At Max’s Deli & Bakery, every bite has a story—and the story of the deli is one that spans continents, cultures, and centuries. What we know today as the “North American deli” first began as small immigrant-owned shops, and over time became beloved community landmarks.
From Germany to New York City
The word delicatessen comes from Germany, where specialty shops sold fine cheeses, cured meats, and imported delicacies. In the mid-1800s, German immigrants brought this tradition to New York City, introducing locals to hearty sausages, liverwurst, and other flavorful prepared foods.
Soon after, a wave of Eastern European Jewish immigrants arrived in NYC between 1880 and 1924. Many settled in the bustling Lower East Side and opened small deli counters offering comforting dishes like pickles, knishes, and matzo ball soup. Over time, these humble shops grew into sit-down restaurants—like the legendary Katz’s Delicatessen, founded in 1888—offering hearty plates of pastrami on rye and a warm sense of community.
The Deli Boom Across North America
By the 1920s and 30s, delis were thriving in New York, with nearly 1,500 locations during the Great Depression. They became social hotspots for families, theater-goers, and anyone craving comforting, flavorful food.
After World War II, Jewish families moved from city centers to the suburbs, and so did the delis—expanding into cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. What started as an immigrant tradition soon became a celebrated part of North American food culture.
How Canada Made the Deli Its Own
Canada’s deli story began in the same way—through waves of Jewish immigrants who arrived in cities like Montreal in the late 1800s and early 1900s. But here, their traditions took on a distinctly Canadian flavor.
Montreal became famous for its smoked meat—a spiced, hand-carved brisket stacked high on rye bread with a smear of mustard. Local legends like Schwartz’s (established in 1928) and Dunn’s Famous (founded in 1927) helped shape the unique Canadian deli culture. Eventually, delis began popping up in cities across the country, offering locals a comforting taste of tradition.
A Legacy That Lives On
In recent decades, many traditional delis faced challenges—rising costs, changing diets, and shifting communities. Yet, their legacy lives on. Today, a new generation of delis is keeping the spirit alive—some honoring classic recipes, others giving them a modern twist.
At Max’s Deli & Bakery in Vancouver, that legacy continues every day. From freshly baked breads and decadent pastries to hearty sandwiches and warm meals, we celebrate the rich history of the deli while adding our own fresh, local touch.
Because a true deli isn’t just about food—it’s about comfort, culture, and community.
Moving Forward with New Vision
Max’s Deli is writing the next chapter of its story with passion and pride. When the original owners decided to retire, a long-time employee who had dedicated over a decade to Max’s teamed up with her family to carry the torch.
Under this new leadership, Max’s has flourished—becoming the busiest deli of its kind in Western Canada and a beloved name in Vancouver’s food scene.
What Makes Max’s Deli So Popular?
- People travel long distances just to shop here
- Max’s has been named “VANCOUVER’S BEST DELI” multiple times
- Known as a true institution in the community
- Offers only the highest quality food made with care
- Home to a knowledgeable, guest-focused team that makes every visit memorable
At Max’s Deli & Bakery, tradition and innovation go hand in hand—bringing generations of deli heritage to today’s tables, right here in the heart of Vancouver.