Call it a grinder, call it a sub, people born and raised in Chicago call this the best damn sandwich you can buy.I usually do not give fast food more than the stars. So for me to give it four stars means Fontano's is exceptional in my book.I have been getting the"Big Al" now named the "Big L" for over 30 years.To be honest you can't go wrong with any of their sandwiches.Just make sure you get the mayonnaise, oil, seasoning, and giardiniera (hot).No nasty sour miracle whip on this baby, it's Hellman's all the way!The only thing that could have made this place better in my youth was if they served hot sandwiches... They started serving hot sandwiches.If you want to combo done right, this is the place.I believe Fontanos was a neighborhood butcher shop and grocery store back in the day.If you're looking to add sausage to your Sunday sauce, I strongly suggest picking up a pound of Italian sausage (hot) while you get your sandwich.Remember, 90% of taste is actually smell.As you are chewing, take a deep breath and enjoy the aromas in the back of your pallet. This will enhance the blend of flavors and your brain will have a more vivid response to the "taste" inputs.
Damn, this place's bread is absolutely HEAVENLY. The meat on the sandwiches is really fantastic. Although the pricing was a little high (for a broke college student), it was well worth it. The people there are wonderful and welcoming. Fontano's is one of the most well-known restaurants in the world. <3<3
Had the opportunity to visit Fontano's subs while Visiting UIC for a tournament. Amazingly fresh subs and wonderful staff made the place a great choice. Looks like I'm covered for lunch and dinner with the 16-oz wise guy. The peppers are a must
EXCELLENT “Wise Guy” sub!! Went here for lunch two days in a row while in town for a robotics competition at Credit Union1 Arena. Short walk & completely worth it! I’ll be visiting from Ohio AGAIN!! Thank you!
Very good itslian subs, I got the Blockbuster to-go and they piled on the meat and cheeses. Was here about a month ago from this posting.
I love there food but there's a mast old heavy set woman behind the counter . she is really bad for business . I was standing in line looking at the menu and she yelled at me with the biggest attitude . "what do you want" everyone else was nice I think shes bad for business
Damn the bread in this place is actually HEAVENLY. The Sandwich meat is amazing as well. The price was a bit expensive (for a broke college student) but definitely worth it. People there are amazing and friendly. Fontano's is a absolute classic. <3<3
I've written about how good other Italian sub shops are around Chicago, and places like Conte De Savoia are definitely must haves. However, Fontanos knocks it out of the park. When I finally got around to trying it in December, I knew I found my new favorite sub. Their meats are extremely well complimented by their superb provolone cheese, which in my opinion has a unique taste compared to other places as well as their bread which is just perfect.
You want a real Italian Sub, Meatball Sandwich or an Italian Beef...
Lovely quiet place which I often visit to grab lunch from whenever I'm busy on campus. Their subs are great and no big franchise comes close to being as good.