food and drink
It's in an unlikely location on Clark Street near Fullerton, which lately has been an anti-destination for interesting businesses. Besides it boasts the unlikely name of Deli Boutique. Nevertheless these two elements disguise a real treasure in central Lincoln Park.
We were late getting out of town last week so 
we knew we'd have to stop for lunch en route, but "where?", my husband asked. I stunned him with the perfect answer.
The freshly made to order grilled panini and aptly dubbed "gourmet sandwiches" are terrific and I don't even like sandwiches! We ate at one of five small tables, but there is a large take-out business growing and hearty. I was pleased with my choice of a "Coliseum" panini, an assemblage of prosciutto, sopressata salami, fresh mozzarella and basil, with olive tapanade and a fresh herb dressing. There were five other panini choices, each just $6.95.
In addition to the above there are freshly prepared meals which vary daily. I've spotted crab cakes, chicken marsala, meatballs, vegetable ratatouille, grilled vegetables, lasagna, fruit salad, a couple of pasta salads and more. Everything looks marvelous and a good deal more appetizing 
than generally unappealing grocery offerings. Prices are reasonable and generally less than in supermarkets.
The owner, pictured here moved to Chicago relatively recently from Ireland and he's recruited a European staff that is exceedingly pleasant to deal with and completely without "attitude."
Actually there is a deli counter too, offering cold cuts, cheeses, etc. Their bread is freshly baked daily. I'm guessing it is par-baked ahead and finished on site. One day I stopped in for some and the woman behind the counter explained that they'd sold out but if I'd return in 10 or 15 minutes they'd have a fresh loaf ready for me. I did and my dinner guests loved it. Good looking pastries tempt for dessert.
A year ago when I found this place the selection was quite limited but now it's become a food bonanza for us all!
Deli Boutique is at 2318 N. Clark St. Hours are 8AM-8PM, seven days a week. 773.880.9820.
Comments