Such an amazing Chicago staple with something for everyone! The food is the star and has been fantastic for generations. You can't go wrong with anything. They are known for their steak sandwich (always my pick). Their fried mushrooms are a great Chicago classic. The pizza by the slice is also delicious. Plenty of choices for vegetarians. Vegans might have a bigger challenge finding items... but the Italian ice is worth the visit! The vibe is casual, but grab a table and stay awhile. Perfect spot to eat and watch a Sox's game! Plenty of space for bigger groups as well. Everything is counter service, but food comes out quick and hot! If you are a local who remembers how Portillos used to be... come to Ricobene's. It's untouched by private equity and perfect! read more

I feel like I still need to give a couple more tries but this is a OG staple and I just can't find the hype. I'm really going to get crucified for this review if you ask any Chicagoan. I've tried the pizza slices, beef sandwich, and the steak sandwich. Not impressed with any honestly. It's edible and you're in the city with free parking under the bridge. That's all I got lol. Steak is messier than hell but I'm not a fan of the taste. It's breaded. Pizza was very gas station like. And the Italian beef meat was so chewy and full of chunks and dry. It was gross. Lacked flavor also. I couldn't believe I was in the city eating a beef and I was actually wishing it was any other brand for some flavor and moist, tender, and fresh meat. The place is packed everyday so there's a lot of tables coming and going. They really should have workers constantly cleaning and clearing tables and garbages because they were all dirty or full. read more

Ricobene's - Sicilian Beef Sandwich Sausage deep dish slice - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Bring your appetite! A local friend brought us here after a Sox game. It was busy, but not too packed...but by the time we left, it was SLAMMED. It was $5 Beer & Dogs night at the stadium, so getting some carbs before hitting the hay was called for. I don't eat steak, so I ordered the fried eggplant sandwich, which was SO amazing I didn't even take a picture...but the breaded steak sandwich, from what I understand, is the way to go. I also ordered 2 of the buffalo chicken rice balls, which were great. but we were so full after the sandwich, there was literally no way to finish them. All in all, i'm glad I know about this place and look forward to my next visit! read more

Ricobene's - Buffalo Chicken Rice Balls - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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There has been so many reviews here... I finally made it over there to try the food. It did not disappoint! We got the regular breaded steak sandwich with mozzarella and hot girdiniera on the side. We also had the chicken Vesuvio sandwich. Both sandwiches were amazing! We did get the breaded steak sandwich on garlic bread, but to be honest, I really didn't taste any garlic at all ! The breaded Steak sandwich was very crispy even though it had a lot of sauce on. It had a great taste. The hot Girdiniera really added an extra kick to it. The chicken Vesuvio sandwich was excellent. I did put some hot Girdiniera on that also. The inside was really clean and had a lot of old photos on the wall... Pretty cool !!!! They have a large parking lot across the street to park in. The place was pretty busy, but the service was really fast. I would definitely return again.!!! read more

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Ricobene's is party of the essential Chicago experience. It's located in Bridgeport on 26th St. There's a free parking lot across the street. Go after a Sox game and it's probably busy but you're probably in the neighborhood anyway. Breaded steak is a signature item. Good with added mozzarella and peppers. Cheddar fries are large enough to share. Chicken Parmesan with cheese is also good. read more

Ricobene's - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I flew into Chicago, and knew this was going to be my first stop. Open late, I got here around Midnight and the place was packed. I got the breaded steak sandwich and a large coke. Order came out pretty quick. How was it? BOMB! This sandwich is amazing! It is messy as hell, but that's half the fun eating it. The steak is tender, the sauce is delicious, and the bread is soft and holds up the whole way through the sandwich. I will crave this sandwich until the next time I am in Chicago. It's perfect! read more

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Could not keep quiet about the ribs anymore. This is the third time the slab of ribs arrived over done. Sauce/flavor always wonderful but when you have to chew through pieces of semi wood, the joy is kind of gone. Ribs used to be my favorite to brag to everyone in Chicago, but now has taken a backseat. Will be a while till I order the ribs again. To be fair, spaghetti and meatballs are always fantastic: consistent pasta texture, tomato sauce delectable, and the best big meatballs in the southside. read more

