Order Al's Beef Takeout or Delivery
Al's Beef Photos
Business Info
Al's Beef Popular Dishes
AL'S BEEF ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
More like Al's Beef
Recommended Reviews - Al's Beef
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Place was popping and people were looking for something to warm up their bellies for that cold day in Chicago. I got the Italian Sausage with beef, extra dipped and fries. This was my first time trying one of these in Chicago and I must say, I'm glad I picked it. Super juicy, fries were perfectly crispy and crunchy. The dog combo extra dipped was out of this world ( from an Cali perspective haha), id definitely try it again. I also added the sweet peppers, nice touch
A lot of times you go to these iconic spots and they don't live up to the hype. This is not one of those spots. Krystal took our order with a smile, as she would with any tourist or regular. Our regular beef with hot and sweet peppers, soaked, sandwiches were ready in a few minutes and we scarfed them down immediately. The beef was hot and flavorful and the bread was wonderfully soft and damp. The first taste almost hits a bit salty, but your tastebuds reset with a few more bites and you get the layers of flavor from the juice and heat from the peppers. And I don't know how, but all that sloppy, juicy goodness never bleeds through the wrapper, onto the table. Brilliant!
Walked in the rain to get here and it was worth it! I got a beef sandwich and cheese fries and both were delicious! I'm used to portillos in California, and this blew it away! I considered trying the original portillos while I I was here visiting but didn't get the opportunity. Please open in California!
I went to this place to try their traditional beef sandwich, and it did not disappoint. I ordered the regular size with sweet and spicy chiles, wet but not dipped. The sandwich was very tasty, and the portion was generous. The chiles gave the meat a great balance of flavor and just the right kick. There was no line, and the food came out quickly. Overall, a solid and satisfying beef sandwich.
If you're frequent on food tv channels, you'll likely have seen a show that's showcased Al's Beef. While waiting around for a spot at the bar at Bavette's which was nearly impossible for a Friday night, I noticed Al's was a few blocks. Figured while in town, might was well try this iconic eatery. Al's known for Italian beef which I've never had. Closest thing I've had is a French Dip. Had a big Italian beef sandwich and instantly became a fan. The thinly sliced beef has a lot of flavor since it's marinated in its jus. It's not too salty and I added provolone and sweet peppers. Came here twice while in town and second time around, I got the gravy on the side. The first time, the bread was soaked and the bread fell apart towards the end. Good quick eats. Worth a try.
This location is nice. The other one I went to near the university was sort of dumpy. Not sure if this is new, but it's small inside and there was a line when we went. We ordered and waited for someone to leave and got their table. Maybe like a 5 minute wait on a Saturday afternoon. I got the regular beef, added the hot giardiniera and dipped it. It was good but super messy. Lots of beef. I like me a good beefy sandwich. Not a sandwich you can take to go, need to eat it hot and sit down since it gets messy.
Credit where credits due, Portillos put me onto Chicago Italian beef sandwiches. So when I heard that Als is OG, I had to check them out! Fantastic. I ordered the big beef and to my surprise (and mild self loathing), I felt like I could inhaled another one. The beef is moist and succulent and the peppers on top are a must. I will say Portillos holds its own against Al's in terms of flavor, but don't sleep on Al's at all. Check them out!
wowza. I needed that. the polish dog was alright but that burger... it was like that scene in ratatouille when ego is taken back to his childhood. so delicious. every one of my tastebuds were titillated and delighted. I savored every bight. she was a sloppy experience with a handful of napkins needed but that's how you know she was a goooood burger
Came to Al's Beef based on the recommendation of my friends from Chicago. After all, I can't come to Chicago and not get an Italian beef and a Chicago-style hot dog! Since I was visiting from out-of-town, no question that I was gonna get both a beef and a hot dog. Ordered a regular Beef & Sausage Combo and a Chicago Style Dog. The beef and sausage was...truly fantastic! Got it dipped and it was as meaty as I had hoped for. Very very tasty! The Chicago Style Dog was exactly what I expected. The pickle, tomatoes and mustard complement the beef really well. Staff here are great. They move really fast, which mattered as the line got super long after we got here. Food came out within 10 minutes. Super quick! Al's Beef really knows what it's doing! Ended up getting a Polish sausage to-go a few days later, and that didn't disappoint either! Super super good.
