Craving that iconic Chicago sandwich? Let's dive into the world of Italian beef and uncover the best spots in Chicago to satisfy your cravings. We're talking about juicy, flavorful beef, thinly sliced and piled high on a crusty roll, dipped in au jus – or, as we Chicagoans say, "wet." Whether you're a local or just visiting, finding the perfect Italian beef sandwich is a must. So, buckle up, guys, because we're about to embark on a delicious journey through the Windy City's Italian beef scene.

What Makes a Great Italian Beef?

Before we jump into the restaurant recommendations, let's break down what makes an Italian beef truly exceptional. It's not just about throwing some beef on a bun. Several key elements contribute to the perfect Italian beef experience: the quality of the beef, the seasoning, the bread, and, of course, the au jus.

The Beef

The beef itself needs to be high-quality and cooked to perfection. Many places use top round or sirloin, slow-roasted to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor. The key is to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Also, the way the beef is sliced matters, it needs to be thinly sliced against the grain so it is as tender as possible.

The Seasoning

The seasoning is where the magic happens. A blend of Italian herbs and spices, garlic, and sometimes a touch of red pepper flakes creates that signature savory and slightly spicy flavor that makes Italian beef so addictive. Every restaurant has its own secret recipe, which makes it so unique.

The Bread

Let's not forget the bread. A sturdy, crusty Italian roll is essential to hold all that juicy beef and au jus without falling apart. Some places offer a softer roll, but the traditional choice is definitely the crusty one.

The Au Jus

Ah, the au jus, or gravy, as some call it. This is the flavorful broth created from the beef's natural juices and seasonings during the roasting process. It's what makes the sandwich "wet" or "dipped," adding an extra layer of richness and flavor. You can order your sandwich dry, wet, or dipped – each offering a different level of sauciness.

Top Italian Beef Spots in Chicago

Alright, guys, let's get to the good stuff – the restaurants! Chicago is brimming with amazing Italian beef joints, each with its own unique twist. Here are some of the top places you absolutely have to try:

Al's Beef

Al's Beef is a Chicago institution, known for its no-frills, classic Italian beef sandwiches. Their beef is thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned, and served on a crusty roll with your choice of sweet or hot peppers. The au jus is rich and flavorful, and you can order your sandwich exactly how you like it. Al's has several locations around the city, making it easy to get your fix. The original location is on Taylor Street in Little Italy and has been serving up delicious beef since 1938. Al's is committed to quality and tradition. They use only the finest ingredients, and their recipes have been passed down through generations. This is the taste that many Chicagoans think of when they think of Italian beef, and is often named at the top of any list of best Italian beef in Chicago.

Mr. Beef on Orleans

Made even more famous by the show The Bear, Mr. Beef on Orleans is another legendary spot that's been serving up Italian beef for decades. This place is a true Chicago staple, with a no-nonsense atmosphere and a focus on quality. The beef is tender and flavorful, the bread is perfectly crusty, and the au jus is simply divine. Be sure to try it with hot giardiniera for an extra kick. Mr. Beef has a passionate following, and it's not uncommon to see long lines during peak hours. But trust us, it's worth the wait. The restaurant is located in River North and has been around since 1979. They are also known for their Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian ice. This place captures the essence of Chicago's culinary scene.

Johnnie's Beef

If you're willing to venture a bit outside the city, Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park is a must-visit. This place is consistently ranked among the best Italian beef joints in the Chicago area. Their beef is incredibly tender, the au jus is perfectly balanced, and the portions are generous. Don't forget to try their Italian ice – it's the perfect way to cool down after a spicy beef sandwich. Johnnie's is a family-owned business that has been around since 1961. They take pride in their food and provide a welcoming atmosphere. You'll often see families and groups of friends enjoying a meal together, so be sure to bring the whole crew.

Portillo's

Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking: "Portillo's is a chain!" But hear me out. While it's true that Portillo's has multiple locations, their Italian beef is surprisingly good and consistently delicious. It's a great option if you're looking for a quick and easy fix, and their other menu items (like Chicago-style hot dogs and chocolate cake) are also worth trying. Portillo's has become a Chicago institution, and it's a great place to experience a variety of Chicago classics. The first Portillo's opened in 1963 as a hot dog stand called "Dog House". Today, it's a hugely successful restaurant chain known for its lively atmosphere and extensive menu. This is a great place to bring tourists if they are looking to try a lot of Chicago staples.

Jay's Beef

Located on Harlem Avenue, Jay's Beef is a hidden gem that's popular among locals. Their Italian beef is packed with flavor, and the prices are reasonable. It's a great spot to grab a quick lunch or dinner. Many customers say that Jay's is the real deal. One of the reasons why Jay's Beef is so popular is their dedication to customer service. They always go the extra mile to make sure their customers are happy. They also offer catering services, making them a great choice for parties and events.

How to Order Like a Pro

Now that you know where to go, let's talk about how to order your Italian beef like a true Chicagoan. Here's a quick guide to the lingo:

• Dry: No au jus. The beef is served on the roll without being dipped.
• Wet: The beef is dipped in au jus before being served.
• Dipped: The entire sandwich, including the roll, is submerged in au jus. This is the sauciest option.
• Sweet: With sweet peppers.
• Hot: With hot giardiniera (a mix of pickled vegetables).
• Extra Gravy: If you want even more au jus on your sandwich.

So, for example, if you want an Italian beef sandwich dipped with hot giardiniera, you would order: "One Italian beef, dipped, hot."

Make Your Own Italian Beef

Feeling ambitious? Why not try making your own Italian beef at home? It's easier than you might think, and it's a great way to impress your friends and family. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Italian rolls
• Sweet or hot peppers, for topping

Instructions:

1. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in the oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds.
6. Pour in the beef broth and red wine vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
7. Return the beef to the pot. Cover and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
8. Remove the beef from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the beef with two forks.
9. Strain the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids. This is your au jus.
10. To assemble the sandwiches, pile the shredded beef onto Italian rolls. Dip the sandwiches in the au jus and top with sweet or hot peppers.

Beyond the Beef: Other Chicago Classics

While you're exploring Chicago's culinary scene, don't forget to try some of the other local favorites. Here are a few must-try dishes:

• Chicago-style hot dog: A classic all-beef hot dog served on a poppy seed bun with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.
• Deep-dish pizza: A thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan and loaded with cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce.
• Italian ice: A refreshing frozen dessert that comes in a variety of flavors.
• Jibarito: A sandwich made with flattened, fried green plantains instead of bread, filled with meat, cheese, and other toppings.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys – a comprehensive guide to finding the best Italian beef in Chicago. Whether you're a seasoned local or a first-time visitor, I hope this article has given you some inspiration to explore the city's amazing food scene. So get out there, try some Italian beef, and let me know what you think. Enjoy!