This is a busy time for Martin Wine Cellar, as people stream in to buy everything from Thanksgiving wines to gifts for the Christmas season. May as well have lunch while you're there. The meats, breads, and dressings are all first-class, and the sandwiches are built to a jaw-dislocating thickness. They even offer Dr. Brown sodas, cheesecake, and pickles.
The blackboard of daily specials has become interesting, and the lines at the counter have grown longer.The larger Metairie location of the city's dominant wine retailer has a deli capable not only of turning out a first-class sandwich, but also of cooking plated specials that rival what one might find in the best bistros around town.
When the deli urge hits, Martin Wine Cellar's Deli immediately comes to my mind. It's among the very few sandwich shops in New Orleans that understands the concept of New York-style deli sandwiches. And they're equally adept at making New Orleans-style sandwiches. If you're an avid winelover, you're almost certain to encounter others of your happy ilk, often with bottles open on the table.
In the 1970s, Martin Wine Cellar opened the first local New York-style deli of any significance. Originally, it was just a counter where you stood and ate your sandwich, but the spartan quality of the place eased over the years, as the menu grew as well. Now it's as accomplished as any restaurant's catering operation, with a tremendous menu. But you can still get one of the best deli sandwiches in town.
It's self-service. Order and pick up at the counter, and hope that a table will be available (and cleaned up) by the time the food is ready. But this is not the fast food that such a setup suggests. Every sandwich and platter is made up to order with attention to detail. So you do have time to wander around the store checking out the wine racks while waiting.
The daily plate specials here are unpredictable and very good. To hear a recorded message detailing what's being served today, call 504-894-7408. It's hard to figure when the rush will come in, but if you see all the tables full, plan to be there awhile.
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| Wine | 3 |
