I traveled from North Carolina to Seattle Washington by bus and when I got a 3 hour layover in Chicago, the only thing I wanted to do was to get an authentic Italian beef sandwich. I was NOT disappointed.
So good! Thank you for watching! We also had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
Yup. My old fave used to be a place in Bartlett IL called Dogfather. They had a garlic beef and their au jus had some nice spices to it. Reopend under new ownership but its not the same. Shame. But youre right
For those who don't know, "wet" means they take the sandwich in tongs and dunk 100% of it into that vat of beef and Au Jou . it is not some dainty dip.
This is why you put your arms on the counter, move your feet back and bend over to bite into it without wearing the sandwich down the front of your shirt!
Some Italian beef places sell a dish called "gravy bread", which is just the bread soaked in gravy. Often eaten during Lent because the RCC declared beef au jus is not meat, but the au jus is so beefy that you get something that approximates a beef dish.
OOOOO Chicago, have fun , probably one of the top food cities in the USA. If you can't find good food in Chicago you're not looking. Chicago style Hot Dogs, deep dish pizza, a million different incredible sandwiches. Enjoy.
@@kevinprzy4539 many that live there aren't either. To a lot of Chicagoans it's an old sort of generic saying. Just be careful where you go asking for ketchup. And if you are of weak constitution don't go to the winers circle later in the evening.
I'm a Chicagoan who travelled all over the country with the circus for a few years. I was shocked to find out that the food in my hometown was _so much better_ than the rest of the country. Our food even stands up to New York and LA. I would even boldly claim that our Mexican food is the best, because we have so many Latinos here, better spices, better ingredients. There's a reason this city is a bunch of fatsos.
I’m originally from U.K.. I’ve been all over the world for work and travel. I’m sorry to say this , but the average hole in the wall restaurant/food truck/ or tent… America has the best and highest quality food I’ve EVER experienced.
I've traveled all over America (49 states so far, Alaska is still on my list), and one of the things I've learned is that there are so many little restaurants that don't look like much on the outside but have fantastic food on their menu. Absolute gems, and so many times you find out that the proprietors are some of the nicest, down-to-earth folks you'll ever meet. I think that it's this type of person who cares enough about their customers to make the best products for them. I salute and thank all the hard working people in the food industry who make our days better through their craft.
Totally agree! Those small restaurants with big flavors are the best. we can't wait to keep exploring and enjoying our food journey! Thanks for watching
I'll let those who dont know in on a secret. I'm a life long Chicagoan and used to work in a few restaurants like this. They are all the same, it just depends on which vendor they get their food from, vienna brand food is king in Chicago. The best establishments fork over the extra money to serve vienna products, and use steam to cook some of their food. Basically hotdogs, Polish sausage, bugers, Italian beef, and gyros are mainly sold in all of these places. ALL the food is frozen and mostly pre-cooked even the au jus sause they put on the sandwich in the video. The "cooks" basically just heat it up and put it together. Also, I don't know why, but a lot of the people that own these joints in Chicago are some of the most stuck up pathetic wanna be tough guys in the city. Not all of the owners of these Chicago fast food places are a-holes, but I've worked for and delt with a lot of them. If anyone knows of a place like this in Chicago that makes this type of food from scratch let me know because the frozen stuff is fire, the fresh food has to be amazing.
British are absolutely adorable when it comes to American foods. It’s the surprise and delight on their faces when they try it that always makes my day.
Kindof counterbalances all the British vs America videos about processed food with high fructose CS. US breads and cereals with all the sugar that are banned in the UK etc. All valid by the way.
You can only get real Italian Beef in Chicago. I lived on the southside and Al's Beef is where I went. Double Dipped with sweet and hot peppers (Giardinera).
Next time you plan a trip to Chicago you should do a meet up with Laurence Brown from "Lost in the Pond". You could do a collab video for your channels, and maybe meet up at a diner for some chicken fried steak. Yum.
i grew up and Illinois and moved to the west coast about 8 years ago. i bought my family italian beef and chili recipes with me. my GF and her family love both. my italian beef slow cooks for about 8 hours or more
i REALLY should not try to type when i have been up for 19 hours straight. After some sleep, i can barely understand my comment. sorry to anyone who reads that
@@thebritstryim glad that made sense. they also appreicate my love and skills cooking with cast iron skillets. great for everything from steak and eggs to deep dish pizza
So true, - Crock pot -Rump roast -Beef broth -Dry Italian seasoning -Pepperocini peppers -8 hours The closest recipient I could find when I moved away from Chicago.
You need to try a French dip, it’s very similar only you get a bowl with the orange you in it so you can dip it yourself. It doesn’t have those big peppers in it though are usually has cheese and possibly caramelized onions depending on where you buy it.
I remember these, growing up on the south side of Chicago! The Wet Italian Beef overloads your taste buds and you can't help but smile and take another bite!
Praying for you, as you deal with depression. I am sorry that you're dealing with this. Asking God to bless you, keep you, and comfort you. Sending prayers and good thoughts your way.
I have lived in Chicago for over 40 years and MR BEEF is one of my favorite places to eat. Not only is the food excellent but the owners are amazing and kind. Your next stop should be to pry Chicago pizza and Chicago hot dogs . . . yummy!
You could plan a whole tour around foods that come from Chicago: Jibaritos, Italian Beef, Maxwell Polish, Sausage Combos, Mild Sauce Wings, Chicken Vesuvio, Pizza Puffs, Cake Shakes, Garrett's Popcorn (or Nuts on Clark), Chicago dogs, Rainbow Cones, Rib Tips, Tavern-Style & Deep Dish, and the Gym Shoe.
I’m not from Chicago, but I used to drive there regularly for work. I can’t remember the name of the place, but there was a little Italian beef sandwich shack on the edge of an airport that blew my mind. It was like right outside the fence. I’d order a wet sandwich and eat it in my truck, literally moaning out loud.
