Panes is really nothing special. I came here for lunch after reading a lot of good reviews. I ordered a chicken sandwich with tomatoes and pesto. It was adequate for the meal, honestly totally forgettable in terms of taste and quality. The pesto lacked flavor that I end up adding a lot of table salt and pepper to the sandwich. The side chips were stale. My main gripe was that a sandwich made in a bakery should have really fresh, delicious bread. However, this sandwich's bread was totally average. I don't think I'll be back to Panes. It is fine for an average lunch if you are in the area. read more

Panes is a unique place. It's the essence of an anti-chain sandwich shop, which is a good thing (for the most part). Pretty good selection of sandwiches, although many if not most of them are vegetarian. That's great if you're into that kind of thing, but me, well I'm just not. If we weren't meant to eat animals, then why are they made of meat? Why are they so delicious? They serve breakfast until late; I think 3pm. The omelet was good, the portions were large, and anything you order comes with a side of "toast" (which isn't really toasted but is good nevertheless) and "salsa" (which isn't really salsa but is good nevertheless). They hooked it up with a free refill on the coffee. Not much impressed by the following: - The line has nowhere to go but woven amongst the tables, which can be awkward. - Many of the tables are pushed together in an effort to get them all to fit in the restaurant, which means you'll likely be dining elbow to elbow with a new friend. And some other people in a line right next to you. - Cash only. Get with the picture, friends, it's 2009. I know plenty of business with much smaller revenue that accept credit cards, so don't play the "I'm the little guy" card. I like it though. I'll go back. read more

After the wife decided to hack off most of her beautiful hair, we celebrated with a first-time lunch at Panes. The cream of tomato soup they were serving up today was the best I've ever tasted. Being an old E. Lakeview resident, it was nice to get down to the old hood for a bit. Panes seems like a nice place to grab a sammich. I like the fact that it's on Sheffield, so it's a little off the beaten path, at least in East Lakeview. Even so, around lunch time, the line can get pretty long and that can be a Pane (HA HA HA, GET IT!?! TASTE THE PUN BEOITCHES!!) Anyway, I really enjoyed the Super Pane, which is basically a club sandwich. The wife enjoyed her chicken and prosciutto. The homemade bread is good, and I like that you can grab a loaf for $1.75. Anyhow, if your in the neighborhood, don't loaf around. Get over to Panes, and tell them Mike sent you. When they give you a confused look, pay full price for your food and carry on. read more

With 4.5 stars and 244 reviews, Panes doesn't exactly need my help. I'll keep this short and sweet: It was extremely difficult to decide on a sandwich; every single thing on the menu looked great. In an attempt to keep it simple, I ordered the Turkey Turkey sandwich, with turkey (duh), avocado, roasted red peppers, and spicy mayo, all on tomato bread. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful, and I'll be dreaming about that tomato bread. Just perfect! I'd like to try one of the other sandwiches when I come back, but it'll be difficult not to order this one again and again! Prices are pretty cheap for the city, but remember to bring cash! read more

I have been to this place quite a few times now. Since I'm usually there during peak hours (lunch time) there is always somewhat of a wait, but nothing to the point where it's driven me to insanity. Plus, no matter how long the line or how busy it seems, by the time you order a table or two always seems to be free. And of course, you can always do carry-out. Never seen it really busy during dinner time. Something that hasn't been mentioned yet is that they have a small breakfast menu on Sundays (until 2 or 3, I think). My bf had the french toast w/apples and he said it was "damn good" & I had a taste and agreed. I've stuck to sandwiches & salads, but have never been disappointed--- except for the fact that I was under the impression that they make their own salad dressings (as the Spartan salad came w/an obviously homemade Greek dressing) but once I got a salad that came with a packet of honey mustard. Go figure. If you are calling in carry-out, I would you suggest you ask about what the specials of the day are. If in this little restaurant, these are written on a wipe-off board up high on the right wall if facing the counter--- it always lists a unique soup, salad, sandwich, and pasta dish not usually found on the menu. Some of the deserts look tastier than they really are, but you can tell they are homemade and I can appreciate that. However, I find it hard to pass up a cream puff for less than a buck. :-) Lastly, the people are really nice. Once when we did carry-out and they messed up my bf's sandwich (he abhors mayonnaise). He called & explained & they apologized for their mistake, and even wrote down his name so he could come in and get a free sandwich on his next visit. read more

