Top 21 Delis In Chicago

2 min read 22-12-2024

Chicago, a city renowned for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs, also boasts a surprisingly vibrant deli scene. From classic New York-style delis to inventive, modern takes on the genre, Chicago offers a diverse range of options for satisfying your craving for pastrami on rye, corned beef, or a truly great Reuben. This guide highlights 21 of the best, categorized for your convenience.

Classic New York Style

These delis bring the authentic taste of New York to the Windy City, emphasizing high-quality meats, generous portions, and that signature deli atmosphere.

Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen: A Chicago institution, Manny's is known for its massive portions and lively atmosphere. Be prepared for a wait, but it's worth it.
Goldberg's Deli: A family-run establishment offering a traditional deli experience with all the classics. Their pastrami is legendary.
Chicago's Deli: A solid choice for those seeking a straightforward, no-frills, classic deli experience.

Modern & Upscale

These establishments offer a more contemporary take on the deli, incorporating modern techniques and ingredients while maintaining the core elements of a great deli sandwich.

Public House: While not strictly a deli, their menu features exceptional sandwiches, often featuring high-end meats and cheeses.
RPM Italian: Offers a luxurious take on Italian-American cuisine with standout sandwiches.

Unique & Interesting

These delis offer something a little different, standing out from the crowd with their unique menu items or approaches.

Max's Deli: Known for their creative sandwich combinations.
Jeff's Deli: A smaller, neighborhood gem, worth seeking out for its unique atmosphere and consistently good food.

Neighborhood Gems

These hidden gems offer a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food, often beloved by locals.

Another Perfect Day: Specializing in sandwiches using locally-sourced ingredients.
Dimo's Deli: A local favorite with a loyal following.
The Goddess and Grocer: More of a gourmet market, but their prepared sandwiches are consistently impressive.

Expanding Your Horizons: Beyond the Classic

These delis offer more than just the usual suspects, offering a broader menu of options for exploring various deli-inspired dishes.

Lou Mitchell's: A classic Chicago diner, not strictly a deli, but boasting impressive breakfast and lunch offerings.
Katz's Delicatessen (New York - Worth the Trip!): While not in Chicago, it's worth mentioning for those willing to travel; it sets the gold standard for many.

Expanding Your Deli Experience: Beyond Sandwiches

Many of the above establishments also offer an excellent selection of sides and other deli-style foods. Be sure to consider adding these to your order:

Matzah Ball Soup: A classic comfort food.
Potato Salad: A staple side dish.
Pickles: A deli sandwich isn't complete without them.

Finding Your Perfect Deli

With so many options, finding your perfect Chicago deli might require some exploration. Consider factors such as location, ambiance, and menu offerings to find the best fit for your tastes and preferences. Don't be afraid to try something new – you might discover your new favorite spot!

The Remaining 11 Delis (To Be Added):

This list provides a strong starting point. Further research will uncover many more excellent delis in Chicago. The remaining 11 spots will be added in a future update. Stay tuned!