Who knew Illinois was hiding a treasure trove of delectable delis?
Forget the Windy City’s pizza wars – it’s time to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the state’s 8 unsung heroes of the sandwich world!
1. Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen (Skokie)
Our first stop takes us to Skokie, where Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen stands like a beacon of hope for hungry travelers.
This place isn’t just a deli; it’s a time machine that transports you back to the golden age of Jewish delicatessens.
As you approach, you’ll notice the no-nonsense exterior – it’s not trying to win any beauty pageants, but then again, neither am I.
The real magic happens when you step inside.
The aroma of freshly baked bagels and smoked meats hits you like a delicious tidal wave, and suddenly, you’re home.
Kaufman’s has been serving up slices of heaven since 1955, and they’ve clearly been using that time to perfect their craft.
Their corned beef is so tender it practically melts in your mouth, and their pastrami?
Let’s just say it’s the stuff dreams are made of.
But the true star of the show here is their bagel.
These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, grocery store imposters.
No, sir.
These are hand-rolled, boiled, and baked to perfection.
They’re chewy on the outside, soft on the inside, and capable of making even the most ardent carb-avoider weak at the knees.
2. Lola’s Deli (Elizabeth)
Next up, we’re heading to the charming town of Elizabeth, where Lola’s Deli awaits with open arms and even more open sandwiches.
This place is like the cool aunt of delis – quirky, fun, and always ready with a good story and a great meal.
The exterior of Lola’s is a feast for the eyes.
With its vibrant colors and playful signage, it’s like a little slice of happiness nestled in the heart of Elizabeth.
The “EAT HERE” arrow on the side of the building isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a command you’ll be more than happy to obey.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a deli that feels more like a cozy living room.
The walls are adorned with local art and vintage knick-knacks, creating an atmosphere that’s as warm and inviting as the sandwiches are delicious.
Speaking of sandwiches, Lola’s doesn’t just make them – they craft them.
Each one is a work of art, a carefully balanced symphony of flavors that’ll have you wondering why you ever settled for lesser sandwiches in the past.
Their motto, “Laugh Often, Love Always,” isn’t just a cute saying – it’s a philosophy that infuses every aspect of the place.
From the friendly staff to the lovingly prepared food, Lola’s is the kind of place that feeds your soul as well as your stomach.
3. Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen (Chicago)
Our journey now takes us to the heart of Chicago, where Manny’s Cafeteria and Delicatessen has been holding court since 1942.
This place isn’t just a deli; it’s a Chicago institution, a living, breathing piece of the city’s history.
As you approach Manny’s, you can’t help but be struck by the contrast between the unassuming black exterior and the towering skyscrapers that surround it.
It’s like finding a time capsule in the middle of a futuristic city – and trust me, the treasures inside are worth discovering.
Step through the doors, and you’re immediately transported to a different era.
The cafeteria-style setup might seem old-school, but there’s a reason it’s stood the test of time.
It’s efficient, it’s unpretentious, and it lets the food speak for itself.
And boy, does the food have a lot to say.
Their corned beef sandwich is the stuff of legend – piled high with tender, flavorful meat that’s been cured and cooked to perfection.
It’s so good, it might just bring a tear to your eye.
Or maybe that’s just the horseradish.
But Manny’s isn’t just about the sandwiches.
Their matzo ball soup could cure anything from a common cold to a broken heart, and their potato pancakes are crispy, golden discs of pure comfort.
4. The Galena Kandy Kitchen (Galena)
Now, I know what you’re thinking.
“A candy store on a deli tour? Has he lost his mind?”
But bear with me, folks, because The Galena Kandy Kitchen is about to blow your mind in the sweetest way possible.
Nestled in the picturesque town of Galena, this place is like stepping into Willy Wonka’s factory – if Willy Wonka had a penchant for vintage Americana and really good sandwiches.
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The storefront, with its charming awnings and old-fashioned signage, looks like it’s been plucked straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Inside, it’s a wonderland of confectionery delights, with jars of colorful candies lining the shelves and the sweet aroma of chocolate hanging in the air.
But here’s the twist – tucked away in this sugar paradise is a deli counter that serves up some of the most delicious sandwiches you’ll ever taste.
It’s like finding out that Santa Claus moonlights as a gourmet chef.
Their sandwiches are simple, unpretentious, and absolutely delicious.
Made with fresh ingredients and served with a side of small-town charm, they’re the perfect fuel for exploring Galena’s historic streets.
And the best part?
You can follow up your savory sandwich with a sweet treat from their incredible selection of homemade candies and chocolates.
It’s a win-win situation that’ll leave both your taste buds and your inner child jumping for joy.
5. Schneider Deli (Chicago)
Back in Chicago, we find ourselves at Schneider Deli, a place that proves good things really do come in small packages.
