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.
Excellent sandwiches at reasonable prices. Brings back memories of sandwiches I had when I was a kid. I forgot to take pictures but will try for next time.
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
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C'était une journée chargée d'émotions puisque mon papa passait un examen médical sérieux. Pendant que j'attendais je suis passé devant mes bagels préférés & j'ai pensé à Wilensky. Toujours une belle expérience : Nourriture, service & ambiance. Extra. Un baume sur notre journée. Merci d'être encore là depuis 1932.
If you are looking for a delicious, cheap, quick lunch, go here. They make fried bologna sandwiches that are ready in about 30 seconds. They also make their own milkshakes & sodas which are all great. The owners are lovely & make you feel very welcomed. It's an old shop with almost 100 years of history & is obviously feeling a bit tired but I love that aspect of it, although I recognize that others may not
Mar 25, 2025
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Absolutely worth going. It's a bit like a living museum in there, but I Had to go. My father took me there since I was three years old. It looks exactly the same, except no one is smoking a cigarette in your face. Had the basic sandwich & the cherry cola. Sandwich was good. Soda was outstanding.
I went here last Friday, & the experience was fantastic. As soon as you walk in, you sit down, & they ask what you'd like. The food is prepared in just two minutes-super quick! The staff were friendly & efficient, making the whole process seamless. The sandwich itself was simple yet absolutely delicious. It was so good I had to grab two more sandwiches & a karnatzel for the road.
Mar 21, 2025
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Amazing, simply amazing. Went for the first time today, chose the Wilensky special with Swiss cheese, an old fashion cherry cola (& an egg salad sandwich to go).
Excellent service, friendly & very quick. I definitely recommend it.
The best place for a 5$ sandwich & never changed the taste of them in 15years i know this place. Its such a tasty sandwich for fans of salami & mustard bread. Hope this restaurant keeps there door open for several years again.
Sûrement pas le plus beau & le plus à la mode mais vaut amplement le détour si vous êtes chanceux vous mangez assis maïs même debout c' est très convivial un spécial avec une vraie boissons gazeuses a l' ancienne fait sur place
Tried this spot on a recent visit for business. Felt like stepped through a time machine here. No frills historic joint in town has been in operation almost 100 years!
