Friendly staff, good food. Those are really the only things I care about when going out to lunch in the West Loop. The only thing I don't like about this place is the wait time to get the food. It can get pretty crowded in there during the week for lunch. But....good things come to those who wait. So I'll keep waiting for my yummy roast beef sandwich and chili cheese fries.
So, I came to Chicago for the July 5 Grateful Dead finale. I read a great deal about this spot in advance and was determined to go. And even though I learned from friends after the fact that there might be better "Beef" spots, I am thrilled that I went to Al's. I memorized what to order in advance. Regular beef, no cheese, hot peppers and grilled onions. Dipped. Large fries. My lunch was epic. A fabulous sandwich, spicy, dripping with the famous gravy. Fries were some of the best I have ever had. Because I knew I had a three mile walk back to my hotel after the show and because I didn't know when I might return to Chicago, I had a second sandwich!! Are there better spots in Chicagoland? Don't ask me, I'm no expert. I'm from Jersey. What I do know is I walked out of Al's with a full belly and a big smile. Isn't THAT what it's all about? Hope to return one day.
(4)
Amy H.
Yea it was OKAY! I've heard so much about this place and how good etc etc it was like just a fast food joint. While it wasn't terribly horrible it was underrated for sure. As an out of towner I expected it to be lines out the door based in the hype. Again it wasn't bad. Got the small beef w the hot peppers w the French fries!
(3)
Jared P.
I've never been so disappointed in my life with an Italian roast beef sandwich. I understand that it's supposed to be greasy, fattening, and ect. We got ours dipped, so it was even more artery clogging. It went downhill when we got lukewarm reception by the guys behind the counter. The delivery guy was arguing loudly with the cook. I ordered two beef, a drink, and a large fry. It came to over $20. The fries were burnt, the sandwich was disgusting and had no taste, and it was just a nauseating experience. I couldn't find a shred of cheese in my sandwich. I've had good beef. This is NOT good beef. I would have been better off with McDonald's.
(1)
Justin S.
Lean in, get it hot & wet, and enjoy one of these Windy city staples. I enjoyed this sandwich very much and I think you will too.
(4)
Ramone B.
Confession- I've never been to Al's beef before! I've always heard they were Portillos competitor, but I wasn't really interested. I'm not really into Italian beef. Portillos food is NOT ALL THAT. My coworkers all voted against my choice(pizza) so Al's is where we went! Walking in the line was out to the door. I thought "Damn this might be a mistake!" I didn't want my entire break to spent waiting to get food. They handled that line very well! Props to whomever manages that place. When I walked in I said I wanted to order something small because I didn't want to be falling asleep after lunch. My fata$$ quickly threw that notion out the window as soon as the cashier said "Can I help you?" I blurted out buffalo fries, and a nacho cheeseburger. So much for small! #GoBigOrGoHomeB*tches The fries- Holy Sh*t. Those fries are going to be a problem for me. They are GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD! (I can feel my pants getting tighter as I type this!) they have some killer fries which in my opinion blows Portillos fries away! My burger however was kind of a letdown. The sign calls this sandwich a nacho cheeseburger. I could karate chop whomever came up with the name of this burger. I got a burger with regular sliced cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños. That's just a cheeseburger with jalapeños baybee call it for what it is. Al's is doing entirely too much with that deceptive advertising! #Fail #Ya'llPlayTooMuch The burger was okay. It was even better when put some of the buffalo sauce on my burger from my fries!! I'll have to request my burger to be made that way next time cuz as is the Nacho burger was a bust in my opinion!! I can't wait to try out more!
(3)
Trent R.
Placed an order for delivery tonight at 6:30 p.m. ....called at 8:00 p.m. to check on the status and the person on the phone made up an excuse that "the wifi here must be messed or something, I just got your order." How convenient...it is now 8:45 p.m. and I still have no food. Other locations might be better but I won't be ordering from this one again.
(1)
Michael S.
