Lincoln Square · Chicago
Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen
European butcher · ★ 4.8 (2255 reviews) · Est. 1972
Gene's Sausage Shop & Delicatessen is a Lincoln Square institution founded in 1972 by Polish immigrant brothers John and Gene Luszcz. The market makes more than 40 varieties of smoked and fresh sausage on-site every day, backs it with a full old-fashioned butcher counter cutting fresh meat to order, and rounds it out with a European deli, imported groceries, cheese, and a beloved rooftop beer garden. It's as much a neighborhood landmark as a butcher shop.
Known For
House-made smoked sausageFresh butcher counterEuropean deli & imports
Services
- Custom cuts
- House sausage
- Deli & sandwiches
- Rooftop beer garden
Sourcing
More than 40 sausages made fresh on-site daily; fresh meat cut to order at the butcher counter.
A Lincoln Square landmark — 40-plus daily-made sausages, a real butcher counter, and a rooftop beer garden atop the shop.
FAQ
Shopping at a local butcher
How do I get custom cuts from a butcher?
Just ask. A good butcher will cut steaks to your thickness, trim and tie roasts, portion a whole chicken, or grind meat to order — usually while you wait. Tell them how you plan to cook it and they'll cut it to match.
Should I call ahead for special orders?
Yes, for anything large or specific — whole briskets, standing rib roasts, whole animals, holiday turkeys, or bulk quantities. A day or two of notice lets the shop set aside exactly what you need.
How should I store fresh meat from the butcher?
Keep it cold and use fresh cuts within a few days, or wrap tightly and freeze what you won't cook soon. Let steaks and roasts come toward room temperature before cooking, and always rest meat after it comes off the heat. A sturdy end-grain cutting board makes breaking down and portioning at home much easier.
Is buying from a local butcher worth it?
For quality, sourcing, and service, yes. You get fresher meat cut to order, honest advice, and often better value when you buy whole or in bulk — plus you're supporting an independent shop and a short, local supply chain.
