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    Fontano Subs

    4.4 (277 reviews)
    InexpensiveSandwiches, Salad
    Closed 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Order Fontano Subs Takeout or Delivery

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    Business Info

    FONTANO SUBS ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Fontano Subs

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    Reviews With Photos

    Wiseguy
    Nikki R.

    Classic sub spot with unbeatable prices. Really enjoyed the flexibility of size / sub toppings you get here. Clean area and staff are friendly! Only reason for four stars (& this may be user error on my part), but they go a little heavy with the oil topping so I'd suggest saying light (or no oil) if you don't want your sub to glisten as much as mine :)

    Wise Guy sub
    Annette D.

    Some of the best Italian sandwiches in the City of Chicago can be found in this charming hidden Italian deli and grocery store. Very fresh luncheon meat, delicious bread (crunchy on outside, chewy in the inside). Each bite is perfection.

    Prices (09.29.25)
    Ron S.

    Tour at UIC then a special treat. Great sandwiches and cool Italian vibe. Highly recommend. Service was fast and the line gets long fast.

    Italian beef with onions and cheese
    Richard S.

    Loved this place! Tucked away in a neat little. Chicago neighborhood.....the sandwiches here are fantastic. When the cops are in line getting their lunch here....you know you're at the right place to eat! Great place....absolutely great place!

    Blockbuster
    Kevin R.

    Best sub in Chicago. I've had them all and this is the best sub in chicago. I travel all over the country for work and always get an Italian sandwich for lunches and every single time, this sandwich trumps the others. The bread is amazing (not their's) and their meat is fresh. I hate that I went to Bari and Vinnie's so much prior to finding Fontanos - but I'm never going anywhere else. It's also extremely quick - quicker than Jimmy John's.

    The Wiseguy sub
    Cole D.

    great sandwich, very authentic italian deli atmosphere. It felt very local and historic, i loved the decor. I had the wiseguy and it was excellent, i loved the different size bread options. got that baby fully loaded with everything but cucumbers. 8/10 on the sandwich everything was great except the bread could have been less generic. also some more options for bread would be nice. The oil and vinegar was the highlight, and it really cut through the grease well and a large 10 inch sub didn't have me leaving holding my stomach. Overall a great experience and sandwich that i'd recommend!

    Turkey sub (6 inches)
    Aaliyah L.

    My first time here & I was not disappointed. They're generous with the meat and toppings and the guys making my sandwich were super nice. Service was nonexistent at the register but I didn't expect much anyways so it didn't bother me. I dined in and surprisingly it never got too packed. It is a market as well but it's cozy and super easy to navigate.

    You can't beat this place. My favorite sub place - been dining here since 1984. The store has changed a bit over the years transitioning into more of a restaurant than a corner store - but the phenomenal subs have not changed. It is a must visit - best subs in Chicago!

    Create Your Own Sub
    Gloria E.

    Create Your Own Sub did not disappoint, appreciate the meat/cheese/veggie/oil ratios. Highly recommend you keep it classic with a MoleCola which isn't found in most places!

    Blockbuster

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    1 month ago

    Love the subs the food was delicious. Highly recommend this location if you want a delicious sandwich check it out on Polk Street.

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    1 year ago

    Excellent subs. Service exceptional. Many different varieties of subs to choose from my favourite is the wise guy.

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    1 year ago

    Food was excellence! Service was excellent! Atmosphere was Excellent! This place is THE REAL DEAL!

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    1 year ago

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    8 months ago

    Parking is an issue, but great subs, reminded me of the deli I went to as a kid. Great meats, and the bread was spot on. Quick service.

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    1 year ago

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    10 months ago

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    3 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Still the best submarine sandwich in the City of Chicago. The same good ole Mom and Pop atmosphere maintained throughout the years.

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    2 years ago

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    11 months ago

    These are the best subs around. Fast and friendly service. Please don't miss this place.

