MONTREAL- There is nothing quite like mouth-watering smoked meat on two slices of rye bread, lathered in yellow mustard, sided with a large dill pickle, and paired with a Cotts Black Cherry Cola. This is a signature meal at Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen, a landmark eatery in Montreal close to many clubs and city nightlife on St.Laurent Boulevard.

Many places claim to have the best smoked meat, however until you have tried Schwartz’s you’ve not tasted the BEST. Frank Silva, the general manager said “Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!”

Rueben Schwartz, a Jewish Romanian immigrant, established the delicatessen on “The Main” (St.Laurent Boulevard) in 1928. The second owner, Maurice Zbriger, musician and composer, took over from Schwartz and with profits from the restaurant would organize free concerts of his music. Armande Toupin Chartrand was a caretaker to Zbriger and was willed the restaurant. Of the four owners only Hy Diamond, current owner, has had a background in business.

The smoked meat is succulent, locally produced using no preservatives, and from the same recipe since it first opened its doors. This is one thing that makes Schwartz’s so different from the others because you can taste the love and passion that is infused into it. There are rumors they are still using the same grill with over 80 years of smoked “smuts gold” on it.

The ambiance is simplistic with a row of stools along the deli counter and a dozen eight-seater tables to encourage people to mingle while they enjoy their delicious meal. The walls are covered with over 80 years of memorabilia from newspaper clippings to signed pictures of the many famous people who have come to eat at Schwartz.

The staff dressed in typical deli attire (white shirts and aprons) similar to what they must have worn in the 30’s. They are extremely friendly, welcoming, and enthusiastic about making your dining experience as enjoyable as possible. They will make you feel like part of the Schwartz’s deli family.

Over the years, Schwartz’s smoked meat has been the inspiration for many successful endeavors such as Bill Brownstein’s bestseller Schwartz Hebrew Delicatessen: The Story, Chez Schwartz a documentary film by Gary Biegel, and recently a musical by the Canadian comedy duo Bowser & Blue!

Schwartz’s is a ‘go-to’ place for many celebrities like Angelina Jolie, Tim Allen, Jerry Lewis, Celine Dion, and Halle Berry. The general manager said blushing, “My favorite has to be Halle, because she touched me right on the shoulder.”You never know, you could end up sharing a smoked meat with someone famous.

The Rolling Stones have had smoked meat sandwiches delivered to them when they had a show at the Bell Centre. They also do catering even if you’re not a rock star, all you have to do is give them a call and they would be happy to discuss it.

There has been talk about expansion and franchise of the iconic deli; however this is a decision refused by all the owners. Silva says “it would compromise the heart and soul of Schwartz’s deli.” The only expansion in 1996 was a takeout window in the building next door to ease the flow when there are a lot of people waiting. It is not uncommon to see a lineup around the block because Montrealers love Schwartz’s. It is definitely worth the wait- trust me; I’ll bet you a sandwich!

If you become hooked on the delicious smoked meat, you can bring some home cut freshly at their deli counter and if you happen to live far and cannot make it to the restaurant they also have mail order deliveries through the website. They also sell the spices used on the meat which is great for barbecue season.

The only major downside is for vegetarian because there are no alternative options. Although, I think it might be worth converting just to enjoy eating a mouth-watering smoked meat sandwich.

Schwartz’s is open Sunday to Thursday 8 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Hot meals are served after 10 a.m. daily.

Located at 3895 St.Laurent Boulevard - (514) 842-4813