Last night I had to feed four hungry kids (two my own and two guests) in a rush. I had promised them a 7:45 p.m. movie and it was after 7, so we all crowded into the tiny, two-table Eddie’s Deli at Abrams and Northwest Highway. When you pull in don’t expect to see any obvious “Eddie’s Deli” sign, but rather “Chicago Hot Dog” (apparently the pride of Eddie’s) signs. Everywhere. Altogether we ordered three Chicago Hot Dogs, Hot and Juicy Italian Beef, and a Maxwell Street Polish Sausage.
Eddie’s lacks many of the niceties and conveniences that you might find at a typical deli — a soda fountain, condiment bar, a second employee … and water (really, I asked for waters and was told they didn’t have any). Despite all that, the meal and the service were spot-on. The man who took our order (no time for introductions last night, so I don’t have his name) was cordial yet quick. Sensing our hurry, he hustled to the back to prepare the food, which was out within the next seven minutes.
Everyone got cold sodas —whatever he wasn’t out of — and a bag of Ruffles potato chips. “Good ol’ Ruffles,” my son said happily (it’s Ruffles or nothing). The next several minutes were spent in silent scarfing of succulent "Chicago-style" eats. The hot dogs were plump and red and the girls gave them a smiling full-mouth thumbs up. My son polished off the beef sub in about two minutes flat — a good sign. My spicy polish sausage, buried under grilled onions and jalapeños, was so divinely sloppy and flavorful that I am currently plotting my next visit. The whole thing cost us $28.50, and our entire party of five left satiated and agreed we’d be back — Eddie’s is the perfect spot for a quick cheap bite. Just bring mints and Tums —and you might want to smuggle in a bottle of H20. Eddie’s Deli is located at 5844 Abrams. 214.692.5844.
