Ordered a regular Polish sausage. Told the manager the bun, which was sopping wet for some reason, fell apart before I even took a bite and was told that's how it's served. Um. Sorry. This wasn't a hotdog eating contest where it needs to be dipped in water. Ya'll should be ashamed. Used to love this place. read more

I got a regular beef (wet style) and a large side of fries. The sandwich was plenty to split between 2 people and the fries we split between 4. I added provolone and sweet peppers (basically green bell pepper) to my sandwich for an additional cost but they did not add much, if you're paying then they should add quite a bit. I wish the provolone was melted. The sandwich was good but honestly tasted like something I could make at home so probably would not order again. The fries were some of the best I've had though! Fast service and a good amount of seating. read more

Al's Beef - 1/2 Regular Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Got the supposedly most famous beef sandwich in Chicago and was not enthralled. To each it's own I guess on this review. Shops are few and in between. Good thing we found surprisingly good other places around it read more

Al's Beef - Fries are especially a NO go for me - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Freakin' outstanding. Especially if you're visiting Chicago and don't get to experience Italian beef like this. We were in town for 4 days and went twice! read more

Just not very good. The regular Italian beef is super tiny, and the fries are the kind that are just soggy and greasy. Not my style.

Made it over to Al's for the first time and they didn't disappoint. We were here around noon on a Saturday and surprisingly it was quite. Looks like they moved here from another location or recently renovated. We ordered a Regular Beef and a Regular Combo (Italian Sausage makes it a combo)- both dipped. Also, with Hot Giardiniera (not really spicy but lots of flavor) which is a must. Paired with Cheddar cheese fries cause why not? Beef was tender and that Giardinera takes it over the top. As I've mentioned, will go with Beef only from now on-added Sausage/Combo is a bit much and distracts from the Italian Beef-star of the show. Service was friendly and engaged. One of the must stops when visiting Chi Town! read more

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Al's #1 beef offers some of the best beef sandwiches you can find in Chicago. The sandwiches were tasty filled with plenty of meat and other fixings. Service was great and the staff gave us a great rundown on the menu and what to expect. A must visit for Italian beef sandwiches in Chicago. read more

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The first day of the new year and I wanted to write about this old-school classic called Al's Beef. Everyone says when you are in Chicago one of the most important food items to try is a beef sandwich. When I saw this I was very intrigued because I didn't understand what that meant. So I started to google and Yelp beef sandwiches and well Al's beef was one of the places that I found and it was pretty close to the hotel we stayed at. We got to the place and ordered their big beef sandwich instead of the regular beef. One has more meat than the other. But I am so glad we did because that was amazing! I kind of wished we had ordered a few because that's one of the items I now crave while back in Los Angeles. If you are ever here this is just a must! Add this to your list! read more

Al's Beef - Big beef for sure - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This place is said to have legendary dips. It did not disappoint! Arrived in Chicago in a late afternoon in November and took a stroll over to this location. I asked the cashier for recommendations and he delivered with his sandwich pick! The Italian beef dip was drenched in sauce and probably the most intensely juicy sandwiche I've had in a very long time! You can literally tell by the photo and dip drip left on the tray while eating this thing. Definitely overall I was very impressed and would go back again if I ever head to Chicago again! read more

Al's Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Overall a wonderful experience with great food. This is a great place to visit if you want something classically Chicagoan that is quick and easy. The ambiance is chill and relaxed. The service was exceptional and beyond what I expect. They went out of their way to accommodate dietary restrictions and were very kind and understanding. I would 100% recommend that you stop in. I personally ate the regular beef dipped and it was phenomenal. read more

Came here and had the beef and then the beef had me. It was good until my colon practically fell out after sitting on the throne 2 hours later. The beef dip was delicious, but believe it was the chili cheese fries that did me in. Skip the fries as they are greasy and the chili & cheese leaves a lot to be desired. 4 stars on the beef dip 2 stars on the chili cheese fries 3 Stars total. Btw order is the beef dip sauce on the side or else you will have a hot mess. read more

Occasion: Guys trip to Chicago. Party of 3. Restaurant: Visited the one in Little Italy. Kind of a hole in the wall with a counter to eat at and a few tables outside. The restaurant is just what we expected and added to the overall experience. Weather was great this fall afternoon and we sat outside. Food: We had 2 Big Beef combos and one regular combo. All of our sandwiches were dipped and packed full of meat. The sandwiches exceeded our expectations and were so filling we ate only a few of our french fries. However their fries were good. Overall: Met/exceeded our expectations and would definitely return next time I am in Chicago. read more

