Schwartz's

When Reuben Schwartz, a Jewish immigrant from Romania, opened the Montreal Hebrew Delicatessen in 1928, he couldn't have imagined the cultural icon it would become. The deli, later affectionately known as Schwartz's, quickly gained a reputation for its unique smoked meat, cured with a secret blend of spices and smoked in-house for days. The narrow, bustling interior with its simple decor and long communal tables has remained largely unchanged for decades, offering a glimpse into Montreal's past. Generations of Montrealers have made their pilgrimage to Schwartz's for a classic smoked meat sandwich, often served with a pickle and a cherry cola. The line that frequently snakes out the door onto St. Laurent Boulevard is a testament to its enduring popularity, a tradition that has transcended time and continues to draw people from all walks of life to experience this iconic taste of Montreal.