growing up in Elmwood Park 50s-60s we always went to Johnnies for beef, and being Catholic, back then we couldn't eat meat on Fridays, that's why Johnnies offered a pepper and egg sandwich on Fridays....this video brings back great memories for me....
As a lifelong Chicagoan, I approve of this list. I've tried them all but Duck Inn. Portillo's ain't what it used to be, however. Wouldn't recommend it a top spot anymore.
Hands down. I recently visited chicago for the second time and had Johnnie's. The only other Italian beef I've had was Portillo's. Johnnie's was way better, even though I did like Portillo's. I'm going to try more when I go back, but I can't see anything topping Johnnie's.
I haven't been to Jay's in a long time, but I remember that they had a great Italian beef, and they used to overstuff the sammich with the beef. I'm glad they're still around and will stop by next time I'm in town.
Took my daughter to Portillo’s a few weeks ago and the lack of meat in her Italian beef sandwich was alarming. Go to the independent Italian beef stands to get true value.
Portillo's sold out when they franchised. Can you believe that they actually use a scale to portion the beef? Ridiculous! Any real good Italian beef joint just stuffs the sammich.
When I lived in Los Angeles, I few my family to my hometown of Chicago just so that my 5 year old daughter could try Chicago Italian Beef and Deep Dish Pizza.
Years ago there was an Al's on So. Cicero in Oak Lawn. It was the best. We really don't have anything as good in the area. I especially liked mine with red sauce and sweet green peppers.
There is a place in Indy ran by an ex Chicagoan. Very authentic. We are very lucky to have him. I lived in Chicago for years so I know authentic. Great Chicago dogs also.
I grew up in Chicago and been to All of those places and they definitely have great Italian beef sandwiches but just right out side of the south side in Calumet city.. is Pepinos and you definitely need to give them a try great you won't be disappointed
My grandfather and I used to talk about the evolution of popular food... when he was a kid (near Chicago) the Italian beef sandwich was the thing. This was replaced by hamburgers, then pizza, and now it seems to be tacos. How cool is that!
Mr Beef on Orleans St. is Chicago's best beef! I've been eating beef's from there since they opened up. Boston's was also great for beef's but they since closed down.
@@agarbis6571 I never tried the beef. Hot dogs are good. The pizza I never tried either. For beef I go to als in little Italy. I tried jhonnies and tasted bland to me. Wasn't all that. Als to me on taylor is king but that's just my view.
Love Buona beef plant based beefless sandwich. I miss the beef since giving up meat and this is so close to it! Growing up in little village we always had Chickie's beef on Pulaski. Was the best Italian beef!
I think over the years, the qualities and taste of Beef itself has changed quite a bit. As well as other meats-poultry-seafoods. It used to be that the fat on a good Ribeye or Porterhouse Steak would just melt in your mouth. And that was the best part! Today you need a knife as sharp as a samurai sword to cut through it. .
Miss all those places and more... Had good friends In Chicago our first 50 we lived on the N side of Indy, visited often... Don't find that out here in CO the last ten years...
My mouth is watering!!! Being a suburbanite, I've enjoyed Portillo's (here and in Scottsdale, AZ), Al's (when it was near O'Hare) and Buona. All delicious and each restaurant's fries are heavenly as well! If you appreciate restaurants whose interior hasn't changed in forever, can't argue with Barnaby's (and the Tavern style pizza is so good...)!
best way = get a combo (sausage & beef) dipped/soaked/wet/dripping - heavily juiced - add sweet peppers (and raw onion if you're me) then get the jardiniere on the side - now thats a sammich
Your opening drone shot is cool--I saw "Carbit Paint" and thought, "Wow, I know where that is!" I've recently appraised several buildings in the foreground, and over the years building all the way to the horizon. As an appraiser I spend a lot of time "in the field" driving to properties. An early find, some 30 years ago, was Johnnie's. Still good!
