Costello Sandwich & Sides

3.5 star rating
163 reviews Rating Details

Category: Sandwiches  [Edit]

2015 W Roscoe St
1st Fl

(between Damen Ave & Seeley Ave)
Chicago, IL 60618
Neighborhood: Roscoe Village
(773) 929-2323
Nearest Transit:

Addison-Brown (Brown Line)

Paulina (Brown Line)

Hours:

Mon-Sun 11 am - 8 pm

Attire:
Casual
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Price Range:
$
Good for Groups:
Yes
Good for Kids:
Yes
Takes Reservations:
No
Delivery:
Yes
Take-out:
Yes
Waiter Service:
No
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Wi-Fi:
Free
Good For:
Lunch
Alcohol:
No
Noise Level:
Average
Ambience:
Casual
Has TV:
No
Caters:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
About This Business:

Don't let the name fool you.  There are no toasters here.  No lox.  No schmears.  CBA is a sandwich shop - Chicago's finest.  The extensive menu has…   read more »

Review Highlights   

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"wonderful sides - I love the chipotle mac 'n cheese." (in 15 reviews)
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"Everytime I go, I get the Monterey Chicken Wrap." (in 4 reviews)
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"And gread garlic red skin mashed potatoes." (in 4 reviews)
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163 reviews in English

  • Review from Jelena Z.

    Austin, TX

    4.0 star rating
    9/22/2011 1 photo 1 Check-in Here

    You should know this: I'm not a huge fan of oven-baked/toasted/hot sandwiches. I really prefer the cold variety... there's just something creepy about mayonnaise and lettuce sitting atop warmed meats and cheese.

    BUT.

    Costello's is great. They've paired up the perfect crusty (but not too crusty) bread with an adequate amount of fillings to satisfy human hunger without overwhelming the bread. The sandwich is lightly toasted, and neither mayo or lettuce is warm. A squeamish me: diverted!

    It was a difficult decision with so many choices, but in the end, I decided to keep it simple. The Turkey Grinder, with its roast turkey, provolone, lettuce tomato, pepper rings, garlic mayo and classic vinaigrette wasn't exotic but interesting enough to warrant a thorough investigation (read: I ate the entire sandwich). Pair it with a drink, snack and side for $8.69 and you have quite the deal! It's definitely indulgent but it would be a crime if the chipotle mac 'n' cheese didn't join your sammie. It's just that good.

    The service is warm and authentic. I'll be back soon to try one of the wraps!

  • Review from Angie M.

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    2/9/2012

    DELIVERY REVIEW

    Problem 1: They're on http://Grubhub.com, but for some reason were not accepting orders last night.  Super annoying, especially since two of my girlfriends and I passed around an iPhone, carefully placing our orders only to be brutally rebuffed from the online ordering gods.

    Problem 2: MAYO OVERLOAD.  Like whoa.  I'm just as big of a fan of the chipotle mayo as any girl, but too much of a good thing is never satisfying.  I'd recommend easing up just a bit on the mayo application.

    Problem 3: The rice krispie treats seemed like a steal at $.89 a pop, but mine tragically tasted like soap.  I'm not really sure how/why something like this happens, but needless to say it was not the best way to cap off my meal.

    Despite some issues, I'm OK with Costello's.  I appreciate that their "delux" special is under $9 and provides you with a huge sandwich, a bag of pretzels, chips or an apple, a side dish (got the chili and was very satisfied) and a drink.  In theory, this should get you through two meals if you eat half the sandwich and one of your sides each time.

    I was also happy that our order was 100% accurate.  Three women = lots of custom ordering and Costello's nailed it.

    I think next time I'd ask for mayo on the side and I'd 86 that rice krispie treat for an all-together excellent delivery experience.

  • Review from Virginia T.

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    Updated - 1/2/2012

    They've been great, even a favorite restaurant of mine.....but now that I work close by, they suck. My past 2/3 experiences have been sub par.

    First time they got my order wrong. Second time they were REALLY rude. Third time I only did take out because of the rudeness last time. This last time the order was right, but the sandwiches (and side) were lackluster. The mac & cheese was thin, watery (like from a box) with a squirt of chipotle sauce. The sandwiches seemed meat lite and lettuce heavy. Not worth the money anymore.

    I won't be back. Sadly.

    Listed in: Sammiches

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    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      10/29/2007

      I've been here a few times now and loved it more and more each time. It's got a certain charm, and… Read more »

  • Review from Emily P.

    •  
    • 19 friends
    • 23 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    10/8/2011

    I used to love this place.

    Recently, however, I've noticed a significant decline in their food.

