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Top picks in Chicago

Grocery store lunch spots

Made for those who value the convenience of grabbing a midday meal while they finish their grocery shopping.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
L&M Fine Foods & Sandwich Shop image 1
L&M Fine Foods & Sandwich Shop image 2
L&M Fine Foods & Sandwich Shop image 3
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Small space combines upscale deli and boutique market vibes with specialty grocery items and a well-curated hot sauce and cheese selection. Atmosphere feels LGBTQ+ friendly and safe, with indoor and small al fresco seating areas. Sandwiches come fresh and generous, making it a popular spot for quality prepared foods.

Fantastic sandwiches make it a solid choice for breakfast and lunch. It stands out as a reliable go-to lunch spot during the work week.

Offers a boutique market with unique grocery items not found elsewhere. Features a great meat counter and a curated selection of beer, wine, and specialty groceries like tinned fish and diamond salt.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches to be totally delicious."

"I loved the sandwiches here; they were amazing."

"You've got to try the delicious sandwiches at this grocery store."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 2:30 to 5:30 PM.

2

Weekly sandwich specials are available, offering unique options.

3

A basic BLT sandwich can take up to 40 minutes to prepare.

02
Yaba’s Food & middle eastern grill image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Small market with no frills bodega style and a cozy kitchen in the back creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Food portions are large and varied, featuring standout falafel and shawarma. Family-run vibe adds a personal touch to the experience.

Friendly staff greet guests during lunch. The kafta kebab plate is a popular all-day special. Lunch combos offer good value with consistently very good food.

A small grocery section offers Palestinian and Lebanese olive oil along with quick grab-and-go groceries and snacks. The kitchen in the back adds a cute touch and often has the best food.

People are saying

"The lentil soup here is flavorful and felt like a delicious hug."

"This Lunch Spot's lentil soup is so good and flavorful."

"The Grocery Store staff here are the kindest I've ever met."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located inside a convenience store.

2

Expect large portion sizes for all menu items.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of options for different dietary needs.

03
Montrose Food Mart & Deli Catering image 1

Grocery store offers a large selection of Polish and East European foods with a lively atmosphere marked by frequent Polish conversation. Big portions and affordable prices attract many shoppers, while the phenomenal setup and outstanding decorations create a welcoming environment.

Fresh lunch plates come with many options daily. Daily lunch specials include a main dish with two sides at reasonable prices like $5.99 or $3.99 in the past.

Offers a great euro styled grocery experience with a hot bar and a solid selection of affordable meat and produce. Known for consistent prices even during inflation, it stocks a variety of jarred fruits, snacks, and drinks.

People are saying

"Ania at the Deli made our big day stress-free and perfect."

"This grocery store has great prices on fresh produce and meat."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are packed with fresh, premium ingredients."

Good to know

1

Daily lunch specials include a main dish with two sides for a great price.

2

Catering services are available for events, including appetizers and sweet tables.

3

The deli offers a large selection of Polish foods and daily dinner specials.

04
Carnicerias Guanajuato image 1

Supermarket combines in-house butcher and modest taquería with counter service and spacious seating. Atmosphere stays clean and vibrant, offering a wide selection of authentic Mexican products. Prices fluctuate but generally provide great value for flavorful tacos and burritos.

Offers authentic Mexican food served during lunch hours. Good for a quick lunch on the run.

Well stocked with a great selection of authentic Mexican ingredients, this grocery store includes a small restaurant in the back. The shop inside the store adds a hidden gem feel to the experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food's chicharrón is spiritually disruptive and wildly crunchy."

"The tacos from the grocery store were tasty and not greasy."

"It's a great lunch spot for authentic Mexican food."

Good to know

1

They serve food during lunch hours.

2

On weekends, the place becomes lively with pancita, barbacoa, and carnitas.

3

They only accept cash.

05
Sauce & Bread Kitchen image 1

Small space with a hole-in-the-wall deli atmosphere offers a cozy and friendly vibe that feels like home. Ethically sourced homemade food includes technically perfect pastries and standout sandwiches. Occasional live jazz adds to the relaxed, charming environment.

Lunch features unique and flavorful dishes with a focus on tasty and interesting fare. Weekend lunches often include a cocktail and mouth-watering entrée for a casual meal.

Bread and bakery items stand out with good quality. Grocery options exist but feel somewhat limited in variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and original."

"This lunch spot has delicious, unique food and amazing pastries."

"The food and groceries here are fantastic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Dinner is available only on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

Fridays feature spoken word or jazz nights.

3

Pizza night is a popular community event.

06
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.

Lines form during lunch hour but move steadily. Offers quick bites and authentic Italian groceries for a convenient midday stop.

Offers a great selection of authentic Italian groceries and deli items. Feels down-to-earth and focuses on genuine Italian products.

People are saying

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

"I loved the Italian sub from this Grocery Store, it was loaded with meat."

"I found the sandwiches here to be incredible, loaded with fresh ingredients."

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.

07
Tempesta Market image 1

Small deli with meticulously arranged sections and tasteful design offers indoor and outdoor casual seating. Atmosphere is loud and fun, featuring alternative and country music that energizes the space. Frequented by those seeking authentic Italian meats and hearty sandwiches with top-notch ingredients.

B Franklin and chicken dumpling soup stand out as solid lunch choices. This spot earns a spot on the list for reliable, satisfying midday meals.

Products come from local and small-scale producers with care. The market offers a thoughtfully laid out selection of imported and house-made deli items alongside artisanal groceries. You can grab meats to go or enjoy a quick gourmet snack on site.

People are saying

"I loved the hashbrown sandwich; it was amazing."

