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.
Super bon service, jovial, rapide ainsi que nourriture délicieuse! Les assiettes sont vraiment généreuses & le smoke meat vaut le détour! Je recommande chaudement!
Updated review: Used to be 5 stars for my taste. Unfortunately, what I've experienced a few years back is nothing like it now. Last visit report: Fries still really good, pickles far from crunchy even a little hard to cut with knife. Now about the meat… I don't know what happened but this is not up to standards, i can replicate this at home. Made me feel a little sad. Not awful but certainly not a landmark anymore except for the decor. On the positive side service is still good.
(Traduction par Google) Un des emblèmes de Montréal. Sandwich délicieux. Le foie haché est incroyable. À voir absolument.
(Version d'origine)
One of Montreal landmarks. Delicious sandwich. Chopped liver is incredible. Well worth a visit.
Honestly, this might be the best smoked meat I've had in Montréal. It blows the competition out of the water. This is exactly what a real smoked meat sandwich should taste like - tender, juicy & full of flavour.
The staff were great too. Super friendly, energetic, & you can tell they actually enjoy what they do. I'll definitely be going back.
Plus qu'un restaurant, une institution. Une ambiance INCROYABLE. La nourriture est excellente & les employés sont adorables. Un rapport qualité/quantite/prix imbattable. Je recommande vivement.
Not impressed. I read such good reviews. The meat was almost soggy, but not from fat as it should have been, ordered a medium fat, but I got lean & it seemed waterlogged.
Still prefer Snowdon. & I'd wait in line at Swartz before coming back here.
INCROYABLE. Mouth is watering as I write this out & think of the lovely experience I had. Best smoked meat sandwich ever. Best pickle. Best fries. Lovely service. There will not be a day where I don't think about you Lester.
Resto qui a gardé son authenticité des belles années. Service rapide, courtois, en enthousiaste! Prix abordables pour une expérience Mile End réelle. Points bonus pour le français impeccable.
Oct 23, 2025
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Coming out from BC for a visit I had to get my smoke meat fix. Been to all the usual spots & now craved that'authentic' deli vibe. Look no further than Lester's.
Lester's Deli in Outremont is the kind of place that feels like it's been part of the neighborhood's heartbeat for generations-& for good reason. With over 65 years of history, this family-run spot delivers not just food, but a slice of Montreal's deli tradition with heart & hospitality.
We stopped in for a light lunch & were instantly charmed by the retro vibe: walls lined with memorabilia, a buzzing counter, & staff who treat you like an old friend. It's the kind of place where you settle in & feel time slow down.
Our meal was simple but superb. The smoked salmon was silky & rich, served with just the right balance of salt & smoke-no frills, just quality. The roasted turkey was tender & flavorful, sliced thick & piled generously. & the pickle? Crisp, tangy, & exactly what you want alongside deli classics. It's the kind of trio that reminds you how satisfying honest, well-made food can be.
Whether you're craving Montreal's famous smoked meat or something a little lighter like we did, Lester's delivers. It's not just about the food-it's about the feeling. A place where tradition meets comfort, & every bite tells a story.
