Craving a taste of Chicago? Forget the deep-dish; the real culinary champion is the Italian beef sandwich, a Windy City staple now gaining national acclaim! Eater staff and Ashok Selvam bring you the inside scoop, updated January 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM.

Born out of necessity in the early 1900s, the Italian beef was a creation of Italian working-class immigrants. They sought a way to make inexpensive cuts of meat more palatable, ingeniously tenderizing them and using stale bread as a foundation. This resourceful approach gave rise to a culinary icon.

While Chicago's deep-dish pizza holds a special place in many hearts, the Italian beef reigns supreme as the sandwich that truly encapsulates the city's vibrant and gritty spirit. It's a taste of Chicago history, culture, and culinary innovation all rolled into one messy, delicious package.

Information	Details
Name	Italian Beef Sandwich
Origin	Chicago, Illinois, USA
Creator	Italian working-class immigrants
Approximate Date of Origin	Early 1900s
Key Ingredients	Thinly sliced beef, Italian-style bread, gravy (au jus), giardiniera (optional)
Preparation	Beef is slow-roasted and thinly sliced, then simmered in a flavorful gravy. The sandwich is assembled by loading the beef onto the bread and optionally topping it with giardiniera. A "dip" in the gravy is a common request.
Variations	Sweet peppers, hot peppers, cheese
Cultural Significance	Considered a quintessential Chicago food, representing the city's working-class roots and diverse culinary scene.
National Recognition	Gaining popularity nationwide, partly due to media exposure and the success of shows like "The Bear."
Notable Establishments	Al's #1 Italian Beef, Johnnie's Beef, Mr. Beef, Buona Beef, Roma's Italian Beef Sausage & Pizza (and many others)
External Links	Choose Chicago - Official Tourism Site

Looking for the ultimate Italian beef experience? "The 21 best places to get italian beef in chicago juicy beef, spicy giardiniera, and that perfect dip\u2014these 21 chicago spots serve up the best italian beef sandwiches you don\u2019t want to miss!" Forget settling for second best; embark on a culinary adventure to discover the Windy City's most craveable treat.

For the purist, the best Italian beef is often found within city limits, and many argue that the original location on Taylor Street offers the peak experience. The address? Taylor St., Little Italy 3. It's a pilgrimage worth making for any serious Italian beef aficionado.

Legend has it that Al's invented the Italian beef in 1938. Whether Al's actually started the legend themselves is up for debate, but regardless, their contribution to Chicago's culinary landscape is undeniable. They've set a standard that many strive to reach.

Imagine this: a perfect Italian beef sandwich, boasting fluffy bread generously filled with beef cooked according to a top-secret recipe. This recipe is so guarded that it's rumored to be locked away in a tungsten safe, protected by a moat of bright orange gravy, rich with flavor. That's the level of dedication some establishments bring to their craft.

Chicago's Italian beef scene is diverse and dynamic. Roma's Italian Beef Sausage & Pizza, for example, has been serving up its version of the classic since 1968. The Cicero Avenue location, with its iconic green storefront, is a welcoming beacon for those who appreciate authentic Chicago flavors.

The quest to find Chicago's best Italian beef is a serious undertaking, one that often involves visiting over 50 restaurants and beef stands. Each establishment offers a unique interpretation of the classic sandwich, making the search a delicious and rewarding adventure.

Nick Kindelsperger of the Chicago Tribune has also weighed in on the debate, highlighting the Italian beef at Patio Restaurant. His expert opinion adds another layer to the ongoing discussion about which establishment truly holds the title of "best."

Mike Gebert has explored the Italian beef scene in 30 Chicago neighborhoods (and surrounding suburbs) in his search for the best. His comprehensive guide, published on September 30, 2014, at 1:00 AM, offers a valuable resource for those looking to expand their Italian beef horizons.

Adding to the rich tapestry of Chicago's Italian beef landscape, Roma's Italian Beef Sausage & Pizza began welcoming hungry patrons in 1968. Their commitment to quality and tradition has solidified their place among the city's best.

Al's proudly proclaims to have the "#1 Italian beef," a title bestowed upon them by Chicago magazine in 1980. This accolade has only fueled their dedication to serving up a top-notch sandwich.

For many, the search for the perfect Chicago Italian beef sandwich begins the moment they arrive at Midway Airport. It's a culinary mission, a rite of passage for anyone wanting to experience the true taste of Chicago.

While Buona is a relative newcomer to the Italian beef scene, their commitment to quality, particularly their use of top sirloin, has quickly earned them a loyal following throughout Chicagoland. They represent a new generation of Italian beef purveyors, bringing fresh ideas to a classic dish.