Chicago staple. Place was small but clean. I wanted to see what all the hype was about with the Chicago Italian beef sandwich. We also ordered a Chicago dog and Polish. Food was tasty and messy. Be ready with plenty of napkins. read more

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Delicious, not one of a kind but unique in its own way and highly enjoyable. It's not a must visit for Chicago but you will not regret going here. My favorite and recommended go to order would be the Italian beef (no Italian sausage) with spicy peppers and provolone cheese. The sweet peppers are a nice add but not necessary (they're just sweet unmarinated bell peppers). The spicy peppers are kind of like a light marinated pepper relish. An absolute must get. Make sure you get the gravy to go on the side so your bread stays crispy! * wet = they drizzle the sauce on the meat * Gravy = they Runk your entire sandwich in so the bread gets entirely soaked and you'd have to eat this with a fork and knife * on the side = it's not on the menu but you can ask for the sauce in a side cup so you can dunk it at your own speed Service was phenomenal, waiter at the cash register went above and beyond - really wish the best for her. Ambiance was like a local diner. Casual, family style. read more

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Empty on a Wednesday night and had me confused given the hype. I think I just got lucky though because the original beef sandwich was divine and the meat was thinly sliced and melted your your mouth. I got it with hot peppers and provolone which did not disappoint. Good quick fast foodie joint! read more

Al's Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This was my first time having a Chicago beef or sausage sandwich, so wasn't exactly sure what to expect. I ordered the Big Combo, which had both beef and sausage, so it was a big sandwich. I was pretty hungry and ate the entire thing, but it didn't leave me feeling stuffed. We did walk in the city quite a bit afterward, so that probably helped. I can't remember whether the sandwich was dipped or wet, but it seemed like both? I'm sure those familiar with the restaurant or sandwich style will be able to tell by my picture. Either way, it was really, really good. The sandwich was definitely wet as it soaked the paper wrapping it was in. It was a little messy to eat, but not as much as you might think. It definitely was not so wet with broth/gravy that it was dripping. But again, a really great sandwich. My wife got a cheese hotdog, which was just ok to her. The cheese was a liquid cheese spread, like you would see in an authentic Philly Cheesesteak. Service was good. They literally had our sandwiches made in a few minutes. Very, very quick. Definitely would recommend stopping in here if you are looking for a good beef sandwich. read more

Al's Beef - Big Combo in paper wrapping - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The Italian beef sandwich with fries was delicious that is worth trying at least once since it's a Chicago classic. Also, the service was relatively fast since I got my food almost immediately after ordering. read more

Al's Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Came in for a sandwich since I saw good reviews and it didn't disappoint at all. I ordered a regular dipped sandwich with cheese and giardiniera also a side of fries and a soda. Workers were very nice and my food was amazing although eating the sandwich was a bit sloppy since it was dipped it was delicious. I loved the spiciness of the guardiniera. read more

Al's Beef - Regular Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Tried my first Italian beef here, and it will forever be the standard by which I judge others. I got the jumbo and large fries, and it's definitely filling and delicious. It's an order from the counter type place so service was helpful but it's hard to judge. This location definitely has an upscale corporate vibe, built for churning people thru rather than lingering and the sandwich feels like it would be better in a humbler ambience. Worth visiting though. read more

Fast service. Great Italian sausage. Buffalo bleu fries are fabulous Casual fun atmosphere with friendly people read more

I absolutely love this place the food is awesome. The workers were not friendly or welcoming at all. They spoke Spanish and so do I and I know they were talking smack. I will still go eat the food when I come back read more

Al's Beef - beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Perfect Italian Beef served quickly and with a smile. Three beefs lasted maybe 5 minutes on our tray -- we simply destroyed them. The absorptive rolls really make the sandwich -- they hold just enough gravy to ensure you have extra fat in every delicious bite. The Chicago-style Polish was great, too. But you can get Polish anywhere, the beef is where it is at. This location was very clean and I will be back. read more

