Smoke Meat Pete is widely praised as a standout for smoked meat in Montreal and a landmark in the city’s tradition. The atmosphere is repeatedly described as lively and old school, with live blues, a friendly staff, and a vibe that makes the wait part of the experience. The meat is tender and richly flavored, with standout fries and coleslaw and ribs and poutine also receiving praise. Several reviews discuss value, noting portions or prices have shifted over time and that some days feel pricey for the size. Crowds and noise are common, especially when live music is on, but the energy is part of the appeal. Service is often described as fast and friendly, with the ordering system at the counter and options for takeout or bundles. Overall the reviews converge on a memorable Montreal experience where the food, music, and atmosphere combine to justify a trip.
Updated review (March 2026): the food is still great, but this place has definitely become a tourist trap. Its always been pricey but now prices are absurd, just not worth it anymore - might be one of the best smoked meat out there, but there's hundreds of other restaurants in Montreal that will charge half the price for better food.
Original review (5 stars): Consistently great service & food, I'm impressed by how well they are managing the covid regulations compared to other restaurants, well done 👏
Went there based on the hype. Brought my sons & mother. Terrible stringy smoked meat. Full of fat. I related my opinion with the waitress. Showed her the strings. No response.
127 bucks for 4 & we couldn't finish it.
Terrible management. Vying for profits at the detriment of their customers.
Stopped by this restaurant from a friend's recommendation & this place did not disappoint. I thought the restaurant ambiance looked spot on & had a smokey bbq theme. Ordered a pound of sliced smoked meat & made some sandwiches. The amount given was generous & exceeded the pound. Needless to say the meat tasted very very good. A must visit.
Mar 20, 2026
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Went for the 30th birthday of Pete🥳 & it was my first visit & then went back next day to try more of their delicious food.
From the atmosphere, to the service, to the food all was great. So welcoming & generous, smiles & good time all around.
Thank you
I'm a BIG food lover, & I have to say, I have driven from Brockville Ontario to Smoke meat Pete's many times for the best, juicy & flavourful sandwich around! My favourite for sure & the atmosphere makes my foot tap to the blues music while diving into my smoked meat platter!!!!
👍😉
Mar 17, 2026
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J'avais laissé 5 étoiles mais je me dois de revoir mon évaluation après notre visite d'aujourd'hui. Oui, c'est bon, mais ce n'est pas le problème. Nous avons pris 2 sandwichs viande fumée, dont un en version jumbo pour moi-même. Pour 9$ d'extra, je m'attendais à quelque chose de costaud, il n'en est rien. Le jumbo est à peine plus gros que le format standard. De plus, frites & boissons sont aussi en extra. Un 9$ supplémentaire par assiette pour quelques patates & une boisson Fontaine. C'est littéralement du vol. 9 DOLLARS ! Au final, 70 $ pour deux pauvres sandwichs & quelques frites. Faut pas déconner, allez chez Schwartz, c'est aussi bon & surtout moins cher.
Always a good time going to Pete's & seeing live music. Food is awesome just a little pricy now for what it is. That's the only thing I could eat out at a fancy restaurant for the same price as Pete's. I suggest buying the family combo meal that way you can make the sandwiches at home for a bit of a better price.
Feb 27, 2026
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I've been going here for nearly 30 years now & I never walked away dissatisfied. Pete's smoked meat is reason alone, but the people who work there & the atmosphere put it over the top. Smoked Meat Pete is a landmark & well represents Montreal's unique smoked meat tradition.'You can't beat Pete's meat,' & his fries are damn good too!
