Chicago’s Culinary Staple, The Italian Beef, and Its Star Turn in The Bear

Chicago is known for its skyline, sports teams, and deep-dish pizza, but no food represents the city’s grit and authenticity quite like the Italian beef sandwich.

This unpretentious yet flavorful creation has been a staple for decades, warming locals' hearts (and stomachs). Fans of The Bear, the hit TV show set in a gritty Chicago restaurant, will recognize this iconic sandwich, which plays a starring role in the city’s food culture. In this post, we’ll explore the history of Italian beef, the top spots to try it, and why The Bear resonates so deeply with Chicagoans.

Italian beef sandwich with giardiniera. 

The Origin of the Italian Beef

Created by Chicago's Italian immigrants in the early 20th century, the Italian beef sandwich was a way to stretch limited resources. They slow-roasted tough cuts of beef, sliced the meat thin, and served it on rolls. The sandwich became juicier when the bread was dipped in the meat’s flavorful juices, or “au jus,” a technique now a Chicago signature.

Today, you can find Italian beef in many forms; “wet” (fully dipped in gravy), “dry” (with less juice), and topped with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera, a spicy Italian pickled vegetable mix.

Iconic Chicago Beef Stands

Chicago has no shortage of iconic beef stands, each with its loyal following. Here are a few must-visit spots:

Al's Beef on Taylor Street

1. Al’s Beef

Founded in 1938 in Little Italy, Al’s Beef is a cornerstone of Chicago’s Italian beef scene. Known for its thinly sliced, juicy beef and customizable levels of au jus, Al’s is essential for anyone new to Italian beef sandwiches. Roll up your sleeves and expect it to be messy. When you’re finished, walk across the street to Mario’s for Italian ice, a frozen slush-like treat in flavors like lemon, mango, cherry, or pomegranate.

Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood Park

2. Johnnie’s Beef

Located in the suburb of Elmwood Park, Johnnie’s is a favorite for its spicy giardiniera and hefty portions. Growing up in nearby River Forest, my family always preferred Johnnie’s—it’s been our go-to spot for as long as I can remember. Get in line and order a beef dipped with sweet peppers and fries. Make sure you know your order before you get to the counter and close the door behind you, the staff will let you know if you don’t. If you have room after your “sangwich,” get back in line for their lemon Italian ice.

Mr. Beef is featured in The Bear.

3. Mr. Beef on Orleans

A no-frills River North joint, Mr. Beef has been serving dripping-with-juice sandwiches since the 1960s. Featured in The Bear, this iconic spot embodies the grit and flavor of Chicago’s food scene.

4. Portillo’s

Though now a national chain, Portillo’s started as a hot dog stand in Villa Park. It remains a go-to for consistently great Italian beef, making it a favorite for locals, tourists, and people who live outside the Chicagoland area. They also deliver nationwide.

Portillo's offers Italian beef sandwiches in 3 different ways: Classic Beef on a French roll, The Combo - beef and sausage on a French roll, and Cheddar Melt on a croissant. 

The Bear and The Beef

Cousin works the line at the beef stand. Screenshot from S1 E2 of The Bear on FX.

The Bear, a compelling TV series based in the heart of Chicago, delves into the city's enduring passion for beef and its profound cultural significance. The show primarily focuses on the character of Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto, a skilled and ambitious fine-dining chef who comes back home to manage his family's modest sandwich shop. While the shop isn't directly modeled after specific Italian beef spots, it pays homage to renowned establishments like Mr. Beef, situated close to the fictional restaurant's location.

Throughout the series, food symbolizes survival, heritage, and the intricate bond between individuals and their communities. The Italian beef sandwich becomes a central emblem of Chicago's working-class origins, embodying the city's robust, unassuming, and heartfelt nature.

Through The Bear, we witness the dedication, creativity, and community spirit required to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

The show’s raw authenticity effectively captures the bustling atmosphere of real-life beef stands in Chicago. Similar to the show's kitchen crew, these places are manned by a diverse group of quick-witted individuals, who are resilient, and deeply devoted to their craft, despite the controlled chaos surrounding them. Whether handling long lines of hungry customers or overseeing an energetic staff, the day-to-day life of a beef stand closely parallels the drama and tension that unfold within Carmy and his crew's kitchen.

Carmy talks to Marcus outside of the restaurant. Screenshot from S2 E7 of The Bear on FX.

The Bear's portrayal of Chicago's beef culture extends beyond mere entertainment; it honors the city's culinary legacy and pays homage to the countless individuals who have dedicated themselves to perfecting this beloved dish.

Through its exploration of food, family, and the pursuit of excellence, The show deeply resonates with Chicago audiences because it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of tradition and the significance of human connection in a rapidly evolving world.

The Bear is a heartfelt tribute to Chicago and the people who uphold its traditions.