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.
SO good & worth the wait. If there's a line, it'll likely be quick. They seat people at tables with others in order to get everyone in & served. You'll probably make friends at your table!
It's a deli famous for it's beef, & we got the beef! Pretty delicious & a great little delight where you get to meet some people as you'll be sandwiched in with some other travellers. A great experience & hits the exact mark you're expecting.
We had a shwartz beef sandwich & a poutine with beef on top. Both excellent.
The only critique would be the line up. While we expected a wait, the line was filled with /
'I think this of what we're supposed to do'. That being said, we all figured it out.
Delicious but gets busy inside, leading to it getting….
hot in there (so hot)
so take it all to go
I got so hot, I cooled off with a big juicy green pickle
Waited in line for 10 minutes for lunchtime. Sat at the counter, quick efficient service. Great meat sandwiches & perfect fries! Fun experience & loved the history on the walls!
This place is a no-brainer if you're in Montréal & are a meat lover. Established in 1928, this place has the same vibe & quality of food since last 97 years. The smoked meat was so soft & delicious, never had a comparable quality meat anywhere else in the world. Céline Dion, who herself is originated from Montréal, is the owner of this gem from last 12 years or so. Do yourself a favour & visit this place while you're in Montréal!