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Yep, the famous breaded steak sandwich, this one with mozzarella and giardiniera. It is as good as advertised but as a matter of personal taste I'd skip the giardiniera in the future. To me it just detracts from the overall flavor of the sandwich. We also got the Chicken Vesuvio. I loved the garlic but because I don't use mayo the sandwich seemed a bit dry. My fault, of course, but oh, that garlic! Service is not an issue. Order at the counter and pick up your food when they call your number. There's a separate clearly marked line for pizza by the slice. They have great parking and remember to take many more napkins than you think you need. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Quintessential Chicago restaurant. The menu is very Portillo's with the addition of soft serve. Food comes out fast, in large portions, and delicious. We came through after a Sox game and the crowd continued picking up as more people came out from the game. There is plenty of seating inside, so you should be able to find a spot even with a big group. Across the street is a free parking lot. I recommend the combo beef and sausage and some onion rings. The onion rings have that light fried layer and were amazing. read more

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Extra crowded with game day but they moved very quickly. Seating challenged but we scored a spot. Plenty of options but we chose the famous steak sandwich with cheese and peppers, pasta fagioli soup, fries and beer. The sandwich not overly breaded and just enough sauce and cheese. The hot peppers were good on it but I should have got the sweet peppers too. My friend said her fries were fresh but just a little undercooked. The soup was different from the standard pasta fagioli that I have had which seemed to be a cream based maybe cheese in it and beans no beef. But it was still good. I added a pinch of salt The pizza looked delicious as did the ice cream. I would have loved to try a beef as I haven't been here since I was a kid. Half of a large sandwich and I was stuffed. Great vibe and definitely a sox fans haven. The servers were kind and again even with a line out the door the they moved quickly. read more

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A southside classic. Rico's has been serving up greasy heart's desires since who knows when and there is a reason for it. When you step in, it feels like you're transported back to the early 2000's in the best possible way. My recommendation is to stick to the sammy and fries, but they also have pizza, pasta, wings, sodas, soups, and more. read more

We needed a late night snack because we had an early dinner. I did not realize how late it was until I looked at the pictures on my phone; it was around 10:45, which might be early for the young whippersnappers, but this old lady usually doesn't like to eat past 9. My hubby has been talking about Ricobene's since we met 20+ years ago. He finally got me there after showing me pictures of the famous breaded steak sandwich, which we ordered, of course. We also ordered a beef sandwich and a hot dog and fries (there were four of us). The beef was great; the steak sandwich... I can't even. We have been back in the area a few times since my first visit and I am always pressuring my husband to take me back there. I am drooling a little thinking about how good it was. The place was packed at 10:45... clean and the employees looked like they were having fun. A lot of youngsters were ordering pizza... I need to try the pizza. read more

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I was surprised by the layout of this restaurant. It's a counter service sit down casual place. Huge menu and fast service. The breaded steak sandwich was unique. The pizza was alright. The Italian ice was yummy. read more

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First time here and loved it. Got the regular size sandwich with a smaller than regular size girl. read more

Ricobene's - Hanging out with celebrities, and taking a breaded steak sandwich to the face! - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I needed to update my review, not because anything has changed, but because we've been eating here regularly for the past 14 years and I never updated my review. The large deep dish spinach pizza from here is our favorite pizza. They sell a ton of pizza by the slice. We prefer to get a whole fresh deep dish pizza, but it's nice to get an extra slice or two of a different kind of pizza. (However the pizza by the slice isn't a bad price, it's quick, and everyone can have their own choice. So I understand why it's so popular.) This is a good place to have a big family/team party. This place is large, open, and clean. It's easy to move tables and chairs around. It's easy to add extra items and it's reasonably priced. We have had many impromptu group lunches or dinners here, because everyone will be happy. I really like that there is cold water and cups easily available on the counter. It's nice that I don't have to ask for it and can refill my cup whenever I want. read more

Breaks my heart; I was a loyal customer! I grew up eating here. Over the years, the food portions got smaller but more expensive (i know; it's happening all over the U.S., not just here) but even the service has not been up to par (like it used to). We have waited LITERAL hours for orders and a handful of tines, the orders were missing items. All we got was apologies without compensation for the frustration only for it to happen again. As much as I love their food, I can't justify spending money here anymore. Off to find a new location for breaded steak. read more

