ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Portage Park
Master Critic Review
The Original Nottoli & Son
8.4
A legacy Italian sausage shop and deli that’s built for decisive ordering and fast gratification—sandwiches, sausage, and market staples done with old-school confidence. Treat it like an Italian lunch mission: one hot sandwich, one cold deli item, and you’re out with a bag that feeds tomorrow too.
Must-Try Dishes:
Italian sub, Italian sausage sandwich, House-made Italian sausage to-go
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Old-school Italian deli execution anchored by house-made sausage.
Who should go: Italian sandwich loyalists and families stocking up for home
When to visit: Late morning to early afternoon for best selection
What to order: Italian sub, sausage sandwich, grab sausage links to cook later
Insider tip: Go one cold sub plus one hot sausage order—best two-lane combo.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking nearby; usually manageable during the day, tighter around lunch rush but turnover is quick.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, hoodies, work clothes all normal.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush; fine for conversation but clearly a working deli environment.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a daytime deli; no dinner service rhythm.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes during peak lunch; shorter off-peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few cold deli items, cheeses, and sides; not the focus.
Vegan options: Very limited — possible market items only; not a destination for vegans.
Gluten-free options: Limited — meats and sausages are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated gluten-free bread or prep.
Best For
Better for: Old-school Italian sausage, no-frills sandwiches, and stocking up on high-quality meats to take home.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for a full-service Italian meal, a long sit-down experience, or strong vegetarian/vegan options.