Fumaré

What do you know about the Chicago French Market? We hope something, because if not you’re missing out. But on the off chance you’re uneducated, we’ll fill you in on a little secret young Skywalker, so listen to Obi-Wan.

Hiding beneath the platforms of the Ogilvie Train station is the French Market, which in truth is a fancy food court. What makes it French? Not much other than the fact it’s owned by a French guy. And while there are a few good stands, there is one in particular you need to know, and it’s what this review is all about.

Fumaré isn’t so much a restaurant as it is a permanently placed food truck in the northwest corner of the French Market, but they do one thing so well it’s worthy of a write-up. The Montreal style smoked meat sandwich is f*cking excellent. Don’t believe us? Just ask the guy taking orders for a taste because he’s happy to give you one. He’s the cheerful guy behind the counter everyday willing to chat about anything, anytime. You’d be that happy too if you left your job in banking to pursue a passion of smoking meats and serving them to the masses everyday instead.

If you work anywhere remotely near the French Market, Fumaré should be in your lunch rotation when there’s time. But it’s also open ’til 7 pm during the week and on Saturdays too, so there’s no excuse for not making a stop for a smoked meat sandwich. One bite into the tender goodness and you’ll understand why.

Food Rundown

Montreal-Style Smoked Meat on Rye

Tender, smoky, peppery Montreal style smoked meat, which is similar to pastrami but with more pepper and spices involved. The meat itself is perfect. Spread a bit of mustard on it and you’re good to go.

Corned Beef

Keep an eye out for it as a special. Always good when they have it.

Turkey Sandwich

Basic, but good. And you can’t eat pastrami sandwiches every day of your life.

Tuna Niçoise Sandwich

If we’re looking for something lighter, this is the route we go. The tuna, olive oil, and egg are all perfect together on a big french roll.

Liverwurst Sandwich

Liverwurst, or liver sausage, is not for everyone. But if you enjoy this old German staple, and every now and then we do, Fumare does a great version.