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    3 years ago

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    2 years ago

    OBSESSED WITH THIS SANDWICH PLACE. The American!! Not 5/5 because it's just like a casual sandwich place but v good

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    Page 1 of 7

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    Ricobene's - Slice of sausage pizza

    Ricobene's

    (1.4k reviews)

    $$

    I grew up living near a Ricobene's on either Pulaski or Harlem. I never found it as fantastic as…read morethe many who bragged about it as if it were the greatest thing since sliced bread, but I would occasionally pop in for either a breaded steak or Chicken Vesuvio sandwich. When they closed, I never really realized I missed them. Flash forward 38 years later. Went to Rush Hospital to visit an uncle. Leaving at about lunch time, I opened my Yelp app to see what was nearby. The top spouses ad (2.7 miles away) was Ricobene's. I really wasn't aware they were even around anymore. So, for nostalgic purposes, I decided to go there. Had my mother and aunt in tow, and we were all very pleased. The breaded steak, while still maybe not the greatest thing since sliced bread, was a nice blast from the past that I really enjoyed. Would I go there again? Surely. If I were 2.7 miles away (though uncle's been released and is back home doing fine). Do wanna try their Chicken Vesuvio again one day. But 22 miles each way just for that, not. Quick friendly service, and way cleaner than most hot dog joints and beef stands out my way. Few things make me miss Chicago, but this is one of them.

    We needed a late night snack because we had an early dinner. I did not realize how late it was…read moreuntil I looked at the pictures on my phone; it was around 10:45, which might be early for the young whippersnappers, but this old lady usually doesn't like to eat past 9. My hubby has been talking about Ricobene's since we met 20+ years ago. He finally got me there after showing me pictures of the famous breaded steak sandwich, which we ordered, of course. We also ordered a beef sandwich and a hot dog and fries (there were four of us). The beef was great; the steak sandwich... I can't even. We have been back in the area a few times since my first visit and I am always pressuring my husband to take me back there. I am drooling a little thinking about how good it was. The place was packed at 10:45... clean and the employees looked like they were having fun. A lot of youngsters were ordering pizza... I need to try the pizza.

    Nonna's Pizza & Sandwiches - The Pacino

    Nonna's Pizza & Sandwiches

    (286 reviews)

    $$

    West Loop, Near West Side

    I was craving Italian but did not want to go far, so finding Nonna's on the InKind app felt like a…read morewin win. I ordered the gem lettuce, lasagna, and a lemon Italian soda. Everything was filling and seriously delicious and the lasagna lasted me a couple days. It is right next to Formento's. The space is small with just a few seats, bright, and very clean. The cashier was very helpful and patiently answered my questions. I would definitely come back.

    I order via delivery once or twice a week and Nonna's is on repeat. It's solid and travels well…read more Today I ordered the drunken chicken, which is a chicken parm with vodka sauce, and pesto. It is shareable and hearty. The bread is so good. It's crusty and soft on the inside. It allows the right amount of sauce to soak in without being a giant mess. I don't consider it a save half and eat later sandwich though. In my experience it loses a bit of structure if not eaten right away. I have had the turkey, tuna, and meatball sandwich as well. All good and able to split into 2 meals and they save well. As mentioned, this spot is on repeat for me and haven't disliked anything. The pizza is ok but I wouldn't choose it as my pizza spot. There are better but if you are in a pinch a single slice option is nice. I enjoy the little Tiramisu cup. Perfect size. If you normally scroll by and wonder if you should try Nonna's go ahead. It's a good option.

    J.P. Graziano Grocery - pizz'amici collaboration (foccacia, porchetta, eggplant caponata, arugula)

    J.P. Graziano Grocery

    (747 reviews)

