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.
The vibe is very unique & so is the food. We got the egg sandwich, meat sandwich & a chocolate milkshake. They were quite tasty for the price point! The staff were very friendly.
If you're looking for a cheap meal, I guess this is an ok place to stop. For about $5 you can get a sandwich. If I were to describe the sandwich I would say it tastes like a hot dog.
Jun 15, 2024
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
it's been 7 years I go there once or twice a month & noticed never left a comment, it is a classic, it is good, it is genuine, every bite is a comforting hmmmmmm in itself, every scent feels like home, every voice you here in that restaurant is reminiscing of the simpler time. I personally take 2 specials + pickles + cherry soda & take 30 minutes to enjoy every bit of it. taking time to take time is very important.
Feeling the city' culture , tasting the history, discovering Montreal old times & meal in my plan, a kind of nostalgia. The store is not open for convenience that the clerk told me, that's why we returned to it open. Cherry flavour cola was my first time drinking, sat down to eat at the counter, you can eat everything you order, then you pay for all your eating.
I'll always stop by if in the area. Been sitting in the same seat, eating the same sandwich, drinking the same soda for almost 40 years. It's always the same.
The cafe looks old school & the service doesn't take that long. The muffin is very good, freshly made & taste amazing, the pop for me is just regular. I love the muffins. There are limited seats, need to buy & go outside. Its worth to try.
May 31, 2024
on Google
🍽️
Know where to eat in Montreal before everyone else.
Get the first look at the hottest openings, secret menus, and RestoMontreal.ca's weekly top picks. Join 50,000+ foodies.
Ça faisait longtemps que je voulais essayer le fameux Wilensky spécial avec le cherry coke. Je n'ai pas été déçu! Simple & délicieux, ce fut parfait pour un dîner sur le pouce. Les lieux sont chargés d'histoire. J'ai trouvé le service un peu froid mais j'ai tout de même adoré l'endroit & j'y retournerai.
One of the oldest Polish lunch counters in the Mile End neighborhood. Featured on Parts Unknown by Anthony Bourdain, this no frills lunch spot serves only a handful of items, all under $5. The famous Wilensky special is a sliced salami, bologna, choice of cheddar/swiss cheese & mustard, served hot on a grilled roll that's reminiscent of an English muffin. It's warm, salty, flat, & easily manageable with two hands. It took less than 5 seconds for my takeout sandwich to be slung over in a brown sac, & even fewer to know this meal was a diamond in the rough.
When i'm in the neighborhood, i never pass the chance of getting their famous sandwich & their half sour pickles. Lovely run family business they all work behind the counter. I LOVE THIS PLACE!
There's a fine balance between whether you go there for the special or for the atmosphere. Pro tip: Be sure to ask for your sandwich to be cut, & served without mustard. &, if you order the half sour pickles, & they have no stock, the proper response is "Barry can be so unreliable".
Tu veux une sandwich aux baloney ? C est la place ! Mon copain m'y a emmener, je ne savait pas qu un resto pouvait faire sa renommer sur le baloney ! Sur place depuis des années, ( une vrais institution ) la déco est resté le même , en rentrant dans le restaurant, c est un vrais retour en arrière, photos d époques comble le mur à travers les années, trippant ! Pas de tables, mais comptoir où ont peut s assir. Nous, ont a commandé & manger dans le camion. Si tu aime le baloney, c est la place
This place has nostalgia written all over it. I don't think they've changed a thing in many, many decades - including prices. Casual, no frills, super friendly service. Bring cash.
