Jewish Delis, also known as a delikatessen, or delicatessen, first originated in Germany in the 18th century and later popped up in the US in the 19th century. Typically, you’ll find a whole fare of traditional food to choose from (Like matzo-ball soup, bagels and lox, noodle kugel, pastrami on rye, potato knish, and cheese blintzes) at a deli.
For all the Chicago-based matzo-ball soup lovers out there, read on for a list of the tastiest Jewish delis in the area, along with where you can find your new favorite nosh. Here are the best Jewish delis in Chicago:
1. Sam and Gertie’s
A vegan Jewish deli sounds incredible. Their matzo ball soup is amazing and their babka is divine. PS: They’re only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8:30 a.m to 2:00 p.m, so plan accordingly.
Address: 1309 W Wilson Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
2. Jeff & Judes
Located in Humbolt Park, this quiet deli has everything from lunch to brunch (matzo grits?!), and a full bakery menu (a challah cinnamon roll?!). Founder Ursula Siker named the deli after her parents– Jeff and Jude. The best part is: all deli and bakery items are made in-house, so you know it’s got to be good. Don’t plan to stop by on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as they’ll be closed on those days. Normal hours include Monday, Thursday, Friday 11 a.m-3 p.m, and Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m-3 p.m.
Address: 1024 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
3. Morry’s Deli
Known for their hearty sandwiches, Morry’s Deli & Drink has been around for over 50 years. Plus, it purports to have The Best Corned Beef Sandwich in the area. Try it out and let me know what you think.
Address: 5500 S Cornell Ave, Chicago, IL 60637
4. Rye Deli & Drink
Located in West Loop, Rye Deli & Drink is currently on a winter hiatus for now. Upon its reopening, expect to see me situated in a booth enjoying a handmade bagel platter and a cup of coffee. Their menu combines new-age flair that still honors old-world techniques.
Address: 25 South Halsted Street, Chicago, Illinois 60661
5. J.B.’s Deli
Located in quaint Andersonville, this deli/pharmacy situation brings together all the Jewish rites of passage. As in, you can enjoy a latke and then go on shop for some Pepcid right across the aisle. They also have halva, which is a plus, alongside an expansive dessert selection.
Address: 5501 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60640
6. Max & Benny’s
Max & Benny’s only wants you to grab hold of the DELIciousness, and how could you not? Stop by the deli counter on the way home from work for an extra scrumptious snack, or rent out the event space for a celebration. Named after their two sons, Rhea and Lester Schlan have been running this deli for nearly thirty years in Northbrook, IL. Everything from hamantashen to cheese blintzes and more populate the menu, with Shabbat dinner boxes and at-home bagel-making kits for anyone interested.
Address: 461 Waukegan Rd, Northbrook, IL 60062
7. Steingold’s of Chicago
They know how to do an everything bagel the right way and their matzo ball soup is the thing of dreams. You have to try it for yourself, but odds are, you’ll love it, too. They have an appetizer deli box option available for monthly delivery so you can enjoy Steingolds of Chicago on hand from the comfort of your home.
Address: 3737 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
8. Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen
This no-frills cafeteria has been serving up all the normal deli foods since 1942. The restaurant itself feels a bit like you’re stepping back in time in a good way. They also have a Passover menu for those looking to celebrate the Jewish holiday in April.
Address: 1141 South Jefferson Street Chicago, IL
9. Half Sour
Half Sour has some truly incredible bagels (and a great brunch menu) but is missing items like kasha varnishkes or blintzes, which we can deal with because they do have latkes and their atmosphere is top-notch. PS: They also have a speakeasy open at night and comedy shows on Thursday.
Address: 755 S Clark St, Chicago, IL 60605
10. Eleven City Diner
Eleven City Diner serves all the Jewish staples you’d expect, though it’s not a deli, so to speak. They also boast a cool throwback feel, which is a big draw. Plus, their menu is extensive with a beautiful mix of Jewish and Mexican traditions. ICYMI: Their Sunday brunch is legendary– try the Matzo brie
Address: 1112 S Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
11. The Bagel Restaurant
This eclectic deli has a wide variety of options from noodle kugel to liver and onions, along with Mandel bread, and rugelach. They’re a consistent favorite for those residing in the area.
Address: 3107 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 6065
12. Kaufman’s Bagel & Delicatessen
Known for being homemade and inherently traditional, Kaufman’s resides outside of Chicago… but it boasts a dedicated deli counter featuring in-house smoked pastrami and a variety of lox options, so it’s totally worth the drive. I’d recommend their kreplach, though I’m taking my mom for kasha varnishkes next time she visits.
Address: 4905 W. Dempster St., Skokie IL, 60077