O’Hare or midway airport? Maybe I can help since I’m familiar with both areas. I lived by midway and drover a truck for a few years and O’Hare area was a daily destination for years
You need to try Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park. Nothing is better than a combo (beef and chargrilled Italian sausage), sweet and hot peppers, dipped. With a lemon Italian ice on the side.
I love when my friends from out of state come and when I tell them to try one they think it is like a french dip. The look of delight on their face when they first try it.
Ya'll should check out Portillo's while you're in the Chicago area. They supposedly have a chocolate cake shake that is life changing....and I wanna try it!
It's good but portillo's is more of a tourist thing. The cake shake is great. And would recommend it alone. But, I wouldn't say what they serve is the best Chicago has to offer.
Welcome to Chi-town. Beef, hotdogs (dragged through the garden and please don't go to Portillos), and Deep Dish (Uno's) Pizza. Hope there are more Chicago food vids.
I thought Chicagoans had their Portillo's order memorized? TIK TOK MEME LED ME ASTRAY!!! If Uno's is too busy, go to Pizzaria Due instead. Same owners, same food, but not as well known, so less busy. They chose the name to follow up the original long before they considered franchising (There's a Pizzaria Uno up in Wisconsin, now!)
I agree with not going to Portillos for dogs or beef but they do have the world's best double cheeseburger with everything in the the frigging world. A lot of places do good dogs and beef. DO NOT go to Lou Malnattis for deep dish...unless you want to be a disappointed tourist.
Lifelong Chicago resident here. I love Portillo’s. As do many other Chicago residents. I respect your opinion that you’re not a fan. But your tastes are not everyone’s. Let people try first and let them decide for themselves.
I remember my first Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. 2010 at the age of 49. Changed my life lol... I ate one everyday for a week. Tried to duplicate them at home in Seattle. Failed miserably. Just goes to show the regional differences in food around the United States. I seems we have a lot fewer fast food chains and restaurants here in Washington state.
I am from Chicago. I grew up eating beefs, I love them. I never get the giardiniera (the pickled celery, carrot, etc). I just order it dipped with sweet peppers.
I was introduced to Italian Beef by Portillos when they arrived in Southern California. I was like heaven and I am eternally grateful the good Lord blessed me with a gift I can never repay.
Thanks for watching, we are also so grateful too! Italian Beef from Mr Beef was a gift that keeps on giving. We will have to head back to Portillos next time to give them a try.
I grew up in Chicago, went to Las Vegas and every time I flew home to see family, I'd stop at Portillo's first. lol Try their Polish Sausage. It's fantastic too.
Portillos used to be awesome back in the day. Now they are owned by a Chinese company and the quality has gone way down since then. They went public a few years ago and are expanding across the country. Not sure how the stock is doing now but it lost half its value a few days after its IPO so that is a reflection of what people think about their food.
What you said, @khb6686. Portillo's is just another corporate chain. Their food is good, but go to Johnnie's, Al's, Mr. Beef or many other good Chicagoland shops for a better Beef!
I moved away from Chicago and missed Italian Beef sandwiches so much, I bought a countertop rotary meat slicer and learned to make it myself. Make it 2-3 times a year, enough for about 6 sandwiches each time.
@@thebritstry If you ever want to try your hand at making it, give me a jingle. BTW, you don't have to slice it yourself as you can get rare roast beef very thinly sliced at the deli and that works well, too. We have them as 'cheesey beef' sandwiches, with mozzarella on top, melted under the broiler, bubbly and golden brown. Something very satisfying about recreating favorite restaurant dishes.
@@deejacks1 Chicago Italian Beef doesn't have cheese. (unless you specifically ask for it) It's more like a French Dip, but with sweet and/or hot peppers, and a usually spicy pickled vegetable blend called giardiniera.
@@deejacks1It is in the sense that it's a shaved steak sandwich, but it's closer to a French Dip or a roast beef sandwich with the broth as a dip. I absolutely love a Philly Cheesesteak as well though, or their roast pork sandwich!
I was told that this started out as wedding food during the Great Depression. The thinking was that if you dip that bread in the au jus, it satisfies like meat. The proper Chicago pronunciation of giardiniera is "jar-dih-nair" which probably makes Italians cringe in pain. Chicago-style giardiniera is amazing in pasta, pizza, salads, and sandwiches. The really magical thing about it is that it stays crunchy even after baking in a pizza.
For anybody looking to get that kind of bread local to themselves. GFS generally carries Turano bread (stays together even when wet), and they also have a couple different decent Italian Beef containers in the frozen section and Gardeniera in the Dry Good section. My household has them at least once a month, not as good as Mr. Beef or Portillos but passable and still delicious. Not everybody can make it to Chicago as often as they would like 😉.
We would play hockey every monday morning with the 2 brothers who owned Mr. Beef and wind up at the store and eat and go home and nap Best time ever Shout out to johnny and frankie
Other touted beef sandwiches in the USA include the French Dip in LA, a pastrami on rye in NYC, of course the Philly cheesesteak, and a roast beef with debris po'boy in New Orleans. I have loved them all. Reubens are also OK.
@@thebritstry Shrimp po'boys are more famous for sure, but I'm partial to debris. If you are headed back to Nawlins please check out a muffaletta sandwich. They are absolute beast sandwiches with heavy Italian deli influence.
You have Portillo's in Chicago they have great Italian Beef Sandwich's I always have it dipped with hot peppers! We have a Portillo's here in Glendale, Arizona!
Portillo's is just another corporate chain. Their food is good, but go to Johnnie's, Al's, Mr. Beef or many other good Chicagoland shops for a better Beef!
