After living on the north side of Chicago for over 10 years, Panes Bread Cafe Co. is still my absolute favorite sandwich shop in the city. And in a city where there’s a generic chain sandwich shop around every corner, it is definitely nice to enjoy inexpensive, homemade and freshly prepared sandwiches at this Lakeview neighborhood café.

When you arrive at the counter of this adorable storefront you will see and smell all the delicious breads they have for people to purchase fresh daily. With creations like the popular, a sandwich prepared with chicken breast, caramelized onions, spinach, roasted peppers, provolone cheese on tomato bread, patrons of Panes are hooked from the first time they come in. There’s nothing fancy about it, but the BLT is my absolute favorite with a close second being their curry chicken salad which is not a daily offering, but is a featured special from time to time.

Not only do they have great sandwiches, they offer delicious soups, salads and sides, as well as pizzas and pastas. If you’re interested in breakfast they do their eggs with a twist or just the way you like it. I don’t always have room for dessert, but that doesn’t stop me from getting a monster cookie or some truffles to go!