    I'm pretty sure they're using instant mashed potatoes. I've gotten them twice now, and they used to be so good.

  • Review from Kathy B.

    •  
    • 41 friends
    • 46 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    12/15/2011 1 photo 2 Check-ins Here

    I heard so much hype about this spot, so when lunch time hit on one sunny afternoon I decided to give it a try.  The menu selection is large and the sides look so yummy, you want to try everything. Unfortunately the quality of the sandwiches was just poor, and lacked taste. It was a forgettable sandwich and they will probably will never see me again.

  • Review from Brian S.

    •  
    • 18 friends
    • 5 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    11/28/2011

    Ordered here today and it was mediocre at best. They forgot my drink, the sandwich was missing half the toppings, and the mashed potatoes were horrible! Seriously, how can you mess up mashed potatoes?

  • Review from Jeffrey M.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 35 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    1.0 star rating
    Updated - 12/21/2011

    I really can't believe it was possible to have a worse experience than my August trip to what was one of my favorite restaurants but...

    This place is just plain bad. I'm sorry, almost 10 dollars for a tasteless and small sandwich, tasteless side, a bag of lays chips and a drink is simply outrageous.

    Again, the people are great but whatever happened to this place is a shame. I swear they use Carl Budding meat nowadays. I can't see this place lasting much longer with the quality they now produce.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 2.0 star rating
      8/28/2011

      Is this place under new ownership or something? Good god, I've probably eaten at Costello's over 200… Read more »

  • Review from Kelsey Y.

    •  
    • 431 friends
    • 23 reviews

    IL

    2.0 star rating
    6/11/2011

    Eh not sure here.
    Not a big SUB guy but this place is...hmm, well, not so good.
    I'd say a medicore Pot Belly's if that.
    Not worth my time to write about, blah.

  • Review from Julie Z.

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    7/18/2011

    Excellent sandwiches particularly if you are looking for something a lil different than Jimmy John's.
    My favorites are the Italian Grinder ( a classic!) and the 2 that are on the kids menu...the pizza boat and the pb and j. Good stuff!

    There is indoor and outdoor seating.

  • Review from Luke S.

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    9/29/2011 1 Check-in Here

    I'm a big sandwich guy and with sandwiches it takes a lot to impress me (OK maybe not). This place definitely impressed me! They had a great selection that was loaded with a ton of unique options. The staff was friendly and patient as I tried to decide what to order. I also loved that they had whole wheat sub rolls, since they are hard to come by. The price was great and I will be back to try some of their other creations. Overall this is one of the most solid sandwich places in the city.

  • Review from Nitin R.

    •  
    • 6 friends
    • 11 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    9/7/2011

    Like the sandwiches, and something different from the norm.  Got the Spicy Roscoe recently which was quite good, and have had a few other of their sandwiches in the past which were good as well.

    As far as sides go, I usually always go for the mac and cheese which was outstanding.  Had the mashed potatoes as well before which was so so at best.  

    Overall, a pretty good place for sandwiches especially if you are in the area.  Service was pretty quick, and the portion size of the meal was good.

  • Review from Rebekah H.

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    5/5/2011

    Hubby and I tried Costello for this first time and it was fantastic! I had been wanting to try them for years but hadn't gotten around to it. They are a bit on the pricey side but considering the quality of the food, I think it is worth it.

    We both got the Smokin Turk sandwiches, it was crunchy yet soft and fresh. All flavors were well represented and balanced. The mac and cheese is great, cheesy creamy and the noodles are the right textuure too. Service was quick and friendly and we will definitely be back!

  • Review from Sang H.

    •  
    • 5 friends
    • 66 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    6/25/2011

    When my friends told me that this sandwich was going o blow my mind, I of course did not believe them. Once I tried it, it was another story. How can something taste so good. Their sides were just eh, but sandwiches were great and the cashier was super friendly.
    Believe me, I will be loyal customer for years to come.

  • Review from Lauren B.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 34 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    10/7/2011

    It's good not amazing but a nice change of pace. Spicy  Mac n cheese was the best part!

  • Review from nohemy m.

    •  
    • 34 friends
    • 51 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    12/6/2010

    Costellos is really good the first 10 times you go. Then after that you're just kinda over it.

    I like to make the occasional trip to Roscoe Village if I want something substantial and quick.

  • Review from una g.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 51 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    10/25/2011

    Meh. Their sandwiches are pretty decent. However, their a lil' pricey.

  • Review from Helena B.