@thebritstry I'm a South Jersey/Philly guy living in Hawaii now. If you go to Philly anytime, please do not go to Pat's or to Geno's because they are absolutely tourist traps. If you're going to hit up any spots in the Philadelphia region, you must hit up Angelo's on 9th & Fitzwater. Yes, even though they draw a huge crowd now, they taste 1000x better than Pat's or Geno's. Also, you gotta go to John Roast Pork on Synder Ave to try their Roast Pork Sandwich. It is just as good as the Italian Beef you got in Chicago, but the RP has broccoli rabe, sharp provolone, and a pork gravy that's out of this world. In Camden NJ, right across the river from Philly, I love me some Donkey's Steak. They keep it simple with their cheesesteak. And Lawrence NJ Meatheadz Cheesesteak. In Delaware County PA near the Delaware/Pennsylvania state line, there's a spot called Don's that you will love. Check out my channel, I have a few food review videos on there. BTW, love your channel as well. Whenever you decide to make a trip to Hawaii, let me know.
I've had beef sandwiches (where available) from all over the nation. Philadelphia does well with its beef and cheese, but Chicago dipped Italian beef w/hot peppers is unmatched. Literal perfection
My first job at 16 was in a family owned Italian Beef place in the outskirts of Chicago. I have since moved far away and this brought back so many memories.
@@Theoriginalmaverick23 Carms iirc in St.Charles. Many, way too many, years ago. Best Italian beef, I remember on the days they roasted the beef how wonderful the place smelled.
You need to go to Philadelphia for cheesesteak sandwiches next. I wanted to dive into video to get a bite out of those great looking sandwiches. God bless!
A great sandwich that gives the Italian Beef a run for its money is the North Shore “3-Way”, sold on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Definitely worth trying.
When I was growing up, there were two competing religions regarding Italian Beef vegetables -- giardiniera, or pepperoncini. I grew up in a pepperoncini household, and I still prefer it that way to this day, but I am now ecumenical enough to honor my giardiniera brethren.
The sandwich I had was beef with Italian sausage and bell peppers, with an Au jus, it was an amazing sandwich. The shop sold out, and took their recipe with them.
Italian beefs are from Chicago. As far as I know no other state has their own version of it. The pickled stuff you were eating is called giardiniera. If you liked it it goes well on pizza. Hell I'm Mexican and i put it on my tacos also
Giardiniera aka hot peppers is Chicago’s greatest culinary contribution. I prefer all the parts that come with the peppers, cauliflower, carrots, celery, sometimes olives over the peppers themselves.
FYI the italian beef is a version of a sandwich called a french dip that can be found at a lot of diner type places across the country. The main difference is the chicago beef has a much more heavily seasoned juice. That basil, collander seed and garlic flavor coming through makes it the italian beef
My cat’s very favorite human food is Italian beef. When I bring home a sandwich, if I don’t eat it right away, she will try and tear into the paper wrapping to get some. We have a set routine-I spread a napkin on the side table for her to use as a plate, then I tear off kibble-sized beef bits one at a time for her to wolf down. She gets about 10-20 bites, but that’s it.
Chicago is a food heaven. I keep telling people Texas, New Orleans, Chicago. The only food even close is deep midwestern and southern. And you have to look through hundreds to find the right ones. But, if you go to Texas, New Orleans, Chicago. You can find the best food in plenty. Oh and Italian Beef is my favorite sandwich. Followed closely by a proper Ruben.
Assume you're a couple, becuz me and the wife have also been known to tear up a meal together too with a bit of bite, bite, pass ourselves. Lol! I love Italian beef!
Now I’m hungry. My grandfather used to drive to a small shop to pick these up for us in the summertime when we would visit. Illinois. Anywhere you have an Italian community ... Yum!
Y'all are fantastic! Found you by a few reviewer channels. Y'all deserve WAY more subs!! I hope if you ever plan a visit to Atlanta, you'll let me be a font of information.
I'm watching this video at work right now & I am very jealous! LOL I'm going to have to get one on my lunch break. I'm practically going Pavlovian right now. LOL Yum!
the pickled celery and veggies is called giardiniera
Hot or not?
@@Theoriginalmaverick23 it's a bit spicy
Lol if you follow Mark Weins, he did a series eating all over Chicago with God brother in law and he could not pronounce that for his life 😂
@@yaowsers77 I love watching his videos. You can tell he LOVES food!
And she can eat while you lalk
I traveled from North Carolina to Seattle Washington by bus and when I got a 3 hour layover in Chicago, the only thing I wanted to do was to get an authentic Italian beef sandwich. I was NOT disappointed.
So good! Thank you for watching! We also had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
Oh did you go to portillos right by that gray hound station
Next time you get one ask for a combo. It is a beef with an italian sausage on the same roll.
@@user-tp1sc2ve4g I unexpectedly had to take a greyhound from there to ann arbor. quite the misadventure.
Yup. My old fave used to be a place in Bartlett IL called Dogfather. They had a garlic beef and their au jus had some nice spices to it. Reopend under new ownership but its not the same. Shame. But youre right
I love watching folks who have never tried our famous Chicago beef eat one for the first time! Thanks for your reaction
Thanks for watching! it was delicious
For those who don't know, "wet" means they take the sandwich in tongs and dunk 100% of it into that vat of beef and Au Jou . it is not some dainty dip.
We can vouch for the fact it was 'WET' and soo good! Thank you for watching!
Chicago is the epicenter for good Italian Beef sandwiches. Love them with cooked green bell peppers! So yummy!
@@thebritstry next time get the sauce on the side and add to your liking
This is why you put your arms on the counter, move your feet back and bend over to bite into it without wearing the sandwich down the front of your shirt!
Wet is when they pour broth on the sandwich. Dipped is when they dunk the whole thing.
When the bread absorbs the gravy, it's the best thing in the world.
Absolutely! There's something so satisfying about that perfect gravy-soaked bread. Thanks for watching
Some Italian beef places sell a dish called "gravy bread", which is just the bread soaked in gravy. Often eaten during Lent because the RCC declared beef au jus is not meat, but the au jus is so beefy that you get something that approximates a beef dish.