Babas back in the day, I can recall many great places we would go, 60's through the 80;s. But it started before that. I'd truly cross examine Chris Pacelli, owner of Al's to tell me that Al's uses the exact same seasonings as the old Babas did? The processes of "properly" making Italian Beef is not some mystery science. I'm almost 70, and they were making this stuff when I was in Diapers. I think it's safe to say, that many began adding Beef Tallow to the juice. Otherwise what you would have is "seasoned water". A Beef Sammy's Juice is not like the natural Au Jus you have with a Prime Rib, Chateaubriand, or Traditional Roast Beef. It is doped.
Being from Philly originally I am familiar with the "Philly cheesesteak"! I've tried many versions of this sandwich all over the USA! In Philly there also is a "Italian roast beef" sandwich that is not so popular! The BEST version of this is at Nick's Roast Beef at 20th & Jack s on in south Philly!This is similar to this "Chicago-style roast beef" sandwich! I've been to Chicago many times over the last 50 years & I never ate this sandwich! I would like to try it because I love a juicy, savory sandwich with a hard roll! The jardiniere is a nice bonus!
Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park is the Best of the best. Have been to all of these places they are all great but Johnnie's is spiced better it's #1! I get it Juicy extra HOT but sweet is great also.
The best Chicago style dog is at Gene and Judes on River Rd. In River Grove. Open since 1946, they serve the Chicago-style dog with fresh french fries right on top! Just don't be stupid and ask for ketchup as they'll tell you to get some at McDonald's down the road, lol!
Frannie's, Al's, Bombacigno's (closed), Chickies, Lukes, the old Roma's before the owner sold it, and Pop's in Lyon's, have been my favorite beefs. The mainstays like Johnnies are good, but I am always looking to add to the repertoire.
We have an awesome Italian Beef/Chicago Dog stand with other options for meals here in Colorado and it's really good! If I'm in Chicago again I'll have to try one or two, three while I'm there, lol
I remember growing up on the north side of Chicago and having those 11 cents gravy sandwiches when I was in the 7th grade on the corner of Chicago avenue and western back in the early 70's They would give you the Italian beef bread dipped in the beef gravy that was a great meal for less than a quarter and you had money left over for a donut up the street on Chicago avenue those were the days in my home town Chicago
True. Once upon a time, they were our benchmark for any of their sandwiches. That changed when Dick Portillo sold it. Now we don't bother. Buena's is better now.
Patio, 1503 Taylor St. Single best Beefs, Combo's, fries and Chicago dogs. Hands down. I used to live next to Al's on Taylor, ate plenty of stringy fries from Mr. Beef, Pops is good, Riccobene's sucks, Patio straight kills it!
Yeah, Patio was always good. Many places, and the ones you mention surely aren't like they were 40 or more years ago. Babas was one place we frequented. I heard rumor that the Patio is going to close?
Johnnie’s is tops (technically not the city, but near west suburbs…also home to best hot dogs and other foods of “the city”. In general, the farther away from the lake and tourist spots, the better. You were in/near Chicagos official Little Italy (near in Elmwood Park) since 1991 vs the former Liitle Italy on Taylor St.
You guys were right there by Johnny’s beef but didn’t stop at Jay's Beef of Harwood Heights which in my opinion is better. Plus in Elmwood park there this spot alpine food shop and they make one mean Italian sub.
So sad... I grew up off of CARM's beef's on Cicero & Lexington next to MAGIKISS which no longer exist and SCATCHELL's on Cicero & Cermak that still in existence but was not mentioned 😢
growing up in Elmwood Park 50s-60s we always went to Johnnies for beef, and being Catholic, back then we couldn't eat meat on Fridays, that's why Johnnies offered a pepper and egg sandwich on Fridays....this video brings back great memories for me....
I love that Johnnie’s Beef place! Always get an Italian Ice on the side!
As a lifelong Chicagoan, I approve of this list. I've tried them all but Duck Inn. Portillo's ain't what it used to be, however. Wouldn't recommend it a top spot anymore.
You are unknowledgeable period nobody uses chuck roast for italian beef, nobody.
I use to praise there, but experienced theyve gotten smaller and more $.
Mr. Beef and Portillo`s are my Favorites for Italian Beef !
I really miss Chicago and especially the authentic Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago style hot dogs!
2024 Portillo's Will Have 88 Locations in the Midwest, California, Arizona, Florida & TEXAS. How About a Road Trip?
@@maureencora1 retired in Az. now, got to Portillos in Tempe quite often...
