Great smoked meat sandwich! Honestly my first thought was to compare this sandwich to the many pastrami sandwiches I've had in NYC but that would be comparing apples to oranges. Even Schwartz will tell you it's not the same product although it is very similar. Both institutions cure, spice, smoke and steam the meat but that's where the similarities end. Although I don't know for sure, I've heard the cut of meat is different. Katz uses a naval cut, which is noticeably fattier and juicy. Schwartz's smoked meat doesn't lack in fattiness but it's far less fatty and juicy. Another fact on the first bite is -the flavor. Katz's flavor profile on the pastrami is a knockout punch while Schwartz delivers a jab. Schwartz's smoked meat delivers a different flavor profile all together. That's not to say Schwartz isn't great because it's half the price on Katz essentially and you don't have to tip your slicer here. That's not to say Schwartz doesn't bring their own brand of chaos. On my way out the slicer shouted he'd serve no one until the line was straightened out to his liking. LOL. It's all good though, that line was a mess and Sometimes tourists need a stern talking to. I'd get in a straight line for sure for this sandwich! I got my sandwich from the takeout next door versus waiting for table service. The line was 20 deep at 3pm and I just didn't have the patience on a drizzling afternoon. I'd revisit for another one of these smoked meat sandwiches. read more

I'm not sure if my review is going to sway you one way or the other, but let me just say anyone who has done research on places to eat in Montreal has seen this place pop up, and let me tell you - it's worth it. Their smoked meat sandwich is next level. And while I only had a few places of comparison in Montreal, it was bar none the best smoked meat in Montreal. I dare say they are the Katz's of Montreal. I gotta say, it was a bit of a trek to get here. My wife dropped me off and drove around while I went to get my order. Let me just say, going at 10pm on a Monday night probably played in my favor. Still being that late on a Monday in March, this place was still busy. I could have gotten a table if I was dining in, but that was not my plan. I ran in to grab some take out, and I have to say, in the time it took me to turn around and pay for my sandwich, my sandwich was all ready to go. The anticipation built as we drove back to hotel with my smoked meat sandwich. When I opened it up, I can't say I was overwhelmed by the size of it, but after that first bite, I was hooked. This was the best bite I had on my whole trip, and I am now cursing myself for only getting one sandwich. We almost went back the next morning, but we had to be on the road, so alas, this one sandwich was all we got. OVERALL - if you don't go, it is truly your loss. I would probably try the poutine with the smoked meats on a return trip, to get the full, Montreal experience. CELEBRITY RATING - Ryan Gosling read more

If you like smoked meat, go here. If you don't, don't go here. The sandwiches look small but are packed with meat. I thought I would be bursting after, but I was pleasantly full and not uncomfortable. Fries are a bit underseasoned and soggy, but you don't go here for the fries. We had to ask for waters, but once we did, we got them pretty quickly - the service is exceptionally fast here. My son said it was the best hotdog dog he's ever had, but later said he was just "in the moment." They do pack you in here - we ended up at a table with 2 people we didn't know (who were lovely and we had a nice chat). So be prepared to chat up your neighbors. It was highly recommended by a lot of people, but we felt it was a bit overrated.... read more

Schwartz's - Sandwich à la viande fumée / Smoked Meat Sandwich with Frites / Fries - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

The smoked meat sandwich did NOT disappoint! We got there pretty early and received our sandwich right away. It was quick. The meat is stacked and seriously so good. Don't sleep on this one. Ambiance felt like a deli but I wasn't expecting anything different. The seats were in the back and we were able to order, get our sandwich, and sit right away. The only thing is that it came out to be smaller than I expected. I wish there was more or I wish we ordered more. read more

Schwartz's - Smoke Sandwich à la viande fumée / Smoked Meat Sandwich - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

On this trip, my food goal was to have a smoked meat sandwich from Schwartz's. My sister and I were strategic. Since the restaurant opens at 10am, we wanted to get there before 11, to beat the lunchtime line-up. I suspected that with the milder, more pleasant weather, more people would be more willing to wait. Consequently, I planned my day to avoid them entirely, even if it meant having lunch slightly earlier. Most of the tables were 6 tops, so we chose one that was empty for now, fully anticipating that the remaining seats would fill up before we finished. I planned to have the smoked meat sandwich and hoped the restaurant would offer poutine. I was in luck. Both a traditional and a smoked meat version of poutine were available. I went with the former. The fries were tender and crispy. The gravy was flavorful, but I would have liked more cheese curds. My sister agreed. The sandwich is served à la carte, fries and pickles are add-ons. The sandwich is smaller than what you would find on an American menu, but it is the perfect size if you do not want leftovers. I thought the sandwich was good, but not fantastic. It was perplexingly dry on one side and moist on the other. The service was fine - about what you'd find at a deli. Note, we were still in the area at 1pm and saw the lineup we managed to avoid. read more