Went with my wife today. It was the first time for the both of us. We knew ahead of time we were going to split the sandwich and that was a good idea. It was the perfect size for us to share. We ordered it with sweet peppers and cheese. My only complaint about it would be the cheese. It wasn't melted and did not really seem to belong. I will 100% will be back, but I'll leave the cheese off. Also, the fact that they have a large dedicated parking lot across the street is a huge plus. No parking headaches here. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Well, another review here we go this time for the very first time I tried the Chicago deep dish pizza, which I never had in my life and I must say it's different. They have an amazing dough cooked to perfection making it a deep dish pizza plenty of cheese plenty of sausage and their sauce is really outstanding and I think that's which featured on a deep dish pizza I could be wrong. I'm not Italian, but I enjoy their sauce. And naturally, I had to get a slice of pepperoni pizza, which I absolutely love. It's done to perfection. Again, plenty of open seating and tables and they are always crowded so that speaks volumes for this business Service at the counter has always been on a money, very friendly, very welcoming and they answer any questions that you may have Well, it's time to fly back home to Pennsylvania until next time. We'll see you again at my favorite spot in Chicago. read more

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The parking is across the street. I must start with that. The facility is large and that place was busy. The food must be amazing! The line was long but moved relatively quickly. We went for the steak sandwiches but got sold on the slice of the steak pizza and we took those to go. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable hence why I ordered the pizza slices. There is plenty of seats for dining in and it is spacious. There are plenty of items to choose from. The items we purchased did not disappoint. They were delicious. read more

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Came here to have lunch with my sister and niece/nephew. I remember eating here in my younger years and wanted them to have that same experience. They had cheese pizza and my sister and I had breaded steak sandwiches. 8/10! Sauce was delicious and cheesy. We all had lemon Italian ice and loved finding pieces of lemon in our ice. The service was quick and workers were friendly and kind enough to give us extra bags. The restaurant is spacious and self seated. It definitely gave family style. read more

I'm visiting from LA and my partner had been bragging about Ricobene's -- now I get it!!! Delicious pepperoni pizza slice (enough for two), the best BBQ chicken wings and tamales are amazing!! I'll be going back before I return to LA! Great prices and service was excellent! The ambiance is relaxed and good for groups. read more

Other than the brief 3 month window after graduation in 2002 when me and my bestie were primed to move to Chicago and be labor organizers and live off $22,000/yr, I am a New York City girlie thru and thru. Still there is always that moment when you're in a different city and have the pleasure of stopping in somewhere that really gives you the vibes and flavor of what makes a place special. For me this was Ricobene's. I've been trying to get my hands on their famous breaded steak sandwich for years but I'm either too far north and out of delivery range or too stuffed from all of the other Chicago culinary delights. Both of these things were true Christmas Eve but since Xmas is my brother's fave holiday he was in a giving mood and didn't balk at the 9 mile drive - which in a city might as well be to another dimension. It was everything I imagined and more. The place is like a cross section of urban life - blue collar workers, families, frat bros, dads out for a lunch run. Legit looked like the pages of a Richard Scarry book - a comfort to me in my childhood and a balm for the times we're in. For someone who has been dreaming of this sandwich for years I was remarkably unprepared when it came time to order. The extensive menu caught me off guard and I was a blubbering mess at the counter. The older woman taking our order had the patience of a saint though and worked to make sure she got it all right even when I changed my mind 3 times. Here's what we got: 2 breaded steaks cheese and sweet 1 no cheese Fried perch sandwich Zucchini sticks Cheese fries We took it to go since we also had to stop by the liquor store - Binny's review incoming. It was still amazing by the time we got it home an hour later. Def worth the years-long wait. Will absolutely be here again. Thanks for a memorable experience that lived up to the hype! read more

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This is a staple in Chicago! Been MANY times and it hits every time. Get the breaded steak sandwich on garlic bread! read more

Ricobene's - 2 Liter Beverage - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Ricobene's does not disappoint. The breaded chicken sandwiches are amazing--huge, generously portioned cutlets that are perfectly seasoned and still juicy. The lettuce-to-mayo-to-bread ratio is spot on, and the sandwich is big enough to share or save half for later. Very filling! We also tried a few pizza slices. The thin-slice pepperoni was just okay, but the sausage slice was the clear standout--full of flavor. The deep-dish mushroom and spinach slice was solid and satisfying as well. Service was friendly, there's plenty of seating, and parking is conveniently located across the street. Definitely worth a stop. read more