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    8/11/2010

    Unfortunately, my first visit coincided with lunchtime for the KinderCare set. The entire indoor section was swarming with wee ones, their wails echoing off the walls. I suppose Costello appeals to palates of all ages. No worries, I planned on picking up food and eating chez moi.

    I squinted furtively at the menu written on a chalkboard on the far wall. Perhaps my eyes are getting old, but it was quite difficult to read. That or I can't focus on sandwich innards whilst going deaf from kiddie-screams. Where are your parents, small demons!? The menu features sandwiches in three categories (Icons, Lighten Up!, and New Favorites), salads, and sides. As a lady on a diet, I appreciated the varied selection under "Lighten Up!".

    Sandwiches selected, we proceeded to the till. Sadly, the cashier on duty was more interested in arranging the cookie display than taking our order. Look alive, woman, I want to get out of here! Food is prepared when ordered - generally a plus (freshness), but not so much in this case (kids these days!). I took the opportunity to peek at the back patio. It's kinda... nothing special. Were I to eat here, I'd eat out front on the Roscoe Street side where there are shady trees and much better people-watching.

    The sandwiches themselves were... perfectly adequate. I'd selected the Turkey Focaccia, and while I enjoyed the tomato focaccia bread, the sandwich contained just turkey (a touch underwhelming).

    Will I be back? Probably. They are close by & I have a coupon for a free cookie. I love cookies.

  • Review from Char Y.

    •  
    • 1076 friends
    • 831 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    6/20/2011 1 Check-in Here

    We came with a groupon and ordered a meatball and a costello special sandwich. They are ok, they are full of meat, but the bread was ok. I wish they are crispier.

  • Review from Julia J.

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    1/11/2011

    I enjoy the sandwiches from Costellos. This location seems to have a lower quality of oven since their sandwiches don't seem to come out as toasty as the Lincoln Ave. store.

    I'm not so crazy about their sides, so I usually just stick with chips (though they only offer plain potato chips if I remember correctly). Service is generally a little bit slow, but the sandwiches are good.

  • Review from Evan Thoreau H.

    München, Bayern

    Germany
    5.0 star rating
    9/1/2010

    What more can I say about my fave sammich place on my fave street in my fave Chicago neighborhood? It's just damn good.

    Costello's is everything that's great about another Chicago toasted sammy staple (fresh ingredients, tasty bread, delicious meats) without all the hooplah. A quaint shop on a tree lined streets, a little patio out front and classic Roscoe courtyard in the back. Good prices, great eats and friendly staff.

    Try the Italian Grinder or the Turkey Foccacia - mmmm.

    If only you knew how many buy-10-get-one-free cards I've burned through. It's a problem.

  • Review from Keith A.

    •  
    • 15 friends
    • 287 reviews

    Wilmette, IL

    4.0 star rating
    1/5/2011

    I've had this bookmarked for a couple of months now and yesterday I was jonesing hard for some sandwiches, so to roscoe village it was for some costello's

    So, I waltzed in around 11:30 and tried to decide on what to get. Many of the sandwiches looked tempting, but two Icons seemed to be talking to me:the smokin turk and a monterey chicken wrap.

    Both sandwiches were great and the sauce on both of them. I was having a hard time not wolfing them down when I took my turn on each tasty sandwich at lunch and then dinner.

    I got my sandwiches quick after I ordered.The vibe was very laid back and the counter people were very nice. I was able to leave with two sandwiches, two bags of chips and a drink for about $14, so no complaints from me there as well

  • Review from Dennis L.

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    11/23/2010 1 Check-in Here

    If you are looking for a delicious sandwich in a neighborhood atmosphere, Costello's is for you!

    Costello's has two locations: Roscoe Village and Lincoln Square. The Roscoe village restaurant is quite cozy and the food is just as comforting.

    On my visit, I had the Spicy Roscoe - Pepper crusted turkey, capicola and pepper jack cheese on an Italian sub with pepper rings, lettuce, tomato, chipotle mayo and classic vinaigrette.  It was excellent.  The sandwich also comes with a snack (chips or pretzels).  I upgraded to the deluxe combo which includes a side dish and a drink.  At the recommendation of the staff member, I had the mashed potatoes.  They were perfect.  

    Overall, a great experience that I will seek to duplicate in the future.

  • Review from Magen R.

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    7/3/2011

    I've been to Costellos a few times but recently stopped there and grabbed a sandwich to go. I had the beef steak grinder and it was delicious! My friends also enjoyed their sandwiches. The helpings were generous, we definitely were all full. I'd definitely recommend it for a lunch stop if you're around Roscoe Village.

  • Review from Erik O.

