Hulu’s comedy series “Deli Boys” is a 10-episode show that premiered on March 6, 2025, created by Abdullah Saeed. The show blends dark humor with crime comedy, drawing inspiration from classics like “The Godfather” and more irreverent fare like “The Righteous Gemstones.” It’s set in Philadelphia (though filmed in Chicago) and leans into local references—like SEPTA jokes and expired Tastykakes—while infusing Pakistani-American cultural elements, such as smuggling drugs in pungent pickle jars.
The cast also includes Alfie Fuller as Raj’s girlfriend Prairie and Brian George as Ahmad, a rival within the crime ring, with guest stars like Tan France adding flair. Critics have praised its fast-paced humor, the chemistry between Ali and Shaikh, and Jagannathan’s standout performance, though some note it lacks deeper emotional resonance. It’s been well-received, earning a 96% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 9/10 from IGN, making it a fresh take on the crime-comedy genre.
Everyone is buzzing about this thrilling show, and at NetFilming, we’re delving into one of the key questions: where was it filmed? Spoiler alert—it’s not where you might think! Let’s break it down with all the juicy details, plus some extra tidbits to keep you in the know. Trust me, you’ll want to stick around for this.
What’s Deli Boys All About?
Before we get to the locations, let’s chat about the show itself. Deli Boys dropped on Hulu on March 6, 2025, and it’s a total blast. Created by Abdullah Saeed, it follows two Pakistani-American brothers, Mir Dar (Asif Ali) and Raj Dar (Saagar Shaikh). Mir’s the responsible one, while Raj is more of a carefree hipster. When their dad, Baba Dar (Iqbal Theba), a convenience store king, dies in a freak golf ball accident, their lives completely change. Turns out, his deli empire was hiding a secret—he was smuggling drugs like cocaine in pickle jars! Now, the brothers, aided by their resilient “Auntie” Lucky (Poorna Jagannathan), must assume control of his dubious business. It’s funny, fast-paced, and packed with a great cast, including Alfie Fuller and Brian George. Oh, and it’s got a 96% on Rotten Tomatoes—pretty impressive, right?
Hulu’s Deli Boys Filming Locations
Hulu’s Deli Boys is set in Philadelphia but was entirely filmed in Chicago, Illinois. The production team used spots like Devon Avenue, Essence of India, and Cinespace Studios to bring the story to life. It’s a clever swap that keeps the vibe authentic!
Chicago, Illinois
The irony is that although Deli Boys takes place in Philadelphia, every episode was filmed in Chicago, Illinois. Yep, no cheesesteaks or Liberty Bell here! Why the switch? Abdullah Saeed spilled the tea in an interview, saying Chicago’s vibe matches Philly perfectly. “It’s got that working-class feel, sports-crazy fans, and a real down-to-earth charm,” he said. Plus, Chicago’s got a huge South Asian community and killer filming spots, making it a smart pick. Production kicked off in January 2024 after some delays from the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes and wrapped up by April 5, 2024. So, let’s explore the spots that brought this show to life!
The Hulu TV series “Deli Boys” is filming this morning at Lincoln and Wilson. pic.twitter.com/fWEZCKFESv
— Robert Loerzel (@robertloerzel) February 8, 2024
Chicago’s Star Locations
Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods and cool businesses play a big role in Deli Boys. One standout spot is Essence of India at 4601 North Lincoln Avenue. This Indian restaurant isn’t just a place to grab a bite—it’s a key filming location. Its cozy vibe and South Asian flair perfectly complement the show’s cultural roots. If you’re ever in Chicago, swing by and soak in the atmosphere—you might feel like you’re on set!
Then there’s Devon Avenue in Rogers Park, around 2500 West Devon Avenue. This street is the heart of Chicago’s South Asian scene, packed with shops, eateries, and energy. It’s where the crew captured the lively chaos of the brothers’ world.
Fun fact: Devon Avenue has popped up in other projects, like The Big Sick, thanks to its authentic cultural vibe. It’s a must-see if you’re into the show’s backdrop.
Residential and Urban Gems
The team didn’t stop there. They filmed at a private home in Oak Park, at 825 North Euclid Avenue. This suburban spot adds a chill contrast to the city hustle, with its historic charm and tree-lined streets. Oak Park’s no stranger to the screen either—it’s been in classics like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Another key address is 2330 West Wilson Avenue, where they nabbed interior and exterior shots. Its classic Chicago look helps sell the Philly illusion, with clever camera work tying it all together.
For some grittier scenes, they headed to McKinley Park at 3550 South Western Boulevard. This area’s mix of industrial and residential vibes gives the show a real edge. It’s the kind of place that feels alive, and the cinematographers used its textures to make every shot pop. If you’ve seen Shameless, you might recognize this South Side energy—it’s a Chicago filming fave.
Studio Magic at Cinespace
Not everything happens on location, though. For indoor scenes, the crew turned to Cinespace Studios in North Lawndale, at 2621 West Fifteenth Place. This place is a powerhouse for TV production, hosting hits like Chicago Fire and Empire. It’s where they built sets to match the outdoor shots, keeping everything smooth and polished. Whether it’s a tense family meeting or a funny deli moment, Cinespace made it happen.
Why Chicago Works So Well
So, why does Chicago pull off Philly so convincingly? It’s all about the details. The crew tweaks signs and backgrounds to keep the Philly feel alive while leaning on Chicago’s rich diversity and film-friendly setup. The city’s got a rep for starring in big projects—think The Dark Knight or The Bear—and Deli Boys adds to that legacy. Plus, with its South Asian flavor and urban grit, it’s a natural fit for a story about culture, crime, and comedy.
Extra Scoop for Fans
Despite being based in Chicago, the show incorporates some Philly references, such as SEPTA jokes and references to expired Tastykakes. If you’re curious about the cast, don’t miss the appearances of guest stars like Tan France for an added dose of fun. At NetFilming, we think it’s these little touches that make Deli Boys a standout. Have you streamed it yet? All 10 episodes are on Hulu now—perfect for a weekend binge!
What do you think—ready to check out these spots yourself? Let us know!
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