Good deli. Sandwiches are seriously huge and stuffed with meat. I got the lox bagel sandwich. I wish the tomato and cucumber were sliced thinner for an easier bite. Because they're kind of thick, it makes for a sandwich where all the filling slides right out. I guess I wish the bagel had a little more give to it as well instead of being on the stiffer side. But obviously it's still very tasty. The potato pancakes are not quite the style I like. These are thick and dense--like the size of a burger. I think I prefer when they're thinner and soft on the inside but crispy outside. read more

Kaufman's - Bagel and lox sandwich - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

The challah rolls here might be the best I've ever had. So soft and delicious. I think it's worth making a trek out here just for this. I'm I accidentally got the soft salami instead of the hard salami. It was more like bologna. The rainbow star cookies were amazing. Not too sweet and just like the ones I remember getting as a kid in New York. They also have discounted bagels at the end of the weekend. I recommend grabbing a bag to take home and the slicing them and putting them in the freezer. There is plenty of free parking and they do have a few tables in the front if you want to dine there. read more

did I even slightly hesitate on driving 45 minutes for a bagel? like no. not even "like no," just no. i had to try Kaufman's - I got the breakfast bagel once and the Reuben on a bagel this time... and lemme just say this was an intimidating place. all the food at every counter looked amazing but i couldn't figure out what to order. it seemed everyone just knew what they wanted without a menu so ACT FAST PEOPLE - the bagel itself was surprisingly average considering this was authentic ass deli (not kosher tho) - the fillings tho were what stepped up the game...SOOO much egg in the breakfast game. they asked if I wanted salami or bacon which was interesting like I'm a sausage girl (lol) but honestly it was so yummy - the Reuben though... best sandwich I have ever had in Chicago and that is 0 exaggeration. i shall be returning again and they make the sandwiches BY THE POUND read more

Kaufman's - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

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Haven't been here in years. Place has changed in appearance and size, but still has the best corned beef sandwich anywhere. Horseradish will clear sinuses like nothing else. I highly recommend this place for corned beef, pastrami, or lox. read more

Kaufman's - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

We were in the area again today and stopped in. This time instead of a sandwich we got some sweets to take home. The service was nice and fast. The facility is clean. read more

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This deli offers hot and cold sandwiches, bagels, pastries, hot and cold sides, bread, candy, chips, drinks, and more. The service is fast. This was my first time visiting. We ordered the New Jersey Bypass Sandwich and grabbed a couple of loaves of bread. That sandwich is just amazing. Those flavors with mustard just mixed perfectly, and the meat literally melts in your mouth. And do we even need to mention the size. There are tables for dining in. The area is spacious. read more

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Got nova lox, pumpernickel bread and chicken liver. The chicken liver tasted and smelled a little raw. I noticed this with the beef liver before so I opted for the chicken this time. I used to love them but somehow these ones don't taste the same as like years before. Was there a new recipe? New cook? Got nova lox, pumpernickel bread and chicken liver. The chicken liver tasted and smelled a little raw. I noticed this with the beef liver before so I opted for the chicken this time. I used to love them but somehow these ones don't taste the same as like years before. Was there a new recipe? New cook? read more

Kaufman's - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

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Really didn't know what to expect here. Like a noob, I'm going because I think I want to get some deli sandwiches. The store is bigger than it looks from the outside. My initial impression is... what is this? It's a deli counter, it's a bakery, it's a convenience store... And I don't even know if I'm allowed to get sandwiches here. The guy at the deli counter, totally recognizing my type, calls me over and figures I'm the clueless guy who just stumbled in here because he thinks I think they're a sandwich. The sandwich menu is taped on top of the deli case so you better be ready. We did end up getting four of the giant sandwiches and they were way huge. The corned beef is flavorful, delicate, and fantastic. Depending on which part of the rye loaf you get, sometimes the sandwich bread feels a little uneven. My biggest takeaway was that I had clue what I was doing in here. Even when they handed me the sandwiches, I didn't even know how to pay for them. Not their fault - I figure once you're a regular, every visit will be smooth and seamless. read more

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Great spot for really delicious corned beef! I like it hot and lean but sometimes have to get it cold since won't eat it until later . But man the smell of a hot corned beef sandwich is to die for! Happy st Patrick's day! Give this place a try for your vintner beef and briskets! Plus their fresh bread and bagels! read more

