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Restaurant Top Pick

Schwartz's Deli

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
4.5$
OPEN10 am - 11 pm
Monday
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Photo of Schwartz's Deli, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal - Montreal
DeliSandwichesSmoked Meat
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About

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.

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4.51337 ratings
5★
70%
4★
16%
3★
6%
2★
7%
1★
2%

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Schwartz's Deli was featured in the article(s) below.

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Reviews for Schwartz's Deli

Food
Service
on Google4.4 (26200+)
*as of 2026-07-15
4.51337 ratings
5★
70%
4★
16%
3★
6%
2★
7%
1★
2%
Write your review

Reviews often mention

smoked meat(301) sandwich(271) poutine(80) deli(72) sandwiche(67) pickle(60) schwartz's(55) recommend(51) fries(47) classic(42) viande(42) bread(36)

Review Summary

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.
Page 10 of 79 - 786 Reviews
Samantha
5.0

Best smoked meat in Montreal

May 8, 2026
on Google
Judie
2.0

Visited Schwartz Deli on a Sunday afternoon at 3 PM. There were 3 of us & we waited for 30 minutes outside with only a few groups ahead. The place was crowded. We were seated at a shared table with 6 seats.

We ordered two smoked meat sandwiches & one poutine. The smoked meat was tender, the bread was thin & dry, & portions were small. The poutine was disappointing. Fries were overcooked & tasted burnt.

The bill came to about $50 (tax included, before tip), which felt overpriced for the quality & small portion size. Service was mediocre & rushed. The restaurant seemed more focused on turnover than experience.

While Schwartz Deli has a long-standing reputation & history, in my opinion, it was underwhelming & didn't live up to the hype. There are many other great restaurants worth exploring. This was a one-time visit, & unfortunately, not somewhere I'd return to.

May 8, 2026
on Google
Kevin
5.0

The legend of Montreal Smoked meat sandwiches.

May 7, 2026
on Google
Serkan
5.0

Muhte?em ötesi bir lezzet. Mutlaka gelinöeaimgerekwn bir uwe. Porsiyonlar büyük. 4 ki?i bir sandwich ve combo menü ile doyabilirsiniz. Çal??anlar çok samimi. Fiyatlar uygun.

May 7, 2026
on Google
Duc
4.0

Smoked meat was great !!! But the fries is a bit overcooked.

May 7, 2026
on Google
Tess
5.0

When in Montreal, never, ever kiss Schwartz's Deli for its original, authentic tasteful smoked meat & deli.

May 7, 2026
on Google
Alvin
5.0

Really good quick service. Got takeout & it was pretty easy, use the left door. Food was ready quickly & it was delicious.

May 2, 2026
on Google
Vincent
5.0

After an 8-hour flight, I was desperate for comfort food. Having only seen poutine in YouTube videos, I felt lucky to stumble upon this place-full of authenticity & history.
The staff were very welcoming, & as a solo diner I quickly got a seat at the counter. I ordered the Schwartz poutine, which arrived almost instantly & completely delivered. The combination of cheese, fries, gravy, & smoked meat came together in rich, satisfying bites. My only complaint is that I wished the portion were twice the size.
Prices are slightly on the higher side, but considering the portion & sheer indulgence, it's easy to justify. Definitely worth it.

May 1, 2026
on Google
Evan
3.0

Dining area a bit cramped & the smoked meat sandwich is a little small & pretty average (for 18 bucks). Gents behind the counter were very friendly

May 1, 2026
on Google
C.M.
5.0

Must go when in Montréal.
Fast service: order, eat, pay & leave.
Always crowded.
But that's part of the experience when dine in at Schwartz's.
Our waiter Tino, amazing & friendly.

May 1, 2026
on Google
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