Portage Park’s Frunchroom Opens to Serve Thoughtful Chicago-Style Deli Food

Portage Park has a new casual spot for bagels, sandwiches, and fresh pastas now that Frunchroom has opened its doors. The restaurant — a collaboration between former Community Tavern chef de cuisine Matt Saccaro and the tavern’s founder, Quay Tao — debuted this morning on the Northwest Side with a menu representing Saccaro’s Chicago’s memories. It’s deli-inspired fare with dishes like meatballs using a recipe from Saccaro’s 92-year-old grandma. Terry Saccaro is a South Side native, and that’s where “frunchroom” — a kind of Chicago slang for “front room” — began.

A front room can be used as a synonym for a living room, but it also refers to the room house guests would step into; many homes in Chicago used the same general architectural layout. It’s supposed to be a welcoming and comfortable space and Saccaro hopes his restaurant can embody those traits.

Frunchroom [Official photo]

The mornings will features bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and smoked fish. There are also small plates including the aforementioned meatballs, an assortment of salads, a burger, and even heftier items including smoked baby back ribs. Prices range from $5 to $12. The restaurant also serves gelato from Zarlengo’s Italian Ice and Gelato in suburban Chicago Heights. That’s the family business of Rachel Saccaro, Matt’s wife.

Take a look at the menu below. The atmosphere inside, judging by the name, isn’t too serious, but Saccaro and Tao want the neighborhood to know by smoking meats on premises and using other high-quality ingredients that their restaurant has a serious menu. Frunchroom is now open in Portage Park.

Frunchroom, 4042 N. Milwaukee Avenue, (773) 853-2160, open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday; open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.