Born & raised in chicago when people think of Chicago food they think deep dish pizza...NOT!! Its the chicago beef...however i was very disappointed in the beef from here i ask for dipped & was very dry even the meat was dry...flavorless none the less...ill be back als is a chicago institution...hopefully my next visit be more better if not its my last...
(3)
Martin P.
Had just the BBQ fries (I recommend it) and a hot dog with everything fantastic as usual. Will try some combos or their special menu next time. timeout.com/chicago/blog… Main
(5)
Mark B.
Went here for lunch one day, as I was working just across the river. I looked up options for Italian Beef, and Al's was suggested by several I was working with. I ordered the Italian beef with peppers and provolone, dipped. It came with a side of fresh-cut fries, which were also great. Eating this sandwich often would probably kill you, but if so, it'd certainly be a great way to go.
(4)
Pieter W.
After having lived in the Chicagoland area off and on for many years and after having consumed countless Italian Beef sandwiches, I am embarrassed to say I had not tried Al's (the *original* Italian Beef sandwich, or so they claim) until today. Unsurprisingly, it was a solid, tasty Italian Beef sandwich I enjoyed. The beef was nice and tender like an Italian Beef should be. This should go without saying, but a lot of places screw it up and basically serve wet French Dip sandwiches instead of proper Italian Beefs. Bread was the classic Turano bread served juicy, but more like standard juicy when I had asked for extra juicy. The hot peppers were tasty too, although they were not the typical giardiniera. Although I could tell that all-in-all it was a top-notch Italian Beef sandwich, I can't say it is anywhere near my favorite, the reason being that there was way too much fennel (at least I think that was what it was,) in the spice mix. I much prefer the spices used at Johnnies, Buona Beef, or even Portillo's. Then again this is just personal preference, for those that love the flavor at Al's I'm sure this sandwich is to die for. Though for me personally Al's signature beef was a little disappointing, Al's fries are nothing short of AMAZING. They are seriously delicious. Fresh-cut fries are almost always delicious but something else put these ones over the top for me. Maybe it was the oil they are fried in, I really don't know. It wouldn't surprise me if they weren't vegetarian, but don't quote me on that one. So, my recommendation is go for the fries and certainly give the beef a try if you are a fan of Italian Beefs, you might really enjoy it. Not sure about the burgers and dogs. Oh, and a little note to reviewers: please do your homework before complaining about the bread on an Italian Beef being "to soggy." It's *supposed* to be juicy unless you order it dry. That's like ordering a pizza slice in NYC and complaining in your review that the slices are "too floppy!"
(4)
Eric V.
Damn good sandwich! I now understand why this Chicago institution is so loved. That was the juiciest beef sandwich I've ever eaten. Juicier than any cheesesteak I've had in Philly. The juice forms a puddle beneath the sandwich that you can use as au jous. Excellent! I Must return for a hot dog.
(4)
Jason H.
As far as "Chicago foods," I just don't think Italian Beef is my thing. Tried one the Chicago way, which meant dipped with hot and sweet peppers. I didn't enjoy the extra gravy at first - the taste got better as I went along, but I definitely enjoyed my gf's non-dipped sandwich much better. As for the rest of it, it was enjoyable, but just not something I see myself getting again. The fries weren't anything special. Have heard good things about everything else at Al's, so I'll be back.
(3)
Jim S.
I just love Al's Beef. I'm sent to Chicago on business once a year and this location is the closest to the hotel. I'm sure a local will say there's better in the area and I'm sure that's the case, but I can't get enough of Al's and that giardinara and the fries are decent too. Why not 5 stars? I thought they may of gotten a little stingy with the meat this year.
(4)
Krystal M.
The place was really clean so that was a good plus. I ordered a Lil Al (not dipped) and some chili cheese fries. My sandwich came dipped (ate it anyways) and could not even taste the provolone inside it... it was just very bland and kind of blah. However, the chili cheese fries were really delicious and a good portion for $4 bucks; so that's why I'm giving out 3 stars here. My friend got the Buffalo bleu cheese fries and they just gave her the regular bleu cheese fries so she had to go back up and get the buffalo sauce they forgot. However, those were really good too. So maybe the fries are the way to go here.