It's officially winter. It's blustery. It's bone-chilling. And it's bowl-of-soup-sounds-like-heaven weather. Since I've been wanting to try Panes since I moved to Lakeview in July, I decided that tonight was going to be the night. I called ahead to see what their soup du jour was - Chicken Rice or Cream of Tomato. Although I will go for the tomato 9 times out of 10, tonight I wanted something lighter. To my delight, the Chicken Rice soup was delicious! Hearty and full of vegetables, it filled me up real good. To accompany my soup, I ordered a bruschetta appetizer. And just as I was about to pay, the White Chocolate Rice Pudding caught my eye. Minutes later, I trekked through the cold, night air to my apartment a couple blocks away. As I slurped my soup, nibbled on the bruschetta and savored the rice pudding, I couldn't help but think that Panes perfectly captured the concept of comfort food. read more

I AM cookie monster. Anyone that knows me, knows I am a chocolate chip cookie fiend, And if there is one thing that will make me detour out of my way for, it is the Monster cookies (with M&M bits) at Panes!!! I once lived 1/2 block on Wellington from Panes, so I certainly had my share of their homemade breads, soups, sandwiches and cookies!! Their banana bread is excellent and their portabella and veggie sandwiches and soups are so tasty. I'm glad Panes has stood the test of time because they are truly a great gem in Chicago!! read more

The sandwich I ate here ranks among the most amazing sandwiches I've ever eaten in my entire life. And I've eaten a lot of amazing sandwiches! I came here on a Thursday for lunch with some co-workers, and the tables were surprisingly full for a neighborhood place. It is sort of cramped inside, so maybe it just made it feel packed. You order at the counter, and they give you a number for your table. Then when your food is ready, they bring it to your table. That's how it works. Nothing too revolutionary, but it got the job done. I ordered the Turkey, Turkey sandwich, which has turkey breast, chopped avocado, roasted red peppers and spicy mayo on tomato bread. OMG! I already want another and then one for the road. It was so delicious. The sandwich was soft and juicy everything I could have ever hoped for. The flavors were spot on. I ate the whole thing without a problem. Delish! It came with potato chips. I thought the menu was very reasonably priced. My sandwich was $5.95; all of their sandwiches range between $5.25 and $5.95. Not bad at all. They also offer salads, pizzas, pastas and omelets. Then, of course, they have cookies and other sweets. Lots of variety. I guess the only negative I had is that it's cash only. I actually didn't have any cash on me at the time, so my co-worker had to front the money. It worked out fine, but if I had been alone, they would have lost my business. I know places don't want to pay credit card transaction fees, but they're missing out on a lot of business by not accepting credit cards. It's kind of my pet peeve. OK, I'm done with my cash-only rant. I feel much better now. Conclusion: GREAT SANDWICHES and BRING CASH! read more

Let me start right off with what is wrong with this place ... they only take cash. I've been to places that don't which is fine but when I'm in need of a Panes fix, I don't have cash on me. What freaking bad luck is that and I can only take it out on Panes - blaming me for not having greenbacks is not an option. Other than that, this place rocks in many levels. The bread is fresh and tasty and a good start to some great sandwiches. They have awesome sweets like monster cookies and my favorite the carrot cake! And they even do breakfast on the weekends as I usually get their chiliquiles. So here is the best part, the prices are more than reasonable. I can honestly say I will not find a sandwich as yummy tasting as the ones I get from Panes anywhere in the city for around the same price ... although trying will be fun! read more

