ZipPicks Awards
Best Sandwiches in Elmwood Park
Master Critic Review
Serrelli's Finer Foods
7.9
A long-running Italian foods shop where the sandwich case leans into old-school Chicago staples—beef, pork, and deli builds that travel well. Best results come from ordering one classic hot sandwich and letting the shop’s pantry items fill the rest of the bag.
Must-Try Dishes:
Italian beef sandwich, Italian pork sandwich, Sausage sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: An Italian foods shop that does classic hot sandwiches with a market backbone.
Who should go: Beef-and-sausage traditionalists
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quick in-and-out
What to order: Italian beef, Italian pork, sausage sandwich
Insider tip: Pair one hot sandwich with one take-home side from the shop instead of doubling mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Harlem Ave and nearby side streets; generally manageable during weekday lunch, tighter on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—work clothes, jeans, and grab-and-go attire all fit.
Noise level: Low—market-style environment with light counter noise.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a daytime market and sandwich stop.
Weekday lunch: Short line possible during peak lunch, but turnover is fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some cold deli or cheese-based sandwich options and prepared sides.
Vegan options: Very limited—mainly pantry items or sides rather than full sandwiches.
Gluten-free options: Limited—sandwiches are bread-forward, but some deli meats and packaged items are gluten-free.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian beef, pork, and sausage sandwiches with the bonus of a full Italian grocery selection to take home.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down meal, modern sandwich builds, or strong vegetarian or vegan options.