Is Montreal's Schwartz's Deli BETTER THAN KATZ's DELI?

[@anastasiak6319]

Great video! As an owner of Schwartz's Deli in Montréal and a patron of Katz Deli in NYC, I think your two cents are interesting and would like to add a couple of insights. While Schwartzs's spices, marinates, smokes, steams and cuts the briskets in house in the artisanal old- world manner of the original owner, Katz does not. This results in Katz's being more "even" as you so elequently put it. When I visited Katz for the first time years ago and met with the owner, he was kind enough to give me the cook's tour and I was blown away by their stellar operation. They make their own slaw and pickles in these big silo-like containers and we outsource ours and yes, their mustard is darker and tastier. Theirs is a 300 seater with 7 stations if I remember correctly, while we boast a 60 seat dive. The best part of my visit? Katz sent us a t-shirt "To our Canadian cousins", so as you can see, we coexist and there isn't any animosity between us, even though smoked meat and pastrami enthusiasts like to pit us against one another. We always come in 1st and 2nd; the order is unimportant. Thanks for keeping the fun alive. Cheers.

[@gibsonflyingv2820]

That's not even true. Have you ever been in Katz's? All of the meat is cut by hand. They steam smoke and all of that at Katz's too. Where did you get that info?

[@CollaredConsulting]

@@gibsonflyingv2820How could you possibly be this obtuse?

[@ml.2770]

​@@gibsonflyingv2820Could you be any more dense?

[@johnnyrunts]

@@gibsonflyingv2820😭

[@notDonaldFagen]

​@@gibsonflyingv2820yo, shamlomski, can you read?

[@DiscoverMontréal]

Smoked meat and pastrami are definitely completely different things, but because they look kinda similar and have Romanian roots, they're lumped together. As for the eternal debate about whether NY pastrami or MTL smoked meat is better, I like what Anthony Bourdain said about it: "Tough call but in the end, who really cares? It's fricken good, and that's all you need to know."

[@peterconrad861]

They're both typically made from beef brisket, they're both cured in the same manor with sodium nitrite, followed by being smoked, and then steamed. They are pretty similar. As mentioned in the video, they're spiced differently and that's about all the difference is.

[@bobmorane2082]

@@peterconrad861I think pastrami is cured in liquid smoke meat isn’t it’s dry and pastrami is the lowest fat part smoke meat take all the brisket and you ask for medium fat or light when ordering

[@shawnf764]

wow, thanks bro. Saved me from googling it.

[@viper29ca]

​@@peterconrad861not even close. Different cuts of meat. MTL smoked meat from the brisket, pastrami from the navel. Different spices, prepared different, smoked meat is marinated, while pastrami is just brined (some might call this the same, it is not). And let's not go down the road of Corned Beef...no even comparable, considered corned beef is actually boiled

[@genebigs1749]

That sandwich for $10 US is an insane bargain! Everything looked delicious, and I'm a New Yorker. Thanks for another great review, UA!

[@JohnnyBiscotti]

yes at $10 it was very reasonable but the amount of meat was lacking for a jewish deli.....i ate one and could of had a second easily. Katz after one you are satisfied and just an overall better product right down to Katz's mustard, Their fries were very good but needed a lot of salt due to the fact they weren't salted when they came out of the fryer!

[@stallionstudios]

Yeah its a good spot. But Delibee's in Montreal is better. If you are in the West end check it out!

[@etow8034]

I think the price went down from $20 a year ago to $14 now, don't forget there is still a 15% tax on top of that !

[@davidlefranc6240]

Yeah they are not paying crazy taxes like in New York thats probably why .

[@vrulent]

@@JohnnyBiscotti americans over eat and are obese. Smaller portions are a good thing.

[@appolop8273]

You'll never have a bad smoked meat in Montreal, wherever you go. Montrealer's are blessed with good smoked meat deli's.

[@uaeats]

Next time I need to try smoked meat poutine!

[@andrejohnson6731]

@@uaeats Dunn’s Smoked Meat Poutine is solid

[@bulujeegar9184]

Hard disagree... it tastes like peppered hot-dog water, and that was from Smoke Meat Pete which is one of the best ones in Montreal. There is zero smokey flavor like us Americans are used to.

[@Linerwood2000]

That is so true. Quebec Deli and Deli Quebec both have great smoked meat too. And many other places. Smoked meat poutine is a heart attack becoming but damn it's good. Add a couple vegetable in there and you're up for a real treat. La Banquise have "arguably" the best poutines in the province.

[@DirtMcSlime]

Yall forgetting Lester’s on Bernard

[@robruf]

Swartz's is fine for a first timer and not a bad choice at all. You really should try Snowdon Deli in Montreal. Montreal smoked meat is made with brisket, like corned beef, and with a similar brine to both corned beef and pastrami, but with little or no sugar in the mix. Then it gets smoked, like pastrami, but without the spice coating, like corned beef. After marinating for around 10 days and then smoking for 8-9 hours, they can steam the brisket for another 3 hours before slicing it.