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The workers at Ricobene's that do Uber Eats are idiots that mess up everyone orders. They dont send the whole order and the sandwich was wrong, terrible customer service read more

What can I say about ricobenes people don't know, absolute Chicago Royalty Come Hungry and Leave Happy! If you want to eat at one of most iconic sandwich in the city, make it at Ricobene's on the South Side. This place is a legendary, no frills neighborhood staple that has been doing things right for decades. I ordered their famous breaded steak sandwich with mozzarella and hot giardiniera, and it blew my mind. The cutlet is enormous crispy, tender, and pounded thin smothered in their signature rich red gravy and melted cheese, all packed into a soft Turano French roll that bravely holds the line until the very last bite. It's wonderfully messy, huge in portion size (definitely shareable or ready for leftovers), and packed with deep, savory flavor.The vibrant, bustling atmosphere is pure old-school Chicago energy, the counter staff move fast even when a crowd is queued up, and the parking lot right across the street! 100% recommend!! read more

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I believe the hype! Had a chicken Vesuvio and King steak sandwich about 18 mos ago. Now I make the trek from Milwaukee 3-4 times a year. It's Memorial Day.... I'm overdue. read more

Ricobene's - Enjoying the best sandwich in the universe. Chicken visuvio in the foreground. - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Great prices & flavor! It was my husband & myself we dined in. This is a definite must go to & we will be back! There's parking across the street & please don't let yourself get discouraged by the line. We saw a family walk to the door & turn right around but it goes quickly. They have lots of friendly staff that keep the restaurant clean. read more

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I went to Ricobene's with my parents and of course we had to try the famous breaded steak sandwich. I ordered mine with hot giardiniera and mozzarella cheese, which definitely added great flavor and a nice kick. The service was good -- friendly and efficient, no complaints there. However, I was a bit disappointed with the temperature and texture of the sandwich. It was served more lukewarm than hot, and the bread ended up pretty soggy. For a sandwich that's known as a Chicago staple, I expected it to come out hot with a bit more structure to the bread. We also ordered a chicken salad, and the chicken was served cold, which surprised me. It wasn't bad, just not what I was expecting. Overall, the flavors were solid and portions were generous, but temperature and texture really affect the experience -- especially for a sandwich like this. I'd consider giving it another try, hoping it comes out hotter next time. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich Chicken Salad - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Had to check out the Chicago classic! My husband ordered the Breaded Steak Sandwich and I got the Vesuvio Chicken Sandwich. The steak sandwich was absolutely amazing. It was messy to eat but totally worth the hype. The Vesuvio was milder in terms of flavor but still pretty good! I would pass on the mozzarella sticks and come back for their pizza next time. The service was pretty fast! The restaurant has old school diner vibes, offers plenty of seating, and also has a parking lot right across the street. read more

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Let's start with no flipping the tablet for Tips - that alone gets 5 stars!!! Also free parking !!! Really at this point I'm good. Now this is supposed to be a south side institution - so how does it stack up? Holly Molly - that steak sandwich lives up to its reputation - juicy, tasty, savory tomato sauce slathered generously on that breaded steak seasoned to perfection and brought over the top with all that cheese. What's not to like? We also had the mushroom, onion rings and chicken wings all fine. Ricobene's is a south side hidden gem to the rest of the city of Chicago- make it a point to check this place out. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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This place is legendary in Chicago. Known for its breaded steak which you can get on a sandwich or pizza. One slice of pizza was more than enough to fill me up and delicious. The dining hall was full of people from the neighborhood that knew each other and it seemed to be a popular spot for local law enforcement to grab lunch. I didn't realize till after I ate there that this place was owned by my friend Rosario's cousin. read more

I was in town for a conference and decided to head down here after hearing about how the beef sandwich was titled the "world's greatest sandwich" by USA Today in 2015. However, I went with the Chicken Vesuvio which is breaded chicken, mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes. The bread was great and lettuce and tomatoes were crisp and fresh. Overall, it was a phenomenal sandwich. This is an iconic Chicago restaurant well worth trying when visiting Chicago. read more

