Original Beef of Chicagoland

The Original Mr Beef on Orleans Street in Chicago, Illinois is a classic counter-serve joint known for the quintessential Italian beef sandwich. They offer great grilled Italian sausages and pizza puffs — but the Italian Beef sandwich is the standout. Heavily seasoned beef is slow-roasted or braised in a rich gravy loaded with garlic and Italian herbs, then sliced paper-thin, dunked in savory au jus, and piled high on a crusty Chicago Italian roll. Top it with pickled hot sport peppers, sliced sweet peppers or giardiniera. The eatery inspired the popular FX series The Bear, though we never liked the show — better to order an Italian beef, pay with cash, and enjoy it leaning way over the big long table in the Elegant Dining Room. The sandwiches are juicy and messy, but don't travel well. - Phantom