At some beef places, you can just get the roll dipped in the juice. A gravy sandwich
OOOOO Chicago, have fun , probably one of the top food cities in the USA. If you can't find good food in Chicago you're not looking. Chicago style Hot Dogs, deep dish pizza, a million different incredible sandwiches. Enjoy.
definitely good sandwiches and deep dish pizza not a fan of the "dragged through the garden" hot dogs tho lmao.
@@kevinprzy4539 many that live there aren't either. To a lot of Chicagoans it's an old sort of generic saying. Just be careful where you go asking for ketchup. And if you are of weak constitution don't go to the winers circle later in the evening.
@@user-sg4nz8yn9o yes I suggested deep dish and Peter lugers steakhouse I think Chicago has one as well as new york
Thanks for the tips! Watch this space!!😉😉
Watch this space for the deep dish pizzas
Chicago!!! Italian beef is the staple meal. Saturdays, family gatherings, even funerals. Seriously. And everyone has a different favorite place.
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
@thebritstry pizza...hot dogs and Italian beef ..ONLY CHICAGO is the best! I live in Chicago
@@juliemanarin4127 We are so spoiled with the food we have in Chicago. Although, I'm jealous of Texas barbecue :D
@@shawnmika9275 Try Green Street Meats in the West Loop ... awesome BBQ.
I'm a Chicagoan who travelled all over the country with the circus for a few years. I was shocked to find out that the food in my hometown was _so much better_ than the rest of the country. Our food even stands up to New York and LA. I would even boldly claim that our Mexican food is the best, because we have so many Latinos here, better spices, better ingredients. There's a reason this city is a bunch of fatsos.
I’m originally from U.K.. I’ve been all over the world for work and travel. I’m sorry to say this , but the average hole in the wall restaurant/food truck/ or tent… America has the best and highest quality food I’ve EVER experienced.
Yeah and you've got the best Doner Kebab(TAZA), Fish& Chips(Seashell) and Persian(Patogh). 🤤
Bloody good morning to you chaps!! Greetings from suburban Chicago. Aahhyy mate’. 🥃🍺
Thank you for watching!
The hole in the walls always have the best food. Food from all over the world from the people that now live here. We're blessed.
not going to lie but from what I hear from you and others, sounds like a hell of a business opportunity over there.
I've traveled all over America (49 states so far, Alaska is still on my list), and one of the things I've learned is that there are so many little restaurants that don't look like much on the outside but have fantastic food on their menu. Absolute gems, and so many times you find out that the proprietors are some of the nicest, down-to-earth folks you'll ever meet. I think that it's this type of person who cares enough about their customers to make the best products for them. I salute and thank all the hard working people in the food industry who make our days better through their craft.
Totally agree! Those small restaurants with big flavors are the best. we can't wait to keep exploring and enjoying our food journey! Thanks for watching
I'll let those who dont know in on a secret. I'm a life long Chicagoan and used to work in a few restaurants like this. They are all the same, it just depends on which vendor they get their food from, vienna brand food is king in Chicago. The best establishments fork over the extra money to serve vienna products, and use steam to cook some of their food. Basically hotdogs, Polish sausage, bugers, Italian beef, and gyros are mainly sold in all of these places. ALL the food is frozen and mostly pre-cooked even the au jus sause they put on the sandwich in the video. The "cooks" basically just heat it up and put it together. Also, I don't know why, but a lot of the people that own these joints in Chicago are some of the most stuck up pathetic wanna be tough guys in the city. Not all of the owners of these Chicago fast food places are a-holes, but I've worked for and delt with a lot of them. If anyone knows of a place like this in Chicago that makes this type of food from scratch let me know because the frozen stuff is fire, the fresh food has to be amazing.
I travel for work too, and like finding the local spots
Gas station ribs!
@@dustinprice648 That might be going too far. Gas station ribs?!? Where?
British are absolutely adorable when it comes to American foods. It’s the surprise and delight on their faces when they try it that always makes my day.
Thank you for your kind words and giving our channel a try.
Agreed!
Kindof counterbalances all the British vs America videos about processed food with high fructose CS. US breads and cereals with all the sugar that are banned in the UK etc. All valid by the way.
Always Odd,
since British commercial marine industry (and other European nations) thrived on “Spice Trade” from South and East Asia.
These people seem so genuine and very nice. They're very likeable.
An Italian combination beef and sausage is the best sandwich ever! I lived in Chicago awhile and I stand by that!!
That sounds delicious! we will have to try that next time!
You can only get real Italian Beef in Chicago. I lived on the southside and Al's Beef is where I went. Double Dipped with sweet and hot peppers (Giardinera).
Thats a good place to go. Mr Beef, Als beef and Portillos have great Italian beef sandwiches
This guy Italian beefs
Next time you plan a trip to Chicago you should do a meet up with Laurence Brown from "Lost in the Pond". You could do a collab video for your channels, and maybe meet up at a diner for some chicken fried steak. Yum.
That would be cool! What a great idea, we are sure we will be going back to Chicago.
i grew up and Illinois and moved to the west coast about 8 years ago. i bought my family italian beef and chili recipes with me. my GF and her family love both. my italian beef slow cooks for about 8 hours or more
i REALLY should not try to type when i have been up for 19 hours straight. After some sleep, i can barely understand my comment. sorry to anyone who reads that
Made perfect sense! Sounds like your girlfriend and her family are lucky to have you
@@thebritstryim glad that made sense. they also appreicate my love and skills cooking with cast iron skillets. great for everything from steak and eggs to deep dish pizza
So true,
- Crock pot
-Rump roast
-Beef broth
-Dry Italian seasoning
-Pepperocini peppers
-8 hours
The closest recipient I could find when I moved away from Chicago.
You need to try a French dip, it’s very similar only you get a bowl with the orange you in it so you can dip it yourself. It doesn’t have those big peppers in it though are usually has cheese and possibly caramelized onions depending on where you buy it.
I remember these, growing up on the south side of Chicago! The Wet Italian Beef overloads your taste buds and you can't help but smile and take another bite!
