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Local picks in Chicago

Italian delis

Finding a deli that serves authentic Italian food is the only way to handle a real lunch craving.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Riviera Foods Chicago image 1
Riviera Foods Chicago image 2
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Italian grocery store

Italian grocery store offers authentic deli meats and fresh handmade sandwiches with family-style atmosphere and friendly staff. The space feels like a scene from the Sopranos, combining high-quality Italian specialties with reasonable prices. Pasta selection is limited, but the deli and cheese options stand out.

Fresh Barese Italian sausage and deli meats stand out here. Freshly grated Parmesan Reggiano and pecorino Romano cheese come at reasonable prices, alongside homemade mozzarella and Italian beef.

Terrific deli makes fresh handmade sandwiches with the freshest Barese Italian sausage and deli meats. It serves as a local staple and a real deal for authentic Italian deli and grocery items.

People are saying

"The Italian beef sandwich food is huge and packed with tender, flavorful meat."

"This Italian food sandwich is the best I've ever had."

"The deli sandwiches here have excellent ingredients and are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The deli offers fresh handmade sandwiches daily.

2

Parking is available next door for customers.

3

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for all guests.

02
Nottoli Italian Foods image 1

Old-school Italian deli with a full-service counter and three dine-in tables offers a clean, inviting atmosphere with visible kitchen space. Long lines form for authentic sandwiches known for generous portions and unbeatable prices. Sidewalk space outside adds to the casual, accessible vibe.

Italian sausage stands out with a hot, flavorful profile and works well in sandwiches. The lasagna and ravioli offer rich, satisfying layers and fillings, while the cannoli features a crunchy shell and traditional filling.

Authentic Italian deli offers fresh-made sandwiches and deli meats that taste fantastic. The deli counter features excellent deli food with spot-on flavors.

People are saying

"Their Italian food, especially the ravioli, is fantastic."

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I found the deli sandwiches here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Call ahead to order sandwiches to save time.

2

Fridays feature the best breaded Italian steak sandwich.

3

Expect long lines during lunch hours, but it's worth the wait.

03
Serai Cafe & Deli image 1

Halal deli cafe combines cozy yet modern atmosphere with a clean and serene vibe. Space feels buzzing with energy while remaining inviting and welcoming. Decor balances sophisticated and relaxing elements, creating a unique hangout spot.

Sandwiches feature crispy chicken parmesan and pesto panini with chicken. The caprese sandwich comes on incredible focaccia.

Halal deli sandwiches feature crispy rye bread, tender corned beef, and melty Swiss cheese with balanced sauerkraut and dressing. This spot offers a unique halal deli experience with a full range of halal deli meats.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful sandwiches with fresh ingredients and generous portions."

"The sandwiches at this Deli are so flavorful and delicious."

"The Italian food here is delicious and top-notch quality."

Good to know

1

The entire menu is 100% halal, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Unique deli-style halal sandwiches and paninis are available.

3

Healthy options are prioritized, with no deep-fried items.

04
Nonna Soluri's Italian Deli image 1

Small, colorful deli with an old school feel and a cute garden patio offers a friendly, inviting atmosphere that feels like a slice of Italy. Regulars enjoy homemade sandwiches and a sense of community that recalls Chicago's past. The space is cozy and packed, balancing charm with a no-nonsense vibe.

Prosciutto sandwich stands out with rich flavor. The menu offers cold subs, hot subs, pizza, and cannolis that impress with quality and taste.

Warm hospitality from the husband and wife team creates a welcoming vibe. The deli offers fresh Italian cold cuts and a variety of sandwich options, including authentic Italian subs. Parking is convenient, often right in front, making visits easy.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches here were the best in Chicago."

"This Italian deli feels like a warm slice of home."

"Their Italian beef sandwich is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait of about 20 minutes during peak hours.

2

Parking is available right in front of the deli.

3

A 4% surcharge applies to credit card payments; cash is advisable.

05
Conte Di Savoia image 1

Italian deli with classic checkerboard floors and a tin pan ceiling creates an old school cool vibe. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time to a neighborhood shop with rich, authentic character. Sandwiches stand out as some of the best, complementing the genuine, nostalgic setting.

Fresh Mozzarella cheese, Prosciutto Di Parma, and homemade pastas stand out here. Italian subs come loaded with ham, salami, capocollo, and provolone, alongside fresh focaccia and Italian sausage that rivals those from Italy.

Subs at the deli counter come with fresh meats and cheeses that taste authentic. This old-fashioned Italian deli serves mouthwatering sandwiches and offers a solid selection of Italian deli products.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be amazing and really good."

"I thought this was the best Italian deli I'd ever been to."

"The Italian Food here, especially The Contessa, is fantastic."

Good to know

1

Prices are very reasonable compared to other sandwich shops in the area.

2

The deli has about four tables available for dining.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak lunch hours.

