There is a thing called a smoked meat sandwich and it exists here in the heart of Montreal. This mountain consists of two thin slices of rye with a healthy layer of yellow mustard all around one large stack up of juicy, hot, smoked, deli meats. That is what Montrealers call a classic and even a delicacy. That classic was partially born and raised at a small deli back in 1974 by Peter Varvaro at what is now known as the Main Delicatessen and Steakhouse. Here Peter expanded his menu to include both Jewish specialties and Quebec classics which helped to pioneer the smoked meat poutine, now a staple dish across the city. Here you can find any fix for a craving thanks to their homemade desserts and generous open hours. The Main can be found directly across the street from its competitor Schwartz’s deli on 3864 St-Lawrence.
As finals approached closer and our time for this food adventure was growing ever shorter we pulled an administrative decision and decided to go to the Main instead of Schwartz’s deli. As per a recommendation of our professor Adam we decided to go forth and visit the rival of our original location. After working all day in the labs Grace and I decided to get two friends to join us for our walking trip to the Main deli for diner on a Sunday night. The air was cold and wet, but the company was warm and welcoming so the walk was not all bad. When we arrived at the Main we were relieved to finally be inside from the cold winter rain. We were told to pick any open seat we felt like and quickly did so. I noted almost immediately how dead this place was during our meal. Only one other patron entered the restaurant while we were there. For quick and easy service Sunday night is your time to go. The small deli diner combo is the perfect place to grab a quick sandwich for lunch or sit down with a friend for dinner.
The Main is known for its deli meats and steaks so it is a no brainer on what to pick on the menu. All four of us ordered food Grace got the Main burger, Megan got the Minced Sirloin Steak, Michael-Paul got the Mozzarella burger, and I got the Salami Sandwich. Both burgers were cooked correctly to the patrons request and the steak was for sure the table favorite. However, all the plates at the table were just as described, hot, juicy, and a mountain of food to tackle. The amount of food you get at the Main for the price is absolutely perfect. The food served to you had no fancy decoration or unneeded plating. It honestly reminds me a bit of eating back at home. Nothing needs to be too extra or crazy, it is simple and good.
The possible downsides here are next to nothing. The Main has good, cheap, filling food and has best hours for drunk, poor, college students. This a meat lovers paradise so vegetarians and vegans beware.
Ratings
Leanna’s: Dragon Age Inquisition
Grace’s: Dragon Age Inquisition
Atmosphere
This place has a lovely home vibe and feels like you are being served by family. The staff are attentive and helpful even on quiet nights. The 70’s look of the whole interior makes you feel as if your stepping back in time.
Sound
The place was very quiet when my group went. I can imagine it could get rather loud in the small space on a much busier day.
Menu
All items are shown on a thin, long, two-sided, laminated paper book. Our menu selection was listed in both French and English. There were not too many pictures in this booklet but all options were described and had a list of ingredients.
Price
Most main dishes and sandwiches vary from 5 to 20 dollars
Open
All days of the week at 10:00 am to 5:00 am
Wheelchair Accessible
No as there is a large step up to get into the restaurant and little room inside the space.
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