    Davis, CA

    2.0 star rating
    7/2/2011

    Really, really, really, mediocre. I bought The Mess sandwich, which sounded like a great idea. The bread was dry, the meat was slim and the service was poor.  Kinda sad seeing how good the sandwich could have been.

  • Review from Kelly G.

    •  
    • 27 friends
    • 6 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    10/17/2010

    I woke up yesterday and said to myself, "Self, you need a good sandwich."

    I agreed.

    I grabbed my fiancee, and we headed over to Costello's in Roscoe Village. We were not disappointed. Great sandwiches, quick service, and the best red skin mashed potatoes you will ever eat.

    Get your Self over there straight away. Order the entire menu. We will eventually.

  • Review from Becky S.

    •  
    • 22 friends
    • 117 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    5/29/2011

    I stopped in here for lunch with a girlfriend, both of us with our sons in strollers in tow.  The shop is a little tight for strollers on the inside, but we sat on the patio and had plenty of room.  It was a good option for us since we like to pay for our food ahead of time so we can make a mad dash out if either of our babies starts to act up. :)  I have eaten at the Costello in Lincoln Square as well and overall think both are decent.  I don't love the food, and, in general, there is not too much that is innovative here, but the sandwiches are solid and good for a quick lunch.

  • Review from Brook E.

    •  
    • 10 friends
    • 147 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    12/7/2010

    I've ordered from Costello's a number of times--never have I stepped foot in the place, but skimming over the other reviews it sounds like a fun atmosphere.

    I've had every vegetarian sandwich and wrap on the menu--all of it is tasty and filling.  What I really like is the option to order a deluxe meal with sides, chips or pretzels, etc.  I love that you can order an apple instead of chips, and I've tried many of the different sides that are available.  I think my favorite so far is the potato salad.  Word to the wise: the sauce that tops the spicy mac 'n cheese is HOT.  If you're sensitive, ask to have it left off, or if you can only handle medium spicy, mix up the mac 'n cheese with it, that stuff on its own could burn your tongue off!

  • Review from Ryan O.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 17 reviews

    Evanston, IL

    4.0 star rating
    7/31/2011

    The mess is awesome

  • Review from Scott C.

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    9/13/2010

    Costello's is consistently our go-to place for sandwiches in the neighborhood (over Jimmy Johns or Robey's).  They have a great selection of sandwiches and the sides are not too bad either.  I definitely prefer the chipotle mac-n-cheese which has a nice little kick to it.

    The sandwiches are prepared while you wait, which, at times, can be kind of long, but it's worth it to have a fresh sandwich.  The meal prices and combo offerings they have are good and competitive with most lunch places.

    If you have a dollar left over, pick up one of the rice krispy treats mixed with candy or chocolate - they are a nice little dessert after your sandwich!

  • Review from Jamie B.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    8/17/2011

    Pretty lame. I ate here for lunch and would have rather had subway sadly. The bread was hard to bite through and I got a cookie with it that seemed wayyy past its shelf life. Kind of a waste of money considering that product lacks big time.

  • Review from Christopher E.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 4 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    12/12/2010

    Oh, how I love The Mess!

    I walked in yesterday to eat here. I had been all over the city all morning (not by choice) doing Christmas shopping and really needed to eat! I get like a 2 year old when not fed properly. I freely admit that I whine, pout and cry until I get food.

    Being such a whiner I sure most anything would have tasted good at that time but Costello's just blew me away. Everything tasted better and fresher than any other sandwich shop I have visited. Admittedly, I do not frequent sandwich shops often, but Costello's could change that.

    The service was wonderful, the food was amazing! I wish they could get it out faster to you, but for the taste it packs I will wait the extra time.

  • Review from Tina B.

    Santa Rosa, CA

    3.0 star rating
    3/10/2009

    Tastes like Quiznos, costs like fancy (2 sandwiches+1 kids meal=$25...).
    But it's a local business instead of a chain and my kid likes it, so okay - sometimes.

  • Review from Kate P.

    Berwyn, IL

    4.0 star rating
    4/16/2009

    This is a great place for lunch or a quick dinner.  I also like that you can choose from the following options:

    1.  The sandwich - this option is simple, it's just a whole sandwich of your choice and it comes with chips, pretzels, or an apple.  Drink not included.

    2.  The combo - my favorite because it's a half a sandwich that comes with a small side, either hot or cold.  You can choose from chips, pretzels, or an apple.  The best part is that this meal comes with a medium sized fountain drink.  You just can't go wrong with this option.

    3,  The deluxe - a whole sandwich of your choice, a regular sized portion of one of their sides - hot or cold, choice of chips, pretzels or an apple and served up with a fountain drink.  

