History of the Chicago Italian Beef
The exact origins of the Italian beef sandwich are still debated, but the most widely accepted version credits its invention to Italian immigrants in Chicago. In the early 1900s, resourceful cooks began transforming humble cuts of beef into tender, flavorful dishes using techniques brought from Italy and adapted to their new surroundings.
They seared the meat over high heat, then simmered it slowly—often in a slow cooker or large pot—in a rich blend of beef stock, olive oil, garlic, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Once fully cooked, the beef was sliced paper-thin using a meat slicer, then returned to its juices to soak up even more flavor. The result was a deeply savory, melt-in-your-mouth sandwich.
At first, Italian beef didn’t make much of a splash beyond local enclaves. But by the 1970s, its popularity began to climb. By the 1980s, the sandwich had exploded across Chicagoland, with a fan base that included celebrities like Neil Diamond and Jay Leno.
Today, Italian beef is more than just a sandwich—it’s a citywide staple and a symbol of Chicago’s immigrant-driven culinary legacy.
What Makes Italian Beef Special?
When it comes to the Italian beef sandwich recipe, it’s all about the cut, the process, and the layers of flavor. Most traditional recipes use chuck roast, prized for its marbling and depth. Other acceptable cuts of beef include top round and bottom round, but chuck remains a fan favorite for its ability to break down into tender strands during long, slow cooking.
The roast is simmered low and slow in a broth. Once fully cooked, the beef is sliced ultra-thin and returned to the jus (that’s “au jus” for the fancy folks) to soak.
That flavorful bath is what gives the sandwich its signature richness. Spoon the jus over the top—or dip the entire sandwich—and let the French bread soak up all that savory goodness. Just make sure the roll is sturdy enough to hold up without turning soggy.
But what truly makes the Italian beef special, is that it’s a cornerstone of Chicago’s food culture. It’s the kind of sandwich that crosses neighborhoods, generations, and backgrounds. Whether you’re grabbing one from a street stand, a neighborhood deli, or a fourth-generation beef joint, it feels like something only this city could have created.
The Italian Beef Experience
Ordering Italian beef is a Chicago ritual. And to do it right, you’ve got to know your options.
Start with the bread: thick, chewy French rolls, often from local legends like Turano Baking Company, built to hold up to juice without falling apart.
Next: the beef. It should be hot, juicy, and sliced whisper-thin. Then, pick your wetness level:
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Dry – Beef is pulled straight from the tray, no extra broth.
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Wet – A ladle of jus is poured over the sandwich.
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Dipped – The entire sandwich is submerged in hot broth. Bring extra napkins.
Then come the toppings. Want heat? Ask for hot giardiniera—it’s crunchy, spicy, and full of pickled flair. Prefer something milder? Go with sweet peppers. Can’t decide? Many locals go half-and-half.
Some beef shops offer extras like provolone or mozzarella melted over the top for added richness. And if you're especially hungry, order the legendary combo—that’s Italian beef piled over a juicy Italian sausage, all tucked inside one heroic sandwich.
Forget utensils. This is hands-on eating. With a stack of napkins and maybe a side of fries, you’re all set for the full Italian beef sandwich experience. Whether you’re going dry, dipped, or somewhere in between, just make sure you enjoy it the way you like it.
Italian Beef Near Oak Park
If you’re craving an Italian beef sandwich that’s juicy, tender, and totally Chicago, the Oak Park area is packed with standout spots. Whether you're going for classic simplicity or looking to pile on the giardiniera, these neighborhood joints serve the kind of beef that locals swear by.
Here are a few of the places beloved by locals for Italian beef near Oak Park.
Michael’s Beef House (Oak Park)
A longtime local go-to, Michael’s Beef House on North Avenue has been slinging beef since 1977. Their secret is thin slices of slow-roasted beef cooked in savory beef broth and packed with flavor from classic Italian seasoning. Served on a soft, sturdy roll with your choice of sweet bell peppers or hot giardiniera, Michael’s knows how to do Italian beef right. The setting is casual, the service is fast, and the sandwich is the star.
Danny’s Italian Pizza & Beef (Brookfield)
Don’t let the pizza in the name fool you—Danny’s in Brookfield is serious about its beef. Their Italian beef is packed with flavor and served dripping with jus on a fresh roll. Order it with spicy giardiniera or go sweet with roasted bell peppers. They also serve a hearty beef and sausage combo that’s perfect if you’re extra hungry. Pro tip: Grab a slice while you’re there—it’s all good.
Portillo’s (Forest Park)
Sure, it’s a chain, but there’s a reason it’s become a local legend. Their Italian beef sandwich is everything it should be—thin, juicy, and loaded with flavor. Choose your level of dip, add hot or sweet peppers, and don’t forget to round out your order with a slice of their famously decadent chocolate cake or a chopped salad. With a retro vibe and consistently great food, Portillo’s in Forest Park is a go-to for first-timers and locals alike.
The Original Chickie’s (Hillside)
Originally from Chicago’s South Side, Chickie’s now serves their legendary beef from Roosevelt Road in Hillside. Their signature sandwich comes loaded with thinly sliced beef, slow-roasted and bathed in a deeply flavorful jus. Chickie’s is known for their homemade hot pepper mix—loaded with jalapeños, celery, and that signature tang—that elevates every bite. Go classic or upgrade to a beef and sausage combo for the full Chickie’s experience.
Frannie’s Beef (Schiller Park)
This no-frills joint in Schiller Park is all about doing the basics right and doing them exceptionally well. Frannie’s Italian beef is ultra-tender and well-seasoned, served on fresh Italian bread and topped with your choice of sweet bell peppers or house-made giardiniera. Whether you go dipped, juicy, or dry, Frannie’s delivers a sandwich that tastes like Chicago tradition, complete with rich, savory au jus that soaks into every bite.
No matter where you land, one thing’s for sure: these spots will make you fall even harder for this iconic Chicago sandwich. Just don’t forget the napkins.
Take a look at our full list of the best Italian Beef Near Oak Park.
Meet Us for an Italian Beef
Italian beef isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a Chicago institution. From its humble roots in kitchens to its rightful place on menus across the suburbs, this juicy, jus-soaked masterpiece has earned its legendary status. And just due west of Chicago, you’ll find some of the best spots to experience it for yourself.
Whether you're a fan of sweet peppers or crave the heat of hot giardiniera, there’s no shortage of options to customize your perfect bite. Order it dipped, dry, or somewhere in between and don’t sleep on the beef and sausage combo if you’re feeling bold.
Craving more iconic eats? After you’ve tackled your Italian beef cravings, treat yourself to another Chicago classic: deep dish pizza. Around here, we don’t believe in choosing just one.
