Tuesday 26th of February 2008 10:43:03 AM

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We have been to Jerry's several times since they opened, most recently over the weekend. A few notable things...bottle selection has ballooned to over 100 options, and is exclusively American, with the exception of Unibroue. There is a seasonal beer list nestled in the drink menu, it's a 1/2 page vertical insert.

They have been getting some good new beers as the arrive in the Chicago market, such as Dark Horse, and Blue Point Hoptical Illusion. Also one of few area bars to stock more than one Jolly Pumpkin.

Twelve taps, plus Sprecher Root Beer on draft. Dark Horse Special Reserve Black Bier was here recently. Usually there's a GLBC and a Victory tap as well. Several 3 Floyds options in bottles, though very pricey for bombers ($22 Dreadnaught).

Atmosphere is decidedly upscale and trendy for a "sandwich place", with the fireplace, sectional furniture, and occasional live music. Exposed ceiling beams are nice to see. The space is pretty narrow, and always packs 'em in. We have opted to eat across the street at Small Bar on weekend evenings, instead of waiting an hour here for sandwiches. Sat-sun. afternoons tend to be an ideal time to visit Jerry's. Service can be slow, but had improved on a recent sunday afternoon visit.

Food is creative, and includes many locally-sourced ingredients. My favorite has been the "Diego A" sandwich, marinated steak with mango chutney. Other sandwiches have been good too, there are several vegetarian options. A few of the sides like pasta salad and mac & cheese were a little bland though. There's even a stout float on the dessert menu...

Sunday 9th of September 2007 04:37:55 PM

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We LOVE this place.

The sandwiches are incredible. At least 100 choices on the menu but you can also build your own with as many of the ingredients they have as you'd like. Great sides (the chips are really spicy, get the fries instead), mac 'n cheese and the fruit cup are great choices as well.

The best deal is the $5 tap beers that come in a great sized goblet that are oh so cool to drink out of. Tap selection has something for everyone. Bottled you can find almost anything available in the chicago areas.

Inside is a little trendy, super clean and modern. They also have outdoor seating which is great except there is a hospital nearby so expect lots of sirens.

Definitely the best sandwich shop I've ever been, Jerry's is awesome!
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UPDATE: 9/12/08.
Jerry's is not so awesome anymore. They don't sell the beer in the big goblets anymore, instead it's the same price for a thick pint glass that has us questioning if it's actually a full pint. Also, something has happened to the sandwiches, they aren't filling them as full and you definitely don't feel like you're getting the value you once were. What a bummer.

Thursday 26th of July 2007 09:56:23 AM

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Jerry's in trendy Wicker Park opened very soon into July of 07. The decor is modern with lots of sharp corners and slick surfaces. Make sure to check out the spoon chandeliers!

The food menu (available online) at Jerry's is nothing short of daunting. 100 sandwiches of differing meats and veggies and 7 or more breads available to bookend the meats and cheeses. If you can't find something to eat here, you are probably dead on the inside.

There are 11 or 12 drafts available and a decent selection of bottles as well. The draft choices seem to focus on craft beers with a few Midwest regionals available. This is the sort of draft list that would be great to see at most restaurants. It's nothing too challenging, but it's an interesting enough selection that you'll be able to find something to try and enjoy. You'll probably find a few more interesting beers at Small Bar down the street but it is refreshing to see a place that seems to be focused on sandwiches have a beer list like this one.

If you're in the area and you're hungry, you really can't go wrong at Jerry's. The Division bus runs fairly regularly and Jerry's is only about a half mile stroll south of the Damen Blue Line stop (and Piece brewpub).