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So I'm back in the crap -hole called Chicago where is below 0 right now! And the only bright and WARM SPOT is this place right here!!!! I have never been to NYC to visit the famous KATZ deli but why go there when I can got to Chicago without waiting in that long line at KATZ. I had the DECKLE (fatty corned beef) and man was it out off this world! I can not wait to try more when I come back. Also had the mushrooms/barley soup which was ok... needs more seasoning! I would definitely RECOMMEND this place. Check this place out...you might like it!! read more

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"We've only been here 65 years! How could you not have heard of us??" The woman at the register was warm, sweet-- and funny. "I was born in Oak Park! I'm sorry!" Don't wait 50 years to stop in to this stand out deli. I bought chopped liver, seeded rye, rugelach, and mondel bread --- and left happy. Gluten free? Not really... not much that's celiac safe...there are a few things. read more

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Potato pancake was awful. Huge glob of tasteless shredded potatoes. McDonald's hash browns with sour cream would be better. Cucumber salad was ok. Huge chunks of cucumber, not sliced. Definitely not worth the trip. read more

We've been to Kaufman's a few times over the years and was great to see the renovations. we decided to get an afternoon snack and semi busy around 2 on a Tuesday. Quintessential Deli with all types of smoked fish, some poultry and of course a plethora of deli meats. They're known for their Bagels and bakery also. All that said, we were here for the Corned Beef. I have great memories of picking up Corned beef and pairing with bagel/cream cheese-perfection. Honorary/Specialty sandwiches are available but we like the simple approach. We ordered the regular cut Corned Beef and also some Pastrami and grabbed a loaf of Rye. Took a seat and made our own sandwiches-no condiments/cheese etc. needed. Some of the best Corned Beef ever! Pastrami hit the spot also. Friendly and helpful staff throughout. Make this stop for Chicagoland's best Corned Beef since 1963! read more

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Good afternoon Bette D./Kaufman's Thanks you so very much for your kind and informative response to my review! I appreciate your detailed explanation how Kaufman's prepares and bakes, and will certainly keep all in mind when making a bread/bakery purchase from Kaufman's in the future! It is refreshing that Kaufman's uses such care and refrains from preservatives and other additives to keep the bakery goods as natural as possible! Your commitment to do so, sets Kaufman's in a category all it's own. No worries... We will definitely be returning, as we can't go for too long without our Kaufman's favorites, which are always at the highest level of taste, quality and deliciousness! I will now know in the future just how to keep my Kaufman's bread the freshest, and we look forward to seeing you all very soon! Kindest Regards Robin G. read more

I've eaten a ton of bagel catering from Kaufman's over the years, but never tried a deli sandwich until recently. The pastrami is my favorite so far (over tuna salad and corned beef). Every sandwich is quite generous with the protein! Plus you get two really nice pickle spears with each one. After reading another review mentioning rice pudding, I had to try it. Very nice. The bakery products are even better than the sandwiches. Brownies (several varieties) and pecan bars are stellar. Check out the day-old rack for sweet bargains. If you eat any of that stuff right after the sandwich, plan for a nap. Don't do it during work hours! read more

Oh my gosh, I grew up in Chicago in the 90's and our bi-weekly weekend ritual was going to Kaufmann's for bagels and savoring them in school lunches for the weeks ahead. My eldest is now going to college in the area and after 20 years away it has been a bit of nostalgia on re-visiting favorite spots from childhood with many unfortunately not living up to the same good memories I had of eons past.,, except for Kaufmann's! They've modernized the interior and love the cleanliness and the different areas with meats, bakery, and check out. They were as friendly as I remember. I had picked up a plain bagel with chive cream cheese and tomatoes for my flight home and knowing that I wasn't eating it for four hours before my flight didn't get it toasted and was worried on meat being ok that long so went just with cream cheese instead of the pastrami (which looked so good). I just had a bite and wish I had got another one... it has such a delightful chewy bite to it, the cream cheese is just the perfect ratio to the bagel and was still chilled somehow in my bag, and I'm going to be dreaming till the next time I'm in Chicago so I can try one of their sandwiches as well. This place is an institution and can understand why it is still thriving.... wish they could open a west coast branch! read more

Been craving a good bagel sandwich for the longest and I was finally in the neighborhood to try Kaufman's for the first time! The place is decently sized inside. There's a deli, bakery, a frozen section, as well as snacks in the middle. I got there during lunch rush but the line moves quickly and there was plenty of parking. I ordered a lox sandwich on an everything bagel and all the toppings. There's limited seating inside but I just ate in my car. The bagel was jammed packed with the freshest ingredients. So delicious!! I definitely will be back to try their other specialty sandwiches! read more

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Love their bagels! My husband and I drive all the way from downtown , just to get fish , bagels and other goodies.

