Montreal’s delicatessen culture isn’t a copy of New York or anywhere else; it has its own rhythm, shaped by generations of immigrants, local tastes, and a strong sense of culinary identity. From smoked meat sandwiches to hand-rolled bagels, the city’s delis serve food that’s built on time-tested techniques and unapologetically bold flavors.
This guide breaks down the dishes that define Montreal’s deli experience. Some you’ll recognize, others you won’t find outside the city. But they all share one thing: they’re staples that have earned their place on the table.
Smoked Meat Sandwiches (Served Hot)
Smoked meat is hands down the most recognized dish in Montreal’s deli scene. It goes back to the late 1800s, when Jewish immigrants brought their cured meat traditions to the city. Over time, it evolved into something uniquely Montreal.
What makes it different? It’s made from beef brisket that’s dry-cured with spices like black pepper, coriander, and garlic, then smoked and steamed until tender. The result is a juicy, flavorful meat that’s sliced by hand and served hot. You’ll usually find it stacked on fresh rye bread with yellow mustard, and sometimes a side of pickles or slaw.
Let’s be clear: you can’t visit Montreal without trying a smoked meat sandwich. It’s like going to Italy and skipping the pizza, it just doesn’t happen!
Smoked Meat Pizza: A Deli-Inspired Twist
Smoked meat pizza is a creative mash-up that brings Montreal’s deli culture to the pizza scene. While it started as a niche dish, it’s now a staple on menus across the city, especially in spots that love pushing culinary boundaries.
The classic version features Montreal-style smoked meat layered over mozzarella, often paired with traditional toppings like yellow mustard or pickles to mimic the sandwich experience. But that’s just one take.
Many pizzerias offer regional spins, like the Quebecois pizza, made with mozzarella, pizza sauce, bacon, cherry tomatoes, and onions. It’s savory, tangy, and a local favorite that holds its own against the city’s other comfort dishes.
Vegetarian versions are also becoming more common, swapping meat for grilled vegetables or plant-based toppings while still drawing inspiration from deli flavors. You’ll find these on brunch menus, pizza counters, and even some casual bistros that celebrate Montreal’s food culture in new ways.
Montreal-Style Bagels: A Brunch Icon
Montreal’s bagels stand apart from the rest. Unlike the thicker, doughier New York-style bagels, these are smaller, denser, and slightly sweet, boiled in honey water before being baked in a wood-fired oven. That process gives them a subtle sweetness and a crisp, golden crust that’s hard to replicate.
You’ll find the classics everywhere, sesame and poppy seed being the most popular, but many delis and brunch spots get creative with toppings and fillings. One local favorite is the smoked meat bagel, where warm slices of spiced brisket are layered into a toasted bagel. It’s a satisfying balance of sweet, savory, and smoky.
Poutine with a Twist
The classic poutine: fresh-cut fries topped with squeaky cheese curds and warm brown gravy, is a signature dish across Quebec. But in Montreal, chefs and local diners have pushed the boundaries to create versions that reflect the city’s diverse food culture and love for bold flavor.
Here are a few of the most popular variations you’ll come across:
- Poutine à la Viande Fumée
A local favorite that adds hand-sliced Montreal smoked meat to the mix. The rich, peppery brisket blends with the gravy to create a deeply satisfying, deli-inspired twist. - Hot Dog Poutine
This version features chopped steamed or grilled hot dogs, often all-dressed, adding a nostalgic fast-food edge to the dish. It’s a go-to for late-night eats. - Poutine à l’Italienne
Instead of traditional gravy, this one swaps in a hearty meat sauce, usually beef-based and tomato-rich. It’s warm, comforting, and loaded with umami. - Mexican Poutine
A spicier take that includes toppings like salsa, jalapeños, and sometimes ground beef or shredded chicken. It’s bold and flavorful, with a zesty edge. - Hot Chicken Poutine
Inspired by the hot chicken sandwich, this version is topped with pulled chicken, peas, and classic brown gravy. It leans into comfort food territory with familiar flavors.
Hearty Deli-Style Soups
Montreal’s deli culture doesn’t stop at smoked meat and bagels; it extends to soups that warm you from the inside out.
Matzo Ball Soup
This timeless dish is a staple in many traditional Jewish delis across Montreal. Light yet satisfying, matzo ball soup features fluffy dumplings made from matzo meal, eggs, and oil, served in a golden chicken broth that’s often simmered with carrots, celery, and onion. It’s the kind of soup that’s both nostalgic and healing, perfect for cold days or quiet moments. Many locals see it as a “hug in a bowl.”
Louisiana-Inspired Soups
Thanks to Montreal’s culinary openness, you’ll also find heartier, spicier options like gumbo or sausage-based stews that borrow from Southern U.S. traditions. These soups are often built on a roux and layered with smoky sausage, tender chicken, and Cajun spices. While not as common as matzo ball soup, they’re growing in popularity at deli-fusion spots that blend comfort food traditions from different corners of the world.
Conclusion
From smoked meat sandwiches and pizza to matzo ball soup and Mexican poutine, Montreal’s delicatessen culture is a world of bold flavors and comforting traditions you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a city where classic recipes are cherished, and creative twists are welcomed, with every bite telling a story of cultural fusion, heritage, and heart.
If you’re ready to taste the real deal, head to Dunn’s Famous. As one of the city’s most iconic delis, it’s where locals and visitors alike go for the authentic Montreal experience.
