Als Number 1 Italian Beef
Italian-American
Al's #1 Italian Beef, North Clark Street, Chicago, IL, USA
OUR SCORE
Accolades
- Voted "#1 Italian Beef in Chicago" by Chicago Magazine
- Awarded "Best Italian Beef" by Chicago's Best on WGN
- Featured on Travel Channel's "Food Wars"
- Included in "America's Best Sandwiches" by Esquire Magazine
- Listed in "The 10 Best Italian Beef Sandwiches in Chicago" by Serious Eats
- Rated as one of "35 Must-Try Foods Before You Die" by Thrillist
- Winner of the "Best Sandwich in the State" award by Food Network Magazine
Restaurant Summary
Al's #1 Italian Beef stands as a culinary landmark for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of the city's famed Italian-American cuisine. As you step through the doors of this iconic eatery, you're immediately enveloped by the rich aromas of spices and savory beef that have been delighting taste buds since the restaurant first opened its doors.
At Al's #1 Italian Beef, the star of the menu is, undoubtedly, the Italian Beef sandwich that has garnered a legion of ardent fans. This Chicago staple is an assembly of thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned roast beef, soaked in its own natural jus and heaped onto a freshly baked Italian-style roll. Patrons have the option to customize their sandwich experience by choosing their preferred level of "wetness" — from dry, where the beef is just lightly touched with jus, to "dipped," where the entire sandwich takes a quick bath in the flavorful beef gravy.
For those who like a little heat, the "hot" version of the sandwich comes loaded with giardiniera, a tangy, spicy mix of pickled vegetables that adds a zesty kick. If you fancy a more mellow bite, the "sweet" option with sautéed green peppers will be right up your alley. And for the ultimate indulgence, the "cheesy beef" on garlic bread, smothered in a layer of melted provolone or mozzarella, is a decadent must-try.
Beyond the signature beef sandwich, Al's menu also boasts an array of classic Chicago-style offerings. The char-grilled Italian sausage is a flavorful delight, nestled in a hearty roll and crowned with the option of sweet peppers or hot giardiniera. For those who can't decide between the sausage or beef, the "Combo" marries the two in one sandwich, giving you the best of both worlds.
Don't forget to round out your meal with a generous helping of crispy, golden fries, a side that perfectly complements the succulent meats. And for the full Chicago experience, a Chicago-style hot dog, with all the traditional trimmings and no ketchup in sight, is a non-negotiable bite while visiting the Windy City.
Al's #1 Italian Beef is a timeless testament to the rich culinary heritage of Chicago, serving up hearty, flavorsome fare that transports diners to the heart of Italy, via the shores of Lake Michigan. It's a must-visit destination for anyone in search of a true, no-frills taste of Chicago's beloved flavors.
7.8 / 10