Schwartz's - Traditional poutine with a deli staple, cherry soda. - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

The smoked meat sandwich was smallish in size, though tender and peppery; the leaner parts were on the drier side. An extra coleslaw helped balance the saltiness. Overall not as tasty as its NYC analog at Katz's. read more

Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Super quick service. We sat at the bar and grabbed a few quick things to share. My friends seemed to enjoyable them a more than I did. I could have just been too full... read more

Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Schwartz's Deli in Montreal is often described as the Canadian counterpart to Katz's Delicatessen in New York City. While both iconic institutions are known for their legendary meat sandwiches, they differ in ways that make each special in its own right. This isn't about declaring a winner, it's about appreciating what each deli brings to the table. Katz's pastrami is juicy, bold, and packed with flavor. The meat is peppery, well-seasoned, and deeply savory. Schwartz's smoked meat, on the other hand, is incredibly tender and so soft it practically falls apart with each bite. It has a pleasant smoky flavor but isn't as salty or peppery as Katz's pastrami, making it a milder yet equally satisfying experience. Portion size is another noticeable difference. Katz's sandwiches are famously massive, but they also come with a much higher price tag. Schwartz's sandwiches are smaller and more reasonably priced, which makes them easier to tackle in one sitting. Even the mustard sets the two apart. Schwartz's mustard has a lighter, more subtle flavor compared to the sharp punch often found at Katz's. When it comes to service, both delis shine. They're quick, friendly, and efficient despite being consistently busy. Schwartz's is a much smaller restaurant, but like Katz's, its walls are filled with photos of celebrities and notable visitors. Both spots stay open late and maintain a lively, energetic atmosphere. What truly sets Schwartz's apart, though, is their smoked meat poutine. This dish is the star of the show. While I wished the fries were a bit crispier, the combination of rich gravy, squeaky cheese curds, and tender smoked meat was outstanding. It's something you simply can't get at Katz's. The sour pickles were a refreshing contrast to all the meat but fairly standard and not particularly memorable. Overall, if you're ever in Montreal, a visit to Schwartz's is a must. As a New Yorker, I'll admit that sandwich versus sandwich, Katz's has a slight edge in flavor. But we don't have smoked meat poutine so that alone makes Schwartz's worth the trip. read more

See all

Popular easy eats sandwich spot with epic smoked meats. Went for a quick lunch and saw the sit-down line was very long. Decided to grab food for takeaway. Ordered some smoked meat sandwich and fries. Found a little nook in the takeaway area where we could sit. Was a good, filling lunch. Would come back! read more

See all

If you are from New York and want to try a staple just like Katz Deli, this is it! The sandwich was so delicious and the poutine...*chefs kiss* don't skip this place if you are ever in Montreal ! The staff were super friendly and the space is very much like a fast food resto. read more

Definitely a must stop in the Montreal area. The smoked meat is just so good and always a solid meal. You can get it in a sandwich, meat on its own or on poutine. Service is quick and attentive because they need to turn over tables pretty quickly for the crowds that come and this is a no reservation spot. The dining environment felt like an old school diner spot. You can eat at the bar or there are some tables and chairs. There's also a take out spot only and market next door. read more

Schwartz's - Best smoked meat I've tasted! - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

The ambiance and history of Schwartz's is legendary. They have been doing smoked meat for forever. When going there, make sure to have the smoked meat sandwich. A great tip is to order extra rye bread. The meat is enough to make a second sandwich. Try the different types of mustard - definitely adds to the experience. The pickles are awesome - and since they've added fries and poutine, you are now getting the full package. Service is quick, and the staff are professional and very eager to assist. It's a right of passage to come here. Spend some time looking at all of the famous people's photos on the wall. Be prepared to be sitting at a table with a bunch of other people. Take home some spices for later. You may see someone famous while you are there. And be prepared to wait a bit for the service, especially if you come right at prime hours. read more