This was my first visit to a Chicago classic! You order at the counter, then receive a ticket for your order. We waited about 10 mins for our food. Plenty of seating was available. The breaded steak sandwich was great! It comes with the red sauce that is similar to an Italian spaghetti sauce. The steak was flavorful and juicy, but too chewy. You can add mozzarella, giardiniera, and/or sweet peppers to the sandwich. It is quite messy to eat though. The free parking across the street from the restaurant is a huge perk! read more

Ricobene's - Outside Ricobene's - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Classic Chicago institution. Quick service. Busy on a Tuesday lunch hour. King breaded steak sandwich is gargantuan. Ate half and took the other home. A mass of a sandwich. Delicious. Also, I found a free street spot out front to park then realized they have a parking lot across the street. Look forward to my return. read more

Ricobene's - King Size Breaded Steak Sandwich Value Pack - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Review by: Avila.Eats on TikTok, insta, and YouTube Service: staff is unbothered and just doing their job but seem like kind people in their own circle. Ambiance/Atmosphere: inside is an old spacious dining room. Old pictures plaster the walls with memorabilia. Open kitchen and fairly spacious. Food: 1. Chicken sandwich has crispy really nicely seasoned chicken but very thin cutlet. Lettuce, tomato, and onion are fresh with a nice crunch. The bread is soft and brushed with their delicious garlic butter. I'd recommend. 2. Breaded steak sandwich has tender soft steak. The bread was again a nice soft well flavored roll. The marinara had a slightly sweet but very subtle citrus. The cheese was stringy and gooey. I'd recommend. read more

Yelp Review #600! I stopped at Ricobene's prior to a White Sox game. I'm beyond happy that I did. I took an uber from my downtown hotel and it dropped me off right outside. I arrived around 4:15 PM. There was no line and I was able to promptly place my order. I ordered a regular breaded steak sandwich (no cheese) with fresh cut fries. My bill was around $18.00 for both and came out within minutes. The fries were great and the sandwich was spectacular. I'm happy I only ordered the regular and not the king size. Between the meat, bun, and sauce my sandwich felt like it was three pounds. I'm also glad I ate my sandwich at the restaurant as it was a little messy. These are not complaints! Ricobenes is a place you don't want to miss. There is a reason they have been open for almost 80 years on the Southside. I'd return in a second! Five stars almost doesn't seem to be enough. read more

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I grew up living near a Ricobene's on either Pulaski or Harlem. I never found it as fantastic as the many who bragged about it as if it were the greatest thing since sliced bread, but I would occasionally pop in for either a breaded steak or Chicken Vesuvio sandwich. When they closed, I never really realized I missed them. Flash forward 38 years later. Went to Rush Hospital to visit an uncle. Leaving at about lunch time, I opened my Yelp app to see what was nearby. The top spouses ad (2.7 miles away) was Ricobene's. I really wasn't aware they were even around anymore. So, for nostalgic purposes, I decided to go there. Had my mother and aunt in tow, and we were all very pleased. The breaded steak, while still maybe not the greatest thing since sliced bread, was a nice blast from the past that I really enjoyed. Would I go there again? Surely. If I were 2.7 miles away (though uncle's been released and is back home doing fine). Do wanna try their Chicken Vesuvio again one day. But 22 miles each way just for that, not. Quick friendly service, and way cleaner than most hot dog joints and beef stands out my way. Few things make me miss Chicago, but this is one of them. read more

Great pizza and wings also the bread steak sandwich , late night eating . If you just want a slice always available, quick service, a lot of seats to eat at. Big parking lot read more

A Chicago staple. You're guaranteed an affordable, greasy, family vibes meal with the menu variety. You can't go wrong with the pizza. That is a separate pizza line toward the back of the building. Everything else can be ordered closer to the front register. - Ask for the fries to be well done, this gives it the perfect crispness - I usually order their hamburgers and it's such a comfort eat - My friends who grew up in Chicago recommend the breaded steak sandwiches - hot wings: this can be a hit or miss. When they give you good meaty pieces of chicken, it's the perfect flavor and doesn't have the overpowering spiciness. I have received orders where the chicken is mainly fattier pieces. There is plenty of seating but it can fill up quick depending on time of the day. There is a free parking lot across the street. read more