I had my first smoked meat experience in Brampton, Ontario. My colleague at the time said it was the best-smoked meat in Ontario. I had no expectation since the only other thing I had that remotely resembled it was Arby’s. When I had it, the meat was dry as the desert, and the mustard was overpowering the flavour of the meat. So when Nancy wanted to try it at Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen Montreal, I was a little hesitant.
As we were drenched in sweat while walking down the Saint Laurent Blvd during our holidays, we were looking left and right for this place. When we arrived, we immediately walked to a packed store filled with history. It looks like a very traditional meat shop. Employees were dressed in uniforms resembling the movie American Gangster. We sat down dumbfounded and full of curiosity. We obviously knew we wanted smoked meat but didn’t know if there was a selection. The nice waiter (who looked like he worked there for 40+ years) told us that the best was ½ and ½. (Lean and fat) When it came, it looked amazing.
We didn’t even attempt to use our utensils. We grabbed the sandwich and we were going for it. Smoked meat, in general, has a very strong flavour. I have done some homework on the technique of smoking, and understand that dehydration is a part of the process. I can’t really explain why juices were coming down my hand. The mustard was a nice compliment to the sandwich itself. I just want to say, I will never have a Montreal Smoked Meat ever again UNLESS I have the opportunity to visit Schwartz. I’ve been to the alpha, the mecca of this unique dish. I can`t imagine anything better.
Since this is a very short interview, I might as well review the beverage we had. I had a coke to go with the sandwich, and as I opened the can and inserted a straw, I`ve noticed every other table ordered a cherry type of drink. I can`t leave without trying a can. Here we are kids, Cott Dark Cherry Soda. It tastes like… Fruitips Black Currant candy. If you don`t know what that is, I can`t help you. The only place you can have this is at Schwartz and Montreal local grocery stores.
Well, I am so glad I had an opportunity to visit Schwartz. NOTHING can replicate this place. It`s been around since 1928. Heck, there is even a musical based on it. If you are in Montreal and have any free time, this is one place you cannot miss.
Schwartz’s Hebrew Delicatessen
URL: www.schwartzsdeli.com
Cuisine: Deli, Sandwiches
Hours:
Sunday to Thursday 8:00 AM – 12:30 AM
Friday 8:00 AM – 1:30 AM
Saturday 8:00 AM – 2:30 AM
Hot meat available after 10:30am
3895 Boulevard Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2W 1L2
(514) 842-4813