@@soxbearshwks8988 Touche' (smile)
Johnnie’s will always be the king. Juicy combo (beef and sausage) sweet. Greatest sammich on the planet
Is my family's "go to" for the past 65 yrs, and still rules!
Close, the hot Giardiniera is a must. They do beefs and sausage right!
Total agreement!!!!
Does Johnnie's still have the same char-grilled Italian sausage they had 50 years ago?...the best I've ever had
Hands down. I recently visited chicago for the second time and had Johnnie's. The only other Italian beef I've had was Portillo's. Johnnie's was way better, even though I did like Portillo's. I'm going to try more when I go back, but I can't see anything topping Johnnie's.
jays beef is da best. they roast in house just like johnnys. forgetaboutit !!!
Portillo’s will hurt your eyes . Hurt your eyes looking for the beef !
Johnnies in Elmwood Park 💚🤍❤️
The best!
I love the combo the best!! That sausage just adds some amazing flavor!
@@mikehup2383 YEP and their Italian Ice is to die for!!
@@mikehup2383100%
Jay's Beef on Narragansett and montrose excellent.
I haven't been to Jay's in a long time, but I remember that they had a great Italian beef, and they used to overstuff the sammich with the beef. I'm glad they're still around and will stop by next time I'm in town.
Portillo is not what it use to be. I find the Pizza Nova in Canaryville serves a great juicy Italian Beef
Duke’s Drive In was my favorite but they closed a few years ago. They used to be located in Bridgeview.
I agree. Portillo’s isn’t what it used to be. It’s still ok but not what it used to be.
That beef looked so skimpy
@@jaxsonhugh9334 it really does I'm greedy I would be upset 😭
@@boogitybear2283 I remember driving past I use to work on 85th & Harlem
Took my daughter to Portillo’s a few weeks ago and the lack of meat in her Italian beef sandwich was alarming. Go to the independent Italian beef stands to get true value.
Portillo's sold out when they franchised. Can you believe that they actually use a scale to portion the beef? Ridiculous! Any real good Italian beef joint just stuffs the sammich.
When I lived in Los Angeles, I few my family to my hometown of Chicago just so that my 5 year old daughter could try Chicago Italian Beef and Deep Dish Pizza.
Luke's Italian Beef.
215 W Jackson.
Excellent beef and a bag of fries as big as your head.😋😋😋
Yes! I was looking for someone to say something about Luke’s freakin awesome sandwich and pile of fries! 😊
Thanks
Just went to Johnnie's last weekend. They make a great beef!
johnnies has always skimped on the size of their beefs. fries undercooked.
@@bigdchibro they got the best fries and the beef is just right
MR beef is great
Mr Beef in Homer Glen
Chickie's and Scatchell's are my favorites. I also agree with those suggesting Luke's.
Chickies 25 yrs ago. Not now
YASSSS for Scatchells 🔥🔥🔥
Years ago there was an Al's on So. Cicero in Oak Lawn. It was the best. We really don't have anything as good in the area. I especially liked mine with red sauce and sweet green peppers.
Ughh... that looks absolutely delicious. Im hungry now
A Johnnies dipped, with, and travellin'! Order up! Yeahhh....
Route 66 restaurant,10180 S Indianapolis Ave, Chicago, IL, is a must-try for Italian Beef. Unbelievable in size and taste. It's worth the ride.
Don't Forget The Legendary AL'S BEEF!!!!💥💥💥💥💥
AL'S too expensive compared to others
Al's beef is way too grease compared to Johnnie's. Johnnie's has the perfect blend and also cheaper in price.
Any “best beef of Chicago” list that starts with Portillos is out of their fricken minds!!
You are right. Even though I go there once in a while, I consider it more of a McDonald’s kind of restaurant for beefs, dogs and burgers.
MR. BEEF ! ❤ is the Best
Novi's beef in berwyn on Ogden. 🔥🔥🔥
Al's is the best, used to go there all the time.
There is a place in Indy ran by an ex Chicagoan. Very authentic. We are very lucky to have him. I lived in Chicago for years so I know authentic. Great Chicago dogs also.