06
Joseph's Finest Meats image 1

Old school butcher shop with traditional style and homemade sausages stands out for top quality meats and authentic Italian products. Atmosphere feels like a neighborhood market focused on expert meat cutting and specialty charcuterie. Regulars come for high-quality beef, unique sausages, and imported Italian breads and pastas.

Offers Italian sausage in mild, hot, jalapeรฑo, and ghost pepper varieties. Stocks imported pastas and Focaccia bread that often disappears quickly.

Homemade deli meats like corned beef and hot cap stand out here. The deli is family-owned and operated, with clear info on meat and vegetable sourcing.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is great, and Sal is super nice."

"I tried the breakfast sausage and it was the best I ever had."

"The deli owner explained sourcing and made great recommendations."

Good to know

1

Fresh seafood is available on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

2

They offer a variety of meats, seafood, and breads.

3

The prices for high-quality USDA prime meat are very fair.

07
J.P. Graziano Grocery image 1
Italian grocery store

Italian grocery store with old school Chicago deli vibe and family-run charm creates a warm, bustling atmosphere. Simple, no-frills interior complements the hectic but friendly energy during busy times. Small outdoor seating offers a casual spot to enjoy hearty, flavorful sandwiches.

Cannoli stands out with its creamy filling, balanced sweetness, and cherries on the ends. The prosciutto offers a rich, unexpected depth, and the artichoke sub adds a fresh, savory touch.

Old school Chicago deli vibe fills the space with a busy, family-run atmosphere. Sandwiches come hefty and flavorful, stacked with capicola, prosciutto, salami, soppressata, and provolone.

People are saying

"I found their sandwiches to be outstanding."

"This deli's sandwiches are amazing, hefty, and flavorful."

"You have to try the cannoli; it's perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The deli is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Sandwiches are prepared quickly, usually within 10 minutes of ordering.

08
Serrelli's Finer Foods image 1
Italian grocery store

Boutique Italian grocery store and deli offers authentic ingredients and fresh Italian beef known for rich flavor and generous portions. The atmosphere is clean and neighborhood-friendly, with a focus on classic Italian sandwiches and housemade giardiniera that balances flavor and heat without overwhelming spice.

Fresh Italian sausage stands out here. The store stocks artichokes, olives, anchovies, and mozzarella for authentic antipasti.

Offers a boutique Italian deli experience with a focus on Italian beef and classic old school subs. Sandwiches stand out as a key highlight in this neighborhood spot.

People are saying

"I thought the Italian beef sandwiches were the best."

"The Italian beef at this deli is flavorful and one of the best."

"The Italian beef here is amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Serrelli's offers a variety of authentic Italian deli options and groceries.

2

Shipping is available via 2-day air for those who can't visit in person.

3

The store features fresh ingredients, including artichokes, olives, and anchovies.

09
Vinnies Sub Shop image 1
Sandwich shop

Classic deli setup with an unpretentious, blue-collar atmosphere that feels stuck in time. Sandwiches feature fresh, local bread and high-quality ingredients, served in generous portions at fair prices. The vibe is cozy and honest, offering a straightforward, satisfying experience.

Subs highlight pesto mayo, sesame bread, and mozzarella. Options include Prosciutto, smoked turkey, and homemade tuna salad.

Classic deli vibe with a setup that looks exactly like a traditional spot. Offers top-tier deli meat and fresh cheese that stand out among Italian delis.

People are saying

"The sandwich lady is a sweetheart and makes you want a hug."

"I found the deli meat and cheese to be great."

"I thought their Italian subs were the best in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Vinnies Sub Shop offers large portions of sandwiches at reasonable prices.

2

All ingredients, including bread and meats, are fresh and locally sourced.

3

Parking can be a challenge near Vinnies Sub Shop.

10
Gio's Cafe And Deli image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with old school checkerboard tablecloths and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It feels like a neighborhood gem with a deli counter offering cheeses, meats, and Italian staples to go. The vibe is both classy and casual, creating a relaxed place for authentic Italian dining.

Homemade baked cavatelli and rigatoni Bolognese stand out with rich sauces and generous portions. Bruschetta, veal Parmesan, and Italian subs feature fresh ingredients and careful preparation.

Offers a diverse array of classic deli sandwiches, hearty salads, and savory pastas. Features a deli counter, pick-up station, and coolers stocked with ravioli and sauce for purchase.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and flavorful."

"The Italian sausage from the deli is amazing."

"I enjoyed the delicious, well-seasoned Italian food."

Good to know

1

Gio's Cafe And Deli is a BYOB establishment, so bring your own drinks.

2

Portions are large, so consider sharing or taking leftovers home.

3

They can accommodate special requests on orders, like ingredient substitutions.

11
D'Amato's Bakery image 1

Small bakery with old-school charm and narrow aisles creates a cozy but sometimes crowded atmosphere. Friendly staff and great tunes add to the inviting vibe, while a covered outdoor patio offers extra seating for a quick bite.

Cannolis stand out with authentic flavor and texture. The menu features eggplant parmesan sandwich and prosciutto and burrata sub with arugula, alongside fresh sourdough, focaccia, and amaretti cookies.

