When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Calabria Imports
Why Calabria Imports is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Calabria Imports is a cherished Italian deli and catering business located in Chicago's Beverly neighborhood, known for offering an authentic taste of Italy through fresh, high-quality food and a welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 1975 and now owned by Pasquale (Pat) Roberto since 1997, Calabria Imports stands out as a go-to spot for friends and families to gather and enjoy classic Italian and American deli meats, cheeses, and homemade specialties prepared with passion and tradition. The ambience exudes italianità—an embodiment of Italian culture and hospitality—making it a warm and inviting place to meet up with companions. The deli prides itself on its freshly sliced deli meats and cheeses, specialized sandwiches like the famous "Freddy" grilled Italian sausage with mozzarella and sweet peppers, and "The Stenger" meatball and provolone sandwich known from Chicago's Best and The Food Network. Beyond sandwiches, the menu includes fresh salads, chicken and eggplant parmesan, spaghetti, and pasta dishes crafted from family recipes inspired by owner Pat’s Italian roots and his mother's cooking. With attentive, friendly staff including family members, and locations on 103rd Street in Chicago and 95th Street in Evergreen Park, Calabria Imports balances quality, hearty portions, and consistency, making it a reliable and delightful spot for lunch, takeout, or catering gatherings. Their catering service further extends their warm hospitality, offering home deliveries and a variety of Italian fare that enhances social occasions and celebrations.
Here's what people think of Calabria Imports
As of recent, Calabria Imports holds a 4.7-star rating based on 407 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently highlight Calabria Imports for its excellent quality and authentic flavors, earning an overall strong rating around 4.7 out of 5 based on over 400 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the freshness of the food, especially the Italian subs, homemade salads, and specialty sandwiches like "The Freddy." The friendly and knowledgeable staff, described as welcoming and consistently attentive by many customers, adds to the positive experience, fostering a loyal clientele who return for both dine-in and carryout meals. Reviewers mention the deli’s longstanding tradition and family-oriented service as key elements that distinguish Calabria Imports from other eateries. On the positive side, customers emphasize the quality of homemade dishes, friendly customer service, and the overall value for money with hearty portions and delicious tastes. The catering services also receive favorable remarks for reliability and menu variety. However, some of the more critical reviews point to occasional inconsistency in food preparation times or waiting periods during busy hours. A few customers note that while the food quality is high, the decor is casual and does not offer a formal dining atmosphere, which is understandable for a deli setting. In summary, Calabria Imports enjoys a strong reputation for authentic, fresh Italian food, excellent customer service, and community feel, with minor critiques mainly related to service wait times or ambiance. These factors underscore Calabria Imports as a dependable and beloved local institution for Italian culinary delights in Chicago’s Southside region.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brendan Oconnor
Ordered Italian sausage sandwich with hot peppers....no peppers and usually you get 1 link. Got 1 decent link and another that looked and tasted horrible. Very disappointed.
Nick Ventimiglia
Great Italian sub! Nice atmosphere. I did a review for my YouTube channel "Mailman Nick"
Kira Morgan
I found this place because it’s close to where I work, so at lunch I headed over. I found parking in the side off side of the street, there is some other pay parking on the side of Subway. When you walk in you are in the dining area, as you head towards the back there is so much to look at! You have tables in the middle full of cookies and bread, against the wall to your right you have pastas, fridges with precooked meals, drinks, and other items for purchase. There is a chalk wall with specials and the bathrooms behind. When you get to the counter you will see the extensive menu of hot and cold sandwiches and more. You will place your order for the sandwiches there and then walk past the deli counter to pay for your sandwich. I ordered the Stegner Sandwich Half Sausage and Half Meatball. Honestly both were fantastic!! They do not cut this sandwich in half, they hallow out the middle and stuff the meat, cheese, and sauce inside! I loved it!! But I am a bread lover so I would have loved a more bread. The staff was friendly and very helpful. They said this sandwich is the most popular and I could see why. Cannot wait to go back!!
Sehvynn
This place is clean. It’s nice. The people were nice. The sandwich is good and I’m happy :-) go check them out. My reviews are valid. Also, if you are a lady and you want me to join you there, I would love to
Vincent Giff
The place I work orders lunch from Calabria on a regular basis. They NEVER disappoint. It always feels as if the meal comes from some Italian grandmother's kitchen. Always delicious, carefully wrapped, packaged and packed well. Highly recommend! Keep doing what you're doing because you clearly have this food and customer service thing down to a science!