It's amazing how food can bring back such strong memories! They were delicious! Thanks for watching
Lived in the Chicago area most of my life and recently moved to Alabama. No one here has even heard of an Italian Beef sandwich. We miss them so much!
You should start a Chicago style restaurant shack there.
It was so tasty! we were only there for a few days but we miss them as well, now!
@@A-rl4or my husband and his coworkers have said the same thing. I have the knowledge and skill, just not the physical ability to do so
LOL! I love the way Nicola turned away with the sandwich after the first bite not wanting to share.
So happy to see she's doing well😊
Thank you so much! was appreciate your message.
Omg my suggestion! Thank you all so much. My depression is kicking my ass and you both make the horrible days bearable.
Thank you so much for watching and thank you for your great suggestions! Chicago was so much fun!
Praying for you, as you deal with depression. I am sorry that you're dealing with this. Asking God to bless you, keep you, and comfort you. Sending prayers and good thoughts your way.
Best suggestion, because those are the best sandwiches EVER.
I have lived in Chicago for over 40 years and MR BEEF is one of my favorite places to eat. Not only is the food excellent but the owners are amazing and kind. Your next stop should be to pry Chicago pizza and Chicago hot dogs . . . yummy!
MR BEEF was delicious and a must-try spot! Thanks for the tips, We did try the deep pan pizza and will upload the videos soon. Thanks for watching
You could plan a whole tour around foods that come from Chicago:
Jibaritos, Italian Beef, Maxwell Polish, Sausage Combos, Mild Sauce Wings, Chicken Vesuvio, Pizza Puffs, Cake Shakes, Garrett's Popcorn (or Nuts on Clark), Chicago dogs, Rainbow Cones, Rib Tips, Tavern-Style & Deep Dish, and the Gym Shoe.
Do not leave the southside breaded steak sandwich off the list.
Thanks for the idea, Now we are hungry! We loved Chicago and will definitely be back in the future, thanks for the recommendations.
Thanks for the advice
@@BuildinWings The "Gym Shoe" ? I'm a life long Chicagoan (63 years) and I never heard of it.
I’m not from Chicago, but I used to drive there regularly for work. I can’t remember the name of the place, but there was a little Italian beef sandwich shack on the edge of an airport that blew my mind. It was like right outside the fence. I’d order a wet sandwich and eat it in my truck, literally moaning out loud.
That sounds like an amazing food experience! It's always great to discover hidden gems like that. Thanks for watching
O’Hare or midway airport? Maybe I can help since I’m familiar with both areas. I lived by midway and drover a truck for a few years and O’Hare area was a daily destination for years
Sounds like Schiller Park off of River Road
Maybe Donald's?
You need to try Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park. Nothing is better than a combo (beef and chargrilled Italian sausage), sweet and hot peppers, dipped. With a lemon Italian ice on the side.
Thanks for the suggestions, Next time hopefully we can spend more time in Chicago.
I've only ever had my Italian Beef sandwiches dipped. 😋
We thought we would try both, our favorite was the dipped sandwich. 😀
Same but I like Johnnie’s Beef.
Hot and wet is the way I get mine... sounds dirty, but when you order they know exactly what to do.
I love when my friends from out of state come and when I tell them to try one they think it is like a french dip. The look of delight on their face when they first try it.
Thank you for Watching! We had a great time in Chicago, Mr Beef was delicious.
same here, my friends from NY thought they were the same thing, they ended up eating two each and went back the next day for another!
Dude; so glad you got the dipped as well! It'd be criminal if you didn't.
The dipped is a game-changer! Thanks for watching!
Ya'll should check out Portillo's while you're in the Chicago area. They supposedly have a chocolate cake shake that is life changing....and I wanna try it!
LOVE the CAKE! And my fave sandwich, the beef/sausage combo with mozz and giardinera! Sometimes the pepper/egg for a change of pace.
It's good but portillo's is more of a tourist thing. The cake shake is great. And would recommend it alone. But, I wouldn't say what they serve is the best Chicago has to offer.
@@justinethridge9157All that was mentioned was the cake shake.
oh it indeed is life changing
Portillo's is too commercialized now, it was better with the original owners
Finally in Chicago
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
Welcome to Chi-town. Beef, hotdogs (dragged through the garden and please don't go to Portillos), and Deep Dish (Uno's) Pizza. Hope there are more Chicago food vids.
Diane Jennings recently paid a visit as well, if you care.
Thanks for the advice! we did try some of those place and we will upload the videos soon!
I thought Chicagoans had their Portillo's order memorized? TIK TOK MEME LED ME ASTRAY!!! If Uno's is too busy, go to Pizzaria Due instead. Same owners, same food, but not as well known, so less busy. They chose the name to follow up the original long before they considered franchising (There's a Pizzaria Uno up in Wisconsin, now!)
I agree with not going to Portillos for dogs or beef but they do have the world's best double cheeseburger with everything in the the frigging world. A lot of places do good dogs and beef. DO NOT go to Lou Malnattis for deep dish...unless you want to be a disappointed tourist.
Lifelong Chicago resident here. I love Portillo’s. As do many other Chicago residents. I respect your opinion that you’re not a fan. But your tastes are not everyone’s. Let people try first and let them decide for themselves.
I remember my first Italian beef sandwich in Chicago. 2010 at the age of 49. Changed my life lol... I ate one everyday for a week. Tried to duplicate them at home in Seattle. Failed miserably. Just goes to show the regional differences in food around the United States. I seems we have a lot fewer fast food chains and restaurants here in Washington state.
says the birthplace of Starbucks 🙄
Your story made my day! Thanks for sharing your experience with the iconic Chicago sandwich and your culinary adventures in Seattle.
a lot of the taste comes from the bread, almost all Beef shops in the Chicago area use only Turrano bread
I am from Chicago. I grew up eating beefs, I love them. I never get the giardiniera (the pickled celery, carrot, etc). I just order it dipped with sweet peppers.
That's the way I get them too, Sweet and Wet.
Thanks for sharing!!
