10 Illinois Italian Sub Shops Stacking Meat And Memories High

Illinois has a long history of serving up incredible Italian subs that taste just like home. From Chicago’s bustling streets to quiet suburban corners, these shops pile high-quality meats, cheeses, and fresh ingredients onto crusty bread.

I’ve gathered 10 spots where every bite brings back warm memories and keeps locals coming back for more.

1. Tony’s Italian Deli – Chicago, IL

Walking into this place feels like stepping into a family kitchen where everyone knows your name. Tony’s has been layering meats and cheeses with care for years, creating subs that satisfy both your hunger and your soul.

The bread comes fresh daily, giving each sandwich the perfect crunch. You’ll find generous portions of imported Italian meats stacked between soft layers of provolone.

Regulars swear by the house dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

2. Al’s Italian Deli – Chicago, IL

Al’s reputation spreads through word of mouth because nobody leaves disappointed. The menu keeps things simple, focusing on doing a few things exceptionally well rather than offering endless options.

Meats get sliced paper-thin, allowing flavors to blend perfectly in every mouthful. Their secret seasoning mix has customers guessing ingredients for decades.

Lines form during lunch, but the wait proves worth your patience every time.

3. Ted’s Italian Deli – Chicago, IL

Ted started this shop with a simple dream: serve honest food that makes people smile. Decades later, that philosophy still guides every sandwich that crosses the counter.

The atmosphere feels welcoming and unpretentious, like visiting an old friend’s house. Portions come large enough to share, though you probably won’t want to.

Fresh giardiniera adds authentic Chicago flavor that locals crave daily.

4. Di Bruno Bros – Chicago, IL

Quality ingredients transform a simple sandwich into something extraordinary at Di Bruno Bros. They import specialty items directly from Italy, ensuring authenticity in every component.

The staff knows their products inside and out, offering recommendations based on your preferences. You’ll discover flavor combinations you never imagined possible.

This spot elevates the humble sub into a gourmet experience without pretension.

5. A&G’s Sub Sandwich Shop – Glen Ellyn, IL

A&G’s proves that great subs don’t require fancy locations or complicated menus. This no-frills spot focuses entirely on crafting sandwiches that keep customers returning week after week.

The bread gets baked locally, arriving warm and ready for stacking. Generous meat portions mean you get real value for your money.

Friendly service makes every visit feel personal and appreciated beyond the transaction.

6. Ozzie’s Deli – Chicago, IL

Ozzie’s captures the essence of neighborhood dining where everyone becomes part of the family. The walls display photos of customers spanning generations, telling stories of countless shared meals.

Sandwiches come prepared exactly how you want them, with staff happy to customize. Fresh mozzarella adds creamy richness that pairs beautifully with spicy meats.

This place reminds you why simple food done right never goes out of style.

7. Calabria Imports (Deli) – Chicago, IL

Calabria Imports doubles as both grocery store and sandwich destination, offering the best of both worlds. You can shop for ingredients to cook at home, then grab a sub for the road.

Their imported products come straight from Italy’s finest producers. The deli counter showcases meats and cheeses you won’t find anywhere else in the area.

Each sandwich tastes like a trip to the Mediterranean without leaving Chicago.

8. Rosalia’s Deli – Elmhurst, IL

Rosalia’s brings warmth and tradition to Elmhurst’s dining scene with recipes passed down through generations. The owner learned the sandwich craft from her grandmother, maintaining those time-tested techniques.

Everything gets made to order, ensuring freshness and attention to detail. Their olive salad adds a unique twist that sets them apart from competitors.

You’ll taste the love and care in every carefully constructed layer.

9. Nottoli & Son Italian Deli – Chicago, IL

Family ownership means Nottoli & Son treats every customer like extended relatives gathering for Sunday dinner. Three generations have worked behind this counter, each adding their own touch while respecting tradition.

The menu stays true to classic preparations without unnecessary complications. Their house-made meatballs occasionally find their way into special sandwiches.

This shop represents everything wonderful about Chicago’s Italian food heritage and community.

10. Giordano’s Deli – Oak Brook, IL

Oak Brook’s Giordano’s Deli offers suburban convenience without sacrificing authentic flavor or quality ingredients. The location makes it perfect for grabbing lunch during work breaks or weekend errands.

They slice meats fresh throughout the day, never relying on pre-packaged products. Crispy lettuce and ripe tomatoes provide refreshing contrast to rich, savory meats.

Consistent quality keeps customers driving from neighboring towns just for these subs.