[@uaeats]

Thanks for sharing all that info! I'll try Snowdon Deli next time I'm in Montreal

[@lionlamb432]

Yes, Snowdon is very good. One can get a variety of Jewish foods to taste and enjoy!

[@djyanno]

Snowdonis number 3 for me after Pete's and Lester's. Schwartz is 11th out of 11

[@petermacnab1871]

@@uaeatsSnowden deli is the best in Montreal ! You must review it 😊

[@elland37]

Snowdon is number 1.

[@steveno7058]

$10 USD for that sandwich is incredible. Smoked meat uses the same cut as Pastrami (brisket)

[@uaeats]

It's definitely a great price!

[@mikeymutual5489]

Except that real pastrami is made from beef plate, not brisket, which explains why this meat has a corned beef-like consistency. However, this meat is prepared in the style of pastrami (smoked, then steamed). So it is really a hybrid between the meats.

[@steveno7058]

@@mikeymutual5489 thanks for the correction

[@mikeymutual5489]

@@steveno7058 :-)

[@argonwheatbelly637]

But it's about half the size, too, so they're about the same. At Katz, one sandwich feeds two people. Well, it can. ☺

[@acharat6]

As a native Montrealer, I can add that while Schwartz is easily the most iconic "smoked meat" place in the city, it's not representative of smoked meat served elsewhere in the city. And by that I'm not implying it's better or worst than the other places, just different. Personally I find the taste to be great but it tends to be on the dry side (even if you take the medium fat). I don't think I've been to Katz in New York (or maybe my dad took me when I was young and I don't remember), but it's possible the "regular" smoked meat joints in Montreal taste more like it. From memory I'd say they might taste closer to pastrami than Schwartz. If you want to try the more "common" smoked meat places, I'd recommend "Le roi du smoked meat" on St-Hubert street (a little to the north) or Gerry's Delicatessen on Ontario street (a little to the east). They're both great. Oh and also 14$ Cad isn't considered a good deal here for just a sandwich alone (no fries or drink). You can get a good, cheaper one at some other places or at least more quantity for the same price. Finally, if you like poutine and smoked meat and want to taste something different in Montreal, try an italian poutine with smoked meat. It's my favorite fast food here. If the restaurant have italian meat sauce (bolognese) and smoked meat, you can usually ask for it even if it's not on the menu.

[@anthonyf596]

I still gotta go with Smoke Meat Petes as the champ

[@denisgauthier7999]

100% right about the different smoked meat in MTL. There is also Jarry Smoked Meat that used to be very good.

[@ivanronin8209]

Never Mind why is Downtown Montreal look like Crap ??? It Looks like Gaza in some Places' ? Who is the Lazy Mayor there ???? 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵

[@clam741]

Le roi du smoke meat is king in mtl

[@michaellk2254]

This.

[@markhammer643]

Favourite Schwartz's memory. I went with my parents. My dad was probably on his second heart attack. We all order sandwiches and the waiter, in a white shirt, black bowtie, and thick glasses (looking like the guy from the 6 Flags commercials), asks us how we'd like the sandwiches. My dad says "Medium". My mother pipes up and says "He'll have lean". My dad looks frustrated and says he wants medium, which my mother immediately vetoes. The waiter turns and looks at my mother and says "Lady, who's having the sandwich, you or him?". Oh brother, if looks could kill.

[@GilbertAmpleman]

They ask you. But there is only one really good answer; Medium !

[@NS-ie2ld]

First time I had the smoked meat, I was confused by the yellow mustard as well and wondered why they didn’t have spicy brown/ dijon mustard. But if you actually try both, you’ll realize the yellow mustard goes better with the smoked meat. The brown mustard may go better with the pastrami from Katz’ deli.

[@etow8034]

It's not any yellow mustard, it has to be French's yellow mustard ! ...LoL

[@kmslegal7808]

Dijon? what are you smoking? Not pastrami

[@djyanno]

I'm from Montreal and am a huge fan of smoked meat. Me and my friends have done a smoked meat blind test. Schwartz while being popular and talked about finished last among 11 different ones. Based on our test, you would have had a better comparison with Pete's, Lester's and Snowdon.

[@KidLoops]

I'm from Montreal too! Been to them ALL, including the famous delis in NYC. If the right person is cutting, Pete's is, in my opinion, the best there is. Btw I wish I had been to able to try Ben's, but was before my time. Cheers :)

[@djyanno]

@@KidLoops OMG Ben's was the ultimate best. I cried when it closed. I am sad for you

[@panpiper]

@@KidLoops Ben's was great. We lost an institution.

