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 described as a Montreal icon with a legendary smoked meat sandwich that is tender, generously stacked on rye and often paired with pickles and a cherry soda. The atmosphere is old school, bustling, and communal, with long lines that move quickly and shared tables that add to the nostalgic vibe. The sandwich is repeatedly praised as top tier or the best many have tasted, with meat that is flavorful and juicy and options to choose lean, medium, or fatty cuts, though a few reviews note occasional dryness or uneven fat distribution. Poutine and fries are common accompaniments, sometimes great but occasionally criticized for being soggy or underseasoned; service is described as fast and friendly or brisk and crowded, depending on peak times. The experience is widely called a must visit for meat lovers and a defining Montreal experience, with many commendations of the history and atmosphere that make lines feel worth it. Some comments surface about price and crowding, but the overall sentiment remains strongly positive, framing Schwartz's Deli as a legendary staple that delivers a memorable smoked meat experience worth waiting for.
Worth the visit! Food is really good, I've tried the sandwich & the poutine, delicious! There's a long queue outside the restaurant anytime but it's worth it. Definitely a must go place when you visit Montreal. The environment is too crowded tho, it ruin the experience a bit, hopefully can arrange better seat in the future.
Jan 5, 2025
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Got the regular smoked meat sandwich with Mustard for about $13.00. One of the best meat cuts I've ever had & one of the greatest use of Mustard complimenting meat in taste. Attendant at cash register was a little difficult to communicate with not properly paying attention to me. She crumpled up almost threw my receipt in the garbage despite me telling her not to.
This was hands down one of the best Montreal-style sandwiches & poutines I've ever had! The flavours were incredible, with the sandwich perfectly stacked with tender, flavourful meat, & the poutine had just the right balance of crispy fries, rich gravy, & gooey cheese curds. The place was worth the wait in line, as the vibrant, bustling atmosphere added to the experience. While the prices were slightly higher, the quality & taste made it worth it. It's a spot I'd gladly return to for a memorable meal.
Excellent Smoked Meat. However unseasoned fries & Questionable Poutine. Remember the Deli has 2 lines one for dine in & another for take out. Be sure which line you are standing in.
I would recommend it only if you've never had a smoked meat sandwich before. We came to try one of Montreal's signature dishes, & while the smoked meat was flavorful, the combination with the toast didn't feel all that special to me. Maybe it is one of the best options for smoked meat sandwiches, but if I had other choices, I wouldn't go back. That said, it's worth trying at least once if you haven't had it before.
Anything my parents like is 5 star food. Trust my parents & me! This place is amazing. The fatty & mid cut smoke beef & the black Cherry soda is mouthwatering . Every bite is delight.
Dec 13, 2024
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I can't recommend this place, but did not have the heart to tell my server I didn't like the smoked meat sandwich. It's obvious the staff pride themselves in their work, but the sandwich & overall experience just wasn't good. The sandwich was soooo fatty, & not caramelized fatty or rendered fatty. Just gross looking fat. The mustard was just cheap yellow mustard. The poutine was decent & the best part of the meal. The pickles were standard, but I thought it was silly to receive just two pickles for that price.They should just embed the cost in the price of the sandwich so customers have something for "free." There was food underneath our table & the place had a weird smell, so I feel like it's not the cleanest. If you are familiar with other famous delis that sell coveted smoked meat sandwiches, just know that this place doesn't compare at all & will probably disappoint you.
Schwartz's in Montreal is the ultimate destination for smoked meat lovers. Their legendary sandwich is a must-try, packed with juicy, flavorful meat & a touch of mustard. Fast service, nostalgic vibes, & unforgettable food make this spot a classic. Full Review: Schwartz's delivers a dining experience that's as rich in history as it is in flavor. The cramped seating, where you might share a table with strangers, adds to the charm of this old-school deli. The walls are lined with photos of famous patrons & newspaper clippings, giving the place a lively & nostalgic atmosphere. The menu keeps it simple, focusing on their iconic Montreal smoked meat. The sandwich is a masterpiece-piled high with tender, flavorful meat & just the right amount of mustard. It pairs perfectly with a pickle, & if you're dining with a companion, sharing an order of fries & coleslaw is more than satisfying. Service is impressively quick, even during peak hours, & the staff are casual & friendly, making you feel right at home. The deli embodies a time when decor took a backseat to exceptional food, & Schwartz's proves that great taste never goes out of style. If you've never been, make Schwartz's your next foodie destination. It's an experience you won't forget.
We ate our way through Montreal this weekend & if I can do any repeats I would choose this place every time! The smoked meat was meltingggg in my mouth with juice & flavour! The poutine was THE best we had!!! The gravy was THICC & the fries were a perfect crisp.. topped with more smoked meat & curds, this was worth the line up & every pothole!
