Manny's: The Best Cafeteria-Style Restaurant In Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to world-class cuisine and some of the country’s best fine dining options. But, sometimes you just want a good, classic sandwich. Depending on the day, the perfect side dish could be a salad, soup, or any kind of fried potato. That’s why we love restaurants that offer an array of rotating options — just like how old-school cafeterias used to do it. Say goodbye to the days of school-grade mystery meat and start enjoying one of the state’s most iconic diners. This famous spot is known for being the best cafeteria-style restaurant in Chicago, Illinois.

This classic diner is packed daily with locals and is a popular spot for Chicago politicians. The restaurant is even a favorite of former President Barack Obama.

Customers grab a tray and line up to choose their meals from an array of delicious meats and sides, including corned beef hash, whitefish, Matzo ball soup, chopped salad, liver and onions, and potato pancakes.

Aside from its well-known clientele from City Hall, Manny's is famous for its huge deli sandwiches. Favorites include the Reuben, corned beef with chopped liver, and pastrami. If you're feeling brave (and super hungry) go for the My Four Kinder, which combines corned beef, pastrami, brisket, and turkey pastrami.

Pro tip: Add on a fresh potato pancake, cole slaw, cheese, or sauerkraut to your sandwich or on the side and watch the flavors soar to another level.

Sandwiches also come with a huge pickle spear. Manny's pickles are sourced in Chicago and are made with a special brine — meaning these spears are one-of-a-kind.

As one of the few remaining cafeteria-style restaurants in Chicago, Illinois, it's a great place for a solo lunch or to dine with a friend.

For more than 80 years, Manny's has been a staple in the city. Whether you eat meat or not, there's something for you to put on your tray here.

Don't forget to save room for something sweet at the bakery counter. Candy lovers can also peruse Manny's nostalgic candy selection.

Do you think Manny’s Deli is the best cafeteria-style restaurant in Chicago, Illinois? What’s your favorite thing to order there? For first-timers, what do you plan to dig into first? Start planning your visit by checking out their website and social media. If you’re looking for another great sandwich in Chicago, here are 10 more shops worth your consideration — or try one of the state’s most time-tested foods at these historic Illinois diners.

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Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen, 1141 S Jefferson St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA

The Cafeteria-Style Restaurant With Some Of The Best Home-Cooked Food In Illinois

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