Recently stopped by Al's Beef on a late Friday night and had a great first experience. It wasn't too busy, which made for an easy visit. Since it was our first time, we used the self-serve kiosk to browse photos of the menu and decided on a dipped Italian beef with provolone and giardiniera, plus a side of chili cheese fries. The food came out quick and fresh. The Italian beef was the star! Juicy from the dip, loaded with tender, flavorful beef, and perfectly balanced with that slightly zesty, tangy kick from the giardiniera. Pro tip: eat it standing and leaning forward like the mural on the wall suggests, unless you want those delicious juices all over yourself. The chili cheese fries were generously loaded, though I wish the fries themselves were a bit crispier. Still satisfying, just not quite as crunchy as I expected. Overall, a solid spot for an authentic Italian beef and one I'd gladly come back to.
11 months ago
3 months ago
I was excited to try their Italian beef sandwich which looked amazing, but was slightly disappointed. I got the Big Beef sandwich and the bread and beef were quite dry despite ordering it wet. It may also be that I should've ordered it dipped to get a better experience, but the default option seemed to be wet so I went with it. I guess I could advise others to order it dipped for a tastier experience. The sandwich is loaded with thin slices of beef and only beef and I definitely needed more juice in it. I also tried their Chicago Polish dog and that was delicious! It comes on a bed of fries which are decent when paired with the hotdog. Overall a solid spot, but was underwhelmed by the flavor of the sandwich and I would recommend to order it dipped if you don't want a slightly dry sandwich. Service was quick and it can get busy during the lunch hour, but it's worth a try. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Al beef is def a must check out when in Chicago. The beef sandwich was very juicy and actually had a lot of flavor. The service was very fast and friendly and def will be coming back! Store was very clean and would recommend! read more
3 years ago
When in Chicago, I must have Al's Wet, Hot Peppers, and, Provolone Cheese Italian Beef at least once. Fast and efficient counter service. Spacious with plenty of high tops and tables at this RN location! CHEERS! read more
I had to try the Italian beef sandwich that I saw on The Bear. This did not disappoint. Delicious and flavorful. I got it dipped, which means the bread was drenched in the beef au jus. Fries were also great. Tons of people there and the staff were fast and efficient. It's small on the inside but the place moves so quickly that it's not a problem for seating. read more
I went here to try the Chicago Italian beef sandwich and this place was popping on a Monday lunch. We waited 15 minutes in line and another 20 minutes for the food, though it was somewhat worthwhile. We got the big beef sandwich dipped and made it hot Italian beef by adding hot giardineira for $1.40 extra and some sweet peppers as well. The sandwich was soggy as we chose it dipped, but it had nice flavor and there was a good amount of beef in it. The sandwich was spicy but not super spicy - it was tolerable and enhanced the experience. This is one of the few iconic "Chicago" American food that I would eat, as deep dish and the Chicago hot dog are not really my cup of tea. read more
3 years ago
The food is pretty much the same as when I was a kid, but the experience is different. It feels more like an Al's Beef themed restaurant if that makes any sense. Service is quick, but don't expect any order adjustment suggestions to maximize your value. Tasty, but there are better options. read more
3 months ago
Our first meal in the Windy City was at Al's beef. We ordered our sandwiches wet, which was moist but not soggy. The beef was thinly sliced and didn't get stuck in my teeth like I was worried it might. I added provolone cheese and sweet peppers which were just a little bit of added texture to the soft beef. Hubby loved the Chicago dog which was absolutely covered in the requisite toppings. The fries were cooked with some being droopy (just like I like them) and some being super crispy. Overall, Al's is a perfect introduction to classic Chicago eats. read more
3 years ago
