University Village
Al's #1 Italian Beef
Chicago, IL, 60607, United States
The flagship location of an ever-growing national chain, this sandwich shop was first established in 1938 as a curbside wooden food stand in Little Italy. Today, visitors still flock to the unassuming restaurant to experience Al’s original Italian beef sandwich, which has been named one of the top 10 sandwiches in America by Travel + Leisure. Sidewalk tables are available, but most patrons prefer to dine inside where they can assume the famous “Italian Stance,” hunched over with elbows on the wooden counter, while enjoying the signature beef sandwich, made with fresh Italian bread, slow-roasted meat, hot peppers, and gravy.
Insider Tip:
Make sure to order your sandwich “dipped,” meaning the entire creation is dunked in beef gravy.
Amenities
Open / Closes- Dinner
- Kitchen Open Late
- Late-Night Dining
- Lunch
- No Reservations
- Sunday - Closed
- Take-Out Available
Cuisine Type:: Soup & Sandwich