This iconic deli serves up classic smoked meat sandwiches and hearty Jewish dishes in a relaxed, no-frills atmosphere that's a local favorite.
"Despite a change in ownership following the death of legendary deli owner Peter Varvaro in 2013, and the tragic decision to stop smoking its own meat, The Main remains a valiant competitor to Schwartz’s across the street for hearty Jewish fare. A huge smoked meat sandwich and crunchy pickle is a surefire hangover cure, as are bowls of matzo ball soup and ooey-gooey smoked meat poutine." - JP Karwacki, Joel Balsam
"It’s common knowledge that if you find the snaking lines at Schwartz’s discouraging, skip across St-Laurent to Main Deli, just as the poet Leonard Cohen used to do. Its smoked meat is wonderfully moist with peppery undertones, though the restaurant no longer smokes its meat on-site after the original owner Peter Varvaro passed away in 2013." - JP Karwacki, Eater Staff
"This deli’s smoked meat might have reportedly gone down in quality, so consider dessert instead: the Main’s Montreal-style slices are coated in a thick layer of strawberry jelly atop the signature biscuit crumbs. It’s less sweet than your average cheesecake, and has a delightfully homemade quality." - Holly Tousignant
"Founded in the Plateau in 1974 by Peter Varvaro, Main Deli is a no-frills joint that's famous for its top-tier smoked meat. Today, the kitchen still seasons, slow-cooks, and hot-smokes brisket according to Varvaro's original recipe. The restaurant uses this meat in its legendary smoked-meat poutine, an irresistible spin on the classic. Order it with a beer or a glass of wine, and you're in for a meal you can't get anywhere but here." - Richard Burnett
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