My friends and I went on a weiner frenzy while were in the city and my favorite one was from this place! We all ordered something different. Our orders consisted of one polish dog with everything on top, one dipped beef hot dog, and two Italian beef sandwiches with hot peppers. We arrived around 10pm and it wasn't too busy. We quickly ordered and found a table right away. The employee taking orders was very friendly and fast. Food was made in a timely manner and we dug in. The polish dog and Italian beef sandwiches left us speechless. They were so gooooood! The beef was thinly sliced and there was more then enough on the bread. It had so much flavor and the dip it came with was the cherry on top. The polish dog was beyond delicious! Everything it came topped with went well together and it gave us a mouth watering plate. It did get busier as the time went by and a huge group of about 20 people walked in as we were walking out. Please bring a location to Arizona! read more
Great service and quick this small restaurant has amazing beef sandwiches . Order aus jus or dipped . sandwiches served with peppers and layers of tender beef very juicy and spicy and a bit salty. . Fries are home fresh cut . Device people very helpful. Clean tables and restrooms. A great place to get the food Chicago beef sandwich for a great price read more
I've wanted to try the quintessential Italian beef shop in the Chicago area for years and I finally got my wish. I went old school and ordered the Regular beef, dipped, with hot giardeniera. It comes with a slice of warm green pepper which I think is a super-cool touch. My dining partner felt like a Chili cheese dog and these come with fries for $6.99 which is reasonable these days in downtown Chicago. I'm not a big fan of fresh cut fries mostly but these weren't that bad. Fast polite service. Food was good. High top table seating wasn't the most comfortable seating, but I understand that they probably want to get people in and out. I'll be back. read more
1 year ago
Had to try an Italian beef in Chicago and saw that this spot was rated the best beef sandwich in the city. We got the big beef dipped and hot and sweet with some provolone cheese which was enough for two people. Ordered at the counter and didn't have to wait too long for our food to be ready. This sandwich was really messy but so flavorful! It's a classic hearty sandwich and the peppers give it a nice crunch too. We devoured the whole thing and it was a really messy meal but very delicious! Very casual lunch spot and I would definitely come back. read more
2 years ago
We intended to go to Mr. beef as fans of the show The Bear but alas the line was 40 min long and we were pretty hungry. Walked here instead and there was no wait around 230pm on Saturday. I got the sweet wet combo (beef + sausage) and my husband got the hot dipped beef, as well as chili cheese fries. We both liked the flavor of the hot beef although the dipped was surprisingly wetter than "wet" which is misleading. Dipped is too wet for us. The hot was spicy for me so the chili cheese fries were good to cut the heat. We also liked the Italian beef more than the combo as the sausage doesn't add much in my opinion and makes the sandwich harder to eat. In the future, my order likely would be sweet wet beef with a side of hot. Plenty of seating inside too. We needed a nap after eating this meal! read more
Note, there's a sign on the corner of Ontario and Wells but this is a closed/older location. This is what caught my eye when I was down the street and then I realized the restaurant is actually down the block on Wells, closer to Ohio. There's not much seating inside, but I grabbed my food to go. The wait wasn't too long for it hmto had been lunch time on a week day. I ordered the big beef (dipped is the only way to go) with peppers and a chili cheese dog. I wasn't expecting the fries when I unwrapped my dig, that was a pleasant surprise. The dog was okay. The toppings were great but the actual hot dog tasted a bit rubbery. The beef though..was fantastic. I love the flavors of Al's beef, it tickles my tongue a little more than Portillo's does with the spices. I loved tge size of the big beef, I was able to munch on it throughout the day. read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
I'm a huge Italian Beef fan and finally got to try Al's beef. Honestly it's not a bad sandwich. The peppers were good and the bread was soft. Now when it comes to the meat, I think it could be a bit more juicy. The price is a bit much for an Italian beef of this size. Fries were nothing special and you won't miss them. As for the inside of the restaurant it looks clean. I had a takeout order so I can't say much about that. Overall it's not a bad spot for a quick Italian Beef if you're in the area. read more
