ZipPicks Awards
Best Bagels in Lincoln Park
Best Sandwiches in Lincoln Park
Best Cheap Eats in Lincoln Park
Master Critic Review
Zeitlin's Delicatessen
8.6
Zeitlin's Delicatessen is a modern Jewish deli and bagel shop where hand-rolled New York–style bagels anchor a menu of smoked fish, deli sandwiches, and classic sweets. After building a following at farmers markets and a Loop food hall, the Lincoln Park flagship focuses on sit-down bagel sandwiches and expanded production.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich, Egg & Cheese Bagel Sandwich, Bagel with cream cheese and chocolate babka
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: A from-markets-to-brick-and-mortar Jewish deli built around hand-rolled bagels and smoked fish.
Who should go: Bagel obsessives craving deli-level toppings and pastrami.
When to visit: Late breakfast or early lunch before peak weekend traffic hits.
What to order: Smoked Salmon Bagel Sandwich, Egg & Cheese Bagel Sandwich, bagel with cream cheese and babka slice.
Insider tip: Watch for limited-time Reuben and whitefish bagel builds that disappear once the deli case runs out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Clark and nearby residential blocks; expect competition during brunch peaks — allow extra time.
Dress code: Casual — sneakers, tees, and weekend layers are standard.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but can get lively during late-morning rush.
Weekend wait: Not applicable — primarily a breakfast/lunch deli; hours usually end before dinner.
Weekday lunch: Short to moderate — often 5–15 minutes during peak lunch, no wait mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple egg sandwiches, veggie cream cheeses, salads, and meat-free bagel builds.
Vegan options: Limited — plain bagels and some toppings/sides may work, but most signatures rely on dairy or eggs.
Gluten-free options: Limited — traditional wheat bagels; ask staff about off-bagel alternatives or deli plate workarounds.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime meet-up than a romantic date — it’s bright, informal, and focused on quick bagel builds.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — counter service with self-seating; expect to wait for a table during weekend brunch but turnover is steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly for late breakfast and lunch; simple menus, high-traffic room, and shareable pastries work well for school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: Hand-rolled bagels with deli-grade smoked fish and sandwiches in a sit-down setting — stronger on craft bagel quality and Jewish-deli classics than grab-and-go cafes.
Skip if: You want late-night or dinner service, extensive vegan baking, or ultra-quiet seating — choose another spot if timing or dietary needs are the priority.