What's the name of the place?
@@richvillicana8205 Chicago beef and dog. In Irvington.
I grew up in Chicago and been to All of those places and they definitely have great Italian beef sandwiches but just right out side of the south side in Calumet city.. is Pepinos and you definitely need to give them a try great you won't be disappointed
Going to try them out and do a review on my channel. I've heard Pepinos was good but never tried.
My grandfather and I used to talk about the evolution of popular food... when he was a kid (near Chicago) the Italian beef sandwich was the thing. This was replaced by hamburgers, then pizza, and now it seems to be tacos. How cool is that!
Best sandwich on earth
It's very rare that I order an Italian Beef. But you have me so hungry right now! Great video guys. Love your channel!!!
I like Al"s Beef
👏🏼
BOMB!!!!
Mr Beef on Orleans St. is Chicago's best beef! I've been eating beef's from there since they opened up. Boston's was also great for beef's but they since closed down.
Al's is # 1 in my book.....Awesome beef, and Awesome giardinar!!!!!!!!!!!
Al's is str8 trash!
I recently tried Scatchell's Beef & Pizza at 4700 s cemerk. Soooooo good!
I pass through there everyday, I'll be stopping by
Hot dogs there are good
@@agarbis6571 I never tried the beef. Hot dogs are good. The pizza I never tried either. For beef I go to als in little Italy. I tried jhonnies and tasted bland to me. Wasn't all that. Als to me on taylor is king but that's just my view.
Love Buona beef plant based beefless sandwich. I miss the beef since giving up meat and this is so close to it! Growing up in little village we always had Chickie's beef on Pulaski. Was the best Italian beef!
Nice video. Lots of good places if you know where to look. Been watching The Bear, so I had to click this video. Cheers.
I think over the years, the qualities and taste of Beef itself has changed quite a bit. As well as other meats-poultry-seafoods. It used to be that the fat on a good Ribeye or Porterhouse Steak would just melt in your mouth. And that was the best part! Today you need a knife as sharp as a samurai sword to cut through it. .
Was going to say I have to try that AL’s until you said shredded beef and saw the sandwich. I like my Italian beef to have the beef sliced.
Al's beef on Taylor Street is the best. Ain't been there since 79 through 85 Blackhawks season when I went
Al's beef is not shredded but sliced paper thin. It's tender and incredibly flavorful. Their giardinere is hands down the best.
Pete’s in Oak Park. Across the street from Turano Bakery. You will thank me
Micheals on Oak Park and north ave
Pete's for gyros... Novi's in Berwyn Best
@@DrTruth-zk7vr Pete’s got a better beef too. Way more flavor. Not saying Novis still ain’t good. I worked at Turano for 10 yrs. I’m certified
Turano's bakery is awesome, almost as good as Gonnella bakery.
Miss all those places and more... Had good friends In Chicago our first 50 we lived on the N side of Indy, visited often... Don't find that out here in CO the last ten years...
Portillo's rocks!
I’ve had it at least a half-dozen times at Al’s. Keep going back!
2024 Glad Portillo's is in TEXAS 5 Locations in Dallas / Fort Worth & 2 Locations in Houston. I was Made in Chicago, IL. (southside)
I still loveportillos but when they went corporate was the start of the skimping! Don't go nearly as much as I used to.
Portillos continues to go downhill since they were bought by a greedy corporation.
My mouth is watering!!!
Being a suburbanite, I've enjoyed Portillo's (here and in Scottsdale, AZ), Al's (when it was near O'Hare) and Buona. All delicious and each restaurant's fries are heavenly as well!
If you appreciate restaurants whose interior hasn't changed in forever, can't argue with Barnaby's (and the Tavern style pizza is so good...)!
best way = get a combo (sausage & beef) dipped/soaked/wet/dripping - heavily juiced - add sweet peppers (and raw onion if you're me) then get the jardiniere on the side - now thats a sammich
Rarely do I comment on anything but this video was great. Chicago native and love an honest clearcut review. Nice work Adam and Madalyn!