I grew up in the Chicago area. Best sandwich ever!
It was so good! Mr Beef was really tasty. Thanks for watching
Ohhh man, I sooooo need a dipped beef sandwich NOW!
Those bad boys looked lush! Thanks for sharing guys!👏👏👏👍❤️
They were amazing! we would highly recommend. Thank you for watching!
Tell’em u want it baptized
You better stay in the Uk because a “dipped beef sandwich” sure as shit doesn’t exist in Chicago.
I was introduced to Italian Beef by Portillos when they arrived in Southern California. I was like heaven and I am eternally grateful the good Lord blessed me with a gift I can never repay.
Thanks for watching, we are also so grateful too! Italian Beef from Mr Beef was a gift that keeps on giving. We will have to head back to Portillos next time to give them a try.
I grew up in Chicago, went to Las Vegas and every time I flew home to see family, I'd stop at Portillo's first. lol Try their Polish Sausage. It's fantastic too.
Portillos used to be awesome back in the day. Now they are owned by a Chinese company and the quality has gone way down since then. They went public a few years ago and are expanding across the country. Not sure how the stock is doing now but it lost half its value a few days after its IPO so that is a reflection of what people think about their food.
you didn't even get to experience Portillos when it was really good, since it's been sold the quality has really declined
What you said, @khb6686. Portillo's is just another corporate chain. Their food is good, but go to Johnnie's, Al's, Mr. Beef or many other good Chicagoland shops for a better Beef!
The small local mom & pop places are always the best places to eat!
They are!
Chicago native of 40 years here 🙋🏽♀️. Best Italian beef in Chicago is at Johnnie’s beef.
Thanks for the advice , we will give it a try next time. Thanks for watching
💯 all day long! ♥️💖💘
@@ShowtimeSynergy12 You should've mentioned that Johnnie's is in Elmwood Park just outside of Chicago, so they don't get lost.
@@billbeliakoff5589 and after Johnnie's, it's just a quick trip up to Gene and Jude's !
Jay's. Period.
IT MAKES ME HAPPY WHEN YOU TWO EAT GREAT FOOD!
Thank you so much for watching! these Beef sandwiches were amazingly good!!!
Good to see you in Chicago, one of my favorite cities, I enjoy watching your videos.
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
I've only had a Chicago beef sandwich a few times, but I really enjoyed it. Looks fantastic!
It was delicious!! thanks for watching
I grew up in Chicago, and these were a staple. Been some years since I've been back unfortunately, and this just makes me miss home so much more
It's amazing how certain foods can bring back memories of home. We are happy that this video could bring you some nostalgia. Thanks for watching
You should a million followers. The most enjoyable to watch food reviewers I have ever seen.
Wow, a million followers? That would be amazing! Thanks for your awesome feedback! Your comment has made or day!!!!!
Gotta get Chicago style hotdogs while you're in town, as well as both deep dish and thin tavern style pizzas!
Thanks for the recommendations, We did try Hotdogs and pizza and will upload the video's soon.
I lived near a small bar for years. The owner was a retired Chicago railroad man who made the best Italian beef! Miss ya Sam!
Thank you for sharing this beautiful memory, Sam's Italian beef must have been truly amazing.
The joy of watching these videos is seeing how our hosts delight in these flavors. keep these videos coming you personify the joy of food!
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoy the videos. We have another video out this afternoon!
The way she slowly turned away and the look in her eyes when you went for your first bite made LOL
Lol, it was so good! Thanks for watching
I was wsitjng for you guys to come to chicago. Yessss yesssssss
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
Give me that sandwich! My mouth is watering.
Thank you for your enthusiasm about my sandwich! It was a real crowd-pleaser.
I moved away from Chicago and missed Italian Beef sandwiches so much, I bought a countertop rotary meat slicer and learned to make it myself.
Make it 2-3 times a year, enough for about 6 sandwiches each time.
Thank you for sharing your passion for Italian Beef sandwiches! Your dedication to recreating them at home is inspiring.
@@thebritstry
If you ever want to try your hand at making it, give me a jingle.
BTW, you don't have to slice it yourself as you can get rare roast beef very thinly sliced at the deli and that works well, too.
We have them as 'cheesey beef' sandwiches, with mozzarella on top, melted under the broiler, bubbly and golden brown.
Something very satisfying about recreating favorite restaurant dishes.
Thank you for visiting my city. Hope you guys enjoyed the rest of your visit here.
I did!
LOVE Italian Beef! One of the greatest sandwiches in the country.
What's the difference between the dry one and a cheesesteak?
@@deejacks1 Chicago Italian Beef doesn't have cheese. (unless you specifically ask for it) It's more like a French Dip, but with sweet and/or hot peppers, and a usually spicy pickled vegetable blend called giardiniera.
@@smarttvhome335 Thanks. It looks delicious but it's similar, in appearance, to cheesesteaks.
We really enjoyed Mr Beefs Dipped sandwiches! we can't wait to try more in the future.
@@deejacks1It is in the sense that it's a shaved steak sandwich, but it's closer to a French Dip or a roast beef sandwich with the broth as a dip. I absolutely love a Philly Cheesesteak as well though, or their roast pork sandwich!
I am so blessed. As a native Chicagoan I've probably had over1000 beefs in my life.
So jealous! With your experience, which is the best place for them?
When she said it was “other worldly” - that is so perfect a statement. A good Italian beef with hot peppers (giardiniera), dipped - is life changing!
Your so right! it was delicious! Thanks for watching!
Oh man great choice. Thanks for bringing us on your food adventures.
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
I was told that this started out as wedding food during the Great Depression. The thinking was that if you dip that bread in the au jus, it satisfies like meat.
The proper Chicago pronunciation of giardiniera is "jar-dih-nair" which probably makes Italians cringe in pain.
Chicago-style giardiniera is amazing in pasta, pizza, salads, and sandwiches. The really magical thing about it is that it stays crunchy even after baking in a pizza.