    Costello's has great sandwich options to choose from for vegetarians, carnivores and omnivores alike.  I'm a fan of their red pepper rotini and tuna pineapple salads as well as their village vegetarian sandwich.

    They also cater, so if you need some sandwich platters that will tantalize everyone's tastebuds then Costello's is the place for you.

  • Review from Joe M.

    •  
    • 91 friends
    • 66 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    10/16/2008

    The DIY decor suits the place well, the staff is all friendly and the sandwiches are first rate. It may be the great curse of the small sandwich shop that it will never find the appreciation of the aristocracy and recognized as high art. Which is a shame because if the likes of Kant, Copernicus or da Vinci forewent their chosen paths and decided to open a sandwich shop instead, I imagine it would be a joint similar to Costello's.

    Unfortunately the only thing that keeps this from being a 5-Star joint is the price. For what they charge you'd think the sandwiches actually were made by Copernicus.

    This is a good place to go if... you like sandwiches. (This may sound simple, but its simplicity speaks volumes).

  • Review from Johnny B.

    •  
    • 151 friends
    • 297 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    4.0 star rating
    1/28/2008

    It takes awhile to get your food, but  that makes me feel like they make it fresh.

    Have always had a very tasty sandwich (or wrap - I almost always get the Monterey Chicken Wrap... mmmm...) and I love their tuna salad with pineapple chunks.

    Edit: Just had a turkey sandwich on tomato focaccia bread with garlic mayo and vinaigrette.  I love sandwiches that balance the creaminess of mayo with the sharp bite of vinegar.  Add that to the tomato bread, and it was an elite sandwich in my book.

    Edit 2.0: The Southern Turkey Pastrami is reeeeeeeally good.

  • Review from Karla I.

    •  
    • 33 friends
    • 189 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    6/12/2011

    Delicious--I adore the ham and cheese with lettuce. Simple, affordable, and a cute little spot for most instances where one would need a sandwich.

  • Review from Chris M.

    •  
    • 11 friends
    • 148 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    5.0 star rating
    4/23/2009

    I love Costello's as much for its tasty sandwiches as its scrumptious sides. The sides make the place.

    The sandwiches are good. They are filling, creative and make my taste buds dance. There is also a wide variety of meat, vegetarian and choose your own sandwich options.

    The sides are satisfying, innovative and make my taste buds shout for joy just like the men of Delta Tau Chi did during their famous party with Otis Day and the Nights in Animal House.

    If you are looking for a great meal and are tired of the chain sandwich shops (i.e. Subway and Quizno's) make a trip to Costello's. Your taste buds will thank you.

  • Review from Stacy C.

    •  
    • 33 friends
    • 64 reviews

    London

    UK
    1.0 star rating
    7/15/2008

    Chicago may not have the best seafood in the world, and sure you could get a better bagel somewhere else.  But one thing I can always count on finding in my hometown is a delicious, mouthwatering, filling sandwich.  In fact, I pretty much live off of sandwiches, and I'm okay with that.  Which brings me to the sandwiches we had at Costello's last weekend...  

    Costello's, you have brought shame upon Chicago.  Your cute, kitschy appearance belies your pathetic excuse for a sandwich.  The Heartland sandwich is like a dorm cafeteria sandwich, only with less meat, and you can't just throw it away and get a waffle instead like I used to do when my dorm food tasted nasty.  The beefsteak grinder was tastier but once again had hardly anything on it.  Oh and the "fruit option" instead of chips was a small mealy apple.

    Please don't waste your time... even Subway is better than this, and that's saying a lot.

  • Review from Gary B.

    Chicago, IL

    3.0 star rating
    9/12/2008

    In the land of Roscoe Village where there are not many lunch spots that are walkable.  Costellos does meet the quick in and out requirement.  As others have stated the sandwiched are expensive but to be honest no more expensive than the Jimmy Johns two blocks away.
    I have had several of their sandwiches and yes I have had better elsewhere.
    One thing I do have to say is that the lady that takes the orders is very pleasant and always seems cheery.
    The place is very small and does fill up quickly.
    I don't have many choices so I will be back.

  • Review from Hank S.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Chicago, IL

    2.0 star rating
    4/29/2008

    Overrated. It would be fine if everything on the menu cost $2 less, but as that's not the case, the place is a waste of time in a world where Potbelly's exists -- and that's bearing in mind that Potbelly's is slightly overrated as well.

    It's not that the food is terrible; it's simply not good enough, nor served in large enough quantities, to justify what it costs. If I want competent mediocrity, I'll go to Subway and pay a price more in line with the product.

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