 Potbelly Sandwich Works
Potbelly is finally extending itself to the suburbs, and it's catching on quick. While the one in Deerfield is not the best I have been to, it still fills your jar with pickles, if you know what I mean.
Something that is immediately evident when you walk in is that the layout of the place was planned quite poorly, as the line of people blocks both the entrance and exit doors. At lunchtime, this is a nightmare. It's worth it, though, because the sandwiches are delicious and can be customized to your liking, plus you can add chips, soda, cookies, gigantic pickles, whatever you want, for a reasonable price.
There is a ledge about ten feet off the ground where a guy plays sets on his acoustic guitar, which adds character and atmosphere, which I am loath to admit is something I generally oppose. I mean, if I want a performance, I'm going to go to the circus. Do circuses even exist anymore? I hate the circus. At least the guy doesn't serenade you at the table—that would be unbearable.
The restaurant also tries to be one of those places where the guys working there do a lot of shouting and make ordering "fun" by mocking you or your sandwich, but they fail, which is good.
If you're in the North Shore area (Chicago, not Oahu), and want a sandwich, go get a Great Steak, but if that's not an option, Potbelly should be your second choice. Subway is okay, but by all means stay away from Quiznos.
Review by Sammy Salsa, May 2003 |