Since 1942 This Historic Chicago Deli Has Served Big Names Including Bill Clinton And Barack Obama

Walking into Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen feels like stepping through a time portal straight back to 1942.

This legendary Chicago institution has been serving up towering deli sandwiches and comfort food classics for over 80 years, making it the city’s oldest, biggest, and most famous Jewish-style deli.

What makes Manny’s truly special isn’t just the food… it’s the living piece of Chicago history you’re experiencing.

It’s a place where everyone from President Barack Obama to local aldermen have gathered to make deals over corned beef sandwiches.

The third-generation family-owned establishment has earned its reputation as Chicago’s political dining room, dubbed “the second-most-likely place to see local politicians, after City Hall.”

Yet beyond its celebrity clientele, Manny’s remains refreshingly authentic, serving the same hearty, no-nonsense fare that built its reputation decades ago.

Signature Sandwiches & Deli Classics

The Legendary Corned Beef: You’ll understand why this sandwich built Manny’s reputation the moment you see it arrive at your table. Piled impossibly high with hand-carved, juicy corned beef between two slices of fresh rye bread, this isn’t just a sandwich—it’s an architectural marvel.

The meat is tender, flavorful, and portioned so generously that the bread serves mainly as a vehicle to get the beef to your mouth.

Pastrami Perfection: House-made and bursting with flavor, the pastrami here puts many delis to shame.

Each slice is perfectly seasoned with that ideal balance of fat and lean meat that makes every bite memorable.

Many visitors order a combination of corned beef and pastrami to experience the best of both worlds.

The Four Kinder: For the truly ambitious, this towering creation combines corned beef, pastrami, brisket, and turkey on your choice of bread.

It’s essentially four sandwiches in one, delivering complex layers of flavor that showcase the deli’s meat mastery.

Matzo Ball Soup: These aren’t your average matzo balls—they’re the size of tennis balls and float in rich, golden broth that warms you from the inside out.

Perfect for Chicago’s harsh winters or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Potato Latkes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these traditional potato pancakes are the perfect complement to any sandwich.

At just $3.50 extra, they’re practically mandatory with your meal.

Noodle Kugel: This sweet noodle casserole surprises many first-time visitors with its comforting, slightly sweet flavor.

It’s like a warm hug in food form and has converted many skeptics into devoted fans.

Authentic Cafeteria Atmosphere & Political History

Pure 1950s Nostalgia: The atmosphere at Manny’s is wonderfully unchanged, maintaining that authentic cafeteria-style service that feels like a time machine.

You’ll grab a tray, move through the line pointing at what you want, and find a seat in the spacious dining room that still echoes with decades of conversations and deal-making.

Political Powerhouse: This isn’t just marketing hype. Manny’s genuinely serves as an unofficial political headquarters for Chicago.

Former Governor George Ryan once received a phone call from Nelson Mandela while eating a corned beef sandwich here. The restaurant regularly hosts political briefings and has welcomed everyone from Bill Clinton to countless mayors, governors, and journalists.

Cafeteria-Style Service: The efficient cafeteria line moves quickly, allowing you to see exactly what you’re ordering.

The staff behind the counter embody that classic “Chicago friendly” approach—they’re efficient, knowledgeable, and happy to help, but they appreciate customers who know what they want.

Spacious and Welcoming: Unlike cramped urban delis, Manny’s offers plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your meal. The bright, clean space accommodates everyone from solo diners to large groups without feeling crowded.

Practical Considerations & Visitor Tips

Premium Pricing: Expect to pay downtown Chicago prices for the experience—sandwiches typically run $18-28, and a meal for two with sides can easily reach $50.

However, the generous portions often provide enough food for multiple meals, making the value more reasonable than it initially appears.

Parking Options: You’ll find a private parking lot behind the restaurant, plus street parking options.

The location in the Near West Side is easily accessible whether you’re driving or using public transportation.

Family-Friendly Institution: Three generations of the Raskin family have run this establishment, creating a genuinely welcoming atmosphere for families, business meetings, and solo diners alike.

The staff includes long-term employees with decades of experience who contribute to the authentic, neighborhood feel.

Breakfast Until 1:30 PM: Don’t miss their extensive breakfast menu, available until mid-afternoon daily.

The breakfast combinations featuring deli meats with eggs are particularly popular among regulars.

Best Times to Visit: Lunch hours can get busy, especially when political events are happening downtown.

Visiting during off-peak hours allows for a more relaxed experience and better opportunities to chat with the knowledgeable staff.

Take-Home Options: Recent additions include nationwide shipping through Tastes of Chicago, allowing you to bring authentic Manny’s deli experience home. They also offer extensive catering services for events throughout the city.

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Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen
📍 1141 S Jefferson St, Chicago, IL 60607
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