Sandwich Shops in Chicago That Will Make You Drool
via Nonna’s
WARNING: Do not read this if you love sandwiches and live in Chicago
Lunch just became a holiday! August is National Sandwich Month and who doesn’t want to celebrate with a big ole’ sub in this city? From fresh cut cold sandwiches to warm gooey ones, we know where to go, so read up and share this list… your friends will thank you.
Nonna’s Pizza & Sandwiches {925 West Randolph Street, Chicago; 312.690.7323}
Hot or cold, it feels good to be at Nonna’s. These West Loop sandos have flavor, feel and freshness packed into your favorite handheld meals. We’ll dive right into these drool-worthy favorites.
For the cold sandwich lovers, the Yellowfin Tuna sandwich has avocado, cucumber, banana peppers and Dill Havarti Cheese that we can’t get enough of. This sandwich tastes like it’s fresh from the sea and free of anything fishy.
On the other hand, Eggplant Parmesan has also warmed its way into our hearts. The organic eggplant is grilled to perfection paired with their homemade marinara and classic mozzarella that makes this a melty masterpiece. You can thank Nonna later.
via Kristen Mendiola for Goddess & Grocer
Goddess and Grocer {Multiple Locations}
Goddess and Grocer is our go-to for many things and their sandwiches are at the top of that list. This month we are running—not walking—to the nearest spot for a bite to eat.
Our personal favorites on this list both happen to be warm sandwiches, but fear not, they have a menu full of refreshing non-paninis too. If you’re a grilled cheese guy or girl, the Short Rib Grilled Cheese is the name of their game—simply a Goddess ;) Take your favorite cheese melty with the tasty short rib and melt it with your favorite fromage. For an extra filling meal, taste their Hot Honey Butter Chicken. This brioche sandwich is fried with spicy pickles and aioli that you’ll wish you could take jars of home. You’ll never leave without feeling fed, full and fiery for the rest of the day.
Mr. Beef on Orleans {666 North Orleans Street, Chicago; 312.337.8500}
Yes, this is the spot that inspired “The Bear,” and this list couldn’t be complete without it. If you haven’t yet, now is the time to try the sandwiches that inspired the famous series. It’s truly worth a visit! Because while we love a grab-n-go sammy, this one will make you want to stay.
Enjoy their classic Italian Beef Sandwich for a true taste of Chicago and all the flavor you’ve watched from home. No matter what you order though, every bite is a great one!
via Tempesta Market
Tempesta Market {1372 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.929.2551}
Wholesome ingredients are a game changer for many of us foodies, and Tempesta Market sources their meats from humanely raised animals in the Midwest, free of antibiotics and growth hormones.
You can find just about anything for your taste buds here from meatball subs to beet sandwiches. Our personal favorite is a lunch break for the #11—the Little Gemmy. Between two fresh slices of seeded sourdough is a masterpiece of flavor combinations: roast beef, ricotta, charred cucumbers, creamy herb vin, lettuce and tomato. Fresh and filling is a duo we will never get tired of.
Hannah’s Bretzel {Multiple Locations}
What’s better than sliced bread? Sliced pretzel buns of course! Hannah’s Bretzel is an Uber sandwich maker that’s a pro at making every delivery delicious, and right the first time. Their menu offers classic sandwiches we all love, like Caprese and Turkey Clubs, plus a menu for foodies looking for something to mix it up for lunch.
Their fresh sandwiches made with pretzel buns are all incredible but we are partial to the Summer Porchetta Verde on Baguette. The artisan porchetta with shaved fennel, housemade salsa verde and Manchego cheese is topped with dijon mustard cabbage slaw that has our mouths watering.
J.P. Graziano Grocery {901 West Randolph Street, Chicago}
Looking for the history behind this sandwich? J.P. Graziano’s is a fourth-generation, family-owned Italian grocery store local to the West Loop. Their Italian delicacies are imported and have been made fresh for the Italian lovers for years!
The Mr. G is a house favorite and we know why. It’s a creation of beautiful thinly sliced prosciutto di parma, genoa salami, sharp provolone, and fresh artichokes and basil, all doused in their signature JPG truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette. Italy is right in your own backyard, so it’s time to make the trip!
via Publican Quality Meats
Publican Quality Meats {825 West Fulton Market, Chicago}
The name speaks for itself; Publican Quality Meats has fresh cuts for days. These toasty sandwiches stand out in Fulton Market thanks to good vibes and even better sandwiches.
The Mortadella & Burrata takes the sandwich cake for us. The pistachio butter melts in your mouth on the sesame sourdough with juicy burrata! It’s not our only favorite, though, because we also can’t resist the Chicken Parm, slathered in pesto sauce and a delicately baked ciabatta roll.
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen {1141 South Jefferson Street, Chicago; 312. 939.2855}
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen is a family business to its core and you’ll feel their love in every bite. This cafe and deli has history pasted to the walls in newspaper clippings, reviews and photos from the yearssss of loyalty to their craft.
While we love a good sandwich in-house, we’re coming here to get all the fresh ingredients for a sandwich party at home. Gather the goods—fresh bread, meats, cheeses, and toppings here and make your own panini, sub, cold sandwich or toasted loaf for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Okay, and maybe we’ll also take a ready-made sandwich to go too ;)
By Daisy Bolin | Special Correspondent