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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 Tomorrow 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 2 - 20 Reviews

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

A real Montreal institution!

Jul 22, 2026
on Google

The food is really great & the atmosphere is very cozy - until you have to deal with one of the employees.

God forbid you ask for more hot dogs than they are willing or able to provide. They look at you like you're crazy for ordering six hot dogs, instead of simply treating it like a normal customer request.

What is most disappointing is the attitude toward returning customers. It feels like they are more focused on pleasing new customers than valuing the people who actually come back & support the business.

It is also evident that the current owners did not have to build this institution from the ground up the way their parents or grandparents likely did. They inherited a place with history, reputation, & loyal customers already attached to it. That should come with a responsibility to maintain the same level of hospitality & respect that made the place successful in the first place.

Great food, cozy place - but the service & attitude need serious work - if you don't like serving customers - shut your doors & close shop.

Jul 4, 2026
on Google

I had a bologne sandwich here a few months back; it was worth the 10 ish bucks I paid for. I figured I'd come to this institution since I was leaving Montreal. It was worth the visit, so much history crammed in this little spot. I believe I had the homemade soda also but I forget.

I saw news papers here saying famous locals used to frequent here. That makes it worth coming here for that alone I think; you don't see that often. What stood out to me was the Kik sign. That was an old soda brand that was now defunct.

Jun 2, 2026
on Google

Institution de Montréal. Parfait pour un petit dîner ou une collation rapide. Personnel super sympathique.

May 30, 2026
on Google

Simplicity pulled off with precision & excellence is how places become institutions. Wilensky's is absolutely an institution & you are doing yourself a disservice if you don't go for lunch when you visit the city.

If you live here & you haven't been yet, what are you doing??

Feb 17, 2026
on Google
5.0

Montréal institution. Enough said ✅

Dec 30, 2025
on Google

Une institution a ne pas louper, c'est très bon

Oct 11, 2025
on Google

An institution, a monument. You haven't lived a full life until you go there.

Jun 28, 2025
on Google

This place is a Montréal institution!! Stopped in for a quick bite to eat. The place was full at 3:00pm & was greeted promptly by the friendly staff. Ordered an old-fashioned Cherry Cola & the Wilensky Special. The soda was delicious & the sandwich (so simple, yet perfect) was amazing! Perfect ratio of mustard to bread to salami & baloney. Who knew this little grilled sandwich could be so good!

Apr 3, 2025
on Google