(3)
Alyssa M.
Chi polish. Yummy. Made right.
(5)
Chris S.
I lived in Chicago for 3.5 years and never had an Italian Beef. Shaking my head at myself. I finally had one after leaving the Windy City about 8 years ago. I walked down Adams to the closest Al's. I got an Italian Beef with hot and sweet peppers and I got that little SOB dipped as well. Shared a side of hand cut fries with my colleague and called it a day. Now the food was amazing, service was ok and the place was kept up pretty well. I did however go into a full blown diabetic shock after the meal and needed an adrenaline shot in my heart to bring me back. Would I do it again... yep.
(4)
Kayla A.
The food is yummy. What more can I say? I live here for 7 years and this is actually the first time I tried Italian beef. The price is definitely reasonable. For a small lady like me, the portion is a bit big. Love love love when they give me extra juice for me to dip the sandwich. On the phone staff is friendly. Fast delivery service. Will update the stars once I try other food from this place.
(4)
Charlene L.
I ordered the famour Al's Italian Beef. The bread was soggy due to the drenched meat. If it wasn't for the sweet peppers, I'd say the sandwich was pretty flavorless. I hit it, and now I'm quitting it!
(2)
Annie L.
Wanted to try this place after watching it on a Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. The Italian beef was delicious. It's better w/with the hot peppers. It's like a French dip sandwich. The small chili cheese fries were delicious. So tasty! Regular 6" Italian Sandwich costs $6 and chili fries $5. The bathroom smelled horribly. I had to wash my hands w/the door open. The location is very big and I'm sure gets busier during evenings or lunch hour.
(3)
Seth S.
With the name brand "Al's" I would anticipate paying a slight premium, but nearly $16 for a beef sandwich with peppers and cheese, fries, and a coke. Plenty of other beef sandwiches combos for around $12 in the downtown area. Dont get me wrong the sandwich was good, but nothing special. Sadly disappointed :(
(2)
Elizabeth D.
I already don't like Al's from previous experiences. But I decided to give them another shot because this is a different location. I came here a few weeks ago and ordered a hot dog. They weren't ready so they put them on the grill to heat them up saying it wouldn't take long. I said I have to catch a train in a few minutes so they said it WILL be ready in time. My HOT dog was COLD!! I went today, called ahead to ask if the hot dogs were in the warmer dude says yes. I say I will be there in two minutes "OK we will make it right now" he says. I arrived the cashier looked stupidly at me and mentioned to the manager that I had called. The manager says that they will make it now..This is why I called so it would be READY!! WTF?! Again my HOT dog was COLD!! Moral of this story: I won't go back again unless I'm not in a rush or want to eat there.. But I thought it was fast food!!
(2)
Jordy S.
We ordered a couple things for clients in my office. It was quite irritating that nothing was labeled on the wrappers. So I had 4 sandwiches, very similar, and had no idea what was what. I also feel terrible because when I ordered they told me my total, which was completely different from what it was when they arrived (I believe she didn't include the delivery fee), so the poor delivery man got stuck with a lousy $.90 tip because it was not discovered until after he left. So when placing a delivery order, tack on an extra $3 to your estimate in case the person placing the order for you doesn't include it.
(2)
Frank G.
Went there once to fill my stomach and got hooked. Great beef and delicious french fries. They give a student discount so bring your ID. From never going there in the past, I usually eat there 3 times a week now.
(5)
Jack S.
Total crap.Beef sandwich ,what a joke the worst service ever. bimbos talking on the phone (PERSOANL CALLS) Too busy to take care of a customer..yuo have to wait a minimu of 15 min for a beef ?????and the place was empty.. IGNORANT MGR. that has no idea how terrible the people are that work there. AVOID .. AND SAVE YOURSELF THE STOMACH PUMP TOTAL CACA
(1)
Miriam A.
The WORST WORLD ITALIAN BEEF! Cold and dry like the pavements on the streets. The burger is frozen and freaking disgusted. No good at all. Chicago has better than this piece of $^*¥£
(1)
Joanne C.