Small, old-school Italian deli with hometown style and ton of flavor. Offers a cute, hole in the wall vibe with quality Italian bakery and deli items.

People are saying

"This bread is the best sandwich bread I've ever had."

"The Italian food, especially the cannoli, is really good."

"It's an awesome Italian bakery and deli with tons of flavor."

Good to know

1

D'Amato's Bakery only accepts cash payments.

2

The bakery has limited seating inside but offers outdoor seating with tables.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours due to a small kitchen.

12
Calabria Imports image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian deli and cafe space offers homey atmosphere with full deli and frozen meals displayed openly. Energy feels community-oriented yet somewhat basic and sparse in setup. Sandwiches and cured meats stand out as exceptional offerings.

Made-to-order dishes include a large menu of Italian favorites like pastas and sandwiches. The Italian sausage comes in hot and mild varieties and pairs well with fresh parmesan cheese from Calabria Imports.

Offers a full deli with a fantastic selection of deli items and frozen meals. Staff is wonderful and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and home-cooked style."

"The deli staff here is really friendly and helpful."

"The Italian subs and sausage sandwiches here are fantastic."

Good to know

1

Daily specials are available, offering great deals on various menu items.

2

Calabria Imports has a full deli with a wide selection of sandwiches and meals.

3

Parking is available on the side street, with pay parking near Subway.

13
Fontano's Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Old school corner deli with a classic Italian sub shop vibe and no-frills atmosphere. Quiet and laid-back with simple, cozy decor featuring linoleum tables and shelves of snacks. Known for authentic sandwiches with fresh bread and generous meat portions.

Italian sandwiches feature fresh Italian bread loaded with meats like Prosciuttini, Capicola, Genoa Salami, and Italian sausage. Toppings include provolone, marinara sauce, hot peppers, oil, and vinegar for bold flavors.

Classic deli charm shines through with a no-frills atmosphere and solid quality. Sandwiches feature ample deli meats and capture the true Italian deli sandwich feel.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sub sandwich I've ever had."

"The Italian subs here are classic and hit the spot."

"I loved the Italian sub with its great bread."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit challenging in the area.

2

The subs are reasonably priced and generous in portion.

3

You can order a sandwich or make it a meal with chips and a soda.

14
Wolf & Company image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines upscale vibe with neighborhood coziness in a gorgeous space featuring a patio right off a popular trail. It offers creative craft cocktails praised for balance and presentation. The venue includes a market and butcher shop, adding a unique grocery element to the dining experience.

Mushroom pasta and 606 pizza stand out with rich flavors. Garlic Parmesan Pesto bread rolls offer house-made pillows of garlicky dough. Mozzarella sticks impress with their huge size and cheese pull.

A fully stocked deli offers a wide assortment of quality items. It blends a market, bodega, and butcher with a cafe and restaurant, creating a unique concept along the trail.

People are saying

"I found the burgers to be incredibly tasty and flavorful."

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, is amazing."

"I had heard about their burgers and now understand why they are popular."

Good to know

1

The establishment has had issues with food safety, including unrefrigerated ingredients.

2

Dishes were washed in the hand washing sink, raising health concerns.

3

The bathroom is located far from the patio, which may be inconvenient.

15
Cafe L'Appetito image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with a true deli vibe and a dog-friendly outdoor patio offers a calm, family-friendly atmosphere. The place feels like a grocery store food court with an affordable menu focused on Italian sandwiches and coffee. It suits quick bites and casual meals rather than cozy dining.

Tiramisu stands out as an outstanding dessert here. The meatballs and marinara impress with rich flavor, while the tortellini salad and shell pasta offer tasty options. Traditional dishes like spaghetti and meatballs are not available.

Classic Italian deli offers a small sandwich deli tucked in the back with delicious deli salads. Convenient spot on a quieter side road near apartments and businesses.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be excellent."

"I got the diavolo sandwich; it was amazing."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the gelato."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during lunch hours; arrive early for full service.

2

The cafe closes at 6:20 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Affordable meals are available, typically around $10.

16
Rosie's Sidekick Sandwich Shop image 1

Tiny counter with limited seating creates an intimate setting. Warm music plays, adding to a relaxed atmosphere. Sandwiches stand out for their bold flavors and hot serving temperature, making the experience distinctive despite simple surroundings.

Italian sandwiches feature homemade sauce and meats like mortadella, capicola, and salami. Desserts include cannolis and tiramisu, with the cannolis noted as good but not fully authentic.

Deli sandwiches feature notably good Italian beef that stands out among Chicago options. An assortment of sandwiches and beef offers solid variety.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are packed with great ingredients and taste incredible."

"You have to try their Italian beef sandwiches, they're amazing."

"I thought this deli sandwich was the best I had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Rosie's Sidekick Sandwich Shop is no longer cash only and now accepts card payments.

2

Parking might be difficult at certain times, so plan accordingly.

3

The shop has limited seating, making it less ideal for large groups.

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