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Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park : Best Italian Beef in Chicago
If you are crazy about Italian beef then I am guessing you probably know everything about Johnnie’s Beef restaurant in Elmwood Park.
Johnnie’s Beef is located on North Avenue. It has been popular restaurant for their signature Italian beef sandwiches since over 10 years. As in general, Johnnie’s has been popular among Chicagoans as well as Chicago travelers.
I must point out that you will have great time enjoying the old-school ambience where you can hear the sizzling grills, and a line that often stretches down the block.
I would say that if you are beef lover then this restaurant is one of the must-visit spots for anyone looking to experience Chicago’s iconic sandwich in its purest form.
Simple and Iconic Menu
One of the first things you’ll notice at Johnnie’s Beef is the efficiency of the operation. The menu is very simple. Menu at Johnnie’s features Italian beef, hot dogs, sausage, and a few other classic Chicago staples. But make no mistake, the star of the show is the Italian beef sandwich.
Quick Tip: Hot dog lovers may like my post on best hot dogs in Chicago.
Ordering here is simple but first-timers should be ready to order quickly, wondering why? Because like I mentioned earlier, sometimes there is long line all the way block down.
I recommend to get ready for the order quickly without wasting time at the counter, as there might be a long line behind you waiting for their turn to order.
So, lets get into some basic good stuff to choose before you get to the counter. Will you have it dry, dipped, or juicy? With sweet peppers or hot giardiniera? These are the choices that make each sandwich unique to its eater.
The Popular Johnnie’s Beef
Johnnie’s Italian beef is number one. Yes, at Johnnie’s you are assured to get the thinly sliced tender, juicy beef infused with just the right amount of seasoning.
The au jus is rich and flavorful, soaking into the bread just enough to give it a soft yet structured bite. Many purists opt for their sandwich to be “dipped,” where the entire sandwich is dunked into the jus, ensuring every bite is a drippy, savory delight.
Of course, the toppings add to the magic. The sweet peppers bring a mellow, roasted flavor, while the hot giardiniera adds a spicy, vinegary kick. Either way, every bite is going to be full of traditional Italian beef flavor.
The Johnny’s Beyond Just a Sandwich
Beyond the food, I must point out that you will have great time at Johnnie’s Beef. The smell of grilled sausage and beef in the area, the neon lights buzz with nostalgia, and the quick, no-nonsense service is all part of the charm.
Most people eat outside, either standing or sitting on the few available benches, enjoying their sandwich with a cold Italian ice to wash it down.
Speaking of Italian ice, try Johnnie’s lemon ice. The tart, refreshing citrus flavor is the perfect compliments to the rich, meaty sandwich.
In my opinion, during summer season, nothing hits quite like the combination of an Italian beef and a cup of lemon ice from Johnnie’s.
Why Johnnie’s Stands above the Rest on My List?
You must be thinking in Chicago city with no shortage of Italian beef spots, what makes Johnnie’s stand out? It’s the authenticity, the tradition, and the fact that they haven’t changed what makes customers keep coming back for beef sandwich.
Unlike some places that try to modernize or experiment, Johnnie’s Beef has consistently serving what they do best by serving an Italian beef sandwich that’s stood the test of time.
For decades, this little stand has been there in the Elmwood Park community, a place where families, foodies, and everyday Chicagoans come together over a shared love of good authentic Italian Beef Sandwich.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, one thing is for certain: a trip to Johnnie’s Beef is never a disappointment.
So next time you find yourself in the Chicago area, try Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park. Just be sure to bring your appetite—and maybe a few napkins.