The food quality and variety is excellent. It's not cheap, but it is a good value for the quality you get!

Well ladies & gentlemen we decided to go to Kaufmans for lunch since we were in the neighborhood let me tell you it hasn't changed the sandwiches are great it took only 10 minutes to get our food its was great you can tell the difference on how they make there sandwiches there its about a 15 min drive for us but its well worth it . We used to go to new york bagel & baily they have a sign on there wall . Were not a fast food we serve good food . Well its wrong this is why we will go out of our way for better food . read more

Always delicious and and shopping there is an adventure. Love their chopped liver. iraeats #ireats1 read more

Kaufman's - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

Kaufmans is an old fashioned Jewish deli with amazing pastries, breads, refrigerated prepared salads and soups, and a well staffed meat and sandwich counter where everything is custom made. There are also main course offerings to go like kugel, latkes, schnitzel and smoked fish. A small seating area is available and they have an excellent selection of crackers, chips, beverages, cookies and chocolate. If you're craving this cuisine, there's no better place. read more

We returned after a long hiatus. Nothing much has changed here and that's a good thing. There's nothing quite like having a great big sandwich from a good, authentic Jewish deli. The wife and I shared a regular (as opposed to deckle, lean, or super-trim) hot corned beef sandwich on rye with seeds ($13.25) and it was plenty for both of us. We also picked up a loaf of white bread for $4. It was tip-top fresh and soft on the inside but a little over crusty on the outside, but whatever. Thumbs up as always for Kaufman's! read more

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We went for frozen matzoh balls and kreplach which were both delicious as ever. I make my own chicken soup and just add these extras. Service was comprehensive and ambiance is your normal deli atmosphere. read more

Such a Legendary Place. Beyond Tradition. It is always Busy and Bustling. I love getting like every soup that is available to go. It is a little hectic, just ask for help or directions. There is ADA parking and like (8) eight regular parking stalls. Consider yourself lucky if you actually get a parking stall. read more

Tuna sandwich was great and delicious very cool atmosphere.. would definitely go back against.

What a great place! The staff was so helpful and the food was delicious. The "slutty blondie" was particularly good.

They do what they do very well. High quality deli meats and sandwiches. Very good baked goods and deli salads. I really enjoy their potato salad. The lines can get long, but they move quickly Well worth the drive to get here read more

Very busy Counter ordering Deli sandwiches ate great . Fresh served with a pickle. Salads look delicious. Counter high chair seating few. A few out door seats . Parking is tight . Cars moving in and out quickly . No street parking . Businesses on both sides . If you have time and want fresh di bakery bagels and cream cheese it's a great place to partake . No public restrooms for customer usage . read more

Kaufman's - Inside - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

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Their Pastrami is the best Friendly staff Efficient service Lots of places to sit Comfortable friendly environment Great place for lunch with friends read more

Wow! I am so impressed by this place. It's such a staple place, and I'm glad I finally get to experience it. We had the breakfast sandwich and tuna salad on sourdough. We enjoyed both sandwiches and look forward to trying others. The smoked meat and fish looked good. And the many sweet options are a must-try. read more

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My wife and I moved from Brooklyn to a Northern Illinois suburb so white that you need sunglasses to go outside, even at night. It's so white that when I went to the grocery store and ask where the knishes were, I was asked "What's a knish?". So when my stepdaughter suggested a two hour drive to Skokie for Deli, I went for it with low expectations. The minute we stepped into Kaufman's, I knew we were in the right place. After buying up their stock of Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray, buying some amazing baked goods and a couple pounds of pastrami to bring home, we decided to get a few hot pastramis on rye (with mustard) with "old pickles" and of course, a cold Cel-Ray. I took my first bite...and smiled. It was tender, just juicy (fatty) enough, just the perfect crust and bark...perfection! (although I wish they had cut it a bit thicker.) The rye bread could have come from any NYC bakery, a miracle since I haven't had good bread since we moved here. Even the pickle was great! I'm telling you, this hot pastrami sandwich was on a par with any I had at Sarge's, 2nd Avenue or Liebman's. Four hour round trip or no four hour round trip, I will definitely be back! read more