See all

For locals and tourists alike, Schwartz's is a must try. Open since 1928, it's famous for its Montréal smoked meat. The interior has a classic deli look, and offers both counter and table seating. Lines often form outside, but the staff keeps things moving efficiently. My family and I went on a Thursday, and arrived around 9:30am. We were the first ones there, but 15-20 others joined us prior to opening. Once we were seated, we ordered a smoked meat sandwich, turkey sandwich, French fries, and a couple dill pickles. The fries and pickles were both above average, but the highlight was the quality of the meats. The turkey was incredibly fresh, neither dry nor slimy. Although I enjoyed the turkey sandwich, the smoked meat is what Schwartz's is known for. The brisket is cured for 10-12 days, smoked, and then steamed the day it's served. Steaming moisturizes, reheats, and tenderizes the meat. The smoked meat sandwich was so good, I ended up ordering the poutine à la Schwartz's. This is the ultimate Canadian dish: poutine topped with Montréal smoked meat. Despite being pretty full from the sandwich, I didn't leave a crumb. Some might call Schwartz's a tourist trap, but the quality of its meats is undeniable. Food aside, the overall experience and history make it one of a kind. Personally, I ate at over 10 establishments while in Montréal, and this was my favorite of the bunch. read more

See all

This is an amazing causal restaurant. Staff are very friendly. Smoke meat and poutine is excellent. Definitely coming back on my next visit. read more

Schwartz's - Poutine Schwartz - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Okay so I only had 1-2 bites of the iconic Schwartz's sandwich, so take my review with a grain of salt. The meat honestly surprised me in a good way. I was expecting it to be overhyped, but I think I understand the hype. It is SO soft, tender, and juicy/fatty (in a good way). There's delight in its simplicity. I think it's definitely worth a try if you appreciate beef, though it is a tad pricey. read more

Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Schwartz was fine, but not as good as I remember. The food was good, though it didn't quite live up to the hype or past visits. What really stood out was an odd service hiccup. We were given fries we didn't order. The server acknowledged the mistake and said they were on the house, but a few minutes later came back and took them away, saying his boss wouldn't allow it. Not a huge deal, but it was weird. Don't think I'll be coming back on my next visit to Montreal. read more

See all

The most well known spot for Montreal smoked meat sandwiches. Plenty of tasty meat, bread, mustard. Keep it simple. Get it with a pickle and cherry cola for the full experience. There's always a line to get a table at the deli, but you can go their 2nd entrance next door for takeout. Everything is claustrophobic but the food is great, and fun ambiance. Not a fan of their pickles. The skin is thick and they're too big IMO. You can buy their Montreal steak spice in little shakers. read more

See all

I was so excited to try Schwartz after looking at the pictures on yelp. I followed a reviewer's recommendation to do take-out instead of waiting for a table and it was a great decision. I was in and out of the store in less than 10 minutes. The sandwich was super fresh - the smoked meat was soft and flavorful which paired perfectly with the mustard and white bread. It was such a simple sandwich but it was packed with flavor. This is a must-try in Montreal! read more

Schwartz's - Sandwich à la viande fumée / Smoked Meat Sandwich - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Quite a long line to get in but it moves super quick. We were agreeable to eat outside but then wondered if the menu was different inside. Order was taken super fast but food itself took way long than expected for fries and a simple sandwich. Staff are super busy and also only have 1 payment machine. Sandwich was 10/10 good. Fries were 7/10. Next time I'd rather get 2 sandwiches. Overall 100% worth the wait! read more

See all

Definitely a place everyone should experience in Montreal. Reminds me of Katz's deli in NYC. We were seated with a lovely Canadian family and ordered a smoked meat sandwich and an order of poutine to split, with an order of pickles as well. J got the cherry soda that was pretty good. The sandwich was pretty good - just meat (brisket) and mustard on rye bread. The poutine was amazing. The pickles come two to an order so keep that in mind. Service was fantastic - I believe the owner came by and was great, telling us the history of the restaurant. Overall, worth the visit. read more

See all

I had to go to Schwartz's when in Montreal for smoked meat. Nothing to complain about, it was a good sandwich (and surprisingly good fries) but it wasn't out of the world. I actually prefer the smoked meat in Toronto's St Lawrence market. Again the sandwich was good just did not really live up to the hype (or line). read more

