Chicago’s Eight Best Italian Beefs
The Italian Beef is a simple sandwich that is unique to Chicago, and there are several places in the city to find this great dish. Of course, just as is the case with pizza and hot dogs, Chicagoans can debate for hours on who has the best. I’ve tried to be as fair as possible with this ranking order, but I’m sure there will still be contention. Be sure to leave a comment or shoot me an e-mail, and let me know what you think!
8. Roma’s Italian Beef & Sausage. For decades, generations of loyal customers have been enjoying this neighborhood staple.
7. Al’s #1 Italian Beef. This south side spot is a favorite among celebrities and college students.
6. Buona Beef. With 11 locations in the Chicagoland area, the chain offers a lengthy menu to choose from.
5. Luke’s Italian Beef. The downtown hole in the wall offers something for everyone.
4. Mr. Beef. Step into the Elegant Dining Room, where you just might catch a glimpse of Jay Leno.
3. Portillo’s Hot Dogs. Sure, this popular spot might be known for its Chicago-style dogs, but the Italian Beef is great, too.
2. Johnnie’s Beef. No frills, no nonsense. Just good food worth waiting in line for.
1. Tony’s Italian Beef. For over 20 years, this south side pick-up-and-carry-out place has been serving up huge portions of food to long lines of hungry customers.
Photo credit: G Wiv, anearthling, snacksforwexler, eekim, caultron, MMChicago
2 Comments
Al’s #1 on Taylor Street has the best italian beef sandwiches. Well worth the trip to Chicago’s Little Italy. (University of Illinois-Chicago campus area) The fries are good also. The franchised Al’s are almost (not quite) as good. Mr. Beef on Orleans (downtown Chicago) and Roma’s on Cicero Ave are good too.
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