R&A Sourdough Introduce
R&A Sourdough: A Chicago Favorite for Authentic Bagels and Delicious Deli Fare
Introduction / Overview
For residents across Illinois, particularly those in the Chicago area, finding an authentic, high-quality bagel shop can truly make a difference in your daily routine. Enter R&A Sourdough, a local establishment that has quickly become a standout destination for more than just breakfast. Classified as a Bagel shop, Bakery, Deli, and Sandwich shop, R&A Sourdough offers a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and needs, from a simple morning coffee and bagel to a full-fledged catering tray for your next event.
What sets R&A Sourdough apart is its dedication to its namesake product: sourdough bagels and bialys. The menu highlights this focus, featuring these unique items alongside a creative array of Schmears and Spreads like House Hummus, Specialty Butters, and Seasonal Jam. Beyond the bagels, the shop is renowned for its selection of Simple Sammies and Special Sammies, including the classic Lox & Schmear and the creative Windy City Salami.
It's clear from customer feedback that R&A Sourdough is an experience, not just a quick stop. One patron, who moved to the Midwest from the East Coast, noted that the food was so amazing they had to return two days in a row, highlighting the shop’s ability to satisfy a craving for authentic bagel shop quality. Another customer praised the great variety of bagels and schmears, such as the cheddar jalapeño with roasted poblano schmear, and noted the staff's friendly attitude and the nice atmosphere. The shop's popularity means it's wise to plan ahead; as one review suggests, get there early because they do sell out of certain bagel flavors—a true testament to the freshness and local demand.
Location and Accessibility
R&A Sourdough is conveniently situated in the heart of Chicago, making it a central and easy stop for many local residents and visitors. Its location on Lawrence Avenue positions it within a vibrant community, easily accessible via various modes of transportation.
The shop’s physical location is:
1938 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
For patrons planning a visit, accessibility is a consideration that has been addressed, as the facility offers a Wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone in the community.
When it comes to parking, visitors should note the availability of Paid street parking in the surrounding area. This is a common arrangement in the bustling city of Chicago and should be factored into your travel time.
Services Offered
R&A Sourdough provides a range of services designed for maximum convenience, whether you're looking for a quick bite or catering for a large group. Their service options streamline the process of getting their delicious food into your hands. Based on public data, the primary services offered include:
- Delivery: For those days when you can't make it to the shop, enjoy their menu delivered right to your door.
- In-store pickup: Place your order ahead of time and pick it up at the shop for a seamless experience.
- Takeout: Ideal for a quick visit, simply order and take your food to go.
- Breakfast: The primary dining option is breakfast, featuring their full selection of bagels, spreads, and specialty sammies.
- Catering Options: For larger events, they offer substantial packages like the Sammie Box ($60.00), Bagel & Schmear Box ($40.00), Bagel Lox & Deli Trays ($120.00), and Deli Trays ($85.00).
Features / Highlights
Beyond the core services, R&A Sourdough possesses several standout features that contribute to its appeal as a top local eatery. These highlights are what draw customers back time and again:
- Unique Sourdough Bagels: Unlike traditional preparations, R&A specializes in Sourdough Bagels & Bialys ($2.75), providing a distinct flavor and texture that is highly sought after.
- Specialty Coffee Offerings: The shop features quality beverages, including Passion House Drip Coffee ($3.50) and Passion Cat Cold Brew ($5.50), catering to the discerning coffee drinker.
- Creative Sandwich Menu: The menu goes beyond standard deli fare with unique creations like The Hipster ($9.75), The Heebster ($13.75), and the The B.E.C. ($9.75), in addition to the popular Lox & Schmear ($11.75).
- Freshly Prepared Deli Meats: Customers can choose from high-quality options like Classic Nova Lox or Pastrami Seasoned Lox ($7.00) and Smoked Pastrami ($9.00), available both in sandwiches and A La Carte.
- Diverse Payment Options: The shop is set up for modern convenience, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- Sweet Treats and Pastries: The bakery aspect shines with items like Hot Chocolate Brownies ($4.50), Cinnamon Rolls ($5.50), and Blueberry Bagel "Nots" ($2.00).
