9 Must-Visit Places for Montreal’s Best Smoked Meat

If you love tasty, juicy bites, you're in for a treat. Montreal is well-known for its smoked meat, and this article is your guide to the city's best spots.

We've picked out 9 must-visit places where the magic of smoked meat happens.

Join us as we explore the best of Montreal's smoked meat scene. Get ready to enjoy some great food, discover some fun facts, and maybe even pick up a tip or two. Let’s get started!

In the middle of Montreal, there’s a famous place called Schwartz's Deli that’s known for its amazing food and rich history.

Located on Saint Laurence Blvd, this deli has been serving its legendary smoked meat since 1928.

It was started by a Jewish immigrant from Romania, and they still stick to the same special recipe of herbs and spices that has been loved for almost a hundred years.

When you walk into Schwartz's, it feels like you’ve traveled back in time. The place is lively, filled with chatter and the delicious smell of smoked meat, making it a special place to eat.

Even though the lines can be long, most people agree it’s worth the wait. You can watch the skilled cutter slice the tender smoked meat, which has been marinated for ten days, smoked overnight, and steamed just right.

The best thing on the menu is definitely the smoked meat sandwich. It’s served on fresh rye bread with a bit of mustard, and each bite is packed with flavor.

But there’s more than just sandwiches here. You can also get tasty sides like crispy fries, tangy coleslaw, and crunchy dill pickles to go with your meal.

And for a special Montreal treat, don’t miss the poutine topped with smoked meat and cheese curds—it’s a big hit!

The service is fast, and they can speak both English and French, making it easy for everyone. You can choose to sit at the bar or share a table with others.

Walking into Le Roi du Smoked Meat feels like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to when jukeboxes and classic music were everything.

Located on the busy St-Hubert street, this family-owned spot has been dishing out delicious smoked meat and good vibes since 1954—over 70 years of tasty sandwiches!

The inside has a warm, cozy feel that mixes styles from the 1960s and 80s, with music from those times playing in the background and HD TVs for watching sports or news.

It’s the perfect place to enjoy some seriously good food. Their menu is filled with comfort food favorites like pizza, souvlaki, spaghetti, club sandwiches, BBQ chicken, and, of course, the iconic poutine.

But the real highlight? The smoked meat. It’s juicy, tender, and served in big portions that won’t empty your wallet. You have to try their special smoked meat plate, which comes with coleslaw, fries, and a pickle.

St-Hubert street is known for its mix of great food and cool shopping, making it a perfect stop if you're exploring Montreal.

Many locals and tourists find themselves coming back again and again for those unforgettable smoked meat sandwiches, showing how great the food and atmosphere really are.

Located in the heart of the Golden Square Mile, Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse is the go-to spot if you’re in the mood for Montreal's famous smoked meat.

This place is a hidden treasure for both locals and visitors looking for a tasty, meaty experience. It’s hard to resist their mouthwatering smoked meat sandwiches, which are not only big but also packed with flavor.

Their menu has a variety of tasty options, including sandwiches, poutine, and some unique specialty dishes.

Have you ever tried smoked meat mac and cheese? It's one of those dishes that people can’t stop talking about and say it’s totally worth it.

They also offer vegetarian choices, but just a heads up, they warn about possible allergens if you have any food sensitivities.

For those who are busy, Reuben's also does takeout, including their delicious smoked meat sealed for freshness.

And if you’re planning a get-together, their catering service is available with just a two-day notice.

Visitors often praise the friendly and helpful staff, which adds to the overall great experience. While some people might mention the prices, with portions this generous, you definitely get your money’s worth.

Located in the heart of St-Leonard, Montreal, Jarry Smoked Meat has been a favorite spot for food lovers since 1974.

This cozy restaurant is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy some classic Montreal smoked meat.

Jarry Smoked Meat is famous for its delicious smoked meat sandwiches, known for being super tasty and tender.

But they have more than just sandwiches! Their menu is filled with yummy options, including smoked meat pizza, hearty submarine sandwiches, chicken souvlaki, shrimp, and the classic poutine. The servings are big, so you'll definitely leave feeling full and happy, all for a good price.

When you walk into Jarry Smoked Meat, it feels like stepping into a friendly diner, where the staff greets you with smiles and helpful service.

It's also super convenient to visit, with free parking right across the street and late hours for those late-night food cravings.

You can pay in lots of ways, like with VISA, American Express, MasterCard, and Interac, so it’s easy to eat there.

It's a place where tradition and great taste come together, making it a spot that keeps people coming back for more.

Dunn's Famous has been a key part of Montreal since 1927, and it's a place that both locals and tourists love.

Famous for its Montreal-style smoked meat, Dunn's is located right in downtown, offering a cozy vibe that brings back memories, complete with music from the 70s.

The highlight here is definitely the smoked meat sandwiches. They come on thick rye bread and are served with fresh fries, coleslaw, and a tasty dill pickle.

