Chicago’s current deli renaissance just got a juicier layer of pastrami: Schneider Deli, the River North counter-service joint that’s been slinging sandwiches in the Ohio House Motel since 2023, is officially expanding.
Jake and Ariel Schneider, the husband-and-wife duo behind the eponymous deli, are heading north, opening an all-day outpost in Lincoln Park early next year. The new space at 1733 North Halsted Street is nearly 2,000 square feet, which, in sandwich math, means double the seating and longer hours. The flagship’s greatest hits—including the hand-sliced brisket and bubbe-approved latkes—won't go anywhere, but the Schneiders are adding a full coffee and espresso program with locally-roasted beans from Metropolis Coffee Company. (Finally, lattes and lox bagels will coexist under the same roof.)
The couple has had a whirlwind few years. Since opening, they’ve sold more than 120,000 sandwiches, becoming a River North institution thanks to Jake’s family-inspired menu. His grandmothers, Eunice and Goldalee, loom large over the recipes, alongside inspiration he picked up from working at spots like Laurent Gras's L2O, RPM Italian and Michelin Bib Gourmand-recipient Daisies. (True fans will also remember the duo’s earlier pickle project, Schneider Provisions.)
Diners at the new spot can expect a fresh, neighborhood-friendly spin thanks to a retro-meets-contemporary look designed by Jake’s aunt and uncle at Becker Architects. The deli will also stock prepared foods, cured meats by the pound and take-and-bake comfort dishes for easy dinners. Seltzer is on tap for egg creams, but there will also be a tight selection of beer, wine and ready-to-drink cocktails.
Schneider Deli Lincoln Park opens in early 2026, because good things (and good brisket) are worth the wait.