For anybody looking to get that kind of bread local to themselves. GFS generally carries Turano bread (stays together even when wet), and they also have a couple different decent Italian Beef containers in the frozen section and Gardeniera in the Dry Good section. My household has them at least once a month, not as good as Mr. Beef or Portillos but passable and still delicious. Not everybody can make it to Chicago as often as they would like 😉.
Thank you for the tips. 😀
Wiener's Circle is another place to check out while in Chicago. Be prepared for quite the experience if you go.
You two are fun to watch and such a cute couple.
Thank you for your kind comment! and Thanks for watching, we have another video out this afternoon! Thanks for watching
We would play hockey every monday morning with the 2 brothers who owned Mr. Beef and wind up at the store and eat and go home and nap
Best time ever
Shout out to johnny and frankie
That sounds epic! Playing hockey and munching on Mr. Beef? Can’t get much better than that! Thanks for watching
Italian Beef. Sweet peppers and Giardiniera. Dipped. Every time. Never gets old.
Italian Beef with sweet peppers and Giardiniera is the ultimate comfort food. Can't go wrong with that.
Other touted beef sandwiches in the USA include the French Dip in LA, a pastrami on rye in NYC, of course the Philly cheesesteak, and a roast beef with debris po'boy in New Orleans. I have loved them all. Reubens are also OK.
We have added all of these to our list of Sandwiches to try! We have been to New Orleans, but we tried the Shimp po boy.
@@thebritstry Shrimp po'boys are more famous for sure, but I'm partial to debris. If you are headed back to Nawlins please check out a muffaletta sandwich. They are absolute beast sandwiches with heavy Italian deli influence.
Everyone talks about Deep Dish, which is great, but the hoagies in Chicago are die for ❤
Those sandwiches were amazing!🤗
Chicago doesn't make hoagies.
I live in Chicago and never eat deep dish. Vito & Nicks or Fasano's have the best pizza.
I have lived in Chicago for 60 years and have never EVER heard it called a hoagie.
@@dukey19941Vito and Nick's thin, sausage onion mushroom and green pepper.
You have Portillo's in Chicago they have great Italian Beef Sandwich's I always have it dipped with hot peppers! We have a Portillo's here in Glendale, Arizona!
Thanks for the suggestion! Next time we are in Chicago, we will give it a try.
Portillo's is just another corporate chain. Their food is good, but go to Johnnie's, Al's, Mr. Beef or many other good Chicagoland shops for a better Beef!
Nicola I watch you & Andrew because of all of the places you check out, but I must admit I love your laugh! You are delightful!!❤
Thank you so much for your kind words, I'm glad you enjoy our adventures and my laugh!
Thank you for telling us the prices of what you are eating....and ten bucks for that sandwich is such a deal... wish I lived closer....
It was seriously delicious ! we wished we lived closer too! Thanks for watching.
Philly Cheesesteak and French Dip - two more beef sandwiches to try.
Thanks for watching! Sounds like we need to plan a trip to Philly!!!
@thebritstry ask some locals where to get cheesesteaks in Philly. Just like Italian Beef in Chicago, everyone has a favorite local spot.
@thebritstry I'm a South Jersey/Philly guy living in Hawaii now. If you go to Philly anytime, please do not go to Pat's or to Geno's because they are absolutely tourist traps. If you're going to hit up any spots in the Philadelphia region, you must hit up Angelo's on 9th & Fitzwater. Yes, even though they draw a huge crowd now, they taste 1000x better than Pat's or Geno's. Also, you gotta go to John Roast Pork on Synder Ave to try their Roast Pork Sandwich. It is just as good as the Italian Beef you got in Chicago, but the RP has broccoli rabe, sharp provolone, and a pork gravy that's out of this world. In Camden NJ, right across the river from Philly, I love me some Donkey's Steak. They keep it simple with their cheesesteak. And Lawrence NJ Meatheadz Cheesesteak. In Delaware County PA near the Delaware/Pennsylvania state line, there's a spot called Don's that you will love. Check out my channel, I have a few food review videos on there. BTW, love your channel as well. Whenever you decide to make a trip to Hawaii, let me know.
Not quite true. You can get a good sandwich almost anywhere. We just tell you the popular touristy spots.
Dipped with giardiniera only for me on my Beef sandwiches. So glad you enjoyed them!!!
Thanks for sharing! Those sandwiches were life changing!
With any sandwich like that...the bread is half of the experience!!
Absolutely! It held everything together, which was a much better experience. Thanks for watching
great bread from Turano's
I paid $9 for the Whopper I'm eating so that $10 beef sandwich is a bargain.
Yeap! it was great value and soo tasty! Thank you for watching!
Cheese steak in Philly. I heard best place is Angelo’s Pizzeria.
Thanks for the suggestion! Sounds like a Philly cheesesteak will have to be in our future !
I've had beef sandwiches (where available) from all over the nation. Philadelphia does well with its beef and cheese, but Chicago dipped Italian beef w/hot peppers is unmatched. Literal perfection
My first job at 16 was in a family owned Italian Beef place in the outskirts of Chicago. I have since moved far away and this brought back so many memories.
Which one?
@@Theoriginalmaverick23 Carms iirc in St.Charles. Many, way too many, years ago. Best Italian beef, I remember on the days they roasted the beef how wonderful the place smelled.
Thanks for sharing! They were delicious
You need to go to Philadelphia for cheesesteak sandwiches next. I wanted to dive into video to get a bite out of those great looking sandwiches. God bless!
And go to Angelo's Pizza has the best cheesesteak.
They were soo good! sounds like we need a trip the Philly!
Italian beef sandwiches are 🔥🔥🔥🎇🎇🎇
ABSOLUTELY!!!
Forgive my ignorance but, if you haven't been here yet, Miami!❤
Well done you found the real Chicago signature dish.
I appreciate your kind words! It means a lot to hear that you enjoyed the video. Mr Beef was delicious!
@@thebritstry not at all. Check out Chicago tavern style pizza if you haven’t already.
