10 Sandwich Spots That Scream Chicago

via The Goddess & Grocer

Thanks to its rich diversity and size, Chicago is home to a wide range of cultures and cuisines, making it one of the, if not THE, best culinary city in the US (yes, we said what we said!). From iconic Chicago classics like the Italian Beef sandwich to family recipes and from-scratch delicacies, Chicago’s sandwich game has never been stronger thanks to some of these iconic Chicago sandwich shops: 

The Goddess & Grocer {Multiple Locations}

The Goddess & Grocer is the one stop shop for all your cafe and deli needs. With sizable locations in Bucktown and the West Loop, and a brand new store coming to the Gold Coast, as well as delivery + catering  offerings, Goddess is easily accessible no matter what neighborhood you live in. Grab & go or enjoy in-house at Bucktown’s expansive indoor/outdoor seating area. We recommend the Breakfast Burrito and Hot Honey Butter Chicken for the carnivores and The Wicker Park for vegetarians. 

Fontano's {332 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL; 312.663.3061}

Once hailed as ‘Chicago’s #1 Sub Sandwich’, Fontano’s Subs has been serving the Chicago area for over half a century. With over 10 cold sub offerings and a separate hot sandwich menu, there is always something new and tasty to try at Fontano’s. 

Pro tip: Pair any ‘Fontano’s Favorites’ sub with a bowl of soup for a filling lunchtime combo!

via Tempesta Market

Tempesta Market {1372 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL; 312.929.2551}

Savor the rich flavors of Italy at Tempesta Market, a hybrid deli, sandwich shop, grocery store and full service bar in Noble Square. With some of the city’s best cured meats, an expansive food + drink menu, and artisanal grocery products all packed into one space, it’s near impossible to leave Tempesta with less than 3 bags of goodies to enjoy. Sandwich highlights include The Potato-Nator for breakfast and The Dante, an unbelievably stacked Italian sandwich, any time of day. 

Humboldt Haus {2958 West North Avenue, Chicago, IL; 773.697.9590}

Who wouldn’t love a sandwich shop/liquor store mash-up? Pair your favorite sandwich with a crisp cocktail, glass of wine or beer at Humboldt Haus’s full service bar for a uniquely elevated deli experience. Classic sandwiches like The West Sider are a fan favorite and did we mention that all hot sandwiches are toasted on fresh focaccia rolls? Go for the Haus Reuben topped with special housemade sauce and thank us later.

D'Amato's Bakery {1124 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL; 312.733.5456} 

Family owned and always freshly baked, D’Amato’s Bakery has been serving the Chicago area since 1970, cooking up fresh breads, pizzas, subs, paninis + more. With all breads baked fresh daily in their personal coal burning oven, you know D’Amato’s sandwiches are about to be next level. We recommend the Italian Sub if you’re hungry and the Vodka Meatball or Vodka Chicken Parm Sub if you’re HUNGRY.

Bari Foods {1120 West Grand Avenue #1, Chicago, IL; 312.666.0730}

No frill, no fuss, just classic subs done right. With a compact deli + grocer in Noble Square, Bari’s subs and their other Italian delicacies pack big flavor. Enjoy both cold + hot takeaway options with delights like Prosciutto & Fresh Mozzarella and family recipe Italian Sausage Subs. Or, try one of their Focaccia sandwiches. 

via Manny’s Deli

Manny's Deli {1141 South Jefferson Street, Chicago, IL; 312.939.2855}

With its laid back atmosphere and bustling cafeteria style interior, Manny’s Deli in the South Loop is nostalgia, upgraded. This classic Jewish deli has been in the family for four generations, serving a menu of Jewish comfort food including daily specials, savory breakfast foods and an expansive sandwich selection. Manny’s stacked Corned Beef Sandwich is a must order (side of potato pancake optional but highly encouraged…).

J.T.'s Genuine {3970 North Elston Avenue, Chicago IL; 773.754.7729}

J.T.’s Genuine Sandwich Shop is a local, family owned small business in Chicago’s Irving Park neighborhood that serves up scratch made sandwiches, salads and more in their cozy, family friendly space. Every sandwich on J.T.’s menu is stacked high with tasty ingredients, especially the hearty Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and J.T.’s Special Burger. Be sure to check their menu or Instagram for their exclusive and always changing weekend sandwich specials!

via J.P. Graziano’s

J. P. Grazianos {901 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL; 312.666.4587}

A general Chicago rule of thumb is to never trust anyone who doesn’t know of J. P. Graziano’s. They have been slinging absolutely knockout sandwiches + specialty food items since 1937 setting the sandwich bar high using techniques like cutting all meats + cheese fresh to order. Chicago favorites include The Mr. G, an Italian Sandwich on steroids, as well as The Muffaletta!

Mr. Beef {666 North Orleans Street, Chicago, IL; 312.337.8500}

Fans of FX’s The Bear as well as true Italian Beef connoisseurs will recognize the name Mr. Beef, where the River North owners have been perfecting the art of Chicago beef for over 50 years. They take their craft very seriously, following a multi-day process of marinating, cooking, chilling and slicing the beef for the perfect sandwich every time. Is it the best Italian Beef in the city? Stop by to find out!

By Robyn Glaza | Market Manager