- Customer Service Focus: Repeat customers frequently commend the owners and staff for being kind, patient, and providing such a great experience.
Contact Information
To plan your visit, place an order, or inquire about catering, here is the essential contact information for R&A Sourdough:
- Address: 1938 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
- Phone: (773) 942-6405 (Also listed as Mobile Phone: +1 773-942-6405)
What is Worth Choosing
When considering why R&A Sourdough is a worthwhile choice for local users in the Illinois region, several factors rise to the top. This isn't just another bagel spot; it is a Sourdough Bagel specialist. The unique, tangy flavor and satisfying chew of their signature bagels provide a superior platform for their wide array of Schmears ($4.00), allowing for endless, delicious combinations—try the cheddar jalapeño with roasted poblano schmear for a recommended savory experience.
For those looking for a substantial meal, the deli and sandwich offerings are a key draw. The Special Sammies menu is innovative, providing options that go far beyond the expected, while the availability of high-quality deli meats and the option to Build Your Own Custom Sammie ($2.75 base price) means your perfect meal is just an order away. The Lox & Schmear is a perennial classic, and R&A delivers it with fresh ingredients that consistently earn high praise.
Furthermore, the shop's efficiency and focus on customer needs make it ideal for a fast-paced lifestyle. Their planning category is listed as a Quick visit, which, combined with options for In-store pickup and Takeout, ensures that you can get your fix without significant delay. This commitment to both quality and speed, all wrapped up in a professional and friendly atmosphere, is what solidifies R&A Sourdough's place as a local gem in the Chicago food scene. Given the frequent sell-outs, a trip here is a choice well worth making early in the day!
R&A Sourdough Menu
Drinks
- Passion House Drip Coffee $3.50
Night Moves (dark roast) or LSD (light roast)
- Passion Cat Cold Brew $5.50
- Iced Tea $4.75
16 oz. assorted flavors
- Olipop $35.00
- Waterloo $1.50
- Just Water $2.50
Bottled water
Sourdough Bagels & Bialys
- Sourdough Bagels & Bialys $2.75
Single $2.75 | Half dozen $16.50 | Dozen $33.00 • Yes, it's all sourdough! • Plain | Everything | Sesame | Poppy | Onion | Garlic | Sea Salt | Asiago | Cheddar Jalapeno | Rosemary & Pink Salt | Za'atar | Oats & Honey | Chocolate Chip | Cinnamon Raisin | Plain Bialy | Poppy & Onion Bialy.
Schmears
- Schmears $4.00
Small $4 | Large $8.00 • Plain | Chive | Veggie | Garlic & Dill | Roasted Poblano | Maple Cinnamon • Lox & Chive Small +$1.00 | +$2.00 | Plain Vegan +$1.00 | +$2.00
Spreads
- House Hummus $3.00
Small $3.00 | Large $6.00
- Whipped Butter $2.00
Small $2.00 | Large $4.00
- Specialty Butters $3.00
Small $3.00 | Large $6.00 • Ask for our current flavors!
- Seasonal Jam $2.00
Small $2.00 | Large $4.00
Sourdough Biscuits
- Single Biscuit $4.00
- With Butter or Homemade Jam $5.00
Sourdough Breads
- Sourdough Breads $13.00
C'est la vie | Loaf • Boule | Pullman Loaf | Challah.
Sourdough Sweets & Pastries
- Blueberry Bagel "Nots" $2.00
Single $2.00 | Half Dozen $12.00 | Dozen $24.00
- Hot Chocolate Brownie $4.50
- Sprinkle Cookie $3.75
- Chocolate Chunk Sea Salt Cookie $4.00
- Assorted Muffins $3.75
- Cinnamon Rolls $5.50
Saturday & Sunday Only)
- Dog Treats $1.00
Simple Sammies
- Schmear or Hummus $4.75
- Lox & Schmear $11.75
- Cheesy Egg & Schmear $8.75
- Tuna or Egg Salad $7.75
- Roasted Turkey $9.75
- Butter or Jam $3.75
Special Sammies
- The Youngster $10.75
Plain schmear, your choice of hot honey bacon or sausage (turkey or vegan +$1.50), egg frittata, cheddar cheese, hot sauce.
