Mile End is a Brooklyn institution that brings Montreal-style Jewish deli fare to Boerum Hill with delicious authenticity and charm. This cozy spot on Hoyt Street has carved out a special place in the neighborhood by perfecting the art of smoked meat sandwiches that have customers lining up at peak hours.

What makes Mile End truly special is their dedication to traditional preparation methods – they smoke and cure their meats in-house, resulting in brisket that’s meltingly tender with that perfect peppery crust. Their Montreal-style bagels are dense, slightly sweet, and perfectly chewy in a way that even New Yorkers have to respect.

The poutine deserves its own paragraph – hand-cut fries smothered in rich gravy and cheese curds that actually squeak between your teeth, just like they should. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form. For breakfast, don’t sleep on the Ruth Wilensky sandwich – a perfect combination of salami and mustard on an onion roll that’s deceptively simple yet absolutely perfect.

What I love most about Mile End is how it balances nostalgia with quality. It’s not just riding on deli traditions; it’s honoring them through careful preparation and excellent ingredients. The space is unpretentious and welcoming, making it perfect for a casual weekday meal or weekend brunch that’ll leave you satisfied in that special way only proper deli food can provide.