Illinois is home to some of the most iconic and mouthwatering sandwiches, and the best ones come from family-owned shops that have been perfecting their craft for generations. These local legends have earned their reputation by serving up everything from hearty Italian subs to the crispiest fried chicken sandwiches, all with a side of hometown charm.
You won’t find mass-produced chains here, just authentic, time-tested recipes that keep customers coming back. For sandwich lovers and anyone craving a true taste of Illinois, these family-run spots offer a delicious slice of local history, one bite at a time.
So, let’s dive into the spots that have been feeding the community for decades and share a little taste of what makes them so special.
1. Bari Italian Subs
Walking into Bari feels like stepping back to a time when sandwiches were simple and perfect. This family spot has been feeding Chicago since 1966, and they haven’t changed much because they never needed to…