Classic and must go chicago experience. This was our first stop upon arriving and it did not disappoint! We ordered the jumbo sandwich with provolone cheese and both peppers added. We also ordered cheddar cheese fries! I found the sandwich to be super messy and while lots of juices were dripping out, the meat itself didn't taste all that flavorful to me! The cheese fries were large and yummy but this wasn't cheddar cheese (seemed more like nacho cheese!) The service was quick and the workers were kind. Overall atmosphere felt like a classic fast-ish food joint but was clean and worked for us. Glad we stopped here and experienced this classic spot -- try it out for yourself! read more
7 months ago
My partner was so excited to try Chicago Italian beef and so was I. We came on a suuuuper hot and humid day so unfortunately my appetite was on the lower end. I got mine with sweet peppers and giardiniera and my partner got just giardiniera. He loved his, I thought it was too oily for my taste, but could also have been the heat and humidity affecting it. Dont get me wrong it was definitely oily, as in drenched thru two wrappers, but tasted pretty good. Overall would I go out of my way to come back here? No, but I do think it's still worth checking out if you've never tried it. read more
Great place a Chicago staple and couldn't leave without trying an Italian Beef. I like the concept thinly sliced beef with all its juices placed on a seemed liked a French bread because it had a slight chew. I asked how Chicagoan eats theirs and it was suggested to add provolone cheese and hot peppers to make it official so that's what I did, the cheese fries where crispy even after adding lava hot cheese and lastly the chicken sandwich was good chicken was grilled/ lettuce/tomato/mayo/potato bun . Plenty of locations must be doing something rite. Givem a try! read more
1 year ago
Al's did not disappoint. This was a delicious sandwich. A little messy with the fully dipped with the sweet and spicy peppers. I also had provolone cheese . This was amazing. Very flavorful. I loved it and will definitely go back. The service was really fast and the restaurant was small, nice, and clean. I had the choice Chicago dog or Al's. I am glad I chose Al's. read more
I get it wet with hot giardineira and it's RIDICULOUS. But dipped is even better...as is when you add provolone. The sausages are great too! I got a Polish Maxwell St style and that came with fries which are PHENOMENAL. Like uber crispy even when round and thin (which would normally be soggy). read more
3 years ago
I sure like Al's thru the years....but this location needs to step it up....and bring back the great tasting gravy au jus. On this day, it lacked any kind of flavorful pop of flavor. The meat texture was major "debris remnants" in nature....which gave it a minced meat kind of texture and chew. And... had my sandwich dipped...so I had plenty of au jus on my Sandwich. Also had a hot dog....it was ok....Chicago dress. read more
As a Chicago native I'm almost embarrassed to admit it took me 30+ years to try this place and I'm glad I did. Service was good and fast and the sandwich was divine. The beef was well flavored and melted in my mouth. I'll admit I grew up with the other beef spot that's red and white but this might be my new favorite when I'm in town. read more
9 months ago
It's a 15 minute walk from the Starbucks reserve, and I promise it's worth the walk. We got their right when they had just opened and before the crowd came in. We tried the Italian Beef as it was recommended. It was honestly good, the bread wasn't as smothered in the broth juice as I expected, but it was great. The Chicago dog was also good, although I prefer the polish dog. read more
1 year ago
Very fast service and great taste! Sandwich was well dipped, sausage was nicely cooked, and the fries accompanied both perfectly! read more
2 years ago
Had to get it. Absolutely worth it. The fries were stellar. The bread was soft and the meat was flavorful and tender. I got the gravy on the side because I'm a slow eater and a side of sweet peppers. I made a mistake in not getting the bite giardiniera but I won't make that again the next time. Solid. read more
10 months ago
9 months ago
More info about Al's Beef
Al's Beef Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Al's Beef
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
17 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
5 years ago
2 months ago
2 years ago
2 days ago
3 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
2 years ago
2 days ago
4 years ago
2 years ago
1 day ago
3 years ago
4 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
Al's Beef - sandwiches - Updated June 2026
Best of Chicago
People found Al's Beef by searching for…
Trending Searches in Chicago, IL
24 Hour Fast Food near Al's Beef
