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 widely celebrated as a Montreal institution, famous for its world famous smoked meat, a bustling old school deli atmosphere, and generous sandwiches that many say melt in the mouth; despite long lines, service is generally fast and efficient and the line often moves quickly, with takeout next door for those pressed for time. Reviewers praise the tenderness and bold seasoning of the meat, the classic rye bread, and the accompanying pickles, fries, and poutine, while some note variability in meat greasiness or portions and occasionally uneven service; overall, it remains a must visit for meat lovers and a memorable slice of Montreal history, though a few say the price and crowds can be a drawback.
Like stepping back in time.
Got to sit at the counter & enjoyed the banter between staff & patrons.
BEST smoked meat anywhere.
As always it was amazing.
This is just a classic! I guess is one of those places that when you visit Montreal you definitely have to go! I particularly like that the place has not been renovated & you still get the vibe of a place with tradition.
The smoke meat sandwich is awesome! Got two medium to go & will be going back for more. A very popular place so seating is tight & line ups are expected. The food is totally worth the wait!
Apr 19, 2026
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I mean do I really have to put a review? Literally the best ever. Everyone knows it. Absolutely no competition. If you go to Montreal & you don't eat here that's really sad. Get the pickle.
Apr 13, 2026
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Go elsewhere for a classic Montreal smoked meat sandwich. No need to visit this place, a tourist trap all through & through. First of all the meat was dry, very fatty & tasteless. The pickle which was really soggy doesn't even come included with the sandwich (crucial mistake, smoked meat sandwiches need a pickle). The service was quite bland, employees on their phone & unwelcoming. The price for two small sandwiches & a small fry came out to 45$ which is insane for how small the sandwich was. Id recommend 5 other places in MTL for smoked meat before Shwartz.
I did not see this one coming ! Visiting this place was not really my top priority I just wanna try because so many people recommend this to try out. I am soooo happy I made the right decision to try. Upto now I am still dreaming about this smoky meat flavor. I got the poutine & it was phenomenal! Truly this is the Montreal's a must try !
Apr 12, 2026
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Un restaurante de los imperdibles en Montreal, de tono informal y familiar. Los steaks y sandwiches realmente buenos. Hay que ser cuidadosos al ordenar pues en algunos platos adicionan hígado que pueden ser cambiados por salchichas.
Pire poutine à vie. Le cuisinier dis que c'est la meilleure poutine & incomparable… petite quantité de fromage . Fromage qui squeeck pas, le fromage fond. Patate brulé . Odeur de pipi à l'intérieur du resto . 13.75$ gaspille
If you're in Montreal, this place is an absolute must. The smoked beef is honestly the best I've ever had, rich, tender, & packed with flavor. It's totally worth waiting in line, even if it takes a while. Despite the constant crowds, the service is impressively fast & efficient. Just be prepared: the place is always extremely busy & there's barely any room to even walk around. Still, the food makes it completely worth it.
