Chicago’s Italian beef sandwich is known as a culinary icon, famous for its tender, spicy beef stuffed inside a soft Italian roll, often served with giardiniera or sweet peppers. This beloved dish has been perfected by many establishments throughout the city. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the top spots where you can taste the best Italian beef sandwiches Chicago has to offer.
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Al’s #1 Italian Beef
Located in the heart of Chicago, Al’s is a well-known institution known for its delicious, well-spiced Italian beef sandwiches. A favorite for both locals and tourists, Al’s offers a top-notch sandwich experience.
Johnny’s Beef
A family-owned gem, Johnny’s Beef has been a favorite for years, serving delicious Italian beef sandwiches with consistent quality and a welcoming atmosphere.
Portillo’s & Barnelli’s Chicago
Known for its wide array of Chicago-style dishes, Portillo’s offers a great Italian beef sandwich, often paired with spicy chili. It’s perfect for those craving the full Chicago experience.
Tony’s Italian Beef
Tony’s offers a classic take on the Italian beef sandwich, with tender beef and a simple yet satisfying presentation. A hidden gem for many, Tony’s offers a more intimate, local dining experience.
Mr. Beef
A favorite Chicago staple, Mr. Beef serves generous portions of their famous Italian beef, offering sandwiches full of flavor and plenty of beef.
Ricobenne
Ricobenne puts a unique twist on the Italian beef sandwich by combining it with a breaded steak sandwich, creating a distinctive but equally delicious option for those looking for something different.
Chef Ciccio, Beef-Balls-Beer
Chef Ciccio takes the Italian beef sandwich to new heights by combining it with juicy meatballs, offering a creative and satisfying meal. Enjoy it with a cold craft beer for the full experience.
The Original Nottoli & Son
This classic Chicago establishment serves an Italian beef sandwich that includes cheese, offering a delicious and rich sandwich experience. This is a must-try for those who enjoy more traditional flavors.
Novi’s Beef
Located in a quiet part of Chicago, Novi’s Beef is known for its laid-back atmosphere and great Italian beef sandwiches. It’s the perfect place to have a relaxing meal with a great sandwich.
Bari Foods
Bari Foods, a famous Italian deli, is famous for its hearty and delicious Italian beef sandwiches. A perfect spot for anyone seeking authentic Chicago-style beef.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Wide range of options : From traditional to creative, there’s a beef sandwich for every taste.
- Delicious flavor : Tender beef, tasty seasonings, and juicy sandwiches make these places stand out.
- Convenient location : With multiple locations in Chicago, it’s easy to find a great sandwich.
- Time-tested favorites : Many of these places have been serving quality sandwiches for years, and have a lot of fans.
Cons
- Crowds : Some of the more popular places, like Portillo’s, can get crowded during busy times.
- Price : While most sandwiches are affordable, extra toppings or specialty items can drive up the price.
- Limited variety : If you don’t like beef, some of these places may not offer many alternative options.
FAQ’s
What is an Italian beef sandwich?
The Italian beef sandwich is made with thinly sliced beef, served on a soft Italian roll, often topped with pickled vegetables (giardiniera) or sweet peppers, and soaked in a delicious beef gravy.
Which place serves the best Italian beef in Chicago?
It depends on who you ask, but Al’s #1 Italian Beef and Johnny’s Beef are widely regarded as two of the best places for top-notch Italian beef sandwiches.
Can I add extra gravy to my sandwich?
Yes, many of these restaurants offer the option to add extra gravy to your sandwich to make it even juicier.
Are the sandwiches spicy?
Many of these places offer hot giardiniera or pickled peppers as toppings, but the spiciness level can be changed to suit your preference.
Do any of these places offer vegetarian options?
Most of these places focus on beef sandwiches, but some may offer options like sausage sandwiches or veggie options.
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