The Italian Beef Sandwich That Makes Illinois a Food Destination

Few foods are as tied to Illinois as the Italian beef sandwich. Born in Chicago in the early 20th century, it was a way for Italian immigrants to stretch thin slices of beef with bread, peppers, and au jus. Over time, it became a state staple and now draws food lovers from across the country. Here are the spots that keep the tradition alive and make Illinois a destination for anyone chasing the perfect Italian beef.

1. Al’s #1 Italian Beef (Chicago)

Some places claim to set the standard, but Al’s #1 Italian Beef has the history to prove it. Founded in 1938, Al’s is the definition of a Chicago landmark. Walking up to its storefront, you can almost feel the generations of loyal regulars who have made it a ritual.

The first bite brings together paper-thin beef, bread that holds its shape just enough, and just the right kick of giardiniera. It’s not about flashy extras, but about getting the sandwich right every single time. The jus soaks perfectly into the roll, making every mouthful memorable.

Al’s takes pride in serving what many locals still call the benchmark for Italian beef sandwiches in Illinois. You’ll see police officers, families, and tourists all standing shoulder to shoulder, sharing an authentic taste of the city’s roots. Even after nearly a century, the energy and flavors here still define Illinois’ food scene.

2. Mr. Beef on Orleans (Chicago)

When a TV show makes your sandwich famous, the pressure is on to live up to the hype. Mr. Beef on Orleans, a humble shop in River North, has kept its focus simple: serve beef that speaks for itself. The small dining area invites conversation among strangers and regulars alike.

The sandwich here comes stacked with beef that is seasoned just enough, without overwhelming the natural flavors. Customers can order it ‘wet’ or ‘dipped,’ maximizing the savory jus and making every bite a messy, satisfying affair. There’s a no-nonsense vibe, what you see is what you get, and what you get is good.

Mr. Beef’s legacy goes beyond television fame. It stands as a symbol of what makes Illinois food culture approachable: the commitment to tradition and the willingness to let great ingredients shine. Every visit feels like a taste of local history.

3. Portillo’s (Multiple Locations, Statewide)

For many folks traveling through Illinois, Portillo’s is the first Italian beef they try. What started as a small hot dog stand is now a beloved chain with locations sprinkled throughout the state. The neon lights and 1950s décor give every visit a nostalgic touch.

The Italian beef here is consistently flavorful, sliced extra thin, and built for customization. Whether you prefer sweet peppers, hot giardiniera, or both, there’s always a way to make it your own. Portillo’s keeps the process quick and convenient, which makes it ideal for a road trip pit stop.

Despite its expansion, the sandwich has held onto its roots. Fans appreciate knowing they’ll get the same quality whether they’re in the city or a small Illinois suburb. It’s a comfortable, reliable introduction to the Italian beef tradition for newcomers and locals alike.

4. Johnnie’s Beef (Elmwood Park)

There’s something electric about joining the line outside Johnnie’s Beef. People from every part of Illinois make the pilgrimage, seeking out what many call the state’s best Italian beef. The rhythm of orders and the sizzle behind the counter set the mood instantly.

The sandwich itself is an exercise in balance. Johnnie’s beef is sliced thin, generously dipped in jus, and nestled in bread that somehow stays sturdy. You can add hot or sweet peppers, or even a charcoal-grilled sausage for a heartier meal.

Lemon ice from Johnnie’s has become a legendary companion, offering a tart finish to a rich meal. Locals swear by the combination, while first-timers leave with a new appreciation for Illinois’ food traditions. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as the food.

5. Buona Beef (Multiple Locations, Chicago Suburbs)

Buona Beef brings a family spirit to the Italian beef tradition. Started in 1981 by the Buonavolanto family, it now stretches across the Chicago suburbs. Each location has its own community flavor, but all carry the same recipe passed down through generations.

Buona’s sandwiches stand out for their slow-roasted beef, sliced right before serving. The au jus is rich without overpowering, and the sweet or hot peppers brighten each bite. Consistency matters here, customers know what to expect every time they visit.

Beyond the food, Buona has built a following for its neighborly hospitality. Staff often greet regulars by name, and newcomers feel welcome right away. It’s a testament to how the Italian beef sandwich fosters connection in Illinois, one meal at a time.

6. Tony’s Italian Beef (Chicago Heights)

At Tony’s Italian Beef, simplicity is the secret ingredient. This South Suburban spot attracts a steady stream of locals, all eager for a straightforward sandwich done right. The no-frills dining room adds to the charm, here, the food is the focus.

Tony’s sandwiches feature beef that’s tender and generously portioned, always paired with fresh bread that holds up to a good dip. Their signature is affordability, making it a go-to lunch break for those who work nearby. There’s a sense of familiarity that keeps people coming back.

Longtime employees greet regulars by name, and newcomers quickly realize why Tony’s has such a loyal following. For many, this is the taste of home, simple, hearty, and unmistakably Illinois. The steady quality and unpretentious service create a comfort that’s hard to find elsewhere.

7. Pop’s Italian Beef & Sausage (Palos Heights and Other Suburbs)

Pop’s Italian Beef & Sausage is the kind of place where options matter. Whether you want extra beef, more peppers, or a little extra dip, the staff is happy to make it happen. Located throughout the southwest suburbs, Pop’s is a lunchtime staple for many.

The sandwiches are robust, with beef that soaks up the jus, and rolls that maintain their integrity. Customers love the generous portions, which make sharing an option, though most keep their sandwich to themselves. The vibe is cheerful and energetic, perfect for a midday meal.

Pop’s has built its reputation on flexibility and flavor. Every visit feels like a quick escape from the daily routine, offering a reliable taste of Illinois tradition. It’s easy to see why so many locals keep this spot in their regular rotation.

8. Carm’s Beef and Italian Ice (Chicago, Little Italy)

Old-school charm runs deep at Carm’s Beef and Italian Ice. Tucked into Chicago’s Little Italy, Carm’s has been serving up Italian beef since 1929. The walls are filled with photos that tell stories from nearly a century of neighborhood gatherings.

The sandwich is a classic: thin beef, peppers for a little zing, and bread that soaks up just the right amount of jus. Locals often pair it with a lemon or cherry Italian ice, making for a meal that balances rich and refreshing.

Visiting Carm’s feels like stepping into a family’s kitchen, where recipes haven’t changed and smiles come easy. It’s a beloved reminder that Illinois’ food history is built on family, tradition, and simple pleasures. The sense of nostalgia here is as warming as the food itself.

9. Chickie’s (Hillside)

Chickie’s in Hillside is where bold flavors and loyal patrons meet. This west suburban standard draws a lunch crowd that spans generations. The air is filled with the aroma of slow-cooked beef and the crunch of giardiniera being piled high.

What sets Chickie’s apart is its unapologetically seasoned beef, which brings a punch of flavor without needing much else. Regulars often recommend adding a hearty spoonful of hot giardiniera for extra heat. Every bite delivers a combination of spicy, savory, and just enough tang.

Chickie’s remains a lively gathering spot, where the pace is quick but the conversations linger. There’s a community spirit here that reflects the best of Illinois: welcoming, bustling, and a little bit spicy. The sandwich is memorable, but the camaraderie keeps people coming back.