

Clement

This place is great. Friendly staff & the meat is juicy & tender & not too salty or fatty. Highly recommended.

Oct 22, 2024

Ramzi

3.0

The smoked meat was rather disappointing. Bland in taste. I've had much better smoked meat in Montreal although this place came highly recommended. Fries were great & so where the pickles. One original thing was the spray bottle on each table to spray your fries with white vinegar. Interesting concept.

Sep 26, 2024

Amazing Sandwich, even better poutine! Highly recommend.

Aug 29, 2024

Blckbrd

Had smoked meat platter which came with fries & a pickle & it was PERFECTION! Meat was flavorful & practically melted in my mouth it was so tender. We loved the platter & fries so much we also took a smoked meat poutine & OMG... CHEFS KISS! The smoked meat poutine was so good we got a slice of cheesecake & WOW, it was so fresh & delicious. Highly recommend. Will come back!

Apr 8, 2024

The staff has always been friendly, making ordering takeout or delivery a hassle-free & enjoyable process. Delicious poutine, smoked salmon sandwich, & fantastic pickles! It's clear they prioritize quality without breaking the bank. This spot has quickly become a favorite for me & my partner providing delicious & reasonably priced meals. I highly recommend giving them a try.

Feb 1, 2024

Edda

Excellent meat sandwich, delicious hand cut fries & a super fun service. The decor is delightfully retro. Highly recommended, great alternative & / or complement to Schwartz's!!

Sep 17, 2023

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