upon entering schwartz's, just as the doors open for business, there isn't a shadow of a doubt that you have truly come upon something very special. if you need further evidence that lining up early is a good idea and will be well worth it, take a look at the long queue forming behind.
shortly after sitting down at one of the communal tables, ordering and receiving your fare, you'll observe that the french fries are hot and fresh cut. the pickles are sour and delicious. if they have a half sour or two, make sure to indulge. and obviously, above all, the sandwiches are fantastic. rye bread and hand cut smoked meat, specifically as lean or fatty as you like it, drizzled with a bit of hot mustard, is unique and delicious. so many people love these sandwiches that there's no need to go in depth on why they are so good. they just are. a simple, honest, thoughtfully put together, properly and time-well-spent smoked meaty tangy sandwich. i can almost taste it now.
i will return to schwartz's each time i am lucky enough to find myself in montreal, and i hope you give them a try. (if there's a line, it is worth the wait.)