Hidden Alongside A Suburban Highway, This Old-School Deli Makes The Best Sandwiches In Illinois

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.

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.

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.

Stop by for a classic corned beef with Swiss on marbled rye...

...or grab a generous triple-decker with chicken salad.

It's gonna be a yes for me.

Even vegans have options here with a bagel covered in carrot lox, vegan cream cheese, and onion.

Any sandwich that comes with a side of juice for dipping is automatically a winner.

Of course, classic deli sandwiches of all shapes and styles are celebrated here — including this meat-piled sub.

This gorgeous sandwich must be acknowledged.

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.

How about something to get the day started? Breakfast sandwiches featuring all the deli meat favorites are available starting at 7 a.m.

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!