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Helfeld's Delicatessen & Catering
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Helfeld's Delicatessen & Catering
8.0
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Helfeld's Delicatessen & Catering is a modern Jewish deli serving bagels, lox, and piled-high sandwiches in a compact North Avenue space. Since opening in 2021, it’s become a go-to for breakfast bagel sandwiches and classic deli comforts in the Wicker Park–West Town corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bagel with lox and cream cheese, Egg and cheese breakfast bagel sandwich, Toasted bagel with pastrami or corned beef
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Family-run Jewish deli with serious bagels, lox, and classic deli plates.
Who should go: Deli fans craving bagels plus traditional Jewish comfort food.
When to visit: Breakfast and early lunch; they close midafternoon most days.
What to order: Lox bagel, egg-and-cheese bagel, pastrami on a toasted bagel.
Insider tip: Ask the owners for off-menu bagel sandwich combos they recommend.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on North Avenue and nearby residential streets; can be tight during peak brunch and lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are (jeans, hoodies, weekend wear all fine).
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but can get lively during the breakfast rush.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast and lunch deli.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, though short lines can form during the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian-friendly bagels, schmears, egg dishes, and deli sides.
Vegan options: Limited — you’ll find a few workable options depending on spreads and toppings, but menus lean dairy and egg-heavy.
Gluten-free options: Limited — traditional deli and bagel shop with primarily wheat-based offerings.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime meetup than a formal first date — think relaxed coffee-and-bagel vibes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service, and seating is first-come, first-served. Expect it to be busier on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — very family-friendly, especially for breakfast and lunch. Simple bagel and sandwich options work well for kids.
Best For
Better for: Classic Jewish deli comfort — bagels with lox, hearty sandwiches, and friendly, neighborhood-style service.
Skip if: You want a full-service restaurant, late-night dining, or an extensive vegan/gluten-free menu.
Helfeld's Delicatessen & Catering
8.0
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Helfeld's Delicatessen & Catering on North Avenue is a compact Jewish style deli turning out piled high sandwiches and classic soups. Neighborhood workers and locals rely on it for corned beef, turkey, and catering trays when they want a straightforward, New York leaning deli experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Corned Beef on Rye, Turkey Sandwich, Matzo Ball Soup
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Classic New York style deli sandwiches in a low key storefront.
Who should go: Lunch crowds wanting hefty deli sandwiches without a scene.
When to visit: Midday on weekdays before the peak lunch rush hits.
What to order: Corned beef on rye, turkey sandwich, matzo ball soup.
Insider tip: Call ahead for larger sandwich and platter orders at lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on and around North Ave; expect it to be limited during peak lunch hours
Dress code: Casual — come as you are
Noise level: Moderate — easy to hold a conversation, but lunchtime gets busy
Weekend wait: Typically no wait — this is more of a daytime stop
Weekday lunch: Short wait during peak rush; to-go orders may move faster
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options — think egg salad, tuna salad, and veggie-friendly sides
Vegan options: Limited — customization required
Gluten-free options: Limited — sandwiches are bread-based, though some fillings can be served without bread
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual lunch than a romantic date — it’s relaxed and food-first rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s a deli-style setup where reservations aren’t typically needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — informal, quick, and family-friendly, though space is compact and best for older kids who can share sandwiches.
Best For
Better for: Classic deli flavors, generous sandwich builds, and straightforward service without the fuss
Skip if: You’re looking for a trendy dining room, long sit-down meals, or a huge vegetarian/vegan menu