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This used to be a 'go to' place for great tasting corned beef. Not anymore. Came in when no other ppl were there. Ordered 6 corned beef sandwiches 'extra-lean'. Now, maybe the definition of 'extra lean' is different at this place, but I could not believe the amount of fat & how elastic the beef was. No flavor. Could have been ready for the trash & that's where I put it. read more

Awesome sandwichs and potato pancakes, salads good too.....the best. Desserts.....mic drop!!

I have been coming to Kaufman's for many years but moved away from the area a few years ago and thought I would come back. Well, the food does not let you down here- everything is top notch. Be ready to pay high prices for everything- but that is the trend now everywhere. The seating is marginal at best here- this place is not set up for you to eat here- In fact they do not provide, paper plates to put your sandwich on should you choose to dine in. No mustard, nothing. The large pastrami sandwich I ordered was not really that big- and for 18 bucks- they can put a little more meat on it- (It was very good) And maybe the worst part are the people that work here- they seem like they are bothered taking food orders and then at the cash register- same lousy attitude. Food is great, so they don't have to be nice or friendly I suppose. read more

Kaufman's - Kaufman's - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

Such a wide selection of deli foods and sandwiches! I couldn't get over the fact that you can choose how much fat you want left on your corned beef--I'm a big fan of "no visible fat." My sandwich was perfection. Every single person working in this deli was patient and welcoming. They even have an impressive bakery with bagels, breads of all kinds, pastries, Rugelach and cookies that look amazing. Definitely a place I would come back to, even if it is an hour away! read more

Kaufman's - Kaufman's Deli Counter - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

As a first timer, I can say that all the hype is true. PLEASE make sure to enter on your left hand side and TAKE A NUMBER. I missed this and was a very amateur move. Other than that, the location is huge. The wait times are decent considering it was on prime time of lunch. The parking lot is not convenient when it's heavily crowded and had to park in a handicap spot and risk it all ($250.00 fine) but the sandwich gods had our back today. Got their Bletcher sandwich. It was HUGE and delicious. Comes with one pickle that they split in three. Very well worth $17.00 or so. Came with turkey, bacon, pepper corn beef and pastrami. Store is heavily Jewish based. Felt at home and reminiscent of my late Jewish grandmother. Very nostalgic! Pretty sure this is as authentic as authentic gets! read more

Kaufman's - All the chips - Delis Near Me - Skokie, Illinois

Last month in October Kaufman's catered our shiva at Chicago Jewish Funerals and I must say they did a beyond excellent job! They sent 3 people to handle it, serve, and they went above and beyond with the service they gave us. At the end they were most helpful in packing up what was left for us to take home. As always the food was great and the pastries, cookies and ruggelach were outstanding and better than any other bakery. We will continue using Kaufmans as we always do and I am so happy they have remained in business all these years! read more

I have been a frequent customer of Kaufman's for the past 20 years. I went there today for a lean corned beef sandwich which is what I typically order and have never had a problem. I got it home and upon opening to my surprise I found a fatty mess. I drove back and tried to resolve the problem. That is when I had the misfortune of meting the owner. She was the most rude and non customer focused business owner I have ever met. She insisted that is what lean corned beef looks like. I explained that is not what I have received the past 20 years. She very agressive and down right nasty. I told her she can make it right or lose a longterm formerly happy customer. I would have accepted a new sandwich but she chose the lose a long term customer option. Today was the last time I will ever set foot in that business again. Reading the 1 star reviews I see fatty lean corned beef has been a problem with several other customers. I am hopeful she alienates enough customers to eventually reduce her profit margins or put herself out of business. read more

Went on March 16th, 2026 for a reuben. Asked for lean corned beef and it was extremely fatty and disgusting, with very little flavor! It was by far the worst reuben I've ever eaten. Bought 2 salmon pattys which were smoked, but not advertised as smoked. Had to throw those in the garbage. Very disappointing and expensive. Tital waste of money. Would not recommend!! read more