Montreal's iconic smoked meat scene offers you five must-visit delis that'll make your taste buds dance. Schwartz's Deli, part-owned by Celine Dion, serves up their famous 10-day cured meat that's worth the inevitable wait in line. Snowdon Deli keeps Polish-Jewish traditions alive with over 120 mouthwatering products, while Lester's Famous perfectly blends heritage with modern twists like smoked meat poutine. Downtown's Reuben's impresses with premium aged cuts and late-night service, and if you're up for a short drive, Smoke Meat Pete on L'Île-Perrot rewards adventurous diners with live music and rustic charm. These legendary spots hold more savory secrets than meets the eye.
Key Takeaways
- Schwartz's Deli, established in 1928, offers authentic Montreal smoked meat using a ten-day curing process and attracts visitors with celebrity ownership.
- Snowdon Deli serves traditional Polish-Jewish cuisine with over 120 products and maintains unchanged recipes for more than 70 years.
- Lester's Famous Smoked Meat, operating since 1951, offers both classic sandwiches and innovative dishes like smoked meat poutine.
- Reuben's Downtown provides premium aged U.S.D.A Choice cuts and convenient late-night dining until 1:30 am on weekends.
- Smoke Meat Pete combines quality smoked meat with live music entertainment in a cozy setting on L'Île-Perrot.
The Legacy of Schwartz's Deli
Montreal's deli landmark Schwartz's has been a smoked meat powerhouse since Romanian Jewish immigrant Reuben Schwartz opened its doors in 1928. You'll find this iconic establishment still doing things the old-school way, preparing their legendary smoked meat in-house rather than taking shortcuts like many modern delis do. Their unique flavor comes from a ten-day curing process and decades of smoke-house seasoning. It's no wonder they've consistently snagged the "Best Montreal Sandwich Award" while their former rival across the street, Main Deli Steak House, couldn't quite match up.
When you visit Schwartz's today, you're experiencing a piece of living history that's been immortalized in both film and theater. The place has become such a cultural touchstone that even superstar Celine Dion couldn't resist getting a piece of the action – she's now a part-owner! You'll likely need to brave the infamous line-ups that snake down the street, but trust me, it's worth the wait. While Schwartz's didn't invent Montreal smoked meat (that honor goes to earlier pioneers like Benjamin Kravitz and A. Sanft), they've certainly perfected it over their 95+ years in business, becoming the gold standard for what a proper Montreal deli should be.
Inside Historic Snowdon Deli
Stepping into Snowdon Deli feels like traveling back to a '70s Miami diner, but with a distinct Montreal charm that's been drawing loyal customers for over 70 years. The Polish recipes have remained unchanged since its founding after WWII. You'll find friendly faces behind the counter, like Hart Fishman, who's always ready with a quip while slicing your smoked meat to perfection – lean, medium, or fatty, whatever suits your taste.
When you're here, you'll want to explore their impressive selection of over 120 products. From the mouthwatering kasha and kishke to their famous party sandwiches that'll make you the hero of any gathering, there's something for every craving. Their smoked salmon and chopped liver have become legendary among locals, while their knishes and pickles transport you straight to deli heaven.
What makes Snowdon truly special is how it's become a community hub where multiple generations gather. While the pandemic tested their resilience, their bustling takeout service kept the tradition alive. You'll find yourself at 5265 Boulevard Décarie any day except Sunday, joining countless others who've made this Montreal institution their go-to spot for authentic deli fare.
Lester's Famous Smoked Meat
While Snowdon Deli captures the '70s vibe, Lester's Deli has been crafting its own smoked meat legacy since 1951. The handcrafted menu items showcase their dedication to satisfying every craving. You'll find this Montreal institution's multiple locations across the city, from bustling Outremont to convenient Dorval, each serving up those mouthwatering sandwiches that'll make your taste buds dance.