How to reach Calabria Imports
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Why Calabria Imports may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Calabria Imports with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Calabria Imports guarantees an authentic and memorable Italian dining experience in Chicago’s historic Beverly Hills neighborhood. With a stellar rating of 4.7 from over 400 reviews, this family-owned deli and kitchen offers more than just food—it delivers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every meal feels handcrafted just for you and your group. Here, you can rally around a table brimming with freshly prepared Italian classics, from hearty sandwiches to homemade lasagna, perfect for sharing and sparking lively conversations. The attentive and friendly staff adds to the charm, making sure your group feels right at home whether you’re popping in for a casual lunch or catering a larger meetup. Its convenient location near the 103rd Beverly Metra Rock Island Line station ensures that coming together here is easy for everyone. Whether your group craves a relaxing sit-down lunch or a catered feast for a special occasion, Calabria Imports epitomizes the joy of communal dining and authentic tastes, making it a prime spot to connect with friends or family over great food and Italian hospitality.
What activities are available for groups at Calabria Imports?
Calabria Imports primarily shines as a food-centric venue where the core activity is enjoying authentic Italian cuisine prepared fresh while you wait. Their menu includes Italian sandwiches, creamy chicken salad on pretzel rolls, homemade lasagna, fresh salads, and a variety of pizza offerings—each dish reflecting the rich culinary traditions of Calabria, Italy. While the space itself is cozy and suited to smaller groups for casual dining, its catering services elevate group gatherings, allowing meetups to be enhanced with carefully curated Italian meals delivered right to your chosen venue. This makes Calabria Imports ideal for office retreats, family celebrations, or social club meetings, providing fresh, delicious, and ample food that everyone can enjoy together. The staff’s focus on quality and customer service ensures your group feels accommodated and valued, whether dining in or ordering takeout. With all food made to order, groups get the benefit of freshness and personalized service, turning any gathering into an event worth remembering.
Why is Calabria Imports perfect for group meetups?
Calabria Imports strikes the perfect balance for group meetups by offering a versatile experience that caters to both dine-in and offsite gatherings. Its intimate yet friendly atmosphere fosters conversation and connection around Italian comfort food that appeals to a wide range of tastes. The deli’s reputation for consistently great food—highlighted by fan-favorite Italian subs and standout homemade dishes—makes deciding “what to eat” an easy choice for groups. For larger meets or those wanting to stay beyond the restaurant walls, Calabria Imports’ reliable catering service offers a seamless solution. Their catering menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, hot entrees, pastas, salads, sides, desserts, and beverages, accommodating diverse preferences and dietary needs. The food is fresh, affordable, and delivered on time, reducing the hassle of event planning. This flexibility and commitment to quality mean groups can enjoy Calabria Imports at their leisure, whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion.
How does the food quality at Calabria Imports enhance group experiences?
Food quality is central to why Calabria Imports stands out as a gathering spot for groups. Every dish is made fresh to order, ensuring vibrant flavors and satisfying portions every time. Customer reviews consistently praise items like the Italian sandwich—called the best around—as well as the creamy chicken salad and homemade lasagna. This commitment to freshness and authenticity means that groups are not just sharing a meal but experiencing a genuine taste of Italy together. The high-quality ingredients and careful preparation foster a communal sense of indulgence and comfort, important for any social meal. Having reliable, delicious food takes the pressure off group organizers and provides a natural conversation starter, making gatherings not only pleasant but memorable. The reputation Calabria Imports holds in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood as a local favorite further amplifies the confidence groups have in the culinary experience they’ll enjoy there.
What makes the service and ambiance at Calabria Imports ideal for meetups?
The service and ambiance of Calabria Imports contribute significantly to its appeal as a group destination. Being a family-run business, hospitality is more than a routine—it’s a genuine expression of care that creates a cozy, inviting vibe where guests feel like part of the family. The staff is consistently described as friendly, approachable, and efficient, ensuring groups receive personalized attention without feeling rushed. The ambiance combines the charm of a traditional Italian deli with the bustling warmth of a local hangout, making it comfortable for both quick lunch stops and longer sit-down experiences. Though the dining space is modest, it encourages intimate, face-to-face interactions ideal for friends and families looking to catch up without distractions. Moreover, the convenience of nearby public transport options adds to the relaxed, accessible feeling that this is a place where groups can easily come together and enjoy quality time.
What catering options make Calabria Imports suitable for offsite gatherings?
