With so many incredible foods in Illinois, it’s hard to imagine why we would seek anything else out than what’s already in our backyard. But what if I told you that some of the best New York-style deli sandwiches could actually be found in the Land of Lincoln? In fact, customers say the best old-school deli sandwiches in Illinois are located right off the highway in suburban Lisle, about 30 minutes outside Chicago.

Schmaltz Delicatessen, 3011 Ogden Ave., is a New York-style Jewish deli specializing in old-school sandwiches and delicious deli fare.
best old-school deli sandwiches in Illinois
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
Hidden along the side of a suburban highway, Rt. 34 — aka the Walter Payton Memorial Highway — the restaurant is a bit off the beaten path, but fans know exactly where to find it.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
Open since 2004, for nearly 20 years the restaurant has been impressing, delighting, and feeding hungry passersby with seating options in the dining room or patio, plus a convenient drive-thru window.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
Stop by for a classic corned beef with Swiss on marbled rye...
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
...or grab a generous triple-decker with chicken salad.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
It's gonna be a yes for me.

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Even vegans have options here with a bagel covered in carrot lox, vegan cream cheese, and onion.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
Any sandwich that comes with a side of juice for dipping is automatically a winner.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
Of course, classic deli sandwiches of all shapes and styles are celebrated here — including this meat-piled sub.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
This gorgeous sandwich must be acknowledged.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
If you love pastrami, roast beef, brisket, corned beef, tuna salad, egg salad, and lots of hefty breads, you are in for a major treat here.
As with any legit deli, fresh, crunchy pickles are served on the side.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook
How about something to get the day started? Breakfast sandwiches featuring all the deli meat favorites are available starting at 7 a.m.
Schmaltz Delicatessen/Facebook

So, do you think these are the best old-school deli sandwiches in Illinois? What’s your favorite order from Shmaltz’s? Is there another deli spot that’s a favorite for you? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your trip by visiting the Schmaltz Delicatessen website and the Schmaltz Delicatessen Facebook page. And while you’re in Lisle, make sure to check out the famed Morton Arboretum just on the other side of the highway!

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Schmaltz Delicatessen, 3011 Ogden Ave, Lisle, IL 60532, USA