What started as a single stand in Berwyn in 1981 has grown into a beloved Chicago institution. Buona's success story is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Italian beef sandwich.

David Hammond, dining and drinking editor at Newcity and a regular contributor to the Chicago Tribune, offers his expertise on the Italian beef scene. His weekly food columns in Wednesday Journal provide valuable insights into Chicago's ever-evolving culinary landscape.

For those seeking a classic Italian beef experience, 8258 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60634, is a destination worth considering. This location offers a taste of Chicago's culinary heritage.

From its humble beginnings as a random stand in the 1950s, one establishment grew into a flagship store on the northwest side of the city. It remains a go-to spot for classic Chicago foods, including, of course, the iconic Italian beef.

Chicago is famous for many things, but its food is arguably its most defining characteristic. And among the city's many culinary treasures, the Italian beef stands out as a true original.

Chicago's best sandwich has been satisfying locals for nearly a century. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its simple yet irresistible appeal.

With season two of "The Bear" dropping on June 22, there's renewed interest in the Italian beef sandwich. Several publications are highlighting the best places to indulge in this Chicago classic.

Beyond the city limits, Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, also offers Italian beef options for those in the suburbs.

Serrelli Street offers a unique service: shipping real Chicago Italian beef anywhere in the country. They also feature an la carte menu, allowing customers to customize their Italian beef experience.

Creating authentic Chicago Italian beef requires the right ingredients and techniques. With the right cut of meat, cooking method, and flavorful liquid, you can achieve a tender, juicy result that rivals the best in Chicago.

Making Italian beef at home is a labor of love, but the reward is well worth the effort. The satisfaction of creating a truly authentic Chicago experience in your own kitchen is unparalleled.

To make about 5 pounds of authentic Italian beef, you'll need specific ingredients. These ingredients are the foundation of the dish, providing the essential flavors and textures that define the Italian beef experience.

A 5-pound bottom or top round roast is the ideal cut of meat for Italian beef. These cuts are lean and flavorful, and they become incredibly tender when slow-roasted.

Beef broth or stock, about 8 cups, is crucial for creating the flavorful gravy that is synonymous with Italian beef. The broth infuses the meat with rich, savory notes.

Vienna Beef Italian Beef and Gravy is a convenient option for those who want to enjoy a classic Chicago Italian beef without the hassle of making it from scratch. It's a taste of Chicago tradition that has been enjoyed for generations.

This product contains a complete Italian-style beef kit, including 2 pounds of sliced Italian beef, 2 pounds of gravy, and 6 ounces of giardiniera. It's a convenient way to experience the complete Italian beef package.

Some establishments offer additional options and pricing structures. For example: $9.50 for BBQ beef (on a round bun), $4.25 for a "soggie" (extra gravy-soaked sandwich), and $1.95 for a plain sandwich. Adding sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, or red sauce costs an additional $0.75.

One enthusiastic reviewer recommends Beefy's at 5749 S. "Steve if you ever have a chance to visit \u201cbeefy\u2019s @ 5749 s." This personal recommendation highlights the passionate following that Italian beef sandwiches inspire.

"I was mouthwatering while reading your list and simply had to go out and get a \u201cgood\u201d beef!their sandwich would not dissapoint you!" This comment captures the irresistible allure of a well-made Italian beef sandwich.

In July 2023, Chicago's WGN radio station held a "Best Beef" tournament, pitting 16 of the city's top Italian beef purveyors against each other in a listener vote. This event underscored the importance of Italian beef to Chicago's culinary identity.

Jay's Beef came in second in the WGN radio tournament, losing to Buona Beef by a mere 1% of the vote. This close contest highlights the competitive nature of Chicago's Italian beef scene.

Whether you're a local seeking a taste of nostalgia or a visitor eager to experience the best of Chicago cuisine, Johnnie's Beef is a must-visit destination. It's a place where tradition and flavor come together to create a truly memorable experience.

It's nearly impossible to compile a list of Italian beef sandwiches without mentioning Mr. Beef. This iconic establishment has been a Chicago staple for decades.

Most notably, Mr. Beef served as the inspiration for the hit FX show "The Bear." The show's success has further cemented Mr. Beef's place in pop culture.

However, Mr. Beef's recognition extends far beyond "The Bear." Comedian Jay Leno brought its sandwiches onto the set of "Late Night with David Letterman" in the mid-1980s, giving the establishment national exposure. This early endorsement helped to solidify Mr. Beef's reputation as a Chicago institution.