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.
Came here around 12 PM & waiting 10 mins to be seated. Place inside was crowded, very little space to move around after being seated. Service was quick & attentive. We ordered the smoked sandwich (most famous item) & the meat was good though it lacked some flavor. We also ordered the steak (too salty) & chicken (too bland) combo. The poutine was good.
Go by flow....my relatives said this is the famous deli serving the best smoked meat sandwich in Montreal. Yes, it's looks famous after acknowledged by so many old newspapers & posters pasted on the walls. It has two shoplots; one for dine-in & another for takeout or quick-bite at the counter. After 11 am is impossible for us to get a table. An old shop condition, ambient isn't pleasant, very squeezy with crowded of people queuing. Washroom beside the counter is busy too. Omg! first-time to see so much smoked meats piling up with two thinly bread. Really need to praise for their freshie pinky smoked meat. But the price for this sandwich isn't cheap, so as everything here. Anyway, already tourist spot. We also ordered poutine.....it tastes so good & quite filling ( in my opinion, poutine better than smoked meat sandwich. Lots of smoked meat given too ).
There was a long line but if you're a small group & willing to sit at the bar you can get in almost immediately! The customer service was great & the food was amazing. The poutine & smoked meat sandwiches were both good & arrived incredibly quick (under 5 minutes after ordering). Definitely stop in if you're in the area!
Oct 13, 2024
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La viande est tendre mais je m'attendais à tellement mieux avec un goût plus original & authentique, un peu sur côté & & cher (55$ pour 1 poutine 1 sandwich & 1 canette)
We waited in line in the rain for 40 minutes & it was worth it. Ordered smoked meat sandwich, poutine & a pickle. Server was fabulous & the food was even better!! They have a take pit window also. They have several tables & a counter to sit at. We sat with 4 other people at a table for 6.
Service can be described using only one word. Amazing!! Our waiter was very, very kind & friendly. He tried to get to know us & even was okay being in a picture with us! Moving onto the food, our smoked meat sandwiches were a must have! The bread was very soft & fluffy, while the meat was not dry & perfectly cooked! The smoked meat poutine, as well was also phenomenal! It was above average poutine with Schwartz's above average meat! However, like all other restaurants, Schwartz has its downsides. Some of the forks & cups looked dirty & unwell washed & scrubbed. However, the dirty forks & cups do not, at all make a dent in my 5 star review for this restaurant.
The smoked meat sandwich was fantastic, with meat that melts in your mouth-highly recommend! However, the Schwartz poutine was disappointing. Despite the delicious gravy, it had very little smoked meat, & the fries were burnt & stale. I wouldn't recommend it. The sitting area is so limited that there were about 30 people outside under the scorching sun waiting to be seated, while there's not much merit in sitting in the dining area anyway. The takeout side on the other hand, was well-managed & the line was almost non existent. I would recommend choosing takeout instead.
I really hate to say this...but I think it was just "ok". I know it's a Montreal staple & I don't want to hate on it. I got the smoked meat sandwich & poutine. Poutine is just not my thing, but the sandwich seemed dry & tasteless. What I'd change is getting the meat on a roll & putting more mustard on it...but I don't think it should need mustard. I loved that there was a line out the door & that it clearly has been around longer than I've been alive. Much love, but maybe it's just not for me.
