World famous Schwartz's, serving the best smoked meat from the original recipe of spices since 1928. Imagine walking through the door and taking a step back 75 years into "Main Street" history in Montreal. A "true" Montreal landmark that has welcomed celebrities and visitors from all over the world.
Schwartz's Deli is widely celebrated as a Montreal institution, famous for its world famous smoked meat, a bustling old school deli atmosphere, and generous sandwiches that many say melt in the mouth; despite long lines, service is generally fast and efficient and the line often moves quickly, with takeout next door for those pressed for time. Reviewers praise the tenderness and bold seasoning of the meat, the classic rye bread, and the accompanying pickles, fries, and poutine, while some note variability in meat greasiness or portions and occasionally uneven service; overall, it remains a must visit for meat lovers and a memorable slice of Montreal history, though a few say the price and crowds can be a drawback.
This is just a classic! I guess is one of those places that when you visit Montreal you definitely have to go! I particularly like that the place has not been renovated & you still get the vibe of a place with tradition.
Go elsewhere for a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich. No need to visit this place, a tourist trap all through & through. First of all the meat was dry, very fatty & tasteless. The pickle which was really soggy doesn't even come included with the sandwich (crucial mistake, smoked meat sandwiches need a pickle). The service was quite bland, employees on their phone & unwelcoming. The price for two small sandwiches & a small fry came out to 45$ which is insane for how small the sandwich was. Id recommend 5 other places in MTL for smoked meat before Shwartz.
Apr 13, 2026
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The line up out front tells the story. Its worth getting in line to grab a classic smoked meat sandwich. The line is organized & moves really quickly as they dont let any seats go unfilled. The sandwiches are juicy & the meat melts in your mouth. Give the pickles a try. Massive & tangy. Definitely a must try if you lije delicious meat!
If you're in Montreal, Schwartz's Deli is an absolute must-visit. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The smoked meat sandwich is simply unbelievable-perfectly seasoned, piled high, & packed with incredible flavor in every bite. You can instantly tell why this place is so famous.
The atmosphere is classic Montreal deli style, busy & full of energy, which just adds to the whole experience. The service was quick & the food came out exactly how you'd hope.
Visiting Schwartz's Deli in Montreal was an incredible culinary experience that lived up to all the hype! The world-famous smoked meat sandwich is an absolute masterpiece-tender, perfectly spiced, & piled impressively high on fresh rye bread. I highly recommend ordering it'medium' for the perfect balance of flavour & juiciness, & don't forget to pair it with a classic black cherry soda & a large pickle. Despite the nearly constant queue out the door, the service is remarkably fast & the old-school atmosphere adds so much character to the meal. It is a legendary landmark for a reason, & easily some of the best comfort food I have ever tasted!
Took our guest here to try the famous smoked meat. We went for lunch & waited about 30 minutes in line, which is normal. We were three people & all ordered the classic smoked meat sandwich with a dill pickle on the side.
Surprisingly, we got a private table, rare here since they usually seat you with others. The taste was the same as always: classic, simple, & exactly what you expect from Schwartz's.
Only thing we noticed was the bill seemed higher than previous visits, but nothing to complain about.
⭐ 4.4/5 - Iconic spot, worth trying at least once.
Authentic taste of Montreal smoke meat. Take out is right next door. Place is always busy, but luckily it is on a street with lots of other options. Combo comes with coleslaw & fries plus a stack of bread, eat with the classic smoke meat or take home. Poutine is lovely with good amount of meat portion. Classic smoke meat sandwich a must try.
This place came highly recommended & it did not disappoint. A very old-school deli/diner style. I ordered the smoked meat sandwich, the pickle & a cherry cola. This food was well priced & tasty 😋🤤. Love classic style joints like Schwartzes & would recommend.
Nov 12, 2025
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A classic. An icon. You can't come to Montreal without trying one of the most iconic places. The sandwich is the classic, great size. The plates are for hungrier people. The meat is amazing, tender, flavorful. You can choose from three levels of fat in the meat. The wait in line is totally worth it & if you go in alternative times, maybe you don't have to wait in line.
A classic!! The line goes quickly because the servers are very attentive & food is quick. It's definitely worth the wait, the smoked meat is delicious.