[@danielrobert7181]

They all offer great meat with a somewhat different texture and seasoning. Schwartz, Lester and Pete’s offer the darker burgundy-coloured very tender meat with the latter being my favorite for its spicier taste. Snowdon offers a more pastrami-like (which it isn’t) pink and firmer meat. It’s justfantastic that we have such a great offering in Montréal. By the way, light yellow baseball mustard is perfect with tasty meat, brown mustard is overpowering and unless used in very small quantity, will numb your taste buds but historically that was the reason behind strong mustard.

[@richarddamecour1088]

The Main Deli in Montreal was my personal favorite

[@colegreen1291]

My first visit to Montreal in the mid ninety's i was on the Blvd St. Laurent and saw this huge crowd outside trying to get into Schwartz . I had to see what the fuss was about. Although i spent my adulthood in NYC, my childhood was in Philly where i loved Corned Beef on rye, pastrami not so much. When i had my first taste of the Schwartz smoked meat it was WOW. I asked the counter guy "what's the difference between Smoked and Corned" he looked me in the eye and said Smoked Meat is Smoked! I was in love with Schwartz's and the fabulous city Montreal and went for weekends from NYC for the next twenty years. I now live in South America and miss Schwartz and Montreal, New York, not so much.

[@mr.kaiwolfman511]

I was at Montreal's Schwartz's Deli - LIKED IT SO MUCH !

[@45loot]

Try Daves' Deli on Avenue Road in Toronto. The man knows his smoked meat, pastrami and corned beef. One man operation with an assistant. Absolutely stunning, three tables and take out. Another genuine kosher deli, is the Center Street Deli in North York. Old school establishment. Highly recommended. Fall is here and the tourists are thinning out. Maybe it's time to book a hotel room close to Schwartz's and eat there every day for 3-4 days. Keep up the good work. Great video.

[@TheHojirt]

Toronto stinks !! Period !!!

[@grace-mz9fp]

Had a centre street old fashioned today....SIMPLY NO TASTE

[@mrzee4862]

Centre Street Deli is definitely not kosher.

[@kutter_ttl6786]

Isn't Centre Street up in Thornhill, on Centre St. just west of Bathurst? They also opened up a second location downtown around Bay and Wellesley.

[@chriskazanas9941]

What you were seeing them pull the brisket out of is not a smoker it's a steamer. The smoker runs the length of the restaurant behind the kitchen. Smoked meat is smoked for 3 days then it is steamed prior to serving, that's why it gets so soft and tender. Schwartz's is the original but there are places that serve jumbo smoked meat sandwiches on double rye bread. Those are closer in size to Katz and still gor for about 15 CAD

[@panpiper]

Yea. Schwartz's is great but I can't tell the difference from a lot of others in Montreal that don't have the lines. The simple fact is that Montreal as a whole is great if you love smoked meat.

[@chriskazanas9941]

@panpiper true, montreal as a whole is great for smoked meat but I can tell the difference between the places that smoke their own, i.e. Schwartz's, George's and Pete and the ones that buy it mass produced by Lester's or Mello etc.

[@eralar2]

It's rare you'll get salt on your food in Quebec in general, and I'm happy with it. It shocked me to get french fries with salt in the US, had to turn the dish down to get another without salt a few times before realizing it seems to be a thing there. I now specify it when ordering.

[@mikeoxsbigg1]

The poutine is completely different than the Ottawa valley poutine. More of a tomatoey base whereas Ottawa valley's is more beef gravy based. There needs to be a National poutine database.

[@alanledzep1967]

So happy you went to Schwartz’s UA! It’s legend. Another great review. Go easy on the salt brother, you seem to comment on the lack of it often ❤

[@pattis6543]

Ain't nothing wrong with that. I'm a salt aholic, 61 years old and I have no blood pressure issues.

[@chairlesnicol672]

​@@pattis6543Gotta consume salt to absorb iodine,which is essential ! No salt = trouble ,should b good in North America but elsewhere u have to add a bit to your food! I use sea salt ( Himalayan, pink) you are allowed 100 mg per day for RDA!

[@jonbyrnes4349]

I’ve done both and prefer Schwartz . Best I’ve ever had in fact so good I had 2 sandwiches !

[@uaeats]

To each their own! I certainly see the appeal

[@wolfpacindahouse1]

Pete’s smoked meat is better

[@wetrock2766]

There are two pieces to a brisket, one is called the deckel, the other, I don't remember the name of. Between those two muscles there is a separating piece of connecting tissue that looks like fat but is more like gelatin. It's very tender and tasty. The best sandwich in my opinion is made with mostly the deckel some of the "gelatin" and a bit of the dryer part. I make my own smoked meat. I buy my whole brisket at Costco at Marché Central, brine it, rub it with my mix of Montréal spices and smoke it with a smoker I made from a old tool box. Then I cut it in pieces and finish the cooking in a sous vide. I end up with more than 20 pounds of smoked meat, home made, for less than 4$ a pound. Lastly: the spice blend is fantastic on a good rib steak. I used an old baseball bat in my smoker the last time.