See all

Amazing smoked meat. Great service. Awesome old school deli vibe and feel. Very much the Canadian version of Katzs in NYC. There is table service, so you do not have to order at the counter. The smoked meat sandwich is awesome, and big. order it medium to get a little more fat and prevent it from being dry. I had the poutins, coleslaw, and pickle. All three were perfect. I try to come here every tie I am in town. read more

Schwartz's lived up to its reputation! Good, flavorful smoked meat reminiscent of Katz's. There are 2 entrance, left entrance for takeaway and right entrance you line up for dining in. I arrived midweek around 5pm and waited about 15 mins for a single seat on the counter. The service is quick and lukewarm friendly. I ordered the medium, not too lean or fatty, smoked meat sandwich (#4) with a coke. Everything from pickles to slaw is on the side. The sandwich came quick, but being American I was surprised at how small it was. If you have been to Katz's you know what I mean--sandwiches are for sharing! Schwartz's sandwich was about 1/2 the size--kind of like if Katz 's had a baby. The good news it is the perfect size for 1 person to finish and at CA$15 it was priced well. Flavor was spot on. You ask for the receipt and pay at the cashier desk. They do accept Visa and Mastercard. Definitely worth a stop on your Montreal culinary journey. read more

Schwartz's - Window Dressing at Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

This was our first meal after landing in Montreal, and what a great way to start the trip! We came in the afternoon on a weekday and were able to get a table right away. The inside is pretty small with the counter on one side and the tables on another. We got the smoked meat sandwich, poutine, and coleslaw for two to share. I really wanted the half sour pickle, but they were sold out sadly. Everything was delicious though! The sandwich was smaller than I imagined, but it was a good amount with the poutine. The fries were drenched in so much gravy; I absolutely loved it. The coleslaw was unlike any I've ever had. It was very vinegary with no mayo at all. It provided a nice break from all the richness with the smoked meat and poutine. I think Katz's deli still wins, but in terms of price, Schwartz's can't be beat! I'll definitely be back next time we visit. read more

See all

Upon learning I was planning a trip to Montreal, friends advised me to go to Schwartz's. It was already on my mind and I headed here on my first evening in the city. Although I went at an off hour, the place was bumping. However, I did not have to wait for a seat at the bar and had a smoked meat sandwich and fries. The sandwich was thick, with meat that was slightly saltier and spicier than I expected. The texture was wonderful and my choice of "medium" gave me just the right proportion of meat to fat. The fries were crispy, hot, and basic - just like I like. It wasn't perfect but worth the trip. read more

Schwartz's - Smoked meat and fries. - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

There is no doubt that this is a must visit spot when visiting Montreal hands down. The sandwich is incredible and I had pounds of their incredible coleslaw. Wow. I dined in and thought the shared table open seating sit next to strangers Concept was cool and interesting. It does make it very efficient for them and helps with the long lines to move quicker. They have a separate section for to-go orders so that's a smart option too if you do not want to wait in the long line. I ended up going here 3 times during my stay. read more

See all

I'm a smoked meat girl so this place is always been on my bucket list but I've been a few times but I've never been super impressed with how thick they cut the smoke meat. I miss having Quebec smoke meat in point Saint Charles. They make a good smoke meat. read more

We came here on a Monday at 3. There were a few min of wait. The restaurant was air conditioned and workers were fast and diligent. Surprisingly, we had good service compare to everywhere else we ate in Montreal. I like the tender smoked meat and prefer it over pastrami because it was less salty. The texture was also softer and more tender than pastrami. The mayonnaise less slaw was sweet, sour, and had a kick of horseradish, a refreshing contrast to the rich smoked meat. Price was great. $15 55 for a highly stacked sandwich that they could easily charged $20. I am usually not impressed by touristy places, but I am glad I came here. read more

See all

This is hands down one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. So simple yet so flavorful. Just meat and bread but the meat melts in your mouth. You're able to select how much fat you want in your meat and medium was perfect for us. The service was quick for being so busy and the ambience is a cute mom and pops diner vibe. Will definitely be coming back here on the next Montreal trip! read more

Schwartz's - Smoked Meat sandwich - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

This place is a legend for a reason. Their smoked meat sandwiches are like the dream version of pastrami (note: they use yellow mustard, not Dijon), sliced thin and piled high. There's excellent people watching to be had at the counter. It's always busy here, even for carry outs, so don't be surprised if you have to stand in line. Absolutely worth the wait. An excellent first stop on a holiday in Montreal. read more

