I originally thought about writing a general post about my favourite restaurants and food in Montreal, but I quickly realised my love for Schwartz’s Deli deserved a post of its own. If you Google where to eat in Montreal, it’s pretty much a guarantee that Schwartz’s Deli is going to come up. And for good reason. Whether or not you like smoked meat sandwiches or have never tried them before, I can pretty much promise you that you’re going to fall in love with just about everything on the menu at Schwartz’s Deli Montreal.

What makes Schwartz’s Deli Montreal special?

Schwartz’s Deli Montreal has been around since 1928 and is still located on the same street, Saint Laurent Boulevard. Aside from the most insanely delicious smoked meat sandwich, it’s the whole experience that I really love (shockingly, I almost don’t even mind the queue). Every time I’ve been, the queue takes around 30 minutes to get through. Once in, you’ll likely be seated at a table with other hungry locals and tourists. The atmosphere inside is busy, slightly chaotic, but filled with an authenticity that keeps people coming back.

Smoked Meat Sandwiches, Fries, & Pickles!

The whole reason you come to Schwartz’s Deli Montreal is for their classic smoked meat sandwich (CAD$9.95). The sandwich is filled with the most delicious smoked meat: tender, slightly salty, and even better with a slight smear of mustard on top. Along with your sandwich, you have to order a plate of french fries (CAD$3.55) and a massive dill pickle (CAD$2.35) on the side. The fries are some of the best I’ve ever had and the pickle is one of the restaurant’s signature sides.

Despite being busy, the waitstaff are friendly and you can expect quick service. Although this isn’t exactly a place to sit down and enjoy a leisurely meal given the line of people waiting for a table, I’ve never felt rushed/pushed out of Schwartz’s Deli before. This place is a must when you’re visiting Montreal.

Schwartz’s Deli
3895 Boul. Saint-Laurent
Montreal