I remember seeing Johnny Italian beef by another TH-camr. His name is Mark Weins. At Johnny's the dip the whole sandwich in the juice a submersion.
Yeah, you can go anyway you like. Might depend on the bread, too much juice you can't even pick it up. I like some on there, but not drowned. LOL
Those peppers tore Mark Weins up 😂😂😂
Al’s or Mr Beef are the best.
Buona is coming to Rockford ,to compete against against Tom and Jerry's should be a good battle.
Bouna is gonna win
I used to deliver to Mr Beef in the 1980’s
Your opening drone shot is cool--I saw "Carbit Paint" and thought, "Wow, I know where that is!" I've recently appraised several buildings in the foreground, and over the years building all the way to the horizon.
As an appraiser I spend a lot of time "in the field" driving to properties. An early find, some 30 years ago, was Johnnie's. Still good!
I love Johnnies my favorite is Pop's on 127th just east of Harlem [Palos Heights]
Best wet with sweet peppers!
Wow 😯 looks fabulous 🤤🤤🤤
Al’s is the best
Johnny’s is the best beef in the area.
Other than the spelling, you're not wrong.
I vote for Al's
🗳️
Babas back in the day, I can recall many great places we would go, 60's through the 80;s. But it started before that. I'd truly cross examine Chris Pacelli, owner of Al's to tell me that Al's uses the exact same seasonings as the old Babas did? The processes of "properly" making Italian Beef is not some mystery science. I'm almost 70, and they were making this stuff when I was in Diapers. I think it's safe to say, that many began adding Beef Tallow to the juice. Otherwise what you would have is "seasoned water". A Beef Sammy's Juice is not like the natural Au Jus you have with a Prime Rib, Chateaubriand, or Traditional Roast Beef. It is doped.
Being from Philly originally I am familiar with the "Philly cheesesteak"! I've tried many versions of this sandwich all over the USA! In Philly there also is a "Italian roast beef" sandwich that is not so popular! The BEST version of this is at Nick's Roast Beef at 20th & Jack s on in south Philly!This is similar to this "Chicago-style roast beef" sandwich! I've been to Chicago many times over the last 50 years & I never ate this sandwich! I would like to try it because I love a juicy, savory sandwich with a hard roll! The jardiniere is a nice bonus!
Chicago Italian beef tastes better than a Philadelphia cheesesteak. You definitely need to try one. Or two.
Fly on over and get 1. If you like Italian sausage get the combo. Stay away from commercial joint. Hit local neighborhood spots.
Check out Carm's down in Little Italy . They also have great ice .
Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park is the Best of the best. Have been to all of these places they are all great but Johnnie's is spiced better it's #1! I get it Juicy extra HOT but sweet is great also.
Never had an italian beef sandwich, but the best Chicago dog is definitely from a food truck, over by the Shedd Aquarium!
We’ve actually had this one and it’s pretty good
The best Chicago style dog is at Gene and Judes on River Rd. In River Grove. Open since 1946, they serve the Chicago-style dog with fresh french fries right on top! Just don't be stupid and ask for ketchup as they'll tell you to get some at McDonald's down the road, lol!
Portillo's, then Johnnie's Beef, glad i could help
Uh no. portillos in same sentence. No.
Johnnie’s #1…hands down
I can't stand ppl that just swallow their food , appreciate and savor what god gave you
Teddy s hot dogs and beef,just the right amount of spices on the beef,Plainfield road and also Lamont road,hidden treasure
Luv them all, l do like the AL'S beef sandwich because it is chopped very fine, but great beefs all around.
Frannie's, Al's, Bombacigno's (closed), Chickies, Lukes, the old Roma's before the owner sold it, and Pop's in Lyon's, have been my favorite beefs. The mainstays like Johnnies are good, but I am always looking to add to the repertoire.
Micheals, Johnnies, Petes, Marcos, last but not least Albanos open face beef 👍🏾
shredded italian roast beef is much better than sliced, uummm yum😮😊
Yes love this
All the Italian Beefs look delicious but where are the poppy seeds on those Chicago hot dog buns?
No Poppy Seeads? F&ck, they have the Rosens Truck there every week delivering, and Rosens make such. Is Chris the owner that F-ing cheap?