This place makes me so incredibly happy every time I go there. I cannot say more about the sandwiches than what has been said already - I just plain fiend for them!!! I've lived in Chicago all of one week, and including a couple of visits prior to moving, I've been to Panes 4 times!! And I wish I could be there now... but the cherry on top for me is the side of mashed potatoes. Now, next to brownies, mashed potatoes are my favorite food. And these are just the most perfect side to my Panes Sandwich. Panes - thanks for making Chicago my new home. read more

GREAT little sandwich shop along the brown line. They have a huge selection of meats to chose from, awesome homemade breads for the sandwiches, and don't forget the cookies! One sandwich is PLENTY for two people to share (ok, two ladies to share), and I'll be stopping in here next time I'm up north! read more

Absolutely delicious and everything is homemade! Love this cafe!! Been coming here for years.

Two words: monster cookie. OK, I'm actually drooling a little bit thinking about that. Sorry. On to the review. Very nice alternative to that other place across the street. Limited menu, but they switch up the specials pretty nicely. So far, my favorites have been the French Onion soup and the tuna melt. Pasta's been fine, too. I wasn't particularly impressed with the white chocolate rice pudding, but I'd defintely not equate the chocolate cloud to the plague. Actually, it's pretty good. Oh, and did I mention the monster cookie? read more

I used to work across the street from Panes, so I was there for lunch almost three times a week. And I was glad. Karen is a super great baker, the food is delicious. She came to anticpate my love of the tomato soup, the Oxacan truffles (they are bliss), and the enjoyment of the chicken sandwiches. They are cash only, no credit cards, but it's worth the inconvienence. read more

All the love for Panes!! Went to meet some friends for brunch and fell in love - the french toast, sandwiches, you really can't go wrong. They make their own bread and have free samples for anyone to try. Will definitely be back to try even more yummy food! read more

Panes Bread Cafe - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Place should be a 4.5 star. All the ingredients are so fresh here. Chicken salad is usually what I order, the bread that comes with the salads are so freakin soft and fresh. Can't get enough. If I order a sandwich it's the club or chipotle chicken. Both are fantastic. Fresh veggies and the meat is high quality. The only bakery item I've had is the tomato bread, which was unreal. Very fresh and tasty. read more

Order the oxacoan on tomato bread. You will not be disappointed. I've tried most the other sandwiches and this is hands down the best one. The other ones don't even compare. Cash only and call ahead to place your order. read more

Panes Bread Cafe - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Read reviews about this place when I was looking for a cheap, healthy place to eat. Finding such a place that is unique and "unfranchised" is hard! I have to admit that I went in with low expectations. After all, it's a sandwich shop, how good could it possible be? Well I'm happy to report that it rocked my socks. The best way to describe Panes is by saying their sandwiches are fancier, heartier, and the same size if not bigger than Panera but half the price. My personal favorite is the turkey turkey. Instead of ordering it on tomato bread I like to opt to have it served on their delicious handmade French bread. Another favorite is their Blackened Tilapia Sandwich which is typically served on weekends. Call ahead to ask for their "specials". I tried their chocolate chip cookie which LOOKS good but honestly, I was pretty disappointed. Subway has better cookies.. Their chocolate ball thingys though, they were quite tasty :) By the way, THIS PLACE IS CASH ONLY read more

Panes is great! Just last week, I was there 5 times over a 3 day span for various goodies. The chicken club sandwich is one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. Make sure you get it on the Sweet French bread and, if you're feeling a bit daring, swap in spicy mayo. Other highlights include the cream of tomato soup (served, like many items on the menu, with a heaping side of fresh bread), the goat cheese crostini appetizer, and the myriad desserts/cookies on display in the front cases. DISCLAIMER: Yes, this place is cash only. To everyone knocking down their ratings because of this fact, consider that this is how Panes avoids the standard 2% to 5% credit card processing fee, ultimately keeping the prices very reasonable and passing the savings on to you. If you can't live without swiping and entering your pin, go somewhere else and let the rest of us enjoy our family-owned, not-so-hidden gem! read more