"You have to try the Dante sandwich at this grocery store; it's spicy and flavorful."

"This lunch spot's sandwiches are so good, I couldn't question what I was given."

Good to know

1

It is highly recommended to order ahead if planning to eat there.

2

There is little to no wait time for food orders.

3

The sandwiches now cost nearly $20 each.

08
Gangnam Market image 1
Grocery store

Neon lights and gacha machines create a vibrant, playful atmosphere in this Asian grocery store. A food court with diverse offerings and a bar with crafted cocktails add to the lively energy. The space blends unique aesthetics with a casual, fun vibe that feels more American Asian market than traditional.

Offers quick and easy lunch options with a focus on ramen and snacks. Meals typically cost around $15, making it a convenient spot for a casual midday meal.

Offers a great variety of Asian ingredients including fresh lemongrass, sauces, and ramen alongside general grocery items. Combines a two-for-one setup with a grocery store and mini food hall, featuring unique snacks and a vibrant atmosphere.

People are saying

"This grocery store has an amazing selection of snacks and Asian ingredients."

"The food court here is fantastic and delicious."

"This lunch spot has so many great food options."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy discounts at the taco stall; Wednesdays feature rice stall discounts.

2

Thursdays offer ramen stall discounts, making it a great day to visit.

3

Certain stalls offer 50% off on three days of the week.

09
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Two floors create a spacious layout filled with a wide variety of fresh foods and vegan options. A full bar and cafe area offer places to relax or eat, though the atmosphere can be busy and noisy. Seating areas provide a comfortable spot for breaks amid the bustling grocery environment.

Fresh salad and hot food bars offer quick, healthy lunch options. The hot bar serves a variety of dishes in moderate portions, making it a good choice for a light meal.

Offers a full bar inside, which is unusual for a grocery store. Features a wide selection of fresh and organic products in a clean, well-maintained space with kind staff and good prices.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh breads and tasty treats, especially the chocolate tart."

"I found this grocery store had a big variety of fresh, high-quality products."

"I loved their hot bar for lunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 4-6 pm with $1 off beer and wine.

2

Whole Foods Market offers 2 free hours of parking with validation.

3

The store has a wide variety of vegan options available.

10
Pete's Fresh Market #10 - Madison & Western image 1

Supermarket offers a spacious, well-organized layout with aisles stocked by local and international goods. Atmosphere includes fresh produce scents, lively chatter, and smiling faces creating a welcoming vibe. Hot food and salad bars provide a diverse, ready-to-eat selection that draws a steady crowd.

Hot bar and salad bar offer a great selection for lunch. Food at the lunch bar is consistently good but lines can be long and prices a bit expensive.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh meat and produce. The store offers a big selection including items not found in other supermarkets.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh hot food from the food bar."

"The Grocery Store staff were so attentive and helpful."

"The lunch bar here has great prepared food."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Credit cards are not accepted; bring cash for purchases.

3

The store is known for its fresh produce and clean environment.

11
Bodega Bay Chicago image 1
Sandwich shop

Sandwich shop combines mini market with a cute seating area for a super chill vibe. Offers high-quality sandwiches and a solid selection of snacks, drinks, and tequila. Prices are reasonable, making it a convenient neighborhood spot.

Lunch features homemade sandwiches and delicious soup at reasonable prices. Sandwiches stand out as a solid choice that brings people back repeatedly.

Mini market stocks chips, dips, drinks, and snacks for quick grabs. Grocery essentials and ready-to-go items fill the shelves alongside sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the caprese sandwich to be very good."

"I thought the chunky tomato soup was very good."

"You can get a great sandwich or grocery essentials here."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a variety of sandwiches and grocery essentials.

2

Parking is plentiful around the area.

3

Prices for sandwiches made to order are reasonable.

12
Pete's Fresh Market #6 - Cermak & Rockwell image 1

Sprawling layout with aisles of diverse goods from around the world creates a modern, beautiful space. Atmosphere is quiet and inviting, enhanced by freshly baked pastries aroma and well-lit produce section. Features include an extensive salad bar, hot food bar, and a coffee bar, offering a distinctly Latin flavor alongside global options.

Lunch here offers fresh options and a reliable spot to grab a meal. The place supports quick stops for lunch and restroom use, making it convenient for regular visits.

Offers a large selection of groceries including vegan and organic options with a distinctly Latin flavor. The store is beautifully ordered and clean with excellent produce, meat, and prices.

People are saying

"I found this grocery store to be awesome and my go-to for specific purchases."

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

"I found the food here to be good for lunch."

Good to know

1

The store closes at 9pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect a good variety of fresh produce and meats at competitive prices.

3

The store is known for its cleanliness and organization.

13
Mariano's image 1
Grocery store

Wide aisles and stocked shelves create a calm, comfortable grocery environment with self-checkout for quick trips. A lively bar area offers chess and socializing alongside a grill serving burgers and sandwiches. Music, including live piano and DJs on weekends, adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Large pieces of lemon fish sell for $5 at the ground floor lunch hot bar. Many stop by daily to grab lunch while running errands or biking by the lake. Some feel harassed by attendants during lunch service.

Offers a wide selection of groceries including items not usually found in typical stores. The hot bar features fresh, well-seasoned food and the store carries fresh produce across two floors.

People are saying

"This grocery store is clean, well-organized, and has fresh produce."

"I was addicted to their bakery, especially the cookies."

"I loved the hot bar at this Lunch Spot; it had tons of delicious food."

Good to know

1

Live entertainment occurs every Friday evening.

2

The grill shuts down around 5:30 pm on weekdays, so arrive early.

3

Parking is always available at this location.

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Chicago, Illinois

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