[@adamr63]

The other part is called the flat. A good slicer makes all the difference, getting the mixture of Deckel, flat and fat right in a Medium sandwich.

[@thepiemaster0933]

That sandwich looks fabulous what a price too !!! It looks very 😋

[@uaeats]

The price is almost the best part!

[@therealgumby2937]

Always get the medium smoked meat at Schwartz's and don't forget the Cott Black Cherry drink! Smoked meat comes from a different cut vs pastrami, can't really compare the 2

[@dawnwennberg9884]

Yup. I thought it was or is a traditional thing. Sammich pickles and a cherry coke. Loved Swartzs

[@777eds]

Years ago and for decades there was a deli in downtown Montreal called Ben's. It was nearby the Forum where the Canadiens played and it was the must go-to before/after games. There were a lot of celebrities pictures on the walls. Other mentions in Montreal go to Delibee's and Smoke Meat Pete that are more visited by locals.

[@dcorman2350]

Ben was the place when downtown… but they owned the building and their location was so good they sold the place (and the parking lot) for the equivalent of maybe 50 years of revenues… it is now the St-Martin hotel. The owner used to tell me good stories of how is father started and how he learned from him after school, counting cash/sales on his lap

[@shawnchristopherwhite3271]

I ate there, was great. Closed after 99 years.

[@acharat6]

The owner actually refused to sell for the longest time. But I remember the place being nearly empty during the last years. My dad actually met Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney while he was having lunch there and had a casual talk with him like regular folk. @@dcorman2350

[@benprins8240]

Ben's, nice

[@barcham]

I used to eat at Ben's often, but it was not close to the Forum. It was quite a distance away. You forgot to mention Dunn's smoked meat in your list.

[@KLee-Canada]

Another great video!! I lived in Montreal for 5 years and also lived in NYC, so have strong feelings about the food scenes. Firstly, Katz is great but it's too much hype and insanely expensive! Schwartz's is good. In my opinion, the best in Canada but not even close to NYC. Very consistent food quality, good value and fast turnaround. BUT It is absolutely filthy inside! Next time you go, order the hot dog, while it sounds so rudimentary, it's very good. I totally agree about the mustard and bread, Schwartz needs to upgrade their game. If you come to Toronto while you are in Canada, reachout! I'd love to take you to a few of my favourite restaurants!

[@uaeats]

Appreciate the offer! I think I overall agree. Schwartz's was good but I do prefer NYC style pastrami to Montreal style smoked meat. Just my personal preference though and could be different palate/culture. I believe you regarding the hot dog, Katz's actually has a really good hot dog too.

[@kevwwong]

If UA is looking for smoked meat in T.O. he should try Sumilicious in Scarborough. It's really good smoked meat (best? I'm not qualified to determine that. Also it's halal not kosher). Also a congee place in the nearby food court that has some tasty dough sticks and a large window to watch them deep fry the dough sticks in the biggest wok I've ever seen. It has nothing to do with smoked meat but it's fascinating to watch.

[@kutter_ttl6786]

​@@kevwwongFor Montreal smoked meat, Sumilicious is definitely the place to go. From what I read, the owner spent 17 years working at Schwartz's so no surprise it's very similar. For a good Jewish Deli, another place I like is Pancer's on Bathurst, it's a different type of smoked meat but the Reuben is solid.

[@nilsbrown7996]

Order, “medium extra spice”, (+add mustard). This way you get bark! Very important I find. YOURE RIGHT! There’s less salt now than there used to be actually..I find it boring now, but I’m a local. Thanks for confirming that! Schwartz is dry-brined. I believe. This is a big difference! Even other Montreal smoked meat is not. It used to be stupid cheap. Now it’s expensive. Excellent and very fair review!

[@renzo9689]

Love the vids! Montreal smoked meat is different than pastrami because after being smoked, it's also steamed for several hours before being cut up. That was the steamer you saw him pulling the meat out of behind the counter. That's where the tenderness comes from, and probably where the corned beef texture comes from as well. If you've ever bought Montreal steak spice, that is basically the spice blend that's applied to Montreal smoked meat during the brine/curing process prior to smoking✌️

[@jamesking1952]

Another great video UA, we are not ‘big’ on Jewish delis in the UK outside of London & Manchester so it’s interesting to see your comparisons. Keep up the good work.

