If you're nostalgic for lunch the way mom used to make, then stop into Finkel's, where you can order your favorite childhood sandwich with a pickle on the side instead of mom's icky love note.

Boasting the best corned beef in town, this Goose Island deli also serves up fresh cuts of pastrami, chopped chicken liver, and mortadella as well as a mean tuna salad. Every sandwich is layered with a generous serving of meat for growing boys and girls, but serious carnivores will want to order the Humongous Combo, offering double- and triple-decker mounds for just a few dollars more. On the other end of the spectrum, good boys and girls who eat their veggies will enjoy an array of salad options as well as the vegetable sub (Italian dressing, carrots, green peppers, lettuce, tomato, onions, cucumber and American cheese, $4.95).

If sandwiches aren't your thing, come in bright and early for breakfast the way mom used to make. The Dean Martin eggs (three eggs scrambled with Italian sausage, mozzarella and provolone cheese, green pepper, onion and potatoes) and nova lox plate (served with two bagels, cream cheese, lettuce, sliced onion, tomato and olives) run under $10. Or try one of the daily specials like meat loaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, and mixed vegetables or chili mac with parmesan cheese for only six bucks. Sure, your mom never charged you for her home cooking, but Finkel's won't pinch you on the cheek or tell you to play nice with your sister. Seems like a fair trade.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Amanda Nyren