Restaurant Wilensky's has been a Montréal tradition since 1932, known for its grilled-meat sandwiches. The food selections are limited to a few sandwiches at very low price: Salami sandwiches, hot-dog sandwiches... This place serves drinks typical of the old-time soda fountain. Talk about tradition
Wilensky's is described as a Montreal institution with a timeless neighborhood vibe and a deliberately simple menu that has stayed true for decades. The Wilensky's special, a grilled salami and bologna sandwich with mustard and cheese on a Kaiser roll, is praised for its straightforward, satisfying flavor, often paired with house made sodas such as a cherry cola made at the counter. The experience feels nostalgic and unpretentious, with seating at the bar, quick service, and a sense of community as regulars and newcomers alike mingle. The atmosphere is punctuated by old photos on the walls and a kitchen that embraces tradition, attracting both locals and visitors seeking something different in a city known for its food scenes. Practical notes recur in reviews: limited seating, affordable prices, a no tipping policy that benefits charity, and occasional parking challenges, with some calling it a living museum and a must visit for an authentic slice of Montreal deli heritage.
Lightning fast, super friendly service! Gnocci tastes delicious! Where else can you find such a good portion of a tasty meal for 6$? I was so full, I almost couldn't finish it!
Aug 3, 2025
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Semplicemente delizioso! Un panino che viene fatto così dal 1932. Ne abbiamo ordinato uno a testa, poi subito altri due. Non si fanno modifiche (giustamente). Location storica con quel fascino passato che da sola vale la strada da percorrere per raggiungerlo. Le bibite vengono assemblate al momento, davanti al bancone. Cetrioli sotto aceto buonissimi. Il personale è gentile e sorridente. Si paga solo in contanti o con circuito canadese, che noi, dall'Italia non avevamo. Ma la ragazza al bancone ci ha spiegato dove prelevare e abbiamo risolto in un attimo. Consigliatissimo! Panino perfetto, bibite perfette, atmosfera perfetta!
Met Sharon the owner was nice like walking into a time zone looks like a 1930s candystore in the old movies had a eggcream for the first time it was delicious as well as there salami sandwich would highly recommend if in montreal
Jul 26, 2025
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We are always greeted with kindness & courtesy. It may seem simple, but it's a place where we enjoy the world's most delicious sandwiches. Thank goodness you exist.
Lovely historic deli! I visited Wilensky's as part of a food tour, & it was a very fun peek into Montreal's culinary history. It makes a very cheap, quick lunch if you're in the area, & I appreciate that the deli still feels like a 1920s movie set. The staff is super friendly & feels extremely passionately about their mustard -- so don't try to ask for a sandwich without it -- & it feels like a lovely neighborhood joint. They specialize in the Wilensky special, which includes grilled bologna, salami, cheese, & mustard on a Kaiser roll, which my fellow food tour guests seemed to really enjoy. Their vegetarian alternative had egg salad & mustard on a Kaiser roll, which was tasty, but honestly not my favorite part of the tour; the bread was a little bit too dry, & it felt rather one-note with just the egg salad. Even so, it was a really fun visit, & I'm sure it's better for folks who eat meat.
No trip to Montreal's complete for me without a Wilensky's with Swiss cheese & extra mustard! Absolutely delicious little snack with a proprietary corn meal dusted bun that I have never seen anywhere else makes this the perfect little treat. A MUST eat in Mile End!