    $$

    West Loop, Near West Side

    It's almost like being around my Italian cousins out on the East Coast…read more.. We were fortunate enough to be having dinner at an Italian restaurant in the same block, and I saw that they were open until midnight. I decided to grab a grinder and a couple of cannoli after dinner to consume the next day for lunch. They utilize a walk-up window for their later hours. I believe I mentioned during ordering that we "do not get grinders like this in Cali" and they were kind enough to let us indoors (surely knowing this weather was nearly "Antarctic penguin cold" for us) while our order was being finished. I saw various jars of giardiniera and muffuletta and could not resist buying a couple. Our store associate kindly wrapped them well in plastic wrap to ensure safe travel back to Cali. Our sandwich maker was a cool guy as well and conversational with us. They even gave us some brief family history on the place. Unfortunately, without my knowledge the wife set us up with an Uber while waiting so we had to dash and run to make our next stop before their closing time. "Foodies are as foodies do"... The FOOD review: CANNOLI w/cherries: -- it appears they use Amarena Bologna cherries which are so much better tasting than the standard maraschino bright red ones. I prefer morello cherries or these when using them in cannoli pie or on Chicago style or ricotta cheesecake. -- cheese tastes of cow's milk ricotta and is well strained so not watery -- lightly sweet is appreciated as it should be...no fake Italian sugar bomb with chocolate sauce and whipped cream like they do in Cali sometimes -- smaller portion size but value is good -- smoother textured than grainy -- shell is light colored and pretty solid -- up to a moderate dusting of powdered sugar on exterior -- appears freshly filled as there is no soggy shell syndrome whatsoever, crunchy and firm (I ate one two days later and it still had a firm shell) -- I have about 8 different cannoli pie recipes I created and make for friends, family and colleagues now and then. I transitioned to pie ages ago because there are so many bad shells and a graham cracker crust is always legit and easy to find. -- IMHO this is a much better and truer cannoli rendition than what you will find at D'Amato's Bakery in Chicago RATING = A "MR. G SPECIALTY GRINDER": -- I briefly considered "The Italian" or asking for a combo of the two but this stood out so I stuck with it -- I requested it "wet" as I hate anything dry (bread, meat etc.) and prefer extra "juice" (red wine vinegar, EVO) -- bread is not thick nor thin but just right with great texture, taste and freshness -- loved all the flavors and additions -- not a moose overloaded grinder but just right for those out of their twenties who do not need "sandie leftovers for days" -- good value here too RATING = A+ They even sell some appealing looking BLOOD ORANGE (and other flavors) sorbet. I definitely recommend them for a super hospitable Italiano experience with great eats. They even made the "Top Sandwich joints" in America list by Food & Wine magazine per associate and a quick Internet search.

    (Heavy sigh) Leave your handcuffs at home, I will walk to the stocks myself…read more J.P. Graziano's was praised up and down by a colleague as one of the best sub shops he's ever tried. I wanted to love it, for family owned and operated businesses are often some of the best, and I love money going somewhere local as opposed to the $4,000,000,000 Jersey Mike's. However, if you'd put two subs in front of me, as much as it pains me to say, I'd choose the Jersey Mike's. I'd ordered a Mr. G., and a Tomato Basil Soup. The soup hit just the right spot for a miserable, raw, rainy day that, while heralding the arrival of spring, doesn't become easily bearable. The soup had the perfect texture, rich tomato notes, and herbaceousness from the basil. Simple and uncomplicated, but just right. Also packaged perfectly to not spill on the way back to the office. The Mr. G. was... fine. The veggies and cheeses within were good. Now, while I am not typically a fan or artichoke, here they worked well, only they attempted a great escape from being eaten! There are two things, in my opinion, that I like more about JM's: balance and moisture. JM's, through using more of everything and their signature "juice" makes the sandwich less bread-heavy, and less dry. The service is fantastic. As someone else wrote, I would have expected it to be at least a little rough around the edges. Instead it was friendly, kind, and very efficient. Final verdict: Please don't get me wrong, for a locally owned and operated Sub Shop, J.P. Graziano is good. However, when I'd tasted something that has a not-so-secret secret sauce, I can't lie and pretend I don't like said place better.

    Al's Beef

    Al's Beef

    (457 reviews)

    $$

    River North, Near North Side

    First time in Chicago so I had to try the national sandwich of Chicago! Al's beef has been serving…read moreup Italian Beef sandwiches since 1938. They have won several awards for their sandwiches and are said to have the best Italian Beef in Chicago. With all this being said, this was certainly a must eat on my trip! Their menu consists of their famous Italian beef, along with Chicago dogs, burgers, sausage sandwiches, chicken, and fries. There is definitely something for everyone here. The inside is casual and reminiscent of a fast food eatery. Really liked the yellow accents throughout the restaurant. I will also note that it was extremely clean inside, which is always appreciated. Ordering is simple and they will call your ticket number when your food is ready. All the food is served made to order and very fresh and doesn't take too long to come out! I ordered the Regular Beef, wet, with both hot and spicy peppers per the workers suggestion. Ordering the sandwich wet simply means the bread is dunked in the gravy/aus jus. If you want the real deal, this is how you order it. The peppers are optional as well, but complete the sandwich. The sandwich consists of their famous Italian beef roasted and sliced, served on freshly baked French bread. I can see why this sandwich is so highly regarded. The Italian beef that is made in house each day is tender, flavorful, and just perfect! It isn't chewy or tough either. The sweet and spicy peppers paired nicely with the savory beef. And the fresh French bread covered in the gravy--phenomenal! The gravy adds a lot of flavor to the sandwich. You do have to eat it quickly, otherwise the bread will fall apart, oh but it is so worth it. I got fries with a side of cheese sauce to go with the sandwich. By far some of the best fries I've had. Not super crispy, but not soggy either, the texture was just right. They were salted perfectly and dipping them in their velvety cheese sauce was a treat! A regular sub is roughly 6 inches and quite filling. The sandwiches are stuffed with ample amounts of beef. The price is also excellent considering how much you get. Overall, I would say Al's Beef lived up to all its praise. My sandwich was very memorable and was like nothing I'd had before. Everything is so fresh, between their beef, bread, and fries, it is all made in house. This isn't just some fast food spot, it is an institution. I was impressed with everything I ordered, especially the fries. They take a lot of pride in what they serve. This is evident in their customer service. If you are visiting Chicago, don't think, just go--you won't regret it!