Calabria Imports’ catering service is a standout feature that makes it ideal for offsite group gatherings. Available with no minimum order and a reasonable $10 delivery fee, the catering menu offers comprehensive options ranging from appetizers and sandwiches to hot entrees, various pastas, salads, sides, desserts, and beverages. This variety means groups with diverse tastes and dietary restrictions will find satisfying choices that please all palates. Feedback from customers highlights the freshness, ample portions, and affordability of the catered meals—all critical factors when feeding a crowd. The reliability of on-time delivery and the care put into presentation further ease the logistics of hosting events away from the restaurant, allowing hosts to focus on socializing rather than food prep. Whether it’s a corporate retreat, family reunion, or community meetup, Calabria Imports provides a trusted and convenient catering solution that brings the authentic flavors of Italy directly to your chosen venue.
How does Calabria Imports’ location add convenience for group meetups?
The strategic location of Calabria Imports on 1905 W 103rd Street in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood adds significant convenience for groups meeting up. Situated close to the 103rd Beverly Metra Rock Island Line station, it is easily accessible by public transit, lowering travel barriers for friends or family coming from different parts of the city. This accessibility encourages spontaneous meetups and helps groups avoid parking hassles common in busy city areas. The neighborhood itself exudes a historic and community-focused atmosphere, providing a pleasant backdrop for dining and social interaction. For those who prefer to enjoy Calabria Imports in another setting, the close proximity to transport and central location also make pickup and delivery swift and efficient options. This ease of access enhances the overall group experience, making Calabria Imports not just a great culinary destination but also a logistically sound choice for gatherings.
Why is Calabria Imports a trusted choice based on customer feedback?
The trustworthiness of Calabria Imports as a meetup spot stems largely from its excellent customer feedback, which emphasizes consistent food quality, friendly service, and reliability. With a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 400 reviews, many customers highlight how the food is “made while you wait” without compromising freshness or taste. Reviewers frequently mention favorites such as the Italian sandwich and creamy chicken salad while praising the staff’s attentiveness and warmth. Testimonials also underscore how Calabria Imports has become a “must-stop” destination in the Beverly area and a reliable caterer for events. This strong community endorsement builds confidence that Calabria Imports will deliver an enjoyable, hassle-free experience for both casual social meals and formal group events. For new visitors, these positive reviews reduce uncertainty, reinforcing Calabria Imports’ position as a go-to spot for authentic Italian dining and memorable meetups.
What makes Calabria Imports stand out among Chicago’s Italian dining options?
Among the many Italian dining options in Chicago, Calabria Imports stands out through its blend of authenticity, quality, and community-oriented service. Unlike large restaurants, Calabria Imports operates as a charming, family-run deli and kitchen where every item embodies traditional Italian recipes and high-quality ingredients. This personal approach appeals strongly to groups seeking genuine flavors coupled with the intimacy of a neighborhood eatery. Its dual strength in both dine-in and catering services offers unmatched flexibility for varied group needs—from spontaneous lunches to planned celebrations. The recognition by loyal patrons and consistently high ratings underscore its reputation for not just food, but an experience marked by warmth and reliability. This combination of authenticity, attentive service, and versatility makes Calabria Imports a distinct and valued gem in Chicago’s diverse culinary landscape.
How does Calabria Imports cater to different group sizes and occasions?
Calabria Imports caters adeptly to a wide range of group sizes and occasions by offering flexible dining and catering options that scale with your needs. For small to medium groups, the cozy dining space and made-to-order menu create an inviting setting to enjoy lunch or dinner together without the complexities of large crowds. For larger groups or events that require more planning, the comprehensive catering service provides customizable menus with ample portions to suit celebrations, corporate meetings, or community gatherings. The ability to request delivery with no minimum order further enhances convenience, allowing groups to host events at home, offices, or outdoor venues without compromising the quality of the meal. With thoughtfully prepared Italian favorites and accommodating staff, Calabria Imports ensures every group, from intimate family meals to substantial parties, experiences seamless service, enjoyable food, and a sense of connection.
What should newcomers know before visiting Calabria Imports?
Newcomers to Calabria Imports should know that this family-run deli prioritizes fresh, made-while-you-wait food and a welcoming environment, making it perfect for those looking to savor authentic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting. The restaurant is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm and Saturdays until 4 pm, so timing visits accordingly will help ensure a smooth experience. Since it’s a popular local spot, peak hours may be a bit busy, but the friendly staff keeps service moving efficiently. For those organizing larger meetups or seeking flexibility, exploring the catering menu online ahead of time can simplify planning, with delivery and takeout options available. Parking is convenient with easy access due to the location near the Metra station. This preparation helps new visitors fully enjoy Calabria Imports’ warm atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent group-friendly service for any meetup occasion.