I don't want to be a Negative Nancy about this place, but it really fell short of my expectations. I have heard a couple friends sing Panes' praises and have always had it on my list of places to try, so when I had the opportunity to do just that this week I was pretty excited. The description of two stars says it perfectly: "Meh. I've experienced better." There was just nothing dazzling about my experience. The shop itself was cute in a kitschy kind of way, it is small and clearly independently owned which gives it some heart and soul. I like that they sell loaves of homemade bread and cookies. But that is pretty much all the love I can shed. The food was pretty disappointing. I am someone who LOVES sandwiches and could eat them (and usually do) on a daily basis. I am not necessarily hard to please, but this place did not get the job done. My boyfriend got the linguine with chicken and spicy tomato sauce. It was bland and the pasta was kind of soggy. I got a small salad with honey mustard dressing (which tastes nothing like honey mustard and a lot like mayo) and the chicken club sandwich. Halfway through my meal I took off the remaining chicken because it was flavorless...other than charred flavor. After that, the sandwich did get better but at that point I was just eating cheese, tomato, avocado, and bacon on bread (which is not a bad combo but not what I ordered). To top it off, the service was less than warm. The woman who took our order did not look us in the face once, although she did have a nice tone to her voice. And the other woman that brought us our food looked like she hated life, I wanted to tell her to smile. I doubt I will be going back; it is a good location, very reasonably priced, and has a great concept...but the execution just did not do it for me. read more

I used to go here for lunch probably once a week when I lived in the neighborhood. Now when I'm in the area, I always stop by for a tuna sandwich and monster cookie. The bread is really good too though I try to stay away so as not to exacerbate my carb addiction. Note: They don't take credit/debit cards, so make sure you have cash! read more

Sandwiches constructed by God, for the godless. This tiny sandwich shop has somehow escaped my ire until recently, hiding in a miniscule cubby between Chicago Pizza and an unnamed salon. I always thought it was a coffee shop, so ignored it entirely for several months. What a mistake! Their menu proudly proclaims their history, and the pride they take in baking fresh bread, using real sourdough yeast, and so on, but none of that does justice to the food itself. I ordered the chicken club, which is a ridiculously inexpensive combination of avocado, chicken, bacon, and awesome. I asked for their spicy mayo for that final succulent kick, and I seriously wanted to cry after biting into it; it's ambrosia for sandwich connoisseurs. And their sandwiches are damn huge. The bread is gigantic, and the fillings, an entire avocado in the case of the chicken club, are overwhelming. One can easily stretch two meals, and for the price I paid, it's almost an insult to the quality of the food. If you're ever on the brown line on the way to Belmont, go a little further to Wellington, and give this place a try. You won't regret it! read more

Yum. I love the turkey with avocado sandwich, tomato soup and gigantic cookies. Skip it between 11:30 and 1ish...all the working bees in the area swarm the place. But, if you must have it between those times, its worth the wait. read more

I've been to Panes about 3-4 times over the past 8 months. I've gotten salads and sandwiches and have bought a loaf of bread there. Their sandwiches are very strong. The bread is excellent, some of the best I've had in the city. The elements of the sandwich are tasty and they even toast/warm the whole thing a bit before serving it to you with chips. And they are cheap, about $6 after tax. The one consistent thing is that they tend to skimp on the protein. I had a Turkey Turkey last night and there was about 3oz of turkey on the sandwich, which is not a lot for a store-bought sandwich. This problem hits home a little harder in the salad arena. Their salads are served with rosemary bread, which is the best part of the meal. The salads themselves are alright but are not filling at all. They have way too much lettuce and even if the description says it includes chicken, there are about 4 small pieces of chicken in it. So I definitely recommend this place if you want a pretty good sandwich on fantastic bread. If you are in the mood for a salad, you are best off going across the street to Pompeii. read more