Al's Beef - Jumbo Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Tasty introduction to Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago style hot dogs! Full disclosure, tourist here, so I can't compare to other traditional Chicago food joints, but we were very happy with our meal at Al's. Atmosphere is fast casual. We ordered at the counter a Chicago style hot dog, a regular size Italian beef with gardiniera peppers and cheddar, and an order of chili cheese fries. The lady working the register was kind and asked her manager for us if the chili was all beef- she confirmed it is all beef. I liked everything we got equally. I will say a warning to fellow tourists: it does not matter whether you get the Italian beef dipped in the juices or not, your sandwich will be soggy fast. I have been told this is traditional and while it's something to get used to, in my opinion it is much better when hot. We did not have any left over but fyi this is not the kind of sandwich to try to save for later. If in Chicago again I would definitely come back. read more

Al's Beef - Chicago style dog, Italian beef sandwich (wrapped), and Chili Cheese Fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Overall, very happy with the dipped Italian beef. I didn't get much heat off the hot peppers, so maybe this is more of a sweet pepper situation. The dog was good, not too much celery salt. I was surprised that there was ketchup available. I would pass on the fries they were over fried that was a bit dry and pretty salty (I'm a salt fiend too). The Italian beef is the star and it's juicy and tender. There wasn't a wait and there is also an iPad ordering station in the back if you don't want any human interaction. I'll definitely come back and I would recommend Al's especially now with more and more restaurants seems to be in $$$ price range. Solid meal and you can be in and out if you're short on time. read more

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Stayed a couple of blocks from this Al's location that I walked over for a togo order. I ordered the regular beef sandwich with extra giardiniera peppers. It was really good. Regular wet level is super juicy I would say don't bother getting extra wet. It was flavorful and with the extra giardiniera peppers (if you like spice) it was a wonderful mix. Service was quick. Since I ordered mine to go I don't have pictures, but when you open it you immediately smell all the yumminess. read more

While it doesn't have all the fancy decor that Portillo's have... this by far has the better beef sandwich. The beef juice is succulent and the texture is superior. The hot peppers are spicy and add a lovely oil that accentuates the flavor of the meat. I've been here twice in the same day, and I would go again tomorrow if my itinerary would allow it. Stop here if you want something delicious! There's a seating area open during the day, at night it's take away only. read more

Al's Beef - Regular Beef with hot peppers - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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First time back since before the pandemic and as wonderful as I remember. Easily the 2nd best Italian beef in the city (Johnnie's is the best but it's a hike as they're out of the city). Interestingly, my hometown Vegas had a single Al's location at Sahara/Rainbow a few years ago but folded after a short trial. So sad...they weren't the same as the Chicago locations in terms of quality and they weren't able to survive. While we wait for an Al's (or Portillos) to land in Vegas and do our city proud, it's nice to remind myself how great a well-made Italian Beef can be, not to mention the fantastic fresh cut fries that pair perfectly. Don't forget to add "hot" (not really spicy, just tasty) Giardinera to your sandwich...it adds the perfect finishing touch! So good! Check the pix! read more

Al's Beef - An amazing wet "big" beef with Hot Giardinera in all its glory! - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This was my first time trying an Italian Beef and I was a little bit let down. The beef was a little bit tough and there was barely any peppers in there. Al's was recommended on ChooseChicago.com as one of the places to go to for Italian Beef but I believe there are way more places that would have better sandwiches. Overall, the Sandwich was alright. read more

Al's Beef - Al's #1 Italian Beef (regular) - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is a place I've been waiting to try. The Italian beef just wasn't quite as good as other places I've been to. It gel a hit dry and I did n't love the spices / taste as much. It's still good but not my favorite. read more

Yeah, this is really good Italian beef. Wanted more. They also have a cheesecake popsicle that was really good prices were fair.

From a friend's recommendation we ordered the beef with giardineria and had the gravy on the side. It was very good! Great flavor, soft bread and the perfect amount of spice. There isn't a ton of seating, so you may have to wait if you want to sit inside and eat. We did a little mini food tour of Chicago and all agreed that Al's beef sandwich was our favorite of the day. It's a Chicago staple for a reason. read more

