Chicago Cheesesteaks or Italian Beef? A Guide to the Best Sandwiches in Chicago

When visiting or moving to the vibrant city of Chicago, choosing the perfect sandwich can be as challenging as it is rewarding. While many visitors come from the Philly area expecting a traditional cheesesteak, Chicago has its own unique sandwich offerings, most notably the Italian Beef. Let's explore the best choices and why they are worth trying while you're in the city.

The Philadelphia Cheese Steak vs. Chicago’s Italian Beef

Many stories and opinions surround the origin and popularity of these sandwiches, but in essence, they offer distinct dining experiences. Authentic Philly cheesesteaks, made with thinly sliced beef, melted with cheese, and served on a long hoagie roll with various seasonings, are a culinary delight. However, when you visit Chicago, it's important to keep an open mind and try the local favorite, the Italian Beef.

Sources of Authority

Three local experts I consulted offered diverse opinions:

Person A: Born in the Philly area and currently living in Chicago, they recommend Monty's on Lawrence for the best cheesesteak in town. Despite a recent fire, Monty's now has a ghost kitchen for delivery. Person B: A local from Chicago suggests that Italian Beef is the true Chicago sandwich. They recommend visiting Johnny’s on North Avenue for the best Italian Beef sandwich experience. Person C: Another Chicago local advises to ignore cheesesteaks and opt for the Wet Italian Beef with a side of hot giardinara sauce, perfect for those who prefer their beef drenched in sauce. Person D: They claim that the best cheesesteak in Chicago is located at Super Submarine in West Town, suggesting it's a better choice than the Philly-style classics.

Key Differences and Recommendations

While Philly cheesesteaks rely on their thickness and grilling technique, Chicago's Italian Beef is cut thinner and prepared with a distinctive onion and horseradish-based sauce. This sauce, often referred to as giardiniera, gives the sandwich a tangy and spicy kick that defines the Chicago dining experience.

Johnny's on North Avenue is highly recommended for those seeking the best Italian Beef in Chicago. The sandwich is made with top-quality beef that's marinated in the giardinara sauce, resulting in a unique flavor that lingers on the palate. This combination of fresh beef and rich sauce is what sets Chicago's Italian Beef apart.

Best Places to Try Each Sandwich in Chicago

Best Cheesesteak in Chicago:

Super Submarine in West Town - Tips from Chicago local Person D point to Super Submarine as the place to go for a top-notch cheesesteak experience. This spot offers a thick, juicy cut of beef and a well-seasoned hoagie roll, providing a satisfying meal.

Best Italian Beef in Chicago:

Johnny’s on North Avenue - Person B from Chicago is a strong advocate for Italian Beef and suggests Johnny’s as the best place to try it. The sandwich is known for its delicate slices of beef, tender onions, and the perfect giardinara sauce blend.

Why the Italian Beef is the Way to Go in Chicago

Chicago is not known for cheesy steak sandwiches but rather the rich, juicy slices of beef, served with a delicious blend of giardinara onions and a touch of horseradish. This unique flavor profile is what sets Chicago's Italian Beef apart. Whether you prefer a dry or wet sandwich, the choice is yours, but one thing is certain: the giardinara sauce is not to be missed.

Conclusion

When visiting Chicago, you should definitely try both cheesesteak and Italian Beef, but remember that the latter is a true Chicago experience. If you're from the Philly area and crave a cheesesteak, places like Monty's on Lawrence offer a taste of home. However, for the unique flavors and culinary experience, give Italian Beef a try at Johnny's on North Avenue. It just might become your new favorite sandwich.

Keywords: cheesesteak, italian beef, chicago sandwich