- The Hipster $9.75
Vegetarian | Veggie schmear, salt roasted tomato, cucumber, avocado, olive oil.
- The Heebster $13.75
Chive schmear, nova lox, tomato, onion, capers, fresh dill, lemon squeeze.
- The Keister $16.75
Thinly sliced pastrami, muenster cheese, pickled red onion, spicy brown mustard, served warm on our sourdough bread.
- The B.E.C. $9.75
Our buttery sourdough biscuit, egg, and cheese | Add Hot Honey Bacon +$2.00 or Sausage Turkey or Vegan +$3.50
- The Big Bird $12.75
Garlic & dill schmear, house roasted turkey, avocado, tomato, onion, muenster cheese, served on sourdough bread.
- Windy City Salami $10.75
House baked salami, muenster cheese, onion, The Original Chicago Sauce.
- The Sprout $13.75
Vegan | Vegan plain schmear, vegan sausage, vegan egg, avocado, hot sauce.
R&A Specialties
- Sweet Potato Latkes $6.00
Gluten Free | A pair of delicious sweet potato pancakes served with a side of sour cream.
- Daisy Dog* $8.50
Single $8.50 | Field of daisies (3) $24.00 • Pigs in a blanket made with our sourdough bagel dough rolled in poppy seeds.
- Cheddar Dog* $8.50
A cheddar "corn dog" using sourdough bagel dough rolled in everything seasoning.
Build Your Own Custom Sammie!
- Build Your Own Custom Sammie $2.75
Your choice of: Bagel or Bialy $2.75 | Sourdough Bread $2.75 • Spreads: Schmear or Hummus +$2.00 | Butter or Jam +$1.00 • Premium toppings: Cheddar / Muenster Cheese +$1.00 | Bacon +$2.00 | Egg Frittata +$2.50 | Sweet Potato Latke (Gluten Free) +$3.00 | Avocado +$2.00 | Turkey Sausage +$3.50 | Tuna or Egg Salad +$5.00 | Roasted Turkey +$5.00 | Nova or Pastrami Lox +$7.00 | Smoked Pastrami +$11.00 • Veggies +$0.75 each: Cucumber, Tomato, Red Onion, Capers, Pickled Jalapenos, Fresh Jalapenos, Salt Roasted Tomato, Arugula • Sauces +$0.50 each: Yellow Mustard, Spicy Brown Mustard, Hot Sauce, Chili Crisp Mayo, the Original Chicago Sauce.
Deli
- Classic Nova Lox or Pastrami Seasoned Lox $7.00
Our house cured, brined, and cold smoked salmon • Just a side of lox (2 oz) $7.00 | 1/4 lb $14.00 | 1/2 lb $28.00 | 1 lb $52.00
- Smoked Pastrami $9.00
Cured and smoked beef brisket coated in a bold blend of herbs and spices • 1/4 lb $9.00 | 1/2 lb $18.00 | 1 lb $36.00
- Oven Roasted Turkey $9.00
House seasoned and roasted turkey • 1/2 lb $9.00 | 1 lb $18.00
- Tuna or Egg Salad $9.00
Tuna with a hint of dill, egg salad from "The Gram" • 1/2 lb $9.00 | 1 lb $18.00
A La Carte
- Sourdough Bagels $33.00
Hand rolled, kettle boiled, baked daily • Plain | Onion | Everything | Garlic | Asiago | Sesame | Poppy | Sea Salt | Oats & Honey | Za'atar | Choc. Chip | Cinnamon Raisin | Ched Jalapeno | Rosemary Pink Salt
- Schmear $16.00
Plain Whipped | Lox & Chive +$2.00 | Chive | Poblano | Garlic & Dill | Maple Cinn | Veggie | Seasonal.
- Nova Lox $52.00
Classic Nova | Pastrami Lox • House cured, smoked and hand sliced Atlantic salmon.
