Exploring the best Italian beef sandwiches in Chicago

In this week’s Food stuff Battle, we choose on a century-aged Chicago sandwich that irrespective of its title is not uncovered in Italy — the Italian beef.

Stay on top rated of the most recent marketplace developments and economic insights with Axios Marketplaces. Subscribe for free

Justin’s pick: Picking a beef is just one of the toughest conclusions I’ve built in my overall existence. Is it Johnnie’s in Elmwood Park? Mr. Beef on Orleans? Portillos? But for my money, the most effective could be at Al’s #1 Beef on Taylor Road ($7.35).

• The spices utilised for seasoning the beef provide out a one of a kind sweet-like flavor.

• I like my beef dipped (who doesn’t).

• The giardiniera is a need to, but the sweet peppers are also worthwhile.

• Pro suggestion: Have a jar of giardiniera at dwelling to spice it up even far more.

An Italian beef from Johnnie’s in Elmwood Park. Photograph: Monica Eng/Axios

Monica’s choose: Despite its prolonged lines, Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park will get my vote. At $4.69, Johnnie’s normal-sized sandwich provides a person of the most effective bargains in city.

• I get it “dry,” which continue to implies juicy, just not falling-apart juicy.

• I skip the sweet peppers and go for heaps of their fantastic, carrot-spiked warm giardiniera.

• The beef is always brightly flavored and tender, the bread is pleasantly chewy and the crisp, fragrant fries are some of the best in the place.

📫 Which of our beefs ought to win? Choose the survey.

Far more from Axios: Indicator up to get the latest marketplace developments with Axios Markets. Subscribe for totally free