[@jesterger]

I am in Ontario. There are a few restaurants, that have Montreal Smoked Meat sandwiches near me. They source the meat from Schwartz's. They usually have a deal for $1 CAD you can get a second sandwich. They are all around the Kitchener, Cambridge area.

[@The_Zilli]

I miss home (Montreal)... Did you know Schwartz was saved by Celion? Yes, that Celion. No one knew that the deli was going under until a news report came out about it's demise. She came in and saved the place with an investment group for all of us. Support your local restaurants, even these icons are at risk of going six feet under in this day and age :(

[@kevwwong]

Yeah it was big news when it was revealed that Celine and her late husband were part of the new ownership group.

[@kbrdft]

Right, because buying a brand when its low in price is “saving” something. Come on. She saw opportunity for profit, like anyone else

[@RenoGreens-c8j]

I have been at Schwartz's Deli and it was very good. My favorite and number 1 was the Carnegie Deli in NY. Sadly they have closed their doors.

[@JFBond-zs8xf]

As a Montrealer I really enjoyed your video! I myself have never been to Schwartz's, being more of a Falafel type. The spicy-all-dressed-Falafel-pita at Falafel St-Jacques on St-Jacques street is the best I've had, and I've had Falafel all over the world. I recommend it for your future visit.

[@kayflip2233]

😂UA, you're from South Jersey, you got the best pastrami in the world right next to you at Hershel's in Reading Terminal. I'm from NY and have had every well known Jewish Deli in the city, been to Schwartz's in Montreal several times and most importantly have eaten at the venerable Hershel's in Philly and nothing comes remotely close to Hershel's. The best pastrami in NY is Pastrami Queen, then Sarge's then 2nd Ave. In my opinion Katz's isn't even in the top 5. Although ironically, the guy who started Hershel's used to work at Katz's for 40 years. I would put Schwartz's ahead of Katz's though.

[@uaeats]

I haven't had Hershel's yet. Will need to try it! Kibbitz Room in Cherry Hill is not bad when I'm in the area and want my New York fix

[@hdufort]

Schwartz for low-fat smoked meat. Lester's for a fatty cut. Reuben's for, well, a good reuben sandwich!

[@tigerpinky]

Sure am glad I am having steak tonight, because watching this has me salivating! As usual, great, fair review!

[@uaeats]

Oh man, always down for steak

[@abouttime5000]

Montreal and NYC have similar roots and immigrant histories. Particularly the Jewish, Italian and Irish influences. Despite a huge French population you can get by with English easily. Both cities excel in food preparations and restaurants. Food meccas. Can't go wrong in either city but Montreal is a tad smaller and walking is encouraged to get a real feel for the place.

[@brentsobie3977]

I'm from Western Canada but I've lived for almost a decade now in Montreal. While there are some world class restaurants especially in the old port and downtown, what I was really disappointed with was the quality of food as soon as you're in the suburbs. Where I live the food is pretty bad to be honest, no good restaurants for miles and miles. I'm still looking for really good pizza in Montreal, something I'm constantly disappointed with no matter where I try it.

[@cameroncurrie7208]

I ate at every deli in Montreal. I used to get a jumbo smoked meat fries and a beer 10$ .

[@youtube.experiment]

Have you tried Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner in NYC?

[@joesapienza8121]

Sarge's is the best Jewish / Kosher deli in New York City. My humble opinion of course.

[@jessewolf7649]

@@joesapienza8121not the best but open 24 hours

[@uaeats]

I need to try it. It's highly recommended

[@phpn99]

While tourists are queuing up at Scwartz', right across the street, locals go to The Main where there is no queue and the smoked meat is better, especially the veal.

[@Tinkering902]

That's our go to spot! Somehow it's always nearly empty, but I love that.

[@kutter_ttl6786]

Have you guys been there recently? I read that place closed down May 2023.

[@carlosoruna7174]

Yup specially since now its owned by Celine Dion, Schwartz was great in the pre 90s Now it just another tourist trap..

[@adamr63]

Closed since a while, a new kebab place opened there in March this year, really good Turkish style kebabs, huge portions, and decent quality frozen fries, the flour coated kind with a bit of spice, I think.

[@japnuts]

Looks great. Haven’t been to Montreal in years.

[@YASTravelsEatsWell]

UE: Schwartz's is a killer! They're in the top 3 in Montreal! By the way, directly across the street there's a very good deli with smoked meat, if the line is too, too long. Also, there's the takeout shop next door with no line! Yea, at $10 US it's a steal! By the way, St. Viateur Bagels are available on Goldbelly for shipment to the USA! I do prefer smoked meat . Don't forget Mile End Deli in Brooklyn! Oh, both Katz & Schwartz are Cash Only!

[@TalShiar]

Sadly, the deli across the street from Schwartz’s (Main Deli) closed down permanently this summer 😢. They are truly missed. Their rib steak with a side of smoked meat was amazing.