I was so excited to try this iconic spot and am so glad I did! Schwartz is a simplistic no-nonsense deli to get your smoked meat sandwiches. I had the classic sandwich that while simple was packed full of meat, a layer of mustard, and all around delicious. We also ordered the regular poutine which I really enjoyed - I haven't had enough poutine elsewhere to compare but I thought it was a great proportion of gravy and cheese to fries with a delicious flavor. It was super packed to get in to the restaurant side on a Saturday morning, however, the to go side while packed went super fast for us to order and go so I would recommend as I am not sure the casual restaurant contributes much more to the experience. read more

Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Been a long time since I came here, had to visit again when visiting. Decided to get 2 sandwiches to go and eat it back at the hotel. Got the extra fatty meat which is delicious. $15.5 per sandwich, both came to $35. Quite pricey, but I guess that's what it is for such a touristy place. Meat was amazing. Takeout had no line on Saturday afternoon, only dine in had the line but it wasn't too long. read more

See all

The meat was very tasty and tender, the sandwich is smaller than we remembered? Overall good experience. They have both dine in and to go areas to make it faster. Not sure if value is there anymore. read more

Schwartz's - Smoked meat sandwich - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Quite excellent smoked beef sandwiches at fun hole-in-the-wall. Staff was terrific and got our food to us fast and followed-up to make sure we were satisfied. Would return again with zero hesitation! In fact, might go again before we leave Montréal. Fries were hand cut and excellent and coleslaw was mayo-free and amongst the best I have had in my life. read more

Schwartz's - "Smoked meat" and coleslaw. - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all

Sandwich, though delicious, was really small. Maybe I'm just American, but I expected much bigger. Poutine was just ok--good gravy, but fries were beyond soggy. Not as good as I remember er it from the last time I had it. That said, I did get it delivered to my hotel, so maybe not a fair judgement. read more

Schwartz's - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

I stopped by to pick up takeout and at first ended up in a line of about ten people, only to realize that it was for dine-in. Luckily, the takeout line (located a couple of doors down) moved much quicker. The space is quite narrow, but there was an employee helping to direct people on where to line up, which kept things organized. The menu is fairly small, but I already knew what I came for: the Montreal smoked meat sandwich. It was generously stuffed with meat, though at $15.55 plus tax I'm not sure it felt worth the price. The flavor was good, definitely on the salty side, and while the meat wasn't dry, it was crumbly and less tender than I expected. Overall, I'd say it's worth trying at least once for the experience, but I'm not sure I'd go back. read more

I was super excited to try Schwartz's as it has been raved about in all the different Montreal food review; however, I think I'm too spoiled by NYC delis and I thought this place was just okay. I arrived at around 1pm on a weekend without reservations and I was pleasantly surprised that they were able to fit a party of 3 immediately in the restaurant. You eat cafeteria-style side-by-side to others which I like. I thought the smoked meat sandwich was okay. I thought the bread was a bit dry and although I did like the smokyness of the meats, maybe there needed to be a slight bit more of black pepper. If you've ever tried Katz's Deli in NYC, that's a bit of my bar and so I thought the meat could be juicier. I did appreciate the mustard and the pickles to counterbalance the sandwich. Is it the best deli meat you'll ever have? Maybe not, but would not be a bad stop to try especially if you're in Mile End area. I will say after we left, the line was out the door and people seem to be waiting 20+ minutes in the cold so be mindful of when you come! read more

Schwartz's - Smoked Meat Sandwich - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

I went because I was already in the city and also because I'd seen it on "Somebody Feed Phil" as a must-go place. Well, why not then? The vibe is vintage diner and it's no frills. You'll wait in line. You'll get a very good sandwich. It won't blow your mind but it's good. You don't go to linger. You eat and you get out. It was fun and no regrets but will I make it a point to go back? Nah. read more

Schwartz's - Smoked meat sandwich. - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Y'all. If you're in Montreal, you have to try the smoked meat sandwich. Flavor was off the charts. And the poutine?? The gravy is out of this world. Servers got us seated quickly, and food was out minutes after we ordered. It's a really small joint so expect some crowding and noise but worth it. read more

Schwartz's - Smoked meat sandwich and traditional poutine - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

A less hectic version of Katz's Deli in New York, Schwartz has a similar eclectic interior and outgoing staff. What makes it better in my opinion is the meat, which is more juicy and packed with flavour. Will definitely come by again when I'm in Montreal! read more

Schwartz's - Brisket Poutine - Delis Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

See all