    (Kari's Rating 6.5/10)…read more Finally made my way out here and it was alright. My go to is normally Portillo's Italian beef, but I wanted to change it up. It's a little stop in place and they have a pretty small seating area, but I went on a day where it wasn't super crowded. Beef was pretty typical, I think I enjoyed the gravy seasoning more on this one over Portillo's, but I did like Portillo's spicy and sweet peppers a little bit better. I don't like my bread, saggy, so I was able to get the dipping gravy on the side. Service is pretty quick as it's just a small sit down place. It wasn't too loud, so you could have a conversation with the person next to you, but I imagine it would be much louder if you went on a Friday or Saturday night. I probably wouldn't stop in again but it's a nice place to go to. If you have people from out of town they don't wanna go to Portillo's.

    Conte Di Savoia - Italian Sub Sub

    Conte Di Savoia

    (355 reviews)

    $

    University Village

    On a busy Saturday, I decided to order ahead for myself and my hangry kids. We ordered Italian,…read moretuna and prosciutto subs. We also threw in an order of tiramisu and the large canoli. We were quoted a time of 20 minutes out. We arrived a little early and the gal at the counter told us it would be a few minutes. She called out when ready and sat at one of the tables in the front to eat. Each sub had a decent amount of filling. While we each offered the smallest subs, we were plenty full when we left. We enjoyed our subs and now have a place to add to our list for a new quick lunch. For the store itself, they have some odds and ends but many Italian staples. The counter and deli had a steady flow of customers in and out.

    02/10/26 - Today I was on Taylor Street & wanted to grab a bite to eat. I saw a Potbelly on the…read morecorner & thought I might stop there. As I parked this large Chevy Suburban parked in front of me. As I sat in the car & saw one person after another unloaded & head towards Potbelly. In all I counted 8 guys unloading from this Suburban. & head to Potbelly. I'm like oh hell no. That's when I saw CONTE DI SAVOIA @ 1438 W Taylor Street on the north side of Taylor Street. I decided to cross over & check out this old world Italian Deli. Conti Di Savoia is small Italian grocery store w/an Italian deli that has w/outstanding & inexpensive sandwiches. When I went in there was a line of people waiting @ the deli counter waiting to place their order. I must have looked confused because the owner directed me & told the line started on the other side towards the back of the store. What I found was an awesome of fresh handmade sandwiches for a very reasonable price. I ordered an 8" pastrami w/mozzarella cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, red onions, mayo, & Italian oil drizzled. What I got was an awesome inexpensive sandwich loaded with/fresh ingredients. Absolutely delicious. After I got my sandwich the owner (I introduced myself (I think his name was Mike) rang up the sandwich. He said they have been there for 35 years. There's also a small dining area in the front of the store where I sat & devoured my sandwich. Like I said this is small Italian store w/a nice selection of products like meats, cheeses, pastas, wine, olive & deli items. I throughly enjoyed finding Conte Di Savoia. The pastrami sandwich was awesome w/a generous portion of pastrami & toppings for a reasonable price. I'm the type of person who who loves finding new places to eat. Most times unless I find great food & reasonable prices I won't go back but I feel like I found a real gem W/Conti Di Savoia. I WILL DEFINITELY BE BACK AGAIN.

    Fontano Subs - sandwiches - Updated May 2026

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