At $14.95, their signature Montreal smoked meat sandwich isn't just a meal – it's a piece of the city's rich Jewish heritage on a plate. If you're feeling adventurous, you've got to try their smoked meat poutine ($17.45), a delicious twist on two Montreal classics that'll have you wondering why you didn't discover it sooner. The way they've managed to blend traditional deli culture with modern tastes is nothing short of magical.
When you're sitting at Lester's, munching on perfectly seasoned smoked meat that practically melts in your mouth, you're not just having lunch – you're participating in a decades-long tradition that's helped shape Montreal's food scene. Trust me, once you've experienced Lester's famous smoked meat, you'll understand why locals keep coming back for more.
Reuben's Downtown Experience
Nestled in the heart of Sainte-Catherine Street West, Reuben's offers a downtown dining experience that's distinctly Montreal. You'll find yourself surrounded by art-deco elegance and the smooth sounds of jazz, creating the perfect backdrop for savoring their legendary smoked meat. The restaurant's convenient downtown location at 1116 Sainte-Catherine W makes it just 0.3 miles from the nearest MTR station.
What sets Reuben's apart is their unwavering commitment to quality – they're not messing around with their meats. You're getting premium U.S.D.A Choice cuts that have been aged for at least 28 days, and the curing process? It's a patient art that results in that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness you're craving. Whether you're popping in for lunch or making a late-night pit stop (they're open until 1:30 am on weekends!), you'll find a menu that goes way beyond just smoked meat.
While you're there, don't forget to grab a vacuum-packed brisket to take home – it's like bringing a piece of Montreal with you. And if you're planning ahead, which you should, their reservation line's always ready at 514-866-1029. Trust me, after trying their Jewish-style corned beef brisket, you'll understand why Reuben's has become a downtown institution.
Hidden Gem: Smoke Meat Pete
Tucked away on L'Île-Perrot, just outside Montreal's bustling core, Smoke Meat Pete's has earned its reputation as the city's best-kept smoked meat secret. With over 250 glowing reviews, this local institution continues to delight both regulars and curious first-timers. When you're craving that perfect smoked meat sandwich but don't want to battle downtown traffic, you'll find this hidden gem serving up tender, spice-marinated slices that'll make your taste buds dance.
What sets Pete's apart isn't just its mouthwatering meat – it's the whole experience. You'll feel like you've stumbled into an authentic blues joint, complete with live music that'll have your toes tapping while you wait for your order. Sure, the wait times can stretch a bit during peak hours, but trust me, it's worth it when that heaping plate of smoky goodness arrives at your table.
Open from early morning until late (midnight on weekends!), Pete's welcomes you with rustic charm and the kind of service that'll make you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. While some folks might debate the fat content or smoke intensity, there's no arguing with the convenience of ample parking and the cozy, down-home atmosphere you just can't find downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Best Time to Avoid Long Lines at Montreal Delis?
You'll find shorter lines at Montreal delis during early mornings before 11 AM or late evenings after 8 PM. Visit on weekdays rather than weekends, and consider going during winter months for minimal waits.
Do Montreal Smoked Meat Delis Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, you'll find vegetarian sides like coleslaw and salads at Delibee's and Snowdon Deli. For gluten-free options, Schwartz's and Snowdon offer gluten-free meats, though cross-contamination may be a concern.
Which Delis Offer Catering Services for Large Events?
Like a well-orchestrated feast, you'll find catering services at Rock'N Deli, Kamio, Dunn's Famous, and Delibee's. They'll handle everything from corporate events to family gatherings with their smoked meat specialties.
Can You Buy Montreal Smoked Meat to Take Across Borders?
Yes, you can transport Montreal smoked meat across borders, but you'll need to follow specific regulations. For personal use, you're limited to 50 lbs and must comply with proper documentation and inspection requirements.
Which Delis Accept Online Orders or Provide Delivery Services?
You'll find online ordering and delivery at Lester's Deli, Angelos Italian Bakery & Market, Levitts, and Sunworks Farm. These delis make it convenient to get your smoked meat delivered right to you.
