0 Followers
Boar's Head Cafe
Master Critic Review
Boar's Head Cafe
7.6
A made-to-order deli counter for straightforward sandwiches that are most valuable when you need something fast and reliably portioned. It’s not a destination vibe, but it’s a dependable downtown lunch tool—order a classic, add chips, and keep moving.
Must-Try Dishes:
Turkey club sandwich, Italian sub, Soup and sandwich combo
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: A fast downtown deli counter that stays consistent.
Who should go: Anyone needing a quick sandwich lunch
When to visit: Late morning to avoid the rush
What to order: Turkey club, Italian sub, soup combo
Insider tip: Stick to the classics—custom builds slow the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking; nearby public garages in the Loop, limited street parking and often time-restricted during business hours.
Dress code: Casual workday attire — business casual, jeans and office wear are standard.
Noise level: Moderate — active counter noise at lunch, but easy to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a weekday lunch spot and often closed evenings/weekends.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush, faster before 11:30am.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — basic vegetarian sandwiches and sides available, but limited creativity.
Vegan options: Very limited — possible with custom bread-and-veggie builds, not a focus.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some fillings can be ordered without bread, but no dedicated gluten-free prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — it’s functional and fast, better suited for efficiency than atmosphere or lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served, and many diners take food to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Neutral — simple food works for kids, but the weekday lunch crowd and limited seating make it less ideal for families.
Best For
Better for: Speed, consistency, and no-friction sandwich lunches when time matters.
Skip if: You want a relaxed sit-down meal, creative sandwiches, or strong dietary accommodation.