This tiny deli, tucked away in the shadow of the Ohio House Motel sign, is like finding a diamond in the rough – if diamonds were made of pastrami and rye bread.
The exterior might not look like much – a simple storefront with a stone facade and colorful trim.
But don’t let that fool you.
Inside this modest space, sandwich magic happens on a daily basis.
Schneider’s is the kind of place where the menu is simple, the portions are generous, and the flavors are big enough to make you forget you’re eating in a space barely bigger than a walk-in closet.
Their corned beef is a thing of beauty – tender, flavorful, and piled so high you might need to unhinge your jaw like a snake to take a bite.
And don’t even get me started on their Reuben.
It’s a symphony of sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and perfectly grilled rye bread that’ll have you questioning why you ever ate anything else.
But the real star of Schneider’s isn’t just the food – it’s the experience.
In a world of fast food and impersonal service, this place is a throwback to a time when delis were the heart of the community.
The staff knows the regulars by name, and even if it’s your first time, they’ll treat you like an old friend.
6. Schmaltz Delicatessen (Lisle)
Our deli pilgrimage now takes us to Lisle, where Schmaltz Delicatessen is serving up a slice of New York in the heart of Illinois.
This place is like finding a Woody Allen movie playing in the middle of a cornfield – unexpected, delightful, and full of neurotic charm.
The exterior, with its bold red signage and promise of “full belly & dine in,” is like a beacon calling all sandwich lovers home.
Step inside, and you’re transported to a world where pastrami is king and chicken soup is the answer to all of life’s problems.
Schmaltz doesn’t just make sandwiches; they create edible works of art.
Their Reuben is a masterpiece of melted Swiss, tangy sauerkraut, and corned beef so tender it practically dissolves on your tongue.
It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you want to stand up and slow clap.
But the real magic of Schmaltz lies in its ability to capture the essence of a New York deli while still feeling uniquely Midwestern.
It’s like they’ve taken the best of both worlds and created a deli utopia where the portions are Midwest-generous and the flavors are Big Apple-bold.
And let’s not forget about their matzo ball soup.
It’s like a warm hug for your insides, with matzo balls so light and fluffy they could probably float away if they weren’t anchored down by the rich, savory broth.
7. Frankie’s Deli (Oakbrook Terrace)
As we continue our journey, we find ourselves at Frankie’s Deli in Oakbrook Terrace.
This place is like the cool kid in school who’s friends with everyone – it’s got Italian flair, American charm, and a universal appeal that’s hard to resist.
The exterior of Frankie’s is modern and inviting, with warm wood accents and a patio that’s perfect for people-watching while you devour your sandwich.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger, chat with friends, and maybe order just one more cannoli.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a deli case that’s like a treasure chest of meaty delights.
Their Italian beef is a thing of beauty – tender, juicy, and packed with enough flavor to make your taste buds do a happy dance.
But Frankie’s isn’t just about the classics.
They’ve got a creative streak that shows up in sandwiches like their “Godfather” – a behemoth of a sandwich that’s loaded with enough Italian meats and cheeses to make Don Corleone himself say “fuggedaboutit” to his diet.
And let’s not forget about their homemade giardiniera.
It’s spicy, it’s tangy, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to pretty much everything on the menu.
I’d put it on my breakfast cereal if society wouldn’t judge me for it.
8. Epic Deli (McHenry)
Our final stop takes us to McHenry, where Epic Deli is redefining what a sandwich can be.
This place isn’t just thinking outside the box; they’ve taken the box, turned it into a sandwich, and filled it with things you never knew you wanted in a sandwich.
The exterior of Epic Deli is unassuming – a simple storefront in a strip mall.
But don’t let that fool you.
Inside, sandwich revolution is happening on a daily basis.
Their menu reads like a mad scientist’s notebook, if that scientist was obsessed with creating the perfect sandwich.
Want a sandwich with mac and cheese on it?
They’ve got it.
Craving a burger between two grilled cheese sandwiches?
Say no more.
But Epic Deli isn’t just about shock value.
These culinary Frankensteins are actually delicious.
Their “Fat Bastard” sandwich – a monster stuffed with chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, and onion rings – is like all your favorite bar foods got together and decided to form a boy band in your mouth.
And for those with less adventurous palates, don’t worry.
They also do the classics, and they do them well.
Their Italian beef is tender, their Reubens are perfectly balanced, and their BLTs have just the right ratio of B to L to T.
As we come to the end of our delicious journey, one thing is clear: Illinois is a sandwich lover’s paradise.
Let the feast begin!
This map is your guide to every flavor, dish, and unforgettable bite ahead.
From classic Jewish delis to avant-garde sandwich labs, there’s something for every palate.
So grab your keys, loosen your belt, and hit the road – sandwich nirvana awaits!