Montrealers take few things as seriously as they do their smoked meat. There are many places around the city where you can get your guaranteed fix. Here are some of our favourite smoked meat joints in Montreal.
Schwartz’s Smoked Meat is a Montreal staple. World renowned, they serve some of the best tasting smoked meat sandwiches in Montreal. Be prepared to stand in line to get a taste of the secret recipe — and don’t be surprised to see celebrities like Seth Rogen in line with you. It’s a not a frills restaurant, but that’s part of the charm. Enjoy the sandwich with a pickle and cherry cola.
Reuben’s is a casual eatery in the heart of downtown Montreal, well known for their quality brisket and smoked meat. They offer a variety of special sandwiches that include anywhere from 10 ounces of smoked meat to one full pound of smoked meat (the Big Bang sandwich). Their recipe is tried and tested and is sure to satisfy any craving.
Lester’s has been using the same tested and true family recipe for their spectacular smoked meat sandwich for over 60 years. The sandwiches are nice, thick and juicy and taste great with the greasy French fries that Lester’s also serves. At Lester’s, you can also pick up smoked meat to go at their deli counter. As an added bonus, you’ll usually be able to find a seat in the restaurant right away.
If you can’t get in to the iconic Schwartz’s, simply cross the street and head to The Main Deli and Steakhouse. The family-owned restaurant serves some of the best smoked-meat specialties along with other Jewish classics such as a tasty matzah ball soup. The restaurant has been featured on You Gotta Eat Here, and they’re right — you simply must come in for a bite.
Located on Decarie, near the Snowdon metro, the Snowdon Deli serves juicy, tender smoked meat to its visitors, along with other authentic Jewish dishes. You can order a smoked meat sandwich, made to perfection on rye bread with yellow mustard, and you have the option to add chopped liver. They also have a take-out counter for those who are in a rush, but still need their smoked-meat fix.
Although technically not on the Island of Montreal, Smoked Meat Pete is consistently ranked among the best when it comes to their smoked meat. They are located just off the island, on Île-Perrot, and offer a variety of dishes made with their succulent smoked meat such as a smoked meat spaghetti dish and the classic smoked meat on rye bread.
It isn’t called Le Roi (The King) for nothing. This Plaza St-Hubert institution has been there for 60 years and it didn’t change much over the last few years, except for the big screen TVs that were recently installed. But we don’t go there to see the hockey game but to taste their delicious smoked meat, served in a plate or in a sandwich.