My favorite monthly brunch. A few blocks from my dog groomer (Kriser's on Belmont), this is the best neighborhood cafe for me to wait while they get pretty. I always order the house chilequiles and a San Pellegrino- aranciata rossa. DELICIOUS. ALWAYS. Cash only. Do not miss this charming place. read more

Panes Bread Cafe - House chilequiles - delicious! - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I told my friend who lives in the burbs that I'd bring over lunch. I found Panes through Yelp and decided it was a good option. I tried The Popular sandwich and my friend had the Turkey, Turkey. I also picked up a small container of potato salad. I really liked the tomato foccacia bread and the potato salad was nice and creamy. I'm definitely going to head back there and try other sandwiches! read more

I really really love the Turkey Turkey. It's spicy mayo with turkey and avocado on a tomato bread roll. It's freakin' awesome. Everything they make is from scratch. They often have some sort of dessert or potato salad that I can't pass up. Their garlic potato salad is to die for as long as you don't have anyone to kiss... or anyone who will mind your stanky breath after the garlic anyway. The ladies that work there aren't always the most friendly, but if you get the owner, she's quite nice. AND they have awesome fountain drinks. It's pretty hard to mess up fountain drinks, but oddly enough most places do. But Panes always mixes it perfectly and I love them for that as well. I'm simple. What can I say? Even during lunch hours, give em a call and your food will be ready in 15 minutes or less. read more

The place did NOT give free refills (on iced tea might I add) and it's also CASH ONLY!!! Considering that it's 2012, each of those constitutes an automatic one star reduction in my book. I'm down with cash only in a cool, divy, hard to find gem, but let's be real here this is a sandwich shop in Lakeview. And there's no excuse for not offering free refills in my book. Anywhere. None. Other than that, the ambiance was cool, it's close to the Wellington stop which is convenient, and my chicken sandwich was decent as well, although it did take 10+ minutes to come out. Overall, a mediocre sandwich shop at best, but there are much better (and with the times) options available for me to come back. read more

The people are right about this place, and I'm going to pile it on.. My suggestions: -bring cash (no cc's accepted) -add the pesto to The Popular. -go with tomato bread. On anything. -get a choc/peanut butter ball for desert This place is the real deal. All homemade breads and attention to details. Pricing is modest. Taste is exceptional. read more

In an early Chicago lifetime, I lived near Panes. I also ate meat. In my current Chicago lifetime, I live less than a mile from Panes. I do not eat meat. But I wish I could drop my scruples and eat the roasted beef sandwich from Panes every day. It's that delicious. If you eat meat, even if you aren't usually a fan of roast beef, order the roasted beef sandwich. You won't regret it. The blend of sweet, sautéed onions, delicately tender roasted beef, spicy mayo, tomatoes, avocado, and delicious, delicious bread makes my mouth water whenever I think of it. The tortilla salad is very good. I never liked chicken, but whenever I had this salad in the past, I was pleased with the flavor combination and quality of the chicken. Back to my current Chicago lifetime, I order the portabella sandwich, which is so good that I don't miss the roasted beef while I'm eating the portabella. I think it's substantial and delicious enough for a meat-eater to love. After I moved away from Panes the first time, it was the only thing I missed about the neighborhood. Now that I'm nearby again, it's kind of the only thing I like about the neighborhood. While I'm homesick for River West, at least I have Panes' delicious sandwiches. And that's enough to get a girl through anything, really. read more

It's about time that I posted about my love and admiration for Panes. They do it all. Sandwiches. Soups. Cookies & chocolates. Loaves of bread to go. The options are diverse and the food never ceases to impress. My favorites are the pampazo and the turkey-turkey. I don't think I've had a better light sandwich than the turkey-turkey. The roasted beef and pollo diablo are elite. My friends have all had and raved about the Oaxacan, Sloppy Pollo, Spicy Philly, & the Popular. Heck the 2 vegetarian options were perfect to go for the beach this summer. Top it off with the Cookie Monster cookie. We've taken a tomato bread loaf to our friends places as small gifts for inviting us over. It's that good. This is a cant miss place at a respectable price. You will not find a better option at this price point. read more

