Chicago’s Italian beef sandwich is a local legend, with its thin slices of roast beef soaked in an herb-infused jus and topped with sweet or spicy peppers. While originating in Chicago, this iconic sandwich has spread across the country thanks to its irresistible flavor. Here’s where you can find authentic Italian beef sandwiches outside of the Windy City.
A Brief History of the Italian Beef Sandwich
The original Italian beef sandwich was invented in Chicago in the early 1900s. Italian immigrants working in the stockyards would bring home tough, inexpensive beef cuts and slow-roast them to tenderness The flavorful beef juices were used to make the signature jus for dipping the sandwich
Over the decades, Italian beef grew into a Chicago staple, with beloved local chains like Al’s Beef and Portillo’s leading the charge. It remains a Windy City favorite today. But Italian beef’s fame has spread, with restaurants across the country now serving their own versions.
Where to Find Great Italian Beef Nationwide
While nothing beats an authentic Chicago Italian beef, here are some spots outside Illinois that do justice to this sandwich:
Mr. Beef on Orleans – Las Vegas, NV
Part of a small Chicago-based chain this Las Vegas outpost stays true to the Windy City original. Their Italian beef comes soaked in a zesty jus and topped with your choice of sweet or hot peppers. Add mozzarella or cheddar cheese for the full experience.
The Bear – Various Locations in CA, NY, and MA
Inspired by the FX show of the same name, The Bear restaurants offer fantastic Italian beef. Tender beef and peppers sit atop a perfect crusty loaf from Chicago’s D’Amato’s Bakery. Dip it in the signature jus for the complete taste.
Buona – Various Locations Across U.S.
This growing chain was born in Berwyn, IL and keeps their Italian beef authentic. It’s slow-roasted, sliced thin, and served dipped in flavorful juices, just as it should be Pepper options let you customize the heat.
Frankie J’s Diner – Denton, TX
This cozy diner goes all-in on Chicago classics like Italian beef sandwiches and Vienna hot dogs. Their Italian beef brings a taste of home for transplanted Chicagoans with its perfectly seasoned meat on a hoagie roll.
The Bronx Chicago Grill – Wilson, NC
Despite its New York name, this North Carolina spot nails Chicago Italian beef. It starts with their very own recipe for seasoned, fall-apart tender beef cooked in broth. Peppers, cheese, and crispy fries complete this satisfying sandwich.
Capriotti’s – Various Locations Across U.S.
With shops in over 40 states, this popular sub chain offers an Italian beef inspired by the Windy City original. It comes stacked with thin beef and your choice of hot or sweet peppers to deliver that authentic flavor.
Serrelli’s – Galena, IL
Just a few hours outside Chicago, this Italian grocery store and deli makes Italian beef worth the trip. Their top-secret recipe produces exceptionally flavored beef thats sliced thin and topped with spicy giardiniera.
Flo & Santos – Nashville, TN
Nashville’s first Chicago-style italian beef spot brings a taste of authenticity to Music City. Their Italian beef gets rave reviews for its perfect bread-to-meat ratio and delightfully spicy giardiniera topping.
The Chicago Dog – Huntington Beach, CA
In addition to Chicago-style hot dogs, this SoCal spot serves a mean Italian beef. It’s slow-roasted for tenderness, stuffed into a French roll, and served au jus, just like back in Illinois. Peppers and cheese amp up the flavors.
Market Garden Brewery – Cleveland, OH
Cleveland brewpub Market Garden pays homage to sister city Chicago with an Italian beef sandwich that would make any Windy Citizen proud. A tender cut of beef simmers in spices, then gets piled high on a bun for a mouthwatering sandwich.
So while Italian beef may have Chicago origins, it’s clear that great versions can be found all over the map. Seek out these spots for authentic sandwiches reminiscent of the original Windy City classics. Just don’t forget to stock up on napkins – these sandwiches can get messy!
Chicago’s #1 Italian Beef Since 1938
“Chicago’s Best Italian Beef Sandwich”
Where can you get the best Italian beef in Chicago area? New ranking names top 8
FAQ
Is Italian beef only a Chicago thing?
By the 1980s, the sandwich was ubiquitous throughout Chicago and celebrities such as Neil Diamond and Jay Leno reportedly enjoyed the sandwich. Still, the sandwich was mostly unknown outside the city until the release of The Bear in 2022.
Is there an original beef in Chicago?
The Original Beef of Chicagoland, or The Beef, is (or was) a fictional Italian beef sandwich shop in Hulu’s The Bear, but it’s based on an authentic restaurant in the River North neighborhood of Chicago called Mr. Beef. Mr. Beef is located at 666 N Orleans St, and, unlike The Beef, it is still open.
What is Chicago’s number one Italian beef?
CHICAGO’S #1 ITALIAN BEEF
Al’s has been the sandwich of Chicago for 83 years, a true food icon, winner of over 150 culinary & critic awards, and has become a destination for people from across the world.
What is the best cut of beef for Chicago style beef?
True Chicago Beef is made from thinly sliced beef, but because I don’t have a meat slicer I used two chuck roast steaks. Really any cheap cut of beef would work fine, it’s more about how you cook it than the meat you use.