Glad the Chicagoans are so close to me we get to enjoy the amazing food culture 🎉
we are so jealous! It's great to have such delicious options nearby!
Try to go to Portilos and try their Italian Beef while in Chicago
I live in the suburbs of Chicago and I make my own. It takes me 2 days, but it's totally worth it.
That's dedication! Homemade always tastes better, Thanks for watching
From Chicago with love
Thanks for watching!
A great sandwich that gives the Italian Beef a run for its money is the North Shore “3-Way”, sold on the North Shore of Massachusetts. Definitely worth trying.
Thank you for recommending the North Shore "3-Way"! we'll definitely try to get to Massachusetts to give it a try in the future.
Let’s eat, my friends🎉🎉
Thank you for watching!
When I was growing up, there were two competing religions regarding Italian Beef vegetables -- giardiniera, or pepperoncini. I grew up in a pepperoncini household, and I still prefer it that way to this day, but I am now ecumenical enough to honor my giardiniera brethren.
My husband’s family was team pepperoncini. Mine was team giardiniera. 😉
It's great to appreciate both sides of the Italian Beef vegetable debate! Sounds like we need to try more in the future... Yum!
The sandwich I had was beef with Italian sausage and bell peppers, with an Au jus, it was an amazing sandwich. The shop sold out, and took their recipe with them.
We saw that option, next time we will have to try it!😀
You need to go to Philadelphia and have a Philly cheesesteak! I’m so glad you are enjoying your time in the US and taking all of us along with you❤
Philly cheesesteak sounds amazing! Thanks for the tip, we'll make sure to try and plan a visit Philadelphia soon.
4:29
"Its a little Windy out here..."
Chicagoans: First time?
Glad you got to enjoy a Chicago staple sandwich 🥪 We grow up on this stuff glad we can share this to the world!
So good! We would love to try more places in the future! Thanks for watching
Beef sandwiches are the best, especially in the winter with the warm au-jus yummy 😋
Yes they are! I bet they are even better on a colder day! Thanks for watching
She plunged in with a proper first bite. Nice!
Looks like she's not messing around with that first bite! 😄
I understand most prefers fries, but I find eating an Italian beef with onion rings awakens another level of deliciousness.
Onion Rings!?! We didn't know that was a thing! That sounds amazing......... Thanks for sharing, we will have to try that next time.
Italian beefs are from Chicago. As far as I know no other state has their own version of it. The pickled stuff you were eating is called giardiniera. If you liked it it goes well on pizza. Hell I'm Mexican and i put it on my tacos also
Thanks for the info! I love learning about different regional foods. Thanks for watching
Giardiniera aka hot peppers is Chicago’s greatest culinary contribution. I prefer all the parts that come with the peppers, cauliflower, carrots, celery, sometimes olives over the peppers themselves.
That's awesome! Giardiniera really does add a special touch to dishes.
FYI the italian beef is a version of a sandwich called a french dip that can be found at a lot of diner type places across the country. The main difference is the chicago beef has a much more heavily seasoned juice. That basil, collander seed and garlic flavor coming through makes it the italian beef
we appreciate you enlightening us about the differences between the two sandwiches. Thanks for watching
My cat’s very favorite human food is Italian beef. When I bring home a sandwich, if I don’t eat it right away, she will try and tear into the paper wrapping to get some. We have a set routine-I spread a napkin on the side table for her to use as a plate, then I tear off kibble-sized beef bits one at a time for her to wolf down. She gets about 10-20 bites, but that’s it.
Thank you for sharing this adorable story about your cat and the Italian beef routine. Pets truly bring joy to our lives.
Chicago is a food heaven. I keep telling people Texas, New Orleans, Chicago. The only food even close is deep midwestern and southern. And you have to look through hundreds to find the right ones. But, if you go to Texas, New Orleans, Chicago. You can find the best food in plenty. Oh and Italian Beef is my favorite sandwich. Followed closely by a proper Ruben.
Texas has too much tex-mex food.
@@Theoriginalmaverick23 if by tex mex you mean pulled pork or brisket breakfast tacos. I'd say there isn't enough of them in the world.
Thanks for watching.
Thanks for watching.
Thank you for sharing your love of food and these awesome recommendations! We will try that next time
Assume you're a couple, becuz me and the wife have also been known to tear up a meal together too with a bit of bite, bite, pass ourselves. Lol!
I love Italian beef!
Thanks for sharing! we are married! It's always nice to hear about other couples enjoying good food with loved ones.
Now I’m hungry. My grandfather used to drive to a small shop to pick these up for us in the summertime when we would visit. Illinois. Anywhere you have an Italian community ... Yum!
Thank you for sharing such a heartwarming memory. Food really does bring back the best moments. Mr Beef was really good! Thanks for watching
Glad you enjoyed! I wish all the world could try Italian Beef sandwiches
Thank you for the kind words! Italian Beef sandwiches are truly a delightful experience. We can't wait to try more in the future.
Y'all are fantastic! Found you by a few reviewer channels. Y'all deserve WAY more subs!! I hope if you ever plan a visit to Atlanta, you'll let me be a font of information.
Welcome to the channel!! Thank you so much for your kind words and support! Let us know if you have anywhere we should visit?
Welcome to Chicago! We love our food. I have some of that beef in my freezer for emergencies. :)
Thank you for watching! We had such a short time in Chicago but we loved it! we will definitely head back to spend more time there in the future.
I'm watching this video at work right now & I am very jealous! LOL I'm going to have to get one on my lunch break. I'm practically going Pavlovian right now. LOL Yum!
LOL, glad you're enjoying the video at work! Treat yourself to something tasty on your lunch break!
U guys make my day enjoying food for us to watch. That looks so good!
Thank you for watching! It tasted so good!😋
Italian beef dipped sandwiches are out of this world. I forgot about them.
It's true, Italian beef dipped sandwiches are a hidden gem! we loved them . Thank you for watching