Schwartz's Deli serves the iconic Montreal smoked meat sandwich prepared using a traditional curing process that spans ten days. Each serving features brisket rubbed with a signature blend of spices and slow-smoked until tender. This establishment maintains a straightforward menu centered on the core product alongside essential sides like fresh coleslaw and yellow mustard. The interior environment reflects a functional, high-traffic aesthetic defined by tight seating arrangements and utilitarian decor meant for efficient service. Patrons receive portions of cured beef hand-sliced to order to ensure the specific texture and temperature required by local standards. The culinary experience relies on this consistent method of preparation that has defined the establishment for decades while focusing entirely on the quality of the primary protein. Every element serves the specific purpose of highlighting the distinct, savory profile of the seasoned meat.
Schwartz's Deli is widely considered a legendary culinary institution in Montreal, best known for its world-famous, tender, and flavorful smoked meat sandwiches. While many patrons find the experience of dining in the historic, bustling, and cramped atmosphere to be an essential part of the charm, others note that the long lineups and rapid-fire service can feel rushed or overwhelming. The staff are frequently described as efficient and professional, though experiences with service can vary from warm and engaging to dismissive. Guests often recommend pairing the meat with the signature cherry soda, coleslaw, and pickles to complete the meal. Despite some mixed reviews regarding portions, pricing, or occasional inconsistency in meat quality, most visitors view it as a must-visit landmark that defines the Montreal food scene, with many suggesting the takeout counter as a reliable alternative for those looking to avoid the wait.
Well this is a historic place for the smoked meat in whole Canada & I tried the smoked meat sandwich. It was genuinely very juicy & tasty. The quantity was huge in the $17 overall bill. It can satisfy one person appetite for sure. It is a must try for lasting memories if you come to Montreal. I had also ordered their French fries 🍟 but those were not very classic & had gone through over deep frying I felt. To be noted part is that there is no parking available on that busy place, but we all know whole Montreal has limited parking spaces.
Very sad to write this review. My first time back in 20 years was extremely disappointing. While waiting in the takeout line on the sidewalk, a very rude employee put his hand in my face, closed the door & said not to come inside until there was more room. The smoked meat was not prepared properly, all I tasted was tons of salt, & the bread pieces were so small - the slices of rye looked like they'd been halved - it was impossible to pick as a sandwich. I paid $17 for that. One of the framed articles at the back said the latest owner tried to make improvements, encouraging employees to be more friendly, to not put off tourists. It's not working. I won't be back. Fix your recipe & your attitude please.
I visited Schwartz on a Thursday evening with my partner & ordered two smoked meat sandwiches. The food itself lived up to its reputation, but unfortunately the customer service was among the worst I have experienced.
The employee taking our order was unnecessarily rude, & the cashier was equally dismissive & unwelcoming. As visitors to Montreal, we were made to feel uncomfortable & judged for not being locals & not speaking fluent French. There is no place for that kind of behavior in any customer-facing business, let alone one with the international reputation that Schwartz has built over the years.
It's disappointing that such poor customer service overshadows what is otherwise an iconic dining experience. Employees represent the brand, & in this case, they did a disservice to the legacy & heritage of Schwartz.
I do have a photo of the employee preparing the sandwiches, but I have chosen not to post it out of basic respect & decency - qualities that were unfortunately absent in the way we were treated.
I sincerely hope management takes this feedback seriously. A legendary establishment should be remembered for its food & hospitality, not for making customers feel unwelcome. Based on this experience, I cannot recommend Schwartz to friends or family visiting Montreal until meaningful improvements are made to the customer experience.
Jun 25, 2026
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I did follow the line of take out, I did not take a table because line was too long. Sandwich was not hot, nothing special & fries not really good & even colder.I had superior pastrami (here viande fumee) in NY for example.
They are in hurry to clear the line & that's all.
Wouldn't go back. Hope at table they serve much better food
Go in around mid afternoon, around 3:30 or so, there was no wait & no crowd. This is the whole package deal. Environment, really friendly staff, & a meat sandwich that is everything you dream it could be! I wish I had ordered the liver as well, I know it was good. Make sure to get the Fleischer's Cherry Cola, that's authentic Montreal!
We had a lot of trouble finding it there was absolutely no parking available, & our friend kept driving around until we finally managed to get a spot. The food wasn't very smoky, & it wasn't anything new or special. We paid about 60 dollars for 3 sandwiches, along with two sodas. However, the staff were very nice
Hands down the best Montreal smoked meat sandwich I've ever had. The meat was super tender & the spices added character & flavour. Also had a side of coleslaw & a pickle both of which were excellent. Worth lining up for (the line moves quick & you share tables with others creating a community feel). The staff were friendly & attentive & gave great recommendations.
We had heard excellent stories about Schwartz's Deli from a few friends, & let me tell you, the restaurant exceeded our expectations. When we first walked in, we received an immediate warm greeting from the host who invited us to pick a spot. Our server came over right away & was incredibly friendly & helpful. My brother had a little cut on his finger, & our server instantly noticed & took the initiative to get him a bandaid. This is just a small example of the kindness we received from our server. She was joyful & overall very pleasant. The food came out so quickly & was delicious. Absolutely fantastic experience at Schwartz's Deli in Montreal! Thank you!
