Longtime Client A.P. Deli Featured in the Chicago Tribune

Even if you can get your hands on a big, fat free sandwich at Manny’s Deli in Chicago — thanks to an anonymous donor sponsoring a free sandwich day on Tuesday for anyone wearing a mask — you might consider buying one if possible. Sure at Manny’s, best known for their corned beef, or perhaps one of the dozens of great delis and restaurants across the city and the suburbs.

Ever since my Jewish deli story a few years ago, I’ve continued covering the corned beef beat. Some restaurants, including Harrington’s Catering & Deli in the Jefferson Park neighborhood, were forced to close permanently due to the pandemic. Others, like Boeufhaus in Humboldt Park, have put their regular menus on pause, but are offering holiday meal kits instead.

Here are my top 24 corned beef sandwiches in the Chicago area right now, listed alphabetically by restaurant, with a little pastrami tossed in, too. All offer takeout, some with curbside pickup, and a few with remote drop-offs. Call ahead to ask about dine-in or outdoor seating options. And I know I don’t need to remind you to tip.