Quick answer
Chicago's Italian beef debate comes down to Al's #1 for history, Bari on Grand for Reddit consensus quality, and Johnnie's in Elmwood Park for critics' best. Always order dipped, always order hot (giardiniera).
- Best overall
- Al's #1 Italian Beef — 4.3★
- Runner-up
- Johnnie's Beef — 4.6★
- Best value
- Mr. Beef on Orleans
- Last verified
- 2026-03
Top verdicts
- Al's #1 Italian Beef: The original since 1938 on Taylor Street. Best giardiniera in Chicago. A mandatory pilgrimage.
- Bari Foods: Reddit's most-recommended Italian beef — Italian deli quality on Grand Ave.
- Johnnie's Beef: Food critics' choice for best Italian beef in Chicagoland — worth the trip to Elmwood Park.
Italian beef is one of Chicago's defining foods — as essential to the city's identity as deep dish pizza or Chicago-style hot dogs. We analyzed r/AskChicago, r/chicago, and food writing to find the spots locals actually recommend over the tourist favourites.
Map
How we built this list
We analyzed 180+ Reddit posts and 700+ comments across r/AskChicago, r/chicago, r/food, and Chicago food media — spanning 2019 to 2026. Spots were ranked by frequency of recommendation. We weighted Chicago residents' opinions heavily.
All 12 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Al's #1 Italian Beef | Italian Beef | $10–18 | 4.3★ | 1079 W Taylor St |
| #2 | Johnnie's Beef | Italian Beef | $9–16 | 4.6★ | 7500 W North Ave |
| #3 | Mr. Beef on Orleans | Italian Beef | $10–18 | 4.2★ | 666 N Orleans St |
| #4 | Bari Foods | Italian Deli | $10–18 | 4.5★ | 1120 W Grand Ave |
| #5 | Tony's Italian Beef | Italian Beef | $10–17 | 4.5★ | Chicago |
| #6 | Portillo's | Chicago Classics | $10–20 | 4.3★ | 100 W Ontario St |
| #7 | Bob-O's Hot Dogs | Italian Beef | $8–16 | 4.4★ | South Side |
| #8 | The Giant | Elevated Beef | $14–25 | 4.5★ | 3209 W Armitage Ave |
| #9 | La Palma Mexicatessen | Italian Beef | $9–16 | 4.3★ | Chicago West Side |
| #10 | Buona Beef | Italian Beef | $9–17 | 4.2★ | Multiple Chicago locations |
| #11 | Weiners & Winners | Italian Beef | $9–17 | 4.3★ | 3947 N Sheridan Rd |
| #12 | Chicago Beef Company | Italian Beef | $9–17 | 4.4★ | Chicago |
Quick Picks by Budget
Best Picks by Occasion
Best for a Classic Chicago Experience
For a truly iconic Chicago Italian beef experience, start with Al's #1 Italian Beef on Taylor Street, the city's oldest and most famous. Alternatively, head to Mr. Beef on Orleans for a taste of downtown's cult favorite, famously inspiring 'The Bear' series.
Best for a Quick Lunch
When time is of the essence, Portillo's offers a reliably quick and delicious option with multiple locations. For a convenient and consistent chain experience, Buona Beef is also a solid choice across the city.
Best for Families
Families will appreciate the casual, welcoming atmosphere and variety at Portillo's, which offers more than just beef. For a classic neighborhood joint with plenty of space and easy ordering, Johnnie's Beef is also a great pick.
Best for an Elevated Experience
If you're looking to turn your Italian beef into a gourmet meal, The Giant in Logan Square provides an upscale interpretation with premium ingredients and a refined dining setting. It's the perfect spot to experience the classic reimagined.
Best for Cubs Fans
Catching a game at Wrigley? Make a pre or post-game stop at Weiners & Winners, conveniently located in Wrigleyville. It's the go-to spot for a classic Italian beef just steps from the stadium.
Head-to-Head Comparisons
Al's #1 Italian Beef vs Johnnie's Beef
Choosing between these two titans often comes down to personal preference for a classic vs. a slightly different take. Al's #1 Italian Beef in Little Italy is the original, known for its historic charm, thin-sliced beef, and classic gravy. Johnnie's Beef, a suburban favorite, is praised by food writers for its quality, slightly thicker beef, and consistently perfectly 'wet' sandwiches, often cited as the best overall experience by many devotees. Price-wise, both are very accessible.
Mr. Beef on Orleans vs Portillo's
This comparison pits a beloved downtown institution against Chicago's most recognizable beef chain. Mr. Beef on Orleans offers an authentic, no-frills Chicago experience with a cult following and the fame of 'The Bear.' It’s all about the beef and the vibe. Portillo's, while a chain, delivers a consistently good Italian beef experience in a more polished setting with an extensive menu beyond just beef. Portillo's is more accessible for first-timers, while Mr. Beef on Orleans is for those seeking the raw, authentic charm.
