Paulina Market has anchored Lakeview since 1949 as one of Chicago's great old-world German butcher shops. It is best known for homemade sausage made in-house, backed by a full fresh-meat counter, custom cutting, a deli, and frozen entrees to take home. It is a genuine neighborhood institution that has kept German butchery alive in the city for over seventy years.
Known For
Old-world German butcherHomemade sausageFresh meats
Services
- House sausage
- Custom cuts
- Frozen entrees
- Deli
More butchers in Chicago
A 1949 Lakeview institution — old-world German sausage made in-house, with a full butcher counter and deli behind it.
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.