[@barcham]

When it comes to smoked meat in Montreal, there are a ton of choices. There is also Dunn's downtown as well as Smoke Meat Pete's out in the West Island. They all taste different. Many people would have said that The Main restaurant which was very near to Schwartz's on St. Laurent blvd was the best, but they decided to close down this year and are missed.

[@sleepyintoronto]

I like Schwartz deli and would go back, but usually just go to dunns because no crazy line up and you get 99% of the way there in terms of taste. I do agree that I like Katz better, but they are a very different product. But let’s just say this, I’ve been to New York probably 20 times and have only been to Katz once.

[@panpiper]

Dunns is very good, especially if you don't want the lines.

[@lawalkyrie4051]

I've been a fan of Schwart's smoked meat for decades. Pre and post electric ovens. Definitely still the best. One big improvement : nowadays, one can be served in French. They also offer catering for big events. I've used them and I can only state my total satisfaction with their food, their service and their very competitive prices.

[@stephenbeagle2239]

a humorous bit of info is that Celine Dion has been an investor in Schwartz since 2012. Also Schwartz was known for having a staff that treated fussy eaters kind of rudely :) (at least when i lived there.) My Montreal friends tell me they like a couple of other places ...but that may be because of the lineup situation. I'll have to check for myself. You are also supposed to eat the sandwich along with a cherry flavoured soda

[@alant.541]

Schwartz's smoked meat sandwich looks delicious and is a great deal at $10. If I'm ever in Montreal, I will definitely give it a try. Go Eagles! 3-0 start. 👍

[@alfieramacieri1257]

Tommy lasorta would send someone to schartze when the Dodgers played the expos and get about 70 smokel meats for all the players and staff at the e nd of the game

[@ranadrums3174]

You just proved a great point. Salt will mask imperfections in the food and will make you used to it tasting that way. I’d rather have the option of adding.

[@ninjaworshipper]

Dunn's Famous Smoked Meat Poutine at 3 AM in the morning is the ultimate Montreal experience for me.

[@mkraulis]

I have heard several Americans say that their food is generally saltier. If you are used to that, I guess you would miss it. If you visit Schwartz's again, have the cherry cola with the sandwich. That, and a pickle, is considered the basic Schwartz 's experience.

[@wetrock2766]

I get the black cherry.

[@argonwheatbelly637]

Smoked meat and pastrami are rather different, but it's delicious. The food in Montreal is excellent.

[@lcloutier1000]

Pastrami is brined (boiled in salted water with spices), smoked meat is cured with dry spices. Both are types of corned beef that are smoked and then steamed before serving.

[@jli5666]

I used to live in Montreal. Smoked meat in Montreal is the best. If I could recommend one more thing, I strongly suggest spreading mustard on each bite. That is how I eat!

[@trevorgwelch7412]

In Las Vegas this would cost $27.99!

[@aryahdft]

Come to Philly and try famous deli at fourth and Bainbridge ! It’s awesome

[@jeffrosenberg8456]

Love your videos!

[@ryke_masters]

Pastrami and smoked meat are fairly similar but definitely noticeably different. Pastrami is also available in Montreal and you can compare the two. Spoilers: smoked meat is better.

[@robertwhitledge4108]

I’ve eaten at both places and love both. I agree I wish they had a mustard choice. Coleslaw in Montreal area is the best!

[@Tonymanero1960]

I don't think Miss Manners would approve of that HUGE bite that UA took at 5.10.

[@johnkovalicky3389]

Yeah really I thought that a little bit much Miss Piggy LOL

[@dmotta2811]

Lol!

[@Jean-PhilippeDunaway]

Great video UA! I am from Montreal and have had Schwartz's and Katz's. I prefer Katz's especially for the overall experience. For better smoked meat in Montreal go to Pete"s smoked meat or Dunns.

[@iDunno74RealOne]

Great video by the way. first, the cut is different, pastrami uses a cut with a more consistent fat to lean ratio. If you like pastrami, the medium smoked meat is the way to go. I've eaten a Katz, 2nd Ave Deli and Schwartz's and I gotta' go 1 for Schwartz's, 2 for Katx (but a VERY close 2) and 3rd for 2nd Ave, but I couldn't find it last time I was in NYC. Didn't know it had mover to 3rd.

[@charlesjenkins1225]

UA. You have to try Tenafly Kosher Deli & Caterers, on Washington st. in Tenafly NJ. I have been there and loved it!

[@markkasper7281]

Nice review I liked this video

[@uaeats]

Thank you!

[@WilliamKShank]

Thanks for the video. Safe Journey! CHOLULA!!!

[@uaeats]

Thanks!

