Al's #1 Italian Beef

I had heard that this was one of the best places to get an Italian Beef in Chicago, and I was not disappointed. I haven't had many chances to have an Italian Beef over the years despite visiting Chicago fairly regularly, but I didn't listen to the tourist outlets and cave to the masses of Portillo's fans. It's my belief (I don't live in Chicago so take this with a grain of salt) that Al's certainly has earned their #1 status. The sandwich was just moist enough to make a mess of my hands but not too soggy to fall apart while I ate it. Juicy, flavorful, and I got the hot peppers so it was a little spicy, too. I also got one of their Depression Dogs, which was perfect for me as I'm not a huge fan of tomato and pickle on my dog. As is standard in Chicago, the dog was snappy and fresh and the

We’ve just come back from Al’s #1 Italian Beef on N Wells Street and it absolutely lived up to the hype. We both went for the wet Italian beef with sweet peppers and a side of fries. The service was incredibly quick and the ambiance had that classic, no-nonsense Chicago feel, relaxed but buzzing, with a real sense of history behind it. The sandwich was everything we expected and more. Perfectly soaked without falling apart, packed with flavour, and exactly what you want when you’re chasing an authentic Chicago experience. And the fries? Definitely not just a side show. Skin on, seasoned beautifully, with that proper homemade vibe, crisp outside, fluffy inside. We’re so glad we made Al’s part of our Chicago trip. Another absolute winner!

I visited Al’s Italian Hot Beef on a Thursday at 4:45 pm. Like other establishments in River North, the main entrance had a few steps. There was an accessible ramp out the back door. I ordered three “Diet Beefs” (e.g. Italian Beef without bread). The portion size of a Diet Beef ($8.50 October 2025) is about the same portion of Italian Beef as the Regular Beef ($9.25, October 2025). I did add both Sweet Peppers and Spicy Peppers. The sweet peppers were Green Bell Peppers and the Spicy Peppers looked to be pickled Banana Peppers. I also ordered an Original Depression Polish sausage sandwich with hot dog bun ($8.99, October 2025). The Italian Beef was delicious and well seasoned. The fat had rendered and I recommend the “Diet Beef” to enjoy that au jus beef flavor. The Polish sausage was frie

Ordered via Uber Eats. First time in Chicago and first time having an Italian Beef. We ordered the regular beef and the big beef. I WISELY chose to order my sandwich dipped. Dipped is absolutely the play. You can taste the seasoning of the au jous in the roll when it’s dipped. The beef itself is finely chopped and seasoned to perfection. The spicy Giardiniera has a bit of a kick and was the perfect compliment. As a longtime proponent of excellent cheesesteak sandwiches, I find myself conflicted. I’m not sure where my allegiance now lies. What I am sure about is that THIS SANDWICH is something I can see myself eating for the rest of my life. It’s that good 🥇 Kudos to the Al’s lineage. Time well spent 🙏

A great Beef. That's how we Chicagoans say it. I visit about 4 times a year to tend my parents grave. I always have to stop for a Beef. Al's is flavorful, perfectly cooked, crisp fries and lively location and atmosphere filled with locals! Always enjoy this Chicago spot!