Al’s Italian Beef. Â All right, let’s not kid around. Â This place is not fancy. Â It’s actually a chain, but as far as we can see, it’s a chain confined to Chicago. Â The way we see it, it’s so good, they had to spread them all across the city. Â The Loon and I had never even heard of a classic Chicago Italian Beef until we were on our way to the airport, and our driver, who was born and raised in Chicago…said…”your kidding me, you’ve never had a Chicago Italian Beef.” Â We were a little embarassed, and so ‘no, we’ve never even heard of them.’ Â Well, he chortled a bit, and then said we might as well try Chicago’s favorite: Â Al’s Italian Beef.
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So, on our last day in Chicago, headed to the airport…we found one. Â Good Lord. Â They are good. Â Basically, they are Chicago’s version of a Philly Cheese Steak…but uniquely Chicago. Â Not great if you’re trying to shed a few pounds (like we were for the big wedding day)…but hey…why not.
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These gems were incredibly flavorful, inexpensive…and damn delicious. Â If you’ve never had one…you gotta go. Â Mmm, mmm, mmm!! Â And I have to say: Â Have it dipped! Â Messy…but wow!
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Al’s Italian Beef
Locations all over ChicagoÂ
Original Location: 1079 Taylor St, Chicago: Â 312-226-4017
http://alsbeef.com/index.asp
Al’s Italian Beef – A little wet with hot and sweet peppersAl’s Italian Beef – Wet with Peppers and CheeseWhy not? Al’s Cheesy Fries