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.
If you do one thing in Montreal……YOU MUST COME TO SWARTZ'S DELI & EAT THE SMOKED BEEF!!!! Best food, super efficient & helpful staff. Fast service & a really fun atmosphere.
Me gusto, todo vale la pena fui dos dias seguidos a probar el sandiwch, el putine y el combo de filete schwartz, me falto maa tiempo para poder pobrar el pollo...
Mar 19, 2026
on Google
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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!
Busy at mid day Friday shared table concept. Great portion sizes & huge picked. We three had the trad smoked meat sami which was juicy with a hit of spice & nice! Also had the fries plus smoked poutine which our uni student son enjoyed on his inaugural visit.
When we went to Montreal, my dining companion insisted we come here for the smoked meat sandwich, & we were not disappointed!
The food was delicious & the service was fast, the restaurant has a real family feel.
This place is always packed & has long family-style tables, so you will likely be sitting with strangers. & people will DEFINITELY touch you as they walk by, due to the crowded nature of the place.
I would definitely recommend this place for their food & their efficient (bilingual) service, but if you have sensory issues/hate crowds it might not be the place for you.
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.
It was OK - not sure if it was worth the visit though...
Honest opinion, I don't find the smoked meat in here worth the money. It's overpriced for the portion & the taste. Frankly I didn't find anything so special about it... & the sandwich is hard to eat. Meat is way to big compared to the bread, inevitable to eat with a mess.
I came to satisfy my curiosity, but probably won't visit again...
Mar 10, 2026
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Not at it's used to be. The smoked meat has lost its flavour. It's dry & not worth it at all. They only surfing on their name now…shame for this iconic Montreal eatery!
Definitely a must-visit spot when you're in Montreal! Be prepared for a bit of a wait if you get there during a rush, but the food comes out fast & they're pretty good at packing in the customers to keep things moving quickly. The smoked meat is awesome, & the sandwiches come packed with it!
