Al's #1 Italian Beef

Al's Italian Beef is a must have when visiting Chicago. I know it's a popular sandwich for the city with many offering their version but Al's is consistently delicious. The beef is so tender and practically melts in your mouth especially when dipped. This was our first time at this particular location and it's spacious and roomy inside. I've been in some older buildings like in the loop that was very cramped. Friendly service, well lit, clean and roomy made this an extra pleasant visit. Get the sweet and spicy peppers with the sandwich dipped.

Needed to get something in my stomach before going out. I walk in like 10 -20 minutes before they close. The manager or owner was so nice. He said no problem take your time as he locked the front door behind me. Boy was it a delicious hot dog and fries. Definitely check this place out, when in Chicago, and heading to soundbar.

*** Italian Beef Part I *** I waited until I left Chicago before writing this review because they probably would have kicked me out anyway. Not because the review is bad, but because I have to admit that I've been to Chicago more times than I can count and never had an Italian Beef sandwich 😬. It would be unfair for me to write a review without having another reference, so Portillo's is the second part of this experience. Yeah, I know, a lot of people only do the hot dogs, but a Chicago-lifer I know swears by it. Let's get to it. For anyone else who's never had an Italian Beef sandwich, here's the gist. This ain't Philly... That's about it. There are no Philly Cheese Steaks here, instead, it's thinly shaved beef with your choice of sweet or spicy peppers. Similar, but never, ever, call it the same. With that said, I miss the cheese. The beef was delicious, the peppers had just the right amount of spice, but I realized I really like the flavor of certain cheeses. Being this was my first time, I can only comment on the flavor of the sandwich itself, and not how it compares. The service was unbelievable. You can tell this is all they do. Before I could fill my fountain drink, my order was ready. I sat and watched while customer after customer was served with the exact same ruthless efficiency, it was very big city (reference for southerners). All-in-all it was a great experience, but you'll have to read my review on Portillo's to figure out if I have a favorite. Great job!

WOW. This was excellent!!!! I saw ads for another local spot that gets a lot more press but I wasn't convinced. I searched some local blogs/articles and set my sights on Al's. I certainly was not disappointed! Excellent service, wonderful location, and amazing food. This will be my stop every time I'm in town!