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 ambiance à l'intérieur! D'une autre époque, mais très joli! Sandwich à la viande fumée bien humide (certains endroits en servent parfois du trop sec), bien tendre & généreux. Ah oui, & délicieux! Les frites étaient vraiment bonnes également. Le petit hic serait au niveau de certains cornichons; un sur deux était tachetée à l'intérieur d'une couleur blanchâtre un peu suspicieuse... goût un peu vieillot aussi. Attention. Ah, & j'ai aussi pris un hot dog, & honnêtement, c'était un banger! Solide hot dog, un peu cher par contre. Expérience pas parfaite, mais presque! Je donne 5 étoiles quand même!
The staff were so helpful here when we didn't know what to order for our picnic. Very kind people work here. & the food was good, but after eating at Katz's in NYC, it's hard to order smoked meats anywhere else. But it was tasty. Loved the old timey vibe here. Would return for a bite at a table outside for great people watching.
Great stop on our visit to Montreal. I preferred Lester's smoked meat sandwich over Schwartz's, for what it's worth. The inside had a nice old-school vibe & the owners & employees were all very friendly & accommodating. We visited on a Monday around noon & there was no wait.
Lester's is a must-have every time I visit Montreal. Can't go wrong with the smoked meat sandwich combo with a pickle, fries & a side of coleslaw. Add a black cherry soda for a quintessential Montreal deli experience. The smoked meat is excellent, & the french fries are some of the best I've had anywhere. Sure, they have lots of other dishes on their menu, but I can't bring myself to order anything else!
Superbe endroit ! La cuisine est copieuse & délicieuse, l'ambiance des années 60 est de mise & est assumé ! On aime ça ! Le service est charmant, très rigolo la blague avec la moutarde !
Perfect deli experience - the smoked meat sandwich was exactly what I was looking for: rye was fresh & soft & the meat hot, tender & juicy. Flavours spot on. If I lived in Montreal with would easily be a regular destination. Poutine was fantastic. Service welcoming. Atmosphere classic.
In my opinion the best smoke meat I have tried so far. Its was most, juicy & lean, the bread was fresh & soft. It was simply amazing! We had it with freshly cut french fried , a pickle & a cherry coke. I would recommend anyone that is from out of town to try this unique Montréal smoke meat place. Best in Montreal!!! I cant wait to go back!!