Panes is good place for sandos. They build their sandos on fresh breads, sometimes foccia, sometimes ciabatta, sometimes sourdough - you will find no wonder bread weakness here. Now the insides of that sando are mighty tasty. They have something for every taste bud - savory, smokey, cheesy, veggie.... there isn't a sando here that can't soothe some sort of craving. Panes also has a variety of spreads they use in their creations such as a spinach spread and even a spicy pepper spread, which bring an average lunch from tasty to delicious. read more

What a cute little spot! I've lived in the 'hood for years and have never been here. Why??!!! Allison's & Julia's reviews reminded me why I've always wanted to check this place out. So often I just want soup and a sandwich. Panes hits the spot! It's nice to sit outside. I wish they had a carry out menu you could take home though. read more

In my opinion, what makes a sandwich great depends a lot on the bread and my multigrain bread definitely completed my sandwich. Ingredients are fresh and I thought one sandwich was pretty filling. Don't leave without trying their monster cookie. That stuff is genius...but made me feel very guilty finishing it off in a few minutes. read more

Outside of it being cash-only, really nothing to complain about here. The pollo diablo is one of my favorite sandwiches I've ever had. The bread is truly fantastic, that alone makes anyone of these sandwiches worth a try. read more

Best restaurant in the neighborhood. This place makes me feel like I stopped by my parents' for dinner. It has a very cozy feel and homemade, delicious food. The baked macaroni is a favorite of mine! I usually go with whatever the specials are. Excellent. Love the soups. I recently discovered the cookies. YUMMY! :) My only negative comment is that they don't take credit cards! And I very rarely have cash so I always have to plan ahead. I'm sure it helps drive the costs down but I still don't like it. I can't wait to sit outside this summer. read more

I frequent Panes regularly, as my office is 2 blocks away. This place is a gem like you cannot believe! It really never gets old, either. The menu has many options and the daily specials never let me down. I am a big fan the Super Panes sandwich or the Tortilla Salad. Or the Sloppy Pollo! The Monster cookie and PB balls are to die for. Yes, it can be quite chaotic during the lunch rush. But, the staff is very friendly and this place aims to please. Karen(and her husband) are the owners- Karen is very funny and friendly and she knows her regulars! The menu is inexpensive and they only take cash or check! Which is slightly annoying, but I will forgive them because they just might have the best sweet french bread in America. See you next week, Panes! read more

Panes is awesome, i even took my ladyfriend here for v-day one year, because everywhere else was booked. we got a little table by the window and she was like butter. sandwiches on homemade bread are the draw and they do not disappoint. i always get the super panes with a side of mashed potatoes. Soups and salads are also good and come with some bread goodness. tip: if your late-night takes you to chicago pizza next door, take a peek into panes and you may see them in the back, baking away for the coming day. read more

I managed sandwich shops for 7 years, so I try to avoid sandwich places, but this one is really pretty good. Huge portions, amazing prices (especially for the neighborhood), good service. Lots of veggie options. Seating is a little close, but everyone is friendly, so it works. Probably the best option for a sandwich in the neighborhood. read more

Timing was on our side today common here. We were able to park across the street directly across from the restaurant. You order your food at the little bakery counter, part for it, then sit and wait for it to be brought out to you. The bread from our sandwiches was made right there. It tasted fresh, but had a little thyme or rosemary in it, which i don't care for. I had chicken with bacon and cheese. They have us chips, but i didn't eat them. What i really enjoyed was the little do-it-yourself filtered water setup. You can refill it as much as you wanted. It was a small, family owned, quant place. read more