Cherubs

I started a new job nearby and have tried about 10 spots around Western & Fullerton. There are some good local restaurants, but Cherubs quickly became my go-to. Everything I’ve ordered has been great. The burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and especially the paninis and house salads are delicious. Most recently, I had the best tuna salad sandwich of my life. Elvia, the owner, suggested adding giardiniera (What Chicagoan can refuse Giard?) and it was perfection. The ingredients are fresh and the prices are very reasonable. Elvia is always kind, welcoming, and she supports of the local community. She also does catering. Bonus: if you like ginger, the tea is fantastic. If you are feeling under the weather, it truly hits the spot. 10/10 recommend.

I just had one the best burritos ever at Cherubs Cafe. It had the perfect mix of fresh ingredients - so good. My smoothie was excellent and made with real fruit. Great music and the owner is so nice.

Truly special place. Came on a whim. Was so beyond charmed. Elvia is a saint who slings coffee, solid tacos and paninis, and a mean horchata. The vibe is almost unparalleled. I’ve never been anywhere like this. Elvia told me all the neighborhood kids come to Cherubs if their parents are late picking them up from school because they feel safe and at home with her. Protect her and her paninis at all costs.

The food is ok but the service sucks. I came in at 1:40 pm and no one was there, not even any workers that I could see. I rang the bell several times, yelled hello, waited a few minutes, and was about to walk back out when the lady came out all annoyed and said "I heard you!" Not "how can I help you," not "sorry I had my hands full." Ok well I obviously can't hear you, or see you or anyone else. The music is too loud to hear anything. If this is how you run a business I won't be back. No wonder no one wants to hang out and eat lunch here. I'm staying in an Airbnb close by for a few weeks and was likely to come by daily for lunch or dinner but now I'm definitely not gonna do that. It's also really off putting to walk in and see a huge sign about God. Not everyone has good experiences with religion. I'm visiting from San Diego and I know that makes my expectations for Mexican food high, but come on. These nachos say steak but this is definitely ground beef. Those are not the same thing and this is false advertising. Tortilla chips are clearly the round Tostito's ones from a bag, not even restaurant style chips let alone made in house. Nacho cheese is the fake orange stuff and jalapenos are straight out of a can. Maybe spend more time making authentic food and less being rude to customers.

AYOOO. This is legit one of THE best panini sandwiches I’ve ever had in Chicago, and that’s not taking the price into consideration. The full sandwich for $11 is legit two sandwiches. Perfectly toasted thin bread, incredible pastrami, with mayo, mustard, lettuce and tomato. Holy cow what a deal and so much flavor. And a fresh green smoothie for $5? I mean you can’t find that anywhere in 2025. The atmosphere is impeccable. Support this local business you will NOT be disappointed! (Wish I took pictures.)