[@skyflower2498]

You damn right! The BEST! How i miss those smoked meat sandwiches. Takes me back WAY BACK

[@gratefuldeadly7899]

love Canada and Montreal, an Asian vlogger can film and talk without being bothered or attacked. Those two white men from New York seemed to be okay too.

[@craigmurdock4740]

If you wanna pronounce it like a real local, like this: Mun-Tree-All Oh and here’s an easter egg: Celine Dion owns friggin Schwartz’s! Welcome UA!!!! So happy you came by :)

[@therealgumby2937]

Pokey approves your pronunciation!

[@patsilivas1]

Celine used to own Nickel's Deli

[@uaeats]

Whoa. Didn't know that!

[@robbiedaniels2164]

She's part owner. Not the full owner.

[@elland37]

ya, why do you pronounce Montreal, Montre-owl?

[@dl05041953]

The pastrami comes from the eye of the round (beef hind) and the smoked meat comes from the brisket point(from the front of the beef ). Both pieces are cured and smoked !

[@undivided_unified]

3:08 electronic is a stretch, i will give you analog light up display at the most! Solid video!

[@aposthole5226]

I have never been to Katz in NY or Swartz in Montreal, but heard a lot of good things about both. One day I will try both. Dunns Montreal is ok as well. There used to be a Katz in Toronto that recently closed down after 60 years, and it was pretty good. Katz Toronto was not related to the one in NY. Now I go to Centre Street deli and Pete’s on Eglington. Both are good but probably no where near the top ones mentioned. I love corned beef, pastrami and smoked meat.

[@44lgarden]

What you're missing on the sandwich is the slice of Swiss Cheese. Also with regards to the size of the sandwich, numerous deli's in Montreal such as Dunn's and Reubens offer a super sandwich with tons of meat. Not sure if Schwartz offers that. Thanks for offering the comparison to NY Deli's. Montreal Bagels from these deli's are also a must buy for take-away.

[@alisachamoy225]

Those are incredible prices for deli sandwiches!

[@eliedube]

Pastrami sit in a liquid brine to cure and thats why you dont need to steam it like smoke meat to get it juicy. Smoke meat as dry rub for curing and draw water in the process which makes it more dry than the pastrami... that's why you need to steam it for a minimum of 2 hours to get it juicy and tender.... gets even more moist than pastrami. Being a Quebecer I have hate at multiple smoke meat restaurant in my life but nothing beats my homemade Moose pastrami smoke on the pellet grill.

[@etow8034]

Katz's is rubbery pastrami style. Smoke meat styles in Montreal can also be like the Katz's style which I dislike I prefer the softer corn beef texture. In Montreal you usually can get the rubbery pastromi style smoke meat at less known restaurants like Chenoy's , Nickels or Ruben's etc...

[@richiejd7]

My wife loves your facial expressions bro.....

[@longdatedoptionsleaps6112]

Schwarz is the BEST full stop, Katz just doesn’t even come close. I grew up in Montreal and u needs to get the smoke meat platter (medium fat) french fries a pickle and Cotts cherry coke. Rookie mistake get the platter and bread on the side and make your own sandwich. You got the “tourist” recommended choice. Locals never get the sandwich…

[@pete3445]

I was in Montreal. Line up was huge. I was hungry so didn’t want the wait. Went across the street and had smoked meat there. It was awesome. There is A LOT of great smoked meat in Montreal. Smoked meat club sandwich is my favourite.

[@rickster_88]

Next time, if you want want to go into the restaurant there is the take out deli store right next door and thye make the same sandwiches to go. It's been 5 years since I've been to Montreal, so I'm not sure if that deli shop is still beside the restaurant.

[@JohnSmith-oe5kx]

The place across the street was the Main, which had fewer tourists and (many say) better smoked meat, at least until the original owner, Peter Varvaro, passed away in 2013. After that, it chnged hands and outsourced its smoked meat, I cannot remember from where. Sadly, it recently closed. HOWEVER, the owner's sons have opened their own places. Peter (jr.) owns Smoked Meat Pete just West of the island itself. IMO, he has inherited his father's title as best smoked meat in town. Philip owns Delibee's in Pointe-Claire, but I have not tried it.

[@Tinkering902]

​@@JohnSmith-oe5kxThe Main is closed?!

[@JohnSmith-oe5kx]

@@Tinkering902 Yes, last year. But the new owners brought it on themselves by outsourcing their smoked meat (?!?) and raising prices. Disappointing.

[@KC-zz1so]

You need to try the pastrami bistro in Garfield NJ. Solid pastrami sandwich at a very reasonable price.

[@preppypunknyc]

You should definitely check out Sarges Deli in NYC, highly recommended

[@Bertha-pm4xt]

Great vid! Swartz's has the best smoked meat. Also I believe Celine Dion bought this location 20 years ago. They were going to franchise, don't know what happened with that.