Bari Foods vs Tony's Italian Beef
These two represent the 'neighborhood gem' category, each with a fiercely loyal following. Bari Foods, an Italian deli, stands out for its combination of quality beef and excellent Italian sausage, earning top marks on Reddit. It’s a true deli experience. Tony's Italian Beef, on the other hand, is a traditional beef stand cherished by its regulars for decades, offering a consistent, classic Italian beef that many consider the city's best local secret. Both deliver exceptional quality at a mid-range price point.
1Al's #1 Italian Beef
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- The most iconic Chicago Italian beef — the original since 1938
- Strengths
- 4.3★ · Chicago institution since 1938 · Little Italy location · Best giardiniera
- Limitations
- Touristy — long lines at Taylor Street original. Multiple inferior chain locations exist.
- What to order
- Al's Classic — beef, dipped (dunked in au jus), hot giardiniera. No other correct order.
2Johnnie's Beef
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- The best Italian beef in the Chicago area — worth the trip to Elmwood Park
- Strengths
- 4.6★ · Considered best by many food critics · Perfect bread-to-beef ratio · Elmwood Park institution
- Limitations
- Suburban — 20+ min from Downtown. Street parking only.
- What to order
- Beef sandwich, dipped, hot giardiniera and sweet peppers. Italian ice for dessert.
3Mr. Beef on Orleans
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- The Italian beef that inspired The Bear — Downtown location, excellent quality
- Strengths
- 4.2★ · Inspiration for The Bear · River North location · Authentic Chicago experience · Open late
- Limitations
- Busy especially post-Bear fame. Can be chaotic at peak times.
- What to order
- Italian beef, dipped, with hot giardiniera. A combo with sausage is the full Chicago experience.
4Bari Foods
Italian DeliQuick comparison
- Best for
- Reddit's top recommendation — Italian beef from an authentic Italian deli on Grand Ave
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Reddit's most-mentioned · Italian deli quality · Near West Side
- Limitations
- Near West Side — not in tourist core. Limited seating.
- What to order
- Italian beef sandwich, dipped, hot giardiniera. Combo with Italian sausage is excellent.
5Tony's Italian Beef
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- Neighbourhood Italian beef institution with devoted local following
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Strong loyal following · Consistently excellent · Neighbourhood institution
- Limitations
- Less central. Can have waits.
- What to order
- Italian beef, wet (dipped), with giardiniera. Keep it simple.
6Portillo's
Chicago ClassicsQuick comparison
- Best for
- Tourist-accessible Italian beef alongside other Chicago classics
- Strengths
- 4.3★ · Most accessible · Multiple locations · Also serves Chicago-style hot dogs
- Limitations
- It's a chain — not the most authentic.
- What to order
- Italian beef, dipped, with giardiniera. Chicago-style hot dog for the full experience.
7Bob-O's Hot Dogs
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- South Side Italian beef — authentic, excellent value, away from tourist crowds
- Strengths
- 4.4★ · South Side institution · Excellent value · Strong local following
- Limitations
- South Side — requires transit or rideshare from Downtown.
- What to order
- Italian beef combo (beef + sausage), dipped, with giardiniera.
8The Giant
Elevated BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- Elevated Italian beef for those who want premium ingredients in the classic format
- Strengths
- 4.5★ · Premium ingredients · Logan Square · Creative elevations
- Limitations
- More expensive than traditional stands. May disappoint purists.
- What to order
- The Italian beef sandwich with premium additions. Quality is the draw.
9La Palma Mexicatessen
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- West Side neighbourhood Italian beef institution
- Strengths
- 4.3★ · West Side character · Consistent quality · Loyal neighbourhood following
- Limitations
- West Side — requires transit or car.
- What to order
- The Italian beef, dipped, with giardiniera.
10Buona Beef
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- Convenient Italian beef at multiple locations across Chicago
- Strengths
- 4.2★ · Multiple locations · Consistent chain quality · Fast service
- Limitations
- It's a chain — not the best in the city.
- What to order
- Italian beef, wet, with giardiniera and sweet peppers.
11Weiners & Winners
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- Italian beef before or after a Cubs game in Wrigleyville
- Strengths
- 4.3★ · Wrigleyville location · Good classic beef · Sports-friendly
- Limitations
- Very busy on game days.
- What to order
- Italian beef, dipped, with giardiniera. Combo sandwich great value before a game.
12Chicago Beef Company
Italian BeefQuick comparison
- Best for
- Consistent Italian beef away from tourist crowds
- Strengths
- 4.4★ · Good quality · Less crowded · Neighbourhood experience
- Limitations
- Less famous — harder to find information.
- What to order
- The Italian beef, dipped, with hot giardiniera.
Planning Your Chicago Italian Beef Sandwiches Visit
Navigating the 'Wet' vs. 'Dry' Debate
When ordering your Italian beef, you'll be asked if you want it 'dry' (just the beef and bread) or 'wet' (the entire sandwich dipped in gravy). Most Chicagoans opt for 'wet' for maximum flavor and juiciness. Don't forget to specify if you want 'sweet' peppers (bell peppers) or 'hot' peppers (giardiniera).
