Johnnie's Beef
Fast food restaurant · Elmwood Park ·
Iconic cash-only stand serving juicy Italian beef sandwiches
Iconic cash-only stand serving juicy Italian beef sandwiches
"While Mr. Beef is the primary inspiration for the Beef on The Bear, the show also nods to another iconic Italian beef joint as part of the Episode 7 montage. Open since 1961, suburban spot Johnnie’s Beef has piled its signature sandwiches with giardiniera and also dished out hot dogs and charcoal-grilled Italian sausages. Finish the meal by cooling off with a lemon Italian ice." - Ashok Selvam
"Opened in 1961 and still operating from its original Elmwood Park spot, this no-frills institution is famous for its signature Italian beef sandwich and the relentlessly long line that forms year-round. The counter-only operation is cash-only with minimal seating (a small indoor counter and a few patio tables), so customers routinely grab their sandwiches to go, contributing to its reputation as a grab-and-go favorite." - Tori Allen
"The best example of Chicago’s iconic Italian beef sandwich exists outside of the city at the two suburban locations of Johnnie’s Beef. The original space in Elmwood Park is a relic that first opened in 1961 (there’s also a second location in Arlington Heights). The menu is simple: beefs (the monosyllabic term locals use for Italian beef sandwiches), charcoal-grilled Italian sausages, and hot dogs. The thin-cut beef is perfectly seasoned with hints of oregano. The hot peppers deliver plenty of heat without overwhelming the meat. Don’t sleep on the beef-sausage sandwich, which combines tender slices with a robust sausage. Pepper-and-egg sandwiches are also available daily; they’re mostly aimed at Catholic customers who need a meat-free option on Lent Fridays. For dessert, there’s a stellar lemon Italian ice. While the city has plenty of beef options, Johnnie’s is worth the drive to the burbs. Best for: A quick bite, answering .what makes an Italian beef so special" - Ashok Selvam
"There will never be an agreement on the best Italian beef in Chicago but Johnnie’s is the closest to a consensus. Its sandwich is considered by many to be the shining standard others strive for — a perfect balance of sweet or hot peppers and well-seasoned beef that soaks up all the jus. The line often snakes out the door and it’s easy to understand why. This is an iconic bite that every Chicagoan and tourist should experience. There’s a second location in Arlington Heights." - Eater Staff
"The Italian beef is perhaps the most iconic sandwich in all of Chicago. Although it’s hotly contested, a large chunk of people think the best one is found at Johnnie’s Beef out in Elmwood Park. Order it the traditional way: Topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers, and dipped in jus. Picnic tables are set up outside for dining. A second location is in suburban Arlington Heights." - Naomi Waxman
