At Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park, grab cash for a quick bite of Chicago’s iconic Italian beef and house-made Italian ice, served with efficiency and flair.
"The best example of Chicago’s iconic Italian beef sandwich exists outside of the city at the two suburban locations of Johnnie’s Beef. The original space in Elmwood Park is a relic that first opened in 1961 (there’s also a second location in Arlington Heights). The menu is simple: beefs (the monosyllabic term locals use for Italian beef sandwiches), charcoal-grilled Italian sausages, and hot dogs. The thin-cut beef is perfectly seasoned with hints of oregano. The hot peppers deliver plenty of heat without overwhelming the meat. Don’t sleep on the beef-sausage sandwich, which combines tender slices with a robust sausage. Pepper-and-egg sandwiches are also available daily; they’re mostly aimed at Catholic customers who need a meat-free option on Lent Fridays. For dessert, there’s a stellar lemon Italian ice. While the city has plenty of beef options, Johnnie’s is worth the drive to the burbs." - Ashok Selvam
"While Mr. Beef is the primary inspiration for the Beef on The Bear, the show also nods to another iconic Italian beef joint as part of the Episode 7 montage. Open since 1961, suburban spot Johnnie’s Beef has piled its signature sandwiches with giardiniera and also dished out hot dogs and charcoal-grilled Italian sausages. Finish the meal by cooling off with a lemon Italian ice." - Samantha Nelson, Ashok Selvam
"The Italian beef is perhaps the most iconic sandwich in all of Chicago. Although it’s hotly contested, a large chunk of people think the best one is found at Johnnie's Beef out in Elmwood Park. Order it the traditional way: Topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers, and dipped in jus. Picnic tables are set up outside for dining. A second location is in suburban Arlington Heights." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman, Eater Staff
"Though this decades-old Elmwood Park mainstay is known for perhaps Chicagoland’s best beef sandwiches, it also serves lemon-flavored ice year round. Additionally, Johnnie’s sells lemon and watermelon Italian ice at its Arlington Heights location." - Naomi Waxman, Eater Staff
"Italian beef aficionados know that the finest version of the sandwich is out in Elmwood Park (there's a second Johnnie’s in Arlington Heights, too). The well-seasoned beef is finely chopped and loaded onto Gonnella bread, and diners can (and should) have it dipped in jus and balanced with giardiniera or sweet peppers. On a hot day, the housemade Italian ices are also required eating." - Naomi Waxman, Eater Staff
