It’s been over a decade since I was in Montreal for smoked meat. Now as a celiac, it was great to have a knowledgeable server and be able to have their classic sandwich meat (without bread).
Reviews / Ratings for Reuben's Deli & Steakhouse
Very nice place to eat at, bit loud for talks.
A Classic Montreal Deli Experience Frozen in Time I finally visited Ruben’s Deli & Steakhouse, an iconic downtown Montreal staple that somehow I had never tried despite living here practically my whole life. Walking in, you immediately feel transported back in time — the décor, the counters, the diner‑style seating, even the waiters’ uniforms all preserve that old‑school charm. It genuinely feels like the place has stayed true to its roots for decades. That said, the vintage aesthetic does come with some wear. Our diner‑style seats were noticeably ripped — something I hope gets refreshed from time to time, especially considering how busy this place always is. Still, it adds to that “classic diner” authenticity that many tourists come looking for. 🍽️ Food The menu is extensive, with a strong focus on deli classics and hearty meats. I went with the burger. It was good — tasty, satisfying, but not particularly memorable. The fries were also fine, very much in line with what you’d expect from a traditional diner. In that sense, Ruben’s delivers exactly what it promises: classic comfort food, nothing reinvented, nothing overly elevated. They also have a large dessert selection, though we were too full to explore it this time. 🌟 Service & Atmosphere The service was excellent — classy, attentive, and respectful. You can tell the staff take pride in maintaining a certain standard. The restaurant is right in the center of the action, so expect it to be very busy at lunchtime. It’s a mix of locals, office workers, and plenty of tourists, which gives the place a lively, bustling energy. 💸 Value Prices are moderate and fair for the location and the type of establishment. You’re paying for the experience as much as the meal, and in that sense, it’s worth it. --- Bottom line: Ruben’s is a quintessential Montreal deli experience — nostalgic, bustling, and reliable. The food is decent, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is part of the charm. I’d return if I’m in the area and craving a classic diner‑style meal. Food ⭐⭐⭐ Service ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Prices $$⭐⭐⭐ Location ⭐⭐⭐ (very accessible with public transit, hard to park unless you want to pay) construction not considered Atmosphere/Vibes ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This being my first time in Montreal, I heard prior to my trip about the famous Montreal-Style Smoked Meat. Reuben’s delivered a 10/10 meal and the bartender Sam ensured it was one of the most memorable part of my trip to Montreal with amazing service and banter!
Had the steak from the lunch menu. A relatively small steak, 6oz. Pretty good (but not premium) considering this is lunch.
Absolutely superb Montreal reuben sandwich. Great service. So happy that we popped in after seeing the brisket in the window and the ambience.
During a 10 day trip to Montreal, we went there three times. The food was excellent, and the service was beyond excellent.
Always delicious ! We're from Nova Scotia, a trip to Montreal isn't complete until we've eaten here
The place is something...as the waitress said when asking if we wanted poutine instead the regular fries "we are in Montreal, right". They are famous because their smoked meat and it is good indeed...not crazy expensive but more a touristic place than for locals. It is a good experience tho...one cannot come to Montreal and miss the smoked meat...it is a must have city tradition and I guarantee that anyone will have a good experience going to Ruben's.
Had an amazing experience at Reuben’s Deli & Steakhouse. From the moment we walked in, the service was top-notch friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food absolutely delivered. Everything came out fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. Whether it’s their famous smoked meat, hearty sandwiches, or perfectly cooked steaks, you can tell they take pride in every dish. The atmosphere adds to the experience too classic, lively, and full of that authentic Montreal deli charm. If you’re looking for a place that nails both great food and outstanding service, this spot is a must-visit. Highly recommended!
Attentive host. Food arrived hot. A vast array of menu choices. I had the creamy, sharp mac and cheese with tender pastrami and the Philly. Cozy old diner feel with fair prices.
In the mood for some snoke meat, this is a great spot to get some. Once you walk in, you feel like you're back in time, into an old school diner. The menu offered various different options for food. We started with the karnatszle. It was very good! Then went for a 10oz smoked meat sandwich. The portion was great and the smoke meat was fresh and great tasting. Our overall experience was great. Side note for the restaurant. Was very warm inside and maybe look into ajusting the temperature in order to make the experience more enjoyable.
The food is good, but not $30 for a sandwich and fries good. And $4 for a pickle, another $4 for a small coleslaw come on. I get rent is expensive in that location, but all the same I would not go back.
We ordered the smoke beef sandwich with fat, that was really delicious! Will definitely come back again next time when I am at Montréal
I was in town from the U.S. for a hockey game. There was no way I was leaving Montreal without a smoked meat sandwich. After walking around Mont Royal for a few hours and making my way back to Centre-Ville I made my way to Reuben's based on recommendations on the Internet. My experience was truly exceptional - the food, the service, the chats with the staff - everything was just perfect. I ordered the Charlie, which was plenty of food for me. I will absolutely be back next time I'm in town. Thank you for the hospitality!
Our first experience at Reuben’s , we had the famous Smoked meat sandwich, it was delicious, the restaurant had a great vibe & our waitress Viviane was exceptional.
I loved the smoked meat! We asked for a one-pound smoked meat sandwich ("the original"); my suggestion is to ask for the mixed meats, half lean/ half fat. We also had the Turkey sandwich which surprised me as well with a spectacular flavour. All this beside a Pinot Grigio wine...ufff I'll be back!
The Best of Smoke Meat places of all time. Have been enjoying it each and every time I come back to Montreal for the last 50 years from out West. Great job Rueben’s…..🙂
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Great food at a decent price. Waiter was super chatty and friendly.
Great Waiter and food good as it always is. Construction all around St.Catherines st.
Traditional montreal smoked meat is great. Good beers on tap. Awesome atmosphere. Nice professional staff.
Under promised, well over delivered. My new go-to when I visit Montreal. Full stop!
Smoked meat omelette was excellent, like having a smoked meat sandwich without the bread. Fantastic service.
The food was very good it's the best meat I have ever had. And for the service the people were very nice. There is a fun jazzy atmosphere.
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Opening hours
- Sunday 11:30 - 22:00
- Monday 11:30 - 21:00
- Tuesday 11:30 - 22:00
- Wednesday 11:30 - 22:00
- Thursday 11:30 - 22:00
- Friday 11:30 - 23:00
- Saturday 11:30 - 23:00
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