- Salads $18.00
Tuna Salad | Egg Salad
- House Cured Meats $36.00
Corned Beef | Pastrami • Cured, steamed/smoked and hand sliced in house.
Sammie Box
- Sammie Box $60.00
Mix and match any 6 bagel sammies from our simple sammie menu. Box includes 6 bags of assorted Great Lakes potato chips • Bagel & Schmear | Bagel, Lox & Schmear +$4.00 | Bagel & Tuna Salad | Bagel & Egg Salad | Bagel & Butter • Add Tomato, Onion, Cucumber, Jalapeno +$0.50 Ea | Capers +$0.25 | Avocado +$1.00
- Bagel & Schmear Box $40.00
Your choice of (6) bagels with (6) schmear combinations, includes 6 assorted bags of great lake potato chips.
Bagel Lox & Deli Trays
- Bagel Lox & Deli Trays $120.00
Half Tray $12.00 12 Sliced Bagels and Two (8 oz) Schmears, 1 lb of Nova Lox, 1/2 lb Tuna or Egg Salad, Tomato, Onion & Capers | Full Tray $230.00 24 Sliced Bagels and Four (8 oz) Schmears, 2 Lbs of Nova Lox, 1 Lb Tuna or Egg Salad, Tomato, Onion & Capers
Deli Trays
- Deli Trays $85.00
Small catering: 1/2 lb Nova Lox | 1/2 lb Egg Salad | 1/2 lb Tuna Salad | 1/2 lb Corned Beef | 1/2 lb Pastrami • Large gathering: 1 lb Nova Lox | 1 lb Egg Salad | 1 lb Tuna Salad | 1 lb Corned Beef | 1 lb Pastrami
Sweets
- The Favs Box $36.00
(3) Hot Chocolate Brownies | (3) Sprinkle Cookies | (3)chocolate Chip Dough Bars | (3) Assorted Muffins
- By the Dozen:
- Hot Chocolate Brownies $42.00
- Sprinkle Cookies $33.00
- Chocolate Chip Dough Bars $36.00
- Assorted Muffins $42.00
R&A Sourdough Details
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pickup
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Parking
- Paid street parking
R&A Sourdough Photos










R&A Sourdough Location
R&A Sourdough
1938 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60640, USA
R&A Sourdough Reviews
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★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1They have a great variety of bagels and schmears, and the prices are very fair. I tried two delicious combos: the cheddar jalapeño with roasted poblano schmear and the oats and honey with maple cinnamon schmear. While my bagels were a bit chewy and not toasted, the flavors were excellent and made up for it. The waiting area inside is a bit tight, but the staff was friendly and the shop had a nice atmosphere. Just a heads-up: get there early because they do sell out of certain bagel flavors and there is a bit of a wait to receive your order.
August 05 · Danna OlmosI moved from the east coast to the Midwest a few years back, and am constantly missing the bagels/bagel shops that were so plentiful back east. The food here was so amazing I had to come back two days in a row while in town. The owners & staff are all so kind, patient, and provided such a great experience. Will return whenever I’m in town!
August 03 · bethanylouise360We got there really early, no sourdough left, no sourdough biscuits, took about 40 min for two breakfast sandwiches. A lot of online orders were being fulfilled with times on the receipts that were past the time or our order. Our food came out and it was ice cold, bagels weren’t toasted. Not a very good place or just can’t handle being busy. Probably won’t go back for a second shot.
August 23 · Timothy NovakOur favorite bagels in town! The sourdough adds a great flavor, bagels are always really fresh, generous schmears and prices are reasonable for what you get. They get busy, but our order is always waiting for us when we order ahead online.
August 02 · Nick CrushAs a local business, and model of a ‘start-up’ bakery, I was a little surprised that they declined to sell a little of their sourdough starter, to encourage others that may want to bake at home.Their prerogative, for sure, but enough of a surprise, that I’ll probably try to find and patronize another local bakery that’s a little more encouraging of the local baking community.
September 18 · Martin Teat
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