Montreal smoked meat may have deep roots in one city, but its appeal has traveled far beyond. What began as a beloved staple of Jewish delis in downtown Montreal has now become a national comfort food, craved coast to coast.
At the heart of this expansion is Dunn’s Famous, a name that’s been synonymous with smoked meat since 1927. By staying true to its century-old recipe and partnering with local communities, Dunn’s has successfully brought the full Montreal deli experience to new cities across Quebec and beyond.
In this blog, we’ll explore how Dunn’s Famous is making smoked meat accessible to more Canadians, the strategy behind its franchise model, and what makes this dish and this brand worth seeking out.
From One Restaurant to a Regional Presence
Dunn’s Famous began as a single counter in downtown Montreal in 1927. Over the decades, it cemented its place as a cornerstone of the city’s deli culture, known for serving authentic Montreal smoked meat with unwavering quality and tradition.
As its reputation grew, so did its footprint. Dunn’s gradually expanded beyond its original Saint-Catherine Street location to meet growing demand. Today, you can enjoy the same slow-cooked, hand-sliced smoked meat in cities like Laval, Greenfield Park, St-Eustache, and even as far as Ottawa. Each location upholds the same high standards, while bringing a local flavor to its community.
What makes Dunn’s expansion unique is its family-run franchise model. Many restaurants are operated by long-standing staff members or close-knit partners who have worked with the brand for years. This approach ensures each franchise isn’t just a business; it’s a continuation of a legacy, driven by people who understand the heart of Dunn’s and its connection to Montreal’s culinary history.
Challenges and Wins of Expansion
Maintaining Quality Across Locations
One of Dunn’s biggest challenges in expanding beyond Montreal has been preserving the quality and consistency of its signature smoked meat. Every location follows strict preparation standards, from the brisket’s seasoning blend to its steaming and hand-slicing methods. This attention to detail ensures that whether you’re in downtown Montreal or Greenfield Park, the experience and the flavor remain unmistakably Dunn’s.
Balancing Tradition with Local Demand
While the votre sandwich au smoked meat remains at the core, Dunn’s has successfully adapted its menu to appeal to modern tastes. Items like smoked meat fried rice, Mexican poutine, and salads allow each location to cater to diverse cravings while staying rooted in deli tradition. It’s a win-win for loyal customers and new guests looking for variety.
Success Stories Beyond Downtown
Several branches have become staples in their neighborhoods, proving that Dunn’s appeal travels well. Locations like Laval, Greenfield Park, and Ottawa consistently draw locals who see Dunn’s not just as a Montreal import, but as part of their own culinary landscape. These restaurants reflect the brand’s ability to blend legacy with local identity and keep customers coming back for more.
Where to Find Dunn’s Today
Current Operating Locations
Dunn’s Famous has grown well beyond its downtown roots, with several établissements now serving smoked meat lovers across Greater Montreal and beyond:
- Downtown Montreal (Metcalfe Street): The flagship location and heart of the brand since 1927.
- Décarie Blvd (Montreal): A convenient stop for locals in the west end of the city.
- Laval (Boulevard Saint-Martin): Popular with suburban families and professionals.
- Greenfield Park (Taschereau Blvd): A South Shore favorite offering late-night deli classics.
- St-Eustache (North Shore): Bringing Montreal smoked meat to the northern suburbs.
Former Expansions Reflecting National Reach
In addition to its current Quebec footprint, Dunn’s has previously expanded to cities like Ottawa, showcasing the brand’s ambition to introduce Montreal-style smoked meat to broader Canadian audiences. While some of these locations have since closed, they remain a testament to Dunn’s national recognition and potential for future reach.
Strategic Expansion Choices
Each city chosen reflects a calculated strategy:
- High foot traffic or commuter hubs
- Communities with a strong appreciation for comfort food
- Areas underserved by traditional Jewish delis
By focusing on quality, community ties, and consistent brand identity, Dunn’s ensures each location feels like a true extension of the original deli.
The Power of Franchise Ownership
A Shared Vision Across Locations
Dunn’s Famous isn’t just expanding for the sake of growth; it’s doing so through a network of passionate franchisees who share the same dedication to smoked meat excellence. Each new location is rooted in the brand’s original values: high-quality ingredients, warm hospitality, and a true Montreal deli experience.
Support That Maintains Consistency
Franchise owners receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure every plate of smoked meat lives up to the Dunn’s legacy. From slicing techniques to spice blends, the brand equips partners with everything needed to replicate the signature flavor and feel of the original location.
Why the Model Works
The franchise model allows Dunn’s to scale without compromise, from the tenderness of the brisket to the comfort of the environment. That’s the real “Dunn’s touch” customers have come to expect, no matter the city.
Conclusion
Dunn’s Famous is a growing symbol of what happens when tradition, quality, and smart expansion come together. With every new location, the brand brings its legendary smoked meat to new communities while staying true to its roots.
For entrepreneurs looking to be part of a time-tested legacy, franchising with Dunn’s Famous is more than a business opportunity; it’s a chance to carry on a beloved Canadian tradition.
