Schwartz’s Deli in Montreal has removed its imported black‑cherry soda from the menu, replacing it with a drink produced in Quebec. The decision follows an increase in the price of the U.S.‑origin soda after recent tariffs imposed by the United States raised the cost of importing the beverage.
The change was announced on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, and took effect shortly thereafter. The deli, a well‑known spot for its smoked meat sandwiches and a regular stop for both tourists and local residents, cited the higher import expense as the primary reason for the substitution. The new beverage is sourced from a nearby Quebec bottler and will be offered as the default soda option.
Schwartz’s has been serving the black‑cherry soda for several years, importing the product from the United States. With the tariff hike, the cost to bring each case into Canada increased, prompting the management to reassess its beverage offering. The locally produced alternative matches the volume and carbonation level of the former drink, though it does not replicate the exact flavor profile of the black‑cherry variety.
Customers at the deli have been informed of the change through signage at the counter and updates on the establishment’s website. The staff has indicated that the switch will not affect the core menu items, such as the iconic smoked meat sandwich, which remains unchanged.
The move reflects a broader trend among Montreal food businesses adapting to shifting trade policies that affect imported goods. By opting for a Quebec‑based supplier, Schwartz’s aims to keep prices stable for its patrons while complying with the new cost structure imposed by the U.S. tariff regime.
No further adjustments to the menu have been announced at this time, and the deli will continue to monitor the situation for any additional impacts on its supply chain.