When people plan a visit to a legendary Montreal deli, their minds usually go straight to the main event: the smoked meat sandwich. However, any seasoned local will tell you that the true experience begins long before the brisket hits the table. To truly appreciate a feast, you need to navigate the world of Montreal deli appetizers correctly. The starter menu at Dunn’s Famous is designed to prime your palate, offering a mix of classic comfort foods and unique smoked meat starters that you simply cannot find anywhere else in the city.
Choosing the right way to begin your meal is essential. It is about building a foundation of flavors that complements the salty, peppery, and savory notes of the main course. Whether you are looking for a light bite or a massive platter to share with friends, these are the best deli starters Montreal has to offer.
The Signature Choice: Smoked Meat Egg Rolls
If there is one item that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional appetizers and deli heritage, it is the smoked meat egg rolls. You get a crispy, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a savory filling of the very meat that made this restaurant famous. It is a fusion of textures that works surprisingly well.
What makes these stand out among other smoked meat starters is the choice of dipping sauce. You can opt for the sweetness of plum sauce or the sharp tang of honey mustard. This acidity is crucial because it cuts through the richness of the beef, preparing your taste buds for the heavy spices of the sandwich to come.
The Pro Tip: Upgraded Potato Skins
Potato skins are a staple of comfort dining, and they are an accessible and satisfying warm-up. These skins come loaded with melted cheddar cheese, fresh shallots, and a dollop of cool sour cream. While the standard version comes with bacon, the real secret for those who want the best appetizer is the four-dollar upgrade.
By replacing the bacon with bits of hand-cut smoked meat, you turn a standard appetizer into a specialized deli treat. The saltiness of the cured beef melds with the sharp cheddar, creating a hearty bite that is much more flavorful than traditional bacon bits. It is a great way to get a preview of the brisket’s quality before your main platter arrives.
Crowd Favorites: Wings, Fingers, and Cheese Sticks
Sometimes you want an appetizer that feels familiar, and the Dunn’s Famous starters menu excels at these classics. Their chicken wings are famously golden and crispy. The variety of sauces is impressive, ranging from the heat of buffalo and spicy mayo to the unique sweetness of honey mustard, sweet and spicy Thai, or General Tao’s sauce.
For those who crave the ultimate melted cheese experience, the cheese sticks are a must. They are crispy on the outside with a thick, melted mozzarella center, served with a side of salsa for a bit of a kick. Additionally, the chicken fingers are a substantial choice, served with fresh-cut fries and your choice of plum or honey mustard. These items are perfect for those dining with children or anyone looking for high-quality, reliable comfort food.
The Ultimate Sharing Experience: The Double D Combos
If you are visiting with a group, the best way to sample the variety of Dunn’s Famous starters is to order one of the legendary combos. These platters are designed for sharing and allow everyone at the table to find their favorite bite.
The standard Double D Combo includes two potato skins, four smoked meat egg rolls, and four cheese sticks. It covers all the bases and provides a great mix of flavors.
However, if you are with a larger group or simply have a massive appetite, the Double D Combo Deluxe is the superior choice. It increases the portions to six egg rolls and six cheese sticks while adding a mountain of golden onion rings to the mix. These combos are a great way to ensure that everyone gets to experience the range of appetizers without having to choose just one.
Conclusion
A visit to a premier deli is a marathon, not a sprint. By exploring the starter menu, you turn a simple lunch into a complete dining event. Next time you find yourself at one of the best smoked meat restaurants in Montreal, remember to look past the sandwiches for a moment and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into their appetizers.
Are you ready to start your feast? Visit Dunn’s Famous today and discover why these are the best deli starters Montreal has ever served!
Points Clés
- Elevate Your Potato Skins: Standard bacon is good, but the best way to enjoy Montreal deli appetizers is by paying for the smoked meat upgrade on your potato skins to get a much richer flavor profile.
- Try the Smoked Meat Egg Rolls: These are the top pick for anyone looking for unique smoked meat starters. They offer a perfect mix of crunchy texture and savory deli meat that made the restaurant famous.
- Save Money with Platter Combos: If you are dining with friends, the Double D Combos are the most cost-effective way to sample multiple Dunn’s Famous starters like cheese sticks and egg rolls in one order.
- Balance Flavors with Dipping Sauces: Using acidic or sweet sauces like honey mustard or spicy mayo is essential for cutting through the richness of the beef and preparing your palate for a large sandwich.
- Don’t Skip the Warm-up: Starting with the best deli starters Montreal has to offer turns a quick sandwich stop into a full dining experience, making the meal feel more complete and satisfying.
