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Sandwich Shop Top Pick

Wilensky

The legendary Wilensky Special remains the ultimate Montréal culinary rite of passage.

Le Plateau-Mont-Royal
4.7$
CLOSEDOpens Tuesday at 10 am
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Photo of Wilensky, Le Plateau-Mont-Royal - Montreal
SandwichesGrilled Cheese
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About

Wilensky serves the iconic Special, a grilled bologna sandwich featuring beef salami pressed on a griddle until perfectly crisp. This culinary institution relies on a precise, time-tested preparation method where the meat receives a distinct sear before meeting mustard on a soft roll. Every sandwich emerges from the hot metal surface with a specific, caramelized texture that defines its signature profile. The menu remains focused, emphasizing consistency through a limited selection of handheld items that showcase the savory nature of processed meats. Patrons witness the preparation process firsthand as each item arrives promptly from the classic flattop grill. The utilitarian atmosphere mirrors the simplicity of the food, prioritizing speed and essential flavor over complex preparations or decorative plating. This destination maintains its established culinary identity by refusing to alter the core composition of its primary offerings.
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5★
83%
4★
9%
3★
3%
2★
3%
1★
1%

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Reviews for Wilensky

Food
Service
on Google4.7 (1400+)
*as of 2026-08-15
5★
83%
4★
9%
3★
3%
2★
3%
1★
1%

Review Summary

Wilensky's Light Lunch is widely cherished as an iconic Montreal institution, offering a nostalgic and authentic experience that transports guests back in time. Visitors consistently praise the legendary and simple menu, particularly the famous, flavorful special sandwich and the unique, hand-crafted sodas like the popular cherry cola. Despite its long history and humble, no-frills setting, the restaurant remains a beloved community hub where friendly service and consistent quality define the experience. Many appreciate the budget-friendly prices, the charming old-school atmosphere, and the feeling of stepping into a living piece of local history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Mile End.
Page 1 of 30 - 298 Reviews

The place really doesn't live up to the hype. Longevity alone doesn't make a restaurant good.

Right from the entrance, the place didn't feel particularly clean or welcoming. The service was also strange & off-putting. The whole family seemed to be there, staring at you, but nobody smiled, said hello, or seemed remotely happy to be there. It was a very awkward first impression.

What surprised me even more is that, after nearly 100 years of making essentially the same small menu, the woman serving us couldn't even recommend which flavour of their egg cream soda would be best for a first-time visitor or to pair with the Wilensky sandwich.

& speaking of the sandwich… it was very mid, to put it gently. Yes, it's inexpensive, but you definitely get what you pay for. The signature sandwich was nothing memorable.

Honestly, even if you're passing by, I wouldn't bother stopping in. It's simply not worth trying, & Montréal has so many better restaurants that are actually worth your time & money.

Aug 26, 2026
on Google

Belle institution montréalaise. Beau côté vintage & authentique d'un Montréal ancien.

Service rapide & courtois.

Nourriture excellente & simple.

Seul côté négatif est le manque de place. Il y a un potentiel d'ajouter le double en reconfigurant la pièce.

Aug 21, 2026
on Google

Un classique une recette gagnante les sodas sont excellents & bien-sûr le décor authentique ❤?

Aug 20, 2026
on Google

This place is a historical institute as much as it is a restaurant. How long it's been running is a feat of it's own. The charm of this place is how well-preserved it is. As old-school as it gets, right down to the old-fashioned soda fountain which I need to try next time. I was there for breakfast & it felt a bit early for a soda. The wilensky special...isn't particularly special- it's a bologne sandwich. But for a low price price of $6 that makes you feel like you're dining in the 20th century, it's nothing to complain about. Was served quicker than I could put away my change, the man made it like it was reflex. Can tell this is a sandwich that has held down the working class man for a very long time. Served long before there were dozens of international options available on every major street. Service was fine too.

Aug 19, 2026
on Google

C'est toujours très bon. Un place a aller.

Aug 17, 2026
on Google

Light lunch sandwiches were good. No tipping allowed. It should be a stop when near mile end.

Aug 14, 2026
on Google

Sandwich exceptionnelles

Aug 14, 2026
on Google

The Special is an icon & absolutely should be tried. This sandwich has been made since 1932, & it's clear why it's been so popular for 94 years. Simplicity perfected.

The bun has a bit of crispness from the hot grill. The all beef bologna is excellent & the touch of mustard makes the flavors sing.

I didn't love the fountain soda, as it was flat. Wouldn't get that next time.

Service is fast & friendly, so if there's a line don't worry because it moves fast.

I could eat another Special right now just thinking about it.

Aug 9, 2026
on Google

Un restaurant historique & emblématique. Malgré une présentation simple, la qualité gustative est remarquable & on se sent transporté dans l'ambiance de l'époque.

Aug 9, 2026
on Google

'if it aint broke dont fix it' they been putting out a great bologna sangwich since 1932. Can't go wrong with a cherry-coke either. Its pretty neat to see a family owned & run spot that is truly a Montreal Legacy.

Aug 6, 2026
on Google