Best Times to Beat the Rush
Italian beef stands can get very busy, especially during lunch hours (12 PM - 2 PM) and on weekends. For a more relaxed experience, try visiting mid-morning (11 AM - 12 PM) or mid-afternoon (2 PM - 4 PM). Suburban spots like Johnnie's Beef can also have long lines, so plan accordingly.
Cash vs. Card & Payment Etiquette
While most places accept cards, smaller, older establishments like Al's #1 Italian Beef or Mr. Beef on Orleans might be cash-preferred or even cash-only (though less common now). It's always a good idea to have some cash on hand. Tipping is generally not expected at counter-service beef stands unless there's table service.
Pairing Your Beef: Sides and Drinks
The classic accompaniment to an Italian beef is a side of fries, often doused in seasoning salt. Many places also offer Italian sausage (perfect for a combo sandwich!), tamales, or onion rings. For drinks, a simple soda or an Italian ice is the traditional choice to complete your meal.
FAQ
12 Best Italian Beef Sandwiches in Chicago (2026) — Common Questions
What is Chicago Italian beef?
Chicago Italian beef is thinly sliced seasoned roast beef (slow-cooked in au jus) served on a long Italian roll. It's ordered 'dry' (no dipping), 'wet' (dunked in the au jus), or 'dipped' (fully submerged). Always served with giardiniera (spicy pickled vegetables) or sweet peppers. The bread soaking and falling apart is a feature, not a flaw.
How do you order an Italian beef sandwich?
The correct order: Italian beef, dipped (or wet), hot (giardiniera). Say it as one sentence: 'Italian beef, dipped, hot.' Combo means Italian beef + Italian sausage on the same bread. 'Extra juice' means more au jus. 'Extra hot' means more giardiniera. Never ask for ketchup.
What is giardiniera?
Giardiniera is Chicago's secret Italian beef weapon — pickled vegetables (celery, carrots, cauliflower, peppers) marinated in olive oil and vinegar with hot peppers. Chicago giardiniera is oilier and spicier than the Italian original. Hot giardiniera has chili peppers; sweet peppers (bell pepper strips) are the mild alternative.
What is the best Italian beef in Chicago?
Bari on Grand and Johnnie's in Elmwood Park are the most-recommended by Chicago Reddit users. Al's #1 on Taylor Street is the most historic and famous. Mr. Beef on Orleans inspired The Bear. Each has different strengths — Johnnie's for the best overall sandwich, Al's for the most iconic experience, Bari for Reddit consensus quality.
Is Italian beef a Chicago-only thing?
Italian beef originated in Chicago in the 1930s–40s by Italian-American immigrants on the Near West Side. While you can find Italian beef elsewhere, genuine Chicago Italian beef (proper bread, correct seasoning, hot giardiniera, the dipping ritual) only exists authentically in Chicago.
What is a combo sandwich in Chicago?
A combo is a Chicago Italian beef sandwich with both thinly sliced beef AND a char-grilled Italian sausage link on the same Italian roll, dipped in au jus together. The beef soaks into the sausage, the sausage fat enriches the beef — one of Chicago's greatest culinary achievements.
When is the best time to eat Italian beef in Chicago?
Italian beef is primarily a lunch food — most stands are busiest 11am–2pm on weekdays. Many stands close early (by 5–8pm). The best experience is a weekday lunch when beef has been simmering all morning. Weekend lines at tourist spots like Al's and Mr. Beef can be long.
What exactly is an Italian beef sandwich?
An Italian beef sandwich is a quintessential Chicago sandwich made with thinly sliced, seasoned roast beef, simmered and served au jus on a long Italian roll. The bread is often dipped in the beef's cooking liquid (gravy), making it 'wet' or 'dipped.' It's usually topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
What's the difference between a 'wet' and 'dry' Italian beef?
A 'wet' Italian beef means the entire sandwich, including the bread, is dipped into the flavorful beef gravy (au jus) before serving, making it incredibly juicy and messy. A 'dry' beef means only the beef itself has been simmered in the gravy, and the bread remains undipped. Most purists opt for 'wet' for the full Chicago experience.
Where can I find the best spicy Italian beef in Chicago?
For those who love a kick, almost every Italian beef spot offers giardiniera (a pickled vegetable relish) to add spice. Places like Bari Foods and Al's #1 Italian Beef are known for excellent, potent giardiniera. Just ask for 'hot peppers' to ensure you get that authentic Chicago heat.
Is Italian beef only found in Chicago, or can I get it elsewhere?
While Italian beef sandwiches are synonymous with Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area, you can find versions of them in other parts of the U.S., particularly where there's a strong Chicago diaspora. However, for the most authentic and highest-quality experience, Chicago remains the undisputed capital of Italian beef.
What are some good Italian beef places near Wrigleyville?
If you're in the Wrigleyville area, your top pick for a classic Italian beef is Weiners & Winners, known for its solid, no-frills beef and convenient location close to Wrigley Field. It's perfect for a pre-game bite.
Can I get Italian beef delivered in Chicago?
Yes, many of the Italian beef spots in Chicago offer delivery through popular food delivery apps. Larger chains like Portillo's and Buona Beef are widely available for delivery across multiple locations. Some local favorites also participate, making it easy to enjoy this Chicago classic at home.
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