Went to Al's today, 1/2 hour after they opened. Not a clean table or counter area to sit at. I had to get napkins & wet them to wash a spot to sit at. Will not return. I can't believe how dirty it was.
(1)
M A.
The food was awesome however the service was horrible. Employees having an argument with each other in front of customers and saying shut up I'm talking to someone is not appropriate. The saving grace was the food. I would go back for the food. Restaurant was clean and maintained. The beef sandwiches and cheese fries were awesome.
(4)
David T.
When I tell people that my favorite Italian Beef in Chicago is at Portillos, many tell me that I need to try Al's. I finally did and was not too impressed. This was mainly for two reasons. First, the hot peppers weren't hot at all. Whereas at Portillos the hot peppers give you the bite on your lips, that was not the case with Al's. Second, Al's seemed to have a strong ginger flavor that seemed out of place. While the beef was decent, it didn't live up to all the hype. I don't plan on eating here again, but would if there was no Portillos.
(3)
Ally B.
A few months back my boyfriend and I were dog sitting in Greektown and were looking around for a place to eat. It was already dark out and we randomly found this Al's Beef; we were psyched! We've always considered Al's italian beefs to be the best of the best. Now the Al's Beef restaurants that we're use to are usually open late so we didn't know until after we were done eating there that they had already closed. We were so embarrassed to be those people who strolled in minutes before closing time and sat down to eat. However every employee was so nice to us and polite to the point where we had no idea the place had closed. They also loaded our beefs up with a ton of meat and gave us over-flowing bags of fries; it was fantastic! I'll never forget how nice they were to us.
(5)
Lylian D.
I have never had an Italian beef, so for my recent visit to Chicago getting an Italian Beef sandwich from Al's was a must eat. Omg am I glad I made sure to eat here! The sandwich had great seasoning and the beef & peppers were so tender. I like that the juices of the beef soaked into the bread. Italian beef sandwiches here remind me of eating a bowl of pho, but in sandwich form. Love this!
(5)
Megan S.
I've never written a review before... But this place is review worthy. Worst customer service ever!! I always go back, giving it another chance and it's the same experience. Little ghetto girl with attitude at the Counter taking orders and people just throw your food at you. Hmm.... Won't be returning
(2)
Lefai K.
I haven't gone here for over a year. It's a great place for the non-health conscious. I ordered the chicken sandwich and it was OK. Nothing really special that stood out. In the past, I've had the "Big Al" which is basically a super-sized italian beef sandwich. The sandwich has the right amount of beef and the bread was dunked in just enough juice. The fries were nice and crispy with a nice blend of skin-on and skin-off fries. If you're looking for a good italian beef, chicago-style hotdogs, or a nice and decently healthy chicken sandwich, check this out.
(3)
Am C.
I like the proximity to Union Station. That means it's practically mandatory to pick up a Little Al with Hot to eat on the train. There isn't much else to say except that these things are really good.
(4)
Khadijah L.
My heart is still for Portillo's Italian Beef. Al's is close to the office so it's convenient. It's still good, but not really impressed.
(3)
Skydiving N.
People who complain about soggy bread don't want a Chicago Italian Beef sandwich. My wife and I wait all year to take the train to Chicago for her birthday so we can go to Al's for their "dipped" beef sandwich. (Their fresh-cut fries are awesome too.) This location is great as it is only a couple blocks west of Union Station. (Go out of the main Canal Street entrance, turn right up to Adams St. and then go left for two blocks to Jefferson St. You'll see the yellow and black building right on the corner.) We go there for lunch and then stop their again on our way back to Union Station, ZipLoc bags in hand, to buy some more "Big Al's dipped" to take back home with us. One bad thing about Al's is you get spoiled. We've tried Italian beefs in other cities and they all suck compared to Al's.
(5)
Stephen K.
2nd time at Al's. Best italian beef ever. No other place can compare. The meat is so juicy it melts in your mouth. Ive had the bbq fries which is okay. Short walk from union station. Go to stop if visiting Chicago.