People can’t stop talking about how tender and flavorful these sandwiches are. The portions are big enough for one person or perfect to share with a friend.

If you want to try something different, the smoked meat egg rolls and Dunn's BBQ Kettle Chips are exciting twists on classic deli food.

Dunn's takes pride in using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, making sure that every bite feels like a taste of Montreal's food history.

The service is quick and friendly, so each visit is enjoyable. Plus, since they’re open late, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite after a long day of exploring the city.

If you want to experience authentic Montreal smoked meat, Dunn's Famous is definitely worth a visit. Its charm and dedication to quality food make it a top spot in the city’s dining scene.

Snowdon Deli has been a key part of Montreal since 1946 when Abe and Joe Morantz opened it, inspired by their family's success in the deli business.

Over the years, this charming spot has continued to thrive, now run by John Agelopoulos, who has worked with the original owners for over 40 years.

It’s truly a family-run place, with Abe's son Ian, John's daughter Sophy, her husband Yanni, and Phil's grandson Hart all playing a role in keeping this beloved deli alive.

It's an important part of Montreal's food scene. Snowdon Deli is famous for its authentic Jewish deli experience and serves a variety of mouth-watering dishes.

Their smoked meat is a highlight—tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.

If you love brisket and corned beef, you’re going to love it here. They also offer delicious breakfast options like omelettes and pancakes, along with hearty lunch choices like club sandwiches.

The vibe at Snowdon Deli is warm and inviting, making it feel like home. It has a casual, cozy atmosphere that brings back memories of the 1980s, making it a great place for brunch, hanging out with friends, or enjoying a family meal.

Known as a local favorite, the deli offers both eat-in and takeout options, and while finding parking can be a bit tough, there is street parking available.

Located right in the center of Montreal, Reuben's Restaurant Delicatessen is a must-try for anyone who loves delicious deli food.

This place is famous for its amazing smoked meats and cheeses, and eating here feels both classic and comforting.

When you walk in, you’ll find a cozy atmosphere where the staff is super friendly and ready to help. The pretty European-style decor adds a nice touch, making it a great spot for anything—from a quick snack to a relaxing dinner.

Reuben's menu is full of tasty options. Their smoked meat sandwich is a big hit, packed with flavors that keep customers coming back.

If you enjoy the classic Reuben sandwich, theirs will not let you down. And if you're feeling adventurous, the smoked meat pasta is a fun choice that many people love.

You can’t mention Reuben's without talking about their homemade cheesecake. It's the perfect way to end a meal filled with hearty dishes.

What makes Reuben's special is their commitment to keeping things consistent. Over the years, they’ve maintained high standards, making sure every visit is just as enjoyable as the last.

It’s no surprise that both locals and visitors love this place while exploring Montreal's amazing food scene.

Lester's Deli, located in the cool neighborhood of Outremont in Montreal, is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves good food.

Famous for its classic smoked meat sandwich, this deli really showcases the delicious food culture of Montreal.

Their sandwiches are packed with tender, juicy smoked meat, and they usually come with crispy fries and a tangy dill pickle on the side.

Walking into Lester's feels like stepping back in time. The retro vibe and friendly staff make it a fun and welcoming place.

Many people say the smoked meat here is super juicy and flavorful, making it one of the best delis in the city. Not just locals, but visitors from all around come to experience the authentic taste of Montreal.

But Lester's has more than just smoked meat. Their menu is a tasty mix of comfort foods and creative dishes.

Lester's Deli also offers catering, which is perfect for making any event special. Their talented kitchen team creates amazing menus for all kinds of occasions, big or small, ensuring that every gathering is a hit.

If you’re looking for a classic deli experience in Montreal, Lester's is the place to go. With its delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service, it’s easy to see why this deli has won so many fans.

Walking into Smoke Meat Pete feels like stepping into a cool rock 'n' roll hangout, and you get to enjoy some of the best smoked meat in Montreal.

While enjoying a tasty, juicy sandwich, you can listen to live blues music every night of the week. You may also spot some celebrities or the Prime Minister enjoying a meal there!

Now, let’s dive into the food. Smoke Meat Pete is well-known for its Montreal-style smoked meat sandwiches, and they really live up to the buzz.

The servings are huge, so come with an appetite. They have everything from their famous sandwiches to ribs and half chickens, all cooked just right.

Ordering is super easy here. You just go to the counter, place your order, pay, find a comfy spot, and then wait for your food to arrive.

The vibe of the place is warm and inviting, with cool decorations that change with the seasons and lots of rock 'n' roll energy.

It’s a great spot for families too, with high chairs for kids and even free ice cream for them.

So, there you have it! Nine awesome places to check out Montreal's famous smoked meat. Each spot has its own twist. We've picked these places because they mix tradition and flavor with a little bit of Montreal charm. 

And if you're looking for more than just smoked meat, ActiviFinder Montreal has loads of ideas for fun things to do in your city. So, don’t wait—get out there, explore, and enjoy everything Montreal has to offer!