Al's #1 Italian Beef
snoboardz1972 · 196 Google reviewsAl's #1 Italian Beef — an italian spot in West Loop. The kind of spot that earns loyalty, not hype. The kind of cooking that doesn't need to explain itself. "The beef is tender and juicy; absolutely delicious" — Jeremy Burlen [$$, patio]
What 2,761 diners keep saying
What 2,761 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“It really is #1. I just realized today that I have been coming here for 40 years. And thankfully everything is just the same as always. The fries ❤️.”
“Al’s Beef absolutely lived up to the hype. I’m not going to lie—it might be the perfect hangover food. The proof is in the juice. Every bite was messy in the best way, and there’s no other way to get it but dipped. It’s one of those meals that feels iconic as you eat it. It’s not fancy, delicious and perfect.”
“Always my go to when I come home since they closed ours in Vegas. Please find a small place and come back. Love y'all, til next visit.”
“Everything the food network said it was, loved it, you should definitely stop by if in Chicago”
“Italian beef Sweet peppers Hot giardiniera Dipped in juice Fries 💯% satisfing meal. ❤️👍🏻”
“If you're looking for the total Chicago beef experience...this is your place ! Dipped, not dipped, juicy extra hot, cheese or no cheese...you ask, they'll make it! Hot Dogs have that perfect Chicago Snap and fresh cut fries top it all off. If you have room definitely try the charcoal grilled Italian sausage or maybe even a combo...soooo delicious! Have a seat outside or roll up your sleeves, take axwide stance & eat at the counter ! I really wish they had Coke products but it's not a deal breaker. There's a reason they've been in business forever...its traditional & true to its roots. This recipe has never changed & this is what makes Al's unique...they don't try to fix perfection! Definitely head out & enjoy any sandwich on the menu & you won't be disappointed!”
“It's probably been about six years since I visited the original AL'S BEEF on taylor st. And nothing has changed at all!!! It is the best beef in the city.They cut it so thin.It's basically shredded, which is the only way to eat italian beef.It melts in your mouth!!!! The spices are amazing!!! And the french fries are to die for!!! I've been coming to this location for 50+ years and it has never disappointed!!!! The only thing that would have made the visit completely perfect was if Mario's italian lemonade stand was open across the street!! But they're still closed until may. But it didn't take away at all from my trip. So satisfying coming back here. The memories come flooding back from when I was seven and my mom and dad would bring me here!! Back when the entrances work a garage doors!! This place is a chicago institution.That's second to none!!!”
“This place has the best food in Chicago. Who knew beef could be so flavorful (get the Italian Beef dipped with sweet and hot peppers). I also appreciate how they didn't have a bathroom to wash hands and gave us wet paper towels instead.”
“My husband is a foodie and wanted authentic Chicago Italian Beef. I liked the food, it was good, but he loved it. There is limited seating but adds to the experience. If you are looking for a real food experience this might be it. Fun to see the history on their walls.”
“OMG THE BEST BEEF SANDWICH I EVER HAD!!!! They deserve the title as the best, because they are. I didn’t know about this place, was walking through little Italy that I spotted it and as I was hungry I was like “let try it” OMG why didn’t I hear about this place on instagram? I ordered the traditional dip with cheese, and now I have to travel from Florida to Chicago frequently so I can have that taste again. The staff are nice, polite and kind. The place it’s just how It’s supposed to be, not a fancy establishment but it feels like home and there’s warm in it. I just love it, with that sandwich they don’t need anything else on the menu. I highly recommend this gem hidden in Chicago.”
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