If it’s close to lunchtime, sometimes nothing quite hits the spot like a hot bowl of soup and a sub sandwich. If you’re in Chicago’s western suburbs and only have 30 minutes for lunch – you need to already know where to go to satisfy your deli cravings. That way, you’ll have enough time to sit down and enjoy your meal.
Yet, it can be challenging to know what’s good and what’s not with all the options available.
Luckily, we’re here to help narrow down your decision with our top picks for the best deli-style restaurants in Western Chicago. So if you’re in the mood for a five-star sub sandwich or corn beef on rye, you’ve come to the right place.
#5: Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli & Grill
300 E North Ave., West Chicago, IL 60185
Is your stomach rumbling after your mid-day workout at LA Fitness or the Surge To New Levels Gym? If so, you can quickly make the trip to Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli & Grill for some delicious subs. The original is located off Schmale Road in Carol Stream – this deli has a little bit of something for everyone.
From burgers to wraps and signature subs – Augustino’s has plenty to offer hungry patrons.
The atmosphere rings true to the ‘rock and roll’ found in the name. You’ll find tons of classic music memorabilia, classic jukeboxes, and friendly staff. Reviewers have commented that it gives off ‘Cheers’ bar vibes due to the fun and friendly atmosphere, and I’d have to agree.
The Menu
Here’s a glimpse at some of the versatile menu offerings at Augustino’s Rock and Roll Deli & Grill:
- Augie’s Famous Italian Sub
- All-American Sub
- NY Style Pastrami
- Augie’s World-Famous Italian Beef
- The Boss Aug Burger
- Chicken Caesar Wrap
- Augie’s Chili
- Augie’s Anything and Everything Pizza
Besides the main menu, they offer summer specials, and there are many dishes they can prepare gluten-free.
I went with Augie’s Famous Italian Sub and a bowl of Augie’s Chili during my visit. The food came out quickly, and my server was attentive and friendly. The chili was piping hot and had a fair amount of kick to it, which I like. However, the sub stole the show with the perfect balance of ingredients.
#4: Asti Italian Foods
1410 W. Irving Park Rd., Bensenville, IL, 60106
Next, we have Asti Italian Foods in Bensenville. They’re particularly renowned for their workplace lunches – and for a good reason. They have a wide selection of mouthwatering grilled sandwiches, soups, and salads ready in no time. It’s the ideal spot to pop in during a quick lunch break for high-quality food prepared with premium ingredients.
The atmosphere inside is incredibly inviting as it makes you feel like part of the family. There are lots of family photos around, as well as big-screen TVs, a fireplace, and comfortable seating. If you’re a fan of deli-style Italian sandwiches – it’s worth making the trip to Bensenville.
The Menu
Let’s take a peek at some of Asti’s most coveted menu items:
- 6″/10″ Italian Sub
- 12″ Italian Sub with a can of soda and chips
- 12″ American Sub with soda and chips
- Italian Beef Sandwich
- Steak Sandwich
- Fettuccine
- Wedding Soup w/Meatballs
- Chili
These are but a few of the menu items at Asti’s Italian Foods. I was in the mood for a Crispy Steak Sandwich with Wedding Soup and Meatballs. The soup came out hot and was bursting with flavor. The meatballs were perfectly cooked and seasoned.
The Crispy Steak Sandwich had melted cheese and some fine cuts of what seemed like skirt steak. It wasn’t chewy or tough, and the ingredients blended perfectly.
#3: Frankie’s Deli
17W626 Butterfield Rd., Oakbrook Terrace, IL, 60181
Frankie’s Deli in Oakbrook Terrace is the embodiment of the classic deli. The interiors are quaint, clean, and conjure images of vintage Chicago and New York. If you’re around the Yorktown Shopping Center, it’s well worth stopping into this bespoke deli for a fantastic lunch. The location has been in business for over 40 years – and it’s easy to see why. Frankie’s serves up some of the most delicious and authentic deli-style food in the entire city.
They have a pretty extensive menu, but their subs are, without a doubt, the highlight. Frankie’s will not disappoint if you’re a fan of classic Italian and American subs.
The Menu
Here are some of Frankie’s most famous menu offerings:
- Italian Sub
- American Sub
- BLT
- Prosciutto
- Pastrami
- Roast Beef
- Caprese
- Egg Salad
- Frankie’s Special
I was in a different kind of mood when I went to Frankie’s, so I got the Egg Salad sandwich. I’m happy to say that it hit the spot and satisfied my curiosity. While they’re most famous for their Italian Subs, their Egg Salad is also off the charts.
#2: Fontano’s Subs
9 S. Lincoln St., Hinsdale, IL, 60521
Nearly everyone in Hinsdale knows about Fontano’s Subs, and they all rave about it. It’s a staple restaurant in one of the best Chicago suburbs. Everything about Fontano’s process is authentic, fresh, and high-quality.
They also have a wide variety of subs on their menu – including some creative ones. There’s also the option for patrons to create a sub of their own containing any three chosen items. It’s a great spot to visit on a lunch break or with friends, but expect a bit of a line. Even so, the service is speedy, efficient, and friendly.
The Menu
Let’s take a look at some menu items from Fontano’s Subs:
- Blockbuster Sub
- Big ‘L’ Italian Sub
- Wise Guy Sub
- Italian Special Sub
- Homemade Meatball Hot Sandwich
- Breaded Chicken Breast Hot Sandwich
I had the Blockbuster sub because I wanted to see if it lived up to the hype I read about it online. Once again, the reviews rang true as the sub was a knockout. The combination of the salami with the capocollo hit hard, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
#1: Schmaltz Deli
3011 Ogden Ave, Lisle, IL 60532
Without further ado, our #1 selection goes to Schmaltz Delicatessen in Lisle. It’s an authentic American deli with famously wrapped sandwiches. They’re large, filling, only contain the best ingredients, and taste amazing.
They offer the closest experience to a NY Deli that you’ll find in Chicago. If you’re in Naperville and are looking for a spot to have lunch – you owe it to yourself to visit Schmaltz Deli. The service is fast and attentive, and they make you feel like family when you visit.
The Menu
Here’s a glimpse at the menu at Schmaltz Deli:
- Schmaltz Recipe Corn Beef
- Chicken Chopped Liver
- Whitefish Salad
- Matzo Ball Chicken Soup
- Schmaltz Recipe Pastrami
- Rainbow cookies
- CAB Schmacon
I’m a huge fan of Jewish deli cuisine, so I was in heaven at Schmaltz. I had some of the Schmaltz Recipe Pastrami because it looked and smelled so appetizing. It was done to perfection and served on fresh bread with incredible mustard. The rainbow cookies intrigued me enough to try them, and I’m glad that I did. They’re almond flavored with raspberry filling inside – and they melt in your mouth.
Closing Thoughts
By now – you should know exactly where to go if you’re craving deli food in Chicago’s western suburbs. From Carole Stream to Naperville, these delis run the whole gambit of the west side suburbs. From piping hot soup to Italian sub sandwiches, these restaurants will hit the spot. If you’re in Elmhurst soon, check out our other article, Best Restaurants in Elmhurst: Dining Options for Every Taste.