Portillos is trash since the family sold it. Just get the cake shake and a burger. Johnnie's or Al's is where you go for beef.
Couldn’t agree more, Buona is trash too
Pop’s!
Best Bang for your buck !
Dukes, it used to be around 82nd and Harlem, now is Mokena is my fav, if I don’t feel like driving that far, Pops will do the job for sure
To each his own, but I think you are missing the boat not getting the Italian beef dipped.
That sub look so good
Johnnie's Beef place❤❤❤❤❤
Great mix of Heaven! Nice Job!
Teddys in Darien is my favorite.
Johnnie's is the best. Hands down.
Johnny’s is my favorite
Best Italian beef is Buonea Beef, Luke's on Jackson downtown Chicago, I also like the croissant and cheese beef at Potillo's.
We went to Luke's in our recent video th-cam.com/video/QupibqoosQo/w-d-xo.html
youz guys are good...new subscriber here, I like youz an' I don't like lots of dem other ones...
We have an awesome Italian Beef/Chicago Dog stand with other options for meals here in Colorado and it's really good! If I'm in Chicago again I'll have to try one or two, three while I'm there, lol
Scatchells on the west side.
YASSSS Scatchells 🔥🔥🔥
I remember growing up on the north side of Chicago and having those 11 cents gravy sandwiches when I was in the 7th grade on the corner of Chicago avenue and western back in the early 70's They would give you the Italian beef bread dipped in the beef gravy that was a great meal for less than a quarter and you had money left over for a donut up the street on Chicago avenue those were the days in my home town Chicago
Roma's Beef on Cicero
Mr beefs great duck in as well as is portillos
Portillos does not belong in the top 5 anymore. Hell, chain Buona is doing better beefs than Portillos.
Agreed, portillos has been sold and all of the "corporate streamlining improvements" has sent me packing. No longer even decent food. Shame
Beefs be to greasy from portillos
True. Once upon a time, they were our benchmark for any of their sandwiches. That changed when Dick Portillo sold it. Now we don't bother. Buena's is better now.
Portillos gravy is the best, but AL'S meat is the best. But AL'S is double the price per pound for beef.
Buona beef is nasty 😂
True Chicago hot dog uses a poppy seed bun. Mr beef is not a poppy seed.
If you had to compare only two being Al's or Johnnie's which one will it be? Just the flavor and taste of the beef not the peppers.
All are good, Johnnies in Elmwood Park is the best, especially with Italian Ice.
Patio, 1503 Taylor St.
Single best Beefs, Combo's, fries and Chicago dogs. Hands down.
I used to live next to Al's on Taylor, ate plenty of stringy fries from Mr. Beef, Pops is good, Riccobene's sucks,
Patio straight kills it!
Yeah, Patio was always good. Many places, and the ones you mention surely aren't like they were 40 or more years ago. Babas was one place we frequented. I heard rumor that the Patio is going to close?
Johnnie’s is tops (technically not the city, but near west suburbs…also home to best hot dogs and other foods of “the city”. In general, the farther away from the lake and tourist spots, the better. You were in/near Chicagos official Little Italy (near in Elmwood Park) since 1991 vs the former Liitle Italy on Taylor St.
Where are the tomatoes on the hot dogs?
New Subscriber and Chicago is in the building
You guys were right there by Johnny’s beef but didn’t stop at Jay's Beef of Harwood Heights which in my opinion is better. Plus in Elmwood park there this spot alpine food shop and they make one mean Italian sub.
Marco’s on Fullerton and Austin has 🔥 Italian beef!
So sad... I grew up off of CARM's beef's on Cicero & Lexington next to MAGIKISS which no longer exist and SCATCHELL's on Cicero & Cermak that still in existence but was not mentioned 😢
Fellow west sider.
Right on you guys thanks alot 😂
Freddie's on 31st union Bridgeport at one time had the best beef sandwich in chicago now not so much
Born and raised in Bridgeport!! Yes, Freddie's would get my vote for best beef sandwich in Chicago!! 13:06
Novi's Beef in Berwyn is a great one. Best spiced gravy than all of those shown.
Great suggestion will look into it!