When it comes to matzo balls, there are two schools. Those who like them fluffy like pillows and those who like them dense like billiard balls (well, not quite). We personally prefer them somewhere in between, but being dumpling devotees, we like to try them all. That’s why, to commemorate the end of the High Holidays and the beginning of the cold season, we’ve compiled our favorite local places to nosh and sip matzo ball soup. In addition to huge sandwiches and fresh bakery goods, Max and Benny’s Delicatessen (461 Waukengan Rd., Northbrook; 847-272-9490) makes an excellent version of this classic soup, while The Bagel Restaurant (50 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie; 847-677-0100) offers another fine rendition with a substantial ball that becomes almost creamy in consistency after a good soak. We give the lightest ball award to What’s Cooking (6107 N. Lincoln Ave.; 773-583-3050) for the airy sphere they drop in the middle of their tasty broth. But when it comes to all-around great consistency and taste we have to give the matzo ball trophy to Manny’s Coffee Shop and Deli. Not only was their fabulous broth swimming with rich droplets of fat, but the not-too-dense yet not-too-light ball (that benefits from plenty of schmaltz) was full of textural character and comforting, almost huggable flavor.
Matzo ball soup
$4 (per quart)
Manny’s Coffee Shop and Deli
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1141 S. Jefferson St.
312-939-2855
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Who makes your favorite matzo ball soup?
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