Schwartz’s Deli in Montreal stopped serving Cott’s black cherry soda on Thursday, Aug. 25, after new U.S. tariffs made the product unavailable, and began offering a locally produced cola as a replacement. The change affects the iconic smoked‑meat sandwich shop, which has long paired its meals with the black cherry flavored soda from Cott.
The deli’s decision follows the introduction of tariffs by the Trump administration on certain imported goods. Those duties have prevented the restaurant from receiving shipments of Cott’s beverage, prompting the switch to a domestic alternative. Management confirmed that the locally made cola will now be the default soft‑drink offered alongside the restaurant’s signature sandwiches.
Schwartz’s Deli, a fixture of Montreal’s culinary scene, is known for its smoked meat sandwiches and the traditional accompaniment of Cott’s black cherry soda. The sudden loss of that pairing reflects the broader impact of trade policy on everyday businesses, even those that do not rely on large‑scale imports. While the deli has not disclosed the brand of the new cola, it emphasized that the beverage is produced within Quebec and meets the establishment’s quality standards.
Customers who frequented the deli for the classic soda‑and‑sandwich combination will now find the new cola on the menu. Staff have been briefed on the change and are preparing to serve the alternative drink without interruption to service. The adjustment illustrates how international trade measures can ripple through local food establishments, influencing menu choices and supplier relationships.
Schwartz’s Deli remains open to its regular patrons, continuing to serve its celebrated smoked meat while adapting its beverage offering to the constraints imposed by the recent tariff policy.