If you’re looking for a hearty sandwich to silence your rumbling stomach, Illinois’ plethora of high quality delis are here to help. The great delis across the state serve up everything from fresh cold cut classics to smoked salmon sandwiches. Here are the 9 best in the state!
Shannon’s Deli is a local favorite because of their quality products and lunch specials, which include a large variety of fresh hot and cold subs. They also make their own salad dressings, soups, desserts, and side salads. Take home some fresh sliced Boar’s Head meats and cheeses, as well.
Nini’s Deli is a casual establishment featuring multi-ethnic sandwiches, particularly Cuban. Their service is fantastic, although long lines and wait times are common. The Media Noche sandwich and hibiscus lemonade are two favorite menu items from this popular deli.
If you love meat, look no further than Old Time Meat and Deli Shop in Champaign. They offer locally-raised meats, smoked foods, fresh seafood, choice-cut beef, free-range turkey, and other quality meats. You can also get stuffed potatoes, cheese curds, and other side dishes here, too.
For a taste of authentic Italian, you can’t go wrong with Tony’s Italian Deli and Subs. Featuring old family recipes, this family-owned deli serves mouthwatering Italian sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts. Their homemade Italian specialties make this deli one of the finest in the city.
Harrington’s Deli is best known for their daily hot lunch specials, which feature homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches. Their popular sandwiches include the classic corned beef, reuben, and Irish American BLT. This family business has over five decades of experience serving the best meats in the area.
Gio’s is another authentic Italian cafe and deli that caters to their customer’s needs. Their quality service and fresh foods make the visit a pleasant and comfortable experience. You can find homemade giardiniera, fresh pastas, imported cheeses, and fresh Italian bread in their deli, while they offer a wide variety of fresh sandwiches, pastas, salads, and other delicious dishes in the cafe.
For a European-style deli and sandwich, Al’s Deli is the place to go. Despite their slow service, they serve some of the best French-European food around. Popular menu items include the smoked duck sandwich and smoked salmon sandwich. Their quality foods make up for the unapologetic service.
This classic Jewish deli is the best of its kind outside of Chicago. Schmaltz’s takes pride in their overstuffed sandwiches, delicious cheesecakes, homemade soups, and other Jewish favorites. They serve breakfast, lunch, and Passover foods alongside their deli items.
There’s a tasty dish for everyone at Asti Italian Deli in Bensenville. Their extensive menu features pastas, hot and cold subs, pizza, fried foods, salads, soups, and desserts. As for the deli, their meats are very fresh and high-quality. Asti Italian Deli is the place the visit if you crave Italian food.