[@GeoGolfer]

The fact that he wanted to add salt virtually everywhere gave me heartburns. American food is drowned in salt

[@brendabrunelle4109]

Love, love, love their smoked meat. Always stop here when going through Montreal.

[@deegees73]

Next time you’re in town, you have to eat at Coco Rico, which is next door to Swartz’s, literally. Order the chicken sandwich and potatoes. It’s De-frickin-Lucious.

[@stevelavoie5543]

I tried both, I liked both. Small difference but I cannot simply one is better than the other.

[@ceemichel]

Pastrami and Smoked Meat use similar cuts, but the smoking and preparation process are different. Electric smokers are a very recent thing

[@WanderingRoe]

Always fun trying out new places! Anything in the pastrami/corned beef sandwich category is a winner. :D

[@dmotta2811]

I like corned beef so I can’t wait to go there.

[@RayQ101]

I’ve tried Katz and thought it was about the same as The Hat, but twice the price.

[@jaad9848]

😂😂😂😂😂 the hat doesn’t even compare with Langers. Also they raised the price

[@RayQ101]

@@jaad9848 Langers is better but more expensive, besides the bread it’s really not 2x better.

[@MarceloNunesPOA]

Schwartz is where the tourists go. If you drive 25 miles West on highway 20 to Toronto, just outside the Montreal Island, there is a deli named Smoke Meat Pete. There is where local Montrealers will go for the best smoke meat experience!

[@gerarddabda6223]

Used to love the food at The Main, which was right across the street from Schwartz's for 50 years and sadly closed earlier this week. Their smoked meat was juicier than Schwartz's. Another one that sadly closed was Deli Boys on Montreal West. They have amazing smoked meat. 😔

[@chrismarko9957]

I always ask for extra bark on my sandwich at Schwartzs. Costco in Canada even carries Schwartzs smoked meat in the frozen section and it is great on a burger!

[@popinjay3000]

by seasoning we mean salt? unsalted chips is always a positive, unless you find it hard work to lift up the salt dispenser

[@jeremyepstein7977]

Ahhh need to get back to visit Montreal!

[@uaeats]

It's a great place!

[@DanoFSmith-yc9tg]

There used to be one in Hamilton Ont, can't remember the name, it was like walking into your grandpa's closet, just a blast from the past. I wish I could remember the name, it was down on James St by the hospital.

[@DanoFSmith-yc9tg]

It was by far the best I've ever had.

[@artfisher1235]

Salt is a bad crutch; bark is a critical component. If you violate these boundaries, you will run aground. No river boat captain's job for you.

[@panpiper]

I'm a Montrealer, and of course I have tried smoked meat at Schwartz's. It is of course great. However the lines in my opinion are not worth it for the most part. There are 'many' other locations in Montreal that will serve a smoked meat that is so good, I cannot personally tell the difference. I guess they have learned from competing with Schwartz's.

[@100185261]

you missed the Cherry soda!! everyone who goes to Schwartz always gets their Cherry Soda . Glad you enjoyed the place! Katz >>> (I agree!)

[@onasazi]

That’s a great looking sandwich!

[@josephgello955]

I used to go up to Montreal a lot when I was young. And I always went to Schwartz loved smoke meat I would love on it every time.

[@ponfed]

Fun fact: Montreal Steak Spice is just the rub for smoked meat. Some client had the idea at Moeshe I think, and it took off.

[@2Wheels_NYC]

May the Schwartz be with you! I think I'd have to try full fat, but this looks excellent regardless. Safe travels, sir!

[@dcorman2350]

Yeah… go full fat, but eat only one 😂

[@JohnSmith-oe5kx]

Full fat is... mostly fat. But tasty if you like that

[@notachannel7495]

Interesting comment about salt. I was at a recommended Philly cheesesteak place not long ago and couldn't finish it because it was so salty. I love a lot of BBQ in the states, but there does seem to be a difference in salt content between Canada (much less) and the US (much more), and also between the North-East (much more) and Southern BBQ (less).

[@GilbertAmpleman]

Smoked Meat and Pastrami are 2 different things. Smoked meat is a Montreal Thing. Elsewhere it's Pastrami. Jews travelled from NY and don't miss to get some. Like Bagels two different version and vision of the thing Montréal Bagel are not NY bagels. In Montréal's deli scene they fight for the best smoked meat. We don't really care about Pastrami, And most Montrealers don't know what it is. Schwart's and Main on the other side of the street set the flavour since the Baltic jews who immigrated in Montréal at the beginning of 20th century used their own seasonings. Jarry and Snowdon are fine. Even some ''La belle Province'' are nice. Schwartz's smoke meat is dryer than other places, so you better have it medium at least. Thanks for your video !

[@Eighce8]

If we're going best bang for the buck, this spot is probably the #1