(5)
Gasper S.
Italian beef is not Italian! It is strictly a Chicago thing with Italo-americans in its history. Also, unless you grew up in Chicago or environs and had these at Italian weddings as a kid or somehow acquired a taste for them, they are gawd-awful. However, I was raised in the Chicago area and was scolded by my mom for eating too many sandwiches at the Italian weddings we attended. Gawd, I love them. Hint to beginners, when ordering your first Italian beef, ask them to go easy on the juice. Later you can graduate to the full dip in the juice.
(5)
Patrick L.
My buddies and I go to Al's on touhy all the time and were craving a beef sandwich. We all ordered the 6in with peppers. The portions were tiny and instead of getting nice slices of beef, I got a pile of mostly shavings. When my sandwich was dipped, it was overly soggy and they poured a ton if giadinera oil on it with not a lot of actual giadinera. When I called to complain, the manager said she hadn't gotten any other complaints form the 500 other people that ordered that day. She offered to do nothing to address our complaints. I'm not sure where she got her management training, but you never leave a customer disappointed. Mistakes happen and when you drop the ball, it really illustrates your commitment to service when you show what you can do to pick up the fumble. She failed miserable. I called corporate and they sent out a certificate which was nice. Avoid this location like the plague!!
(1)
Christina B.
I'm really not a big meat-eater, but after seeing this on Man vs. Food, I had to check out Al's. It was so delicious (and ridiculously messy) but even better-- the buffalo bleu cheese fries. I really didn't think I would like them (I don't usually like bleu cheese) but I am craving this right now!
(4)
Brittany L.
OK, I am going to preface this by stating that I am a vegetarian. I probably shouldn't be writing reviews for famous roast beef sandwich shops. However, I want to encourage other vegetarians who may be in a group with meat eaters to try the veggie wrap at Al's. It was filling, had good cheese on it, giardiniera, and a really tasty olive slaw. I love olives and peppers, so it was perfect for me. My meat eating boyfriend and his meat eating brother seemed to enjoy their meals, too. My boyfriend ordered the italian beef and his brother received a sausage sandwich even though he ordered something else. I'm not going to knock off a lot of stars for this, because he did not bother to ask for his order to be corrected. He enjoyed the mistake sandwich, so all is well, in my book. If he had tried to get his correct order, and come into complications, then I would address that, but he didn't, so oh well.
(4)
Stephanie S.
Gotta give these guys major props. I've always been an Al's fan. But today I called in a catering order an hour before I needed to pick it up. They got it done no problem. Good food is nothing without good service.
(5)
Dr P.
3 of 5. Better italian beef in Chi.
(3)
Kai L.
Service was fast and efficient. I ordered a Big Al's plain with a side of gravy. It was moist and had some flavor to it. I asked for a bit of gravy on the side. I was surprised by the $0.25 charge for it! Shouldn't it be free?
(3)
Rick L.
Stale frys. Hot but seemingly re heated.
(1)
Meatdowntown C.
Terrible customer service. They were training a new employee and they did not even acknowledge waiting customers. They probably just assumed that people in-line must figure out in their own that they are doping a training session. The Italian beef sandwich along with the soggy fries were simply greasy and D I S G U S T I N G. Just drive to johnnies beef if you are really dying for Italian beef. You could also pickup Italian ice since they don't sell it at Al's. Skip this place and you will be happy!
(1)
Alex D.
My first time in USA, landing at O'Hare, I was pretty excited about trying their famous Chicago-style hot dog. The first day in the city I went out to visit Willis tower and I got that dog. Not that it was bad, it was okay.. my expectations fell through anyway. Then I though to myself, there must be something else out here which tastes really great. This is it, Al's Italian beef big, nasty, deep-in-juice sandwich. I am trying to be smart about what I eat, but at that time I was just enjoying my juicy beef with a sweet pepper on it, fries and a can of Pepsi. Really appreciate they have Pepsi, cause I kind