Chicago is renowned for its culinary diversity, and the Italian Beef Sandwich stands out as one of the city’s iconic dishes. With juicy, tender beef, flavorful au jus, and a mix of sweet and spicy peppers, these sandwiches offer a taste experience like no other. Here’s a guide to the eight best places in Chicago to savor this local delicacy.
1. Al’s Beef
Al’s Beef is arguably the most famous spot for Italian Beef Sandwiches in Chicago. Established in 1938, Al’s has perfected its recipe over decades. The beef is cooked slowly to achieve a tender, flavorful finish, and the sandwich is served with a choice of sweet or hot giardiniera peppers. The rich, aromatic jus in which the beef is soaked gives the sandwich its distinctive taste. Al’s also offers a “dipped” option where the entire sandwich is briefly immersed in the au jus, making every bite a juicy delight.
2. Johnnie’s Beef
Johnnie’s Beef, located in Elmwood Park, is another heavyweight in the Italian Beef Sandwich scene. Known for its no-frills approach, Johnnie’s serves a robust, generously portioned sandwich that attracts locals and tourists alike. The beef here is seasoned perfectly, and the bread is just sturdy enough to soak up the jus without falling apart. The hot peppers add a satisfying kick, making it a must-visit for spice lovers. Despite the simple setting, the flavors at Johnnie’s are anything but ordinary.
3. Mr. Beef on Orleans
Mr. Beef on Orleans is a family-owned institution in Chicago that prides itself on its traditional approach to the Italian Beef Sandwich. The beef is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices before being slow-cooked to perfection. Mr. Beef offers a balanced sandwich where the bread, meat, and peppers all play their part without overpowering each other. The cozy, unpretentious atmosphere of the restaurant adds to the overall experience, making it a beloved spot for locals.
4. Portillo’s
Portillo’s is a name synonymous with Chicago cuisine, and their Italian Beef Sandwiches are a testament to their commitment to quality. The sandwich features thinly sliced beef that is both tender and flavorful, complemented by the signature Portillo’s giardiniera. The beef is slow-cooked in a seasoned broth that infuses every slice with rich flavor. With multiple locations across the city, Portillo’s offers both convenience and consistency, making it a reliable choice for a delicious Italian Beef Sandwich.
5. Buona Beef
Buona Beef is another staple in the Chicago area, known for its family recipe that dates back to 1930. The beef is roasted and thinly sliced, then simmered in a savory gravy that enhances its natural flavors. Buona offers several variations, including a “cheesy beef” option where the sandwich is topped with melted mozzarella. The addition of the cheesy layer creates a creamy contrast to the spicy giardiniera, making for a uniquely satisfying sandwich experience. Buona Beef’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods has earned it a loyal following.
6. Max’s Italian Beef
Max’s Italian Beef, located in the heart of the city, serves up a hearty and flavorful Italian Beef Sandwich that has earned rave reviews. The beef at Max’s is seasoned with a special blend of spices and slow-cooked until it reaches melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The sandwiches are served with a generous portion of peppers and are often dipped in jus for extra flavor. Max’s also offers a variety of other sandwiches, but their Italian Beef remains a standout item on the menu, drawing patrons from all over Chicago.
7. Jay’s Beef
Jay’s Beef offers a classic take on the Italian Beef Sandwich that has been delighting customers since 1957. Their beef is slow-roasted and thinly sliced, then soaked in a rich, flavorful gravy. Jay’s is known for its generous portions and the quality of its giardiniera, which adds a perfect balance of heat and crunch. The sandwich is served on a fresh, chewy roll that holds up well against the juicy beef. Jay’s Beef is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional preparation methods and high-quality ingredients.
8. Ricobene’s
Ricobene’s is famous for its breaded steak sandwiches, but their Italian Beef Sandwich is equally impressive. The beef is slow-cooked in a savory broth, sliced thin, and piled high on a fresh roll. Ricobene’s offers a variety of toppings, including their signature hot peppers, which add a spicy kick to the sandwich. The combination of tender beef, flavorful jus, and crunchy peppers makes Ricobene’s Italian Beef Sandwich a standout. The casual, friendly atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a great spot to enjoy this Chicago classic.
Conclusion
The Italian Beef Sandwich is more than just a meal in Chicago; it’s a cultural experience. Each of these establishments offers its own unique take on this beloved sandwich, showcasing a range of flavors and preparation styles. Whether you prefer your sandwich dipped in jus, loaded with hot peppers, or topped with cheese, there’s an Italian Beef Sandwich in Chicago that’s perfect for you.