Chicken Caesar Wrap near Al's Beef
Chicken Nuggets near Al's Beef
Chicken Salad Sandwich near Al's Beef
Chili Cheese Fries near Al's Beef
Chopped Cheese Sandwich near Al's Beef
Conveyor Belt Sushi near Al's Beef
Fast Food Open Late near Al's Beef
Fruits & Veggies near Al's Beef
Gluten Free Sandwich near Al's Beef
Grilled Chicken Sandwich near Al's Beef
Hip New Restaurants near Al's Beef
Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt near Al's Beef
Ladies Lunch Spots near Al's Beef
Mango Sticky Rice near Al's Beef
Pulled Pork Sandwich near Al's Beef
Roast Beef Sandwich near Al's Beef
Soft Serve Ice Cream near Al's Beef
Sourdough Bread Bakery near Al's Beef
Browse Nearby
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Restaurants near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Coffee near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Breakfast near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Things to Do near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Desserts near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Pizza near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Parking near Al's Beef
BEST of Chicago, Illinois Lunch near Al's Beef
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Chicago, IL
Best Appetizers to Enjoy Around Chicago, Illinois
Best Bagels Available in Chicago, Illinois
Best Bar Food and Snacks Served in Chicago, Illinois
Best Bar and Grill Experiences in Chicago, Illinois
Best Chili Cheese Dog Vendors in Chicago, Illinois
Best Chili Recipes and Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Best Dim Sum Places to Try in Chicago, Illinois
Best Donuts to Try in Chicago, Illinois Near You
Best Fish & Chips Restaurants Near Chicago, Illinois
Best Mac and Cheese Dishes Available in Chicago, Illinois
Best Places for Brunch in Chicago, Illinois
Best Places for Chicken Tenders Near Chicago, Illinois
Best Places for Fries in Chicago, Illinois
Best Shakes Available in Chicago, Illinois
Best Smoothie Spots and Cafes in Chicago, Illinois
Best Soul Food Dishes in Chicago, Illinois
Best Vegan Restaurants to Try in Chicago, Illinois
Crispy French Fries Favorites in Chicago, Illinois
Crispy Fried Chicken Favorites in Chicago, Illinois
Delicious Ice Cream Treats in Chicago, Illinois
Delicious Pasta Dishes to Try in Chicago, Illinois
Delicious Soup Spots to Try in Chicago, Illinois
Delicious Vegan Breakfast Served in Chicago, Illinois
Delicious Wraps Available in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Authentic Filipino Food in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Authentic Italian Food in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Authentic Italian in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Coffee & Tea Options in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Popular Sports Bars in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top Asian Food Options in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top Fast Casual Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Discover Top Mediterranean Food in Chicago, Illinois
Discover the Best Breweries in Chicago, Illinois Today
Discover the Best Matcha Drinks in Chicago, Illinois
Discover the Best Ribs in Chicago, Illinois
Discover the Best Sushi Spots in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Breakfast & Brunch Favorites in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Burgers and Beer in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Classic Hamburger Options in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Delicious Hot Dogs in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Fast Food Favorites Across Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Patio Dining Options in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy Prime Rib Specialties in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy a Cheap Dinner Option in Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy a Delicious Smashed Burger Near Chicago, Illinois
Enjoy the Best Cocktails in Chicago, Illinois
Explore American Restaurants in Chicago, Illinois
Explore BBQ Restaurants Near Chicago, Illinois
Browse Articles
People who viewed Al's Beef also viewed
Mr. Beef
778 reviews
River North, Near North Side
$$
Billy Goat Tavern - Chicago
1368 reviews
Near North Side
$$
Dog Haus
19 reviews
The Loop
Small Cheval
49 reviews
Near North Side
Al's Beef
679 reviews
University Village
$
Buona
155 reviews
River East, Near North Side
$$
Chicago's Dog House
5 reviews
Near North Side
Gutenburg
21 reviews
Fulton Market, West Loop, Near West Side
Labriola
1435 reviews
Near North Side, River East
$$
Ahuevo
26 reviews