Montreal Restaurant Tips by brewjohnson

Restaurant Name: Schwartz's

I was very excited about sampling the world famous smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz's. In the early 90s I heard Jim Rome raving about it and have wanted to visit Montreal ever since to give it a try. It didn't matter that I had no idea what smoked meat was, I yearned for it. When I read the Schwartz's reviews on VT and discovered smoked meat was a cousin to pastrami, I was even more enamored. After all, I've been a long-time believer that pastrami is the finest of the salted, cured meats. I was not disappointed. Big chunks of salty meat, smoked over charcoals on rye bread... delicious. This really is one of those places that has become a legend for a reason. I'm not sure if its the ever-present line out the door, the surly, yet friendly (is that possible) waiters, the furniture that hasn't changed in decades, or what... but this place delivered for me. Visiting Montreal without at least trying Schwartz's is like splitting tens... you just don't do it.

Favorite Dish: Smoked meat sandwich with a side of coleslaw. Ad coleslaw to the sandwich and you'll be in heaven!

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Theme: Deli
Comparison: least expensive
Prices: less than US$10  » Currency Converter
Phone: (514) 842-4813
Address: 3895 Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec
Website: www.schwartzsdeli.com

Restaurant Name: St. Viateur's Bagels

For all the hype, I was disappointed. I enjoyed the texture and crispiness of the bagel, however, I felt the flavor left something to be desired. I'd rather save my appetite for Schwartz's.


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Theme: Bakery
Comparison: least expensive
Prices: less than US$10  » Currency Converter

Restaurant Name: Jardin Nelson

Just a phenomenal place. Its located in an old, historic building. It has a patio overlooking Place Jacques-Cartier, but the back terrasse is where you want to be. Montrealers love their terrasses and this has to be one of the best in the city. It's a large open air section covered with huge umbrella sort of things to keep the rain out... lots of plants, flowers, etc. Most days, there's live music (3/4 piece jazz bands when I was there). I can't think of a more enjoyable place to have a mid-day or afternoon beer, glass of wine, or carafe of cider (I had an apple cider wine that was quite refreshing) and a bite to eat. My wife and I ended up relaxing, enjoying the day and music for a few hours. It was the highlight of Old Montreal for us. It has a large menu, so there's lots of option. We shared a crepe and a pizza. Both were good... but it doesn't matter what you get, I think anything would be enjoyable in this setting.


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Theme: Local
Comparison: about average
Prices: US$11-20  » Currency Converter
Phone: 514-861-5731
Address: 407 Place Jacques-Cartier (Old Montreal)
Directions: Right on Place Jacques-Cartier in Old Montreal.
Website: http://www.jardinnelson.com/english/index1.htm