Al's Beef - Dry beef with Giardiniera - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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First time eating here, it was a quick walk from the hotel I was staying out downtown. Food: 5/5 I got the Big Beef sandwich, WET, with hot giardiera and sweet peppers. The meat nearly melts in your mouth, peppers added a solid kick. Slight downside was the sogginess of the back portion of the bread. I got the sandwich to go, so chalk it up to the 10 minute walk back? Would definitely get again. Crushed it embarrassingly fast. Price: 4/5 15.41 is a little pricey but not enough to deter me from coming back Atmosphere: 5/5 I got my food to go but the inside was clean and bright. Was met by young lady with glasses that did a tremendous job walking me through the menu options once I said it was my first time! Will try to go again before I head out. Fabulous experience! read more

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Still the best Italian beef sandwich in Chicago along with Mr. Beef which are both my favorites! For non-locals, I should clarify that the optional "hot peppers" used on their sandwiches are really mild gardiniera peppers typically put on Italian deli sandwiches. Please do not order Italian beef sandwiches as "Dry" or you will regret it since the beef needs gravy to be extra tasty and juicy. The Chicago way to order is "Dipped" - fully baptized in gravy including the bread with hot or sweet peppers or both peppers. You can opt for "Wet" which is gravy poured onto the beef inside the bread. A traditional Italian beef sandwich is made without cheese. Al's allows the option to add cheese (Provolone, Swiss, or American) for an extra $1. Skip the order line and use the kiosk ordering machine on the brick wall opposite the cashier to pay with a credit card. The new location is 1 block south (at Wells Street & Ohio Street) from the old building (huge red Al's sign) at 169 W. Ontario Street and on the opposite side of Wells Street, directly across from Caspian Rugs. The new location has a tiny sign (3 story building - both upper levels are red brick while the first level is all glass with black steel) and can be easily overlooked. Both restrooms are clean. read more

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The Italian beef was good and prepared as requested. I was good with the regular portion which I thought was generous. I wouldn't dip it because I think it would make it heavy on the stomach. Prices were reasonable compared to near by restaurants. Staff were helpful with providing suggestions. read more

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Just wow!!!! From the comfort of my room this sandwich delivered via DoorDash was amazing!!! Chicago Italian beef sandwich was phenomenal and still damn hot when I received it. The people who made my sandwich did an amazing job obviously. Italian double sausage was also amazing. They made sure my condiments were all there. Fries we decent the extra gravy was excellent. Thank you Al's for an amazing experience even when we ain't there. read more

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I am missing the point on Italian Beef in this city. What is it that makes Chicagoans so goo-goo gaa-gaa about this sandwich? To me, New York does this one better, I am sorry. I have tried it twice now and each time I feel I walk away disappointed. The first time I thought, did I do something wrong? This time, I tablesurfed, looking at how people did it, and did it the most popular way. Provolone cheese, sweet peppers, dipped in gravy. It did not work. The cheese and dipping are okay, but the meat is still too dry for me. The peppers do little to make anything better. It is edible, but barely, and I mean barely. At least with the hot dog I can see why people like it? This, I am having a tough time with. read more

Al's Beef - Sandwiches Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Let's talk about traveling for food and fun...we'll I did just that! Initially I walked past the restaurant because the reviews weren't as strong but listen!!! We ended up going with a tour guide "Chicago Dave" and we gave it a try and when I tell you, the Chicago hot dog and OMG! I'm not exaggerating it was BOMB!! The fries were also seasoned and hand cut ..yummy!! The trick was, we weren't able to use ketchup and I wasn't sure I would be able to abide but I made it! Whew! The service was chill! And the ambiance had a cool vibe! The people were chill and willing to allow you to ask questions about their food as well...one guy had a Chicago steak and oh my...I was ready to dig in but we had other places to go..so off we went! If you're in town..give Al's a try! Until next time...chaos! read more

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We ordered Al's for delivery on our last night in Chicago so we weren't expecting perfection since we weren't eating it fresh. Well, we were wrong. We ordered the beef dry with sauce on the side and that wound up being perfect. The bread wasn't soggy at all and it was delicious! We also shared some cheese fries which were fresh and the cheese sauce was surprisingly good. This was my first Italian beef IN Chicago and I loved it! read more

Dipped Italian beef was alright. I much prefer the beefy fries. The cheese, giardiniera was just perfection. Can be easily split among 2-3 people. read more

Worth the walk. (Walked a mile from my hotel) Don't miss a sammy "dipped" with peppers. There is a reason they have been here for 7 plus decades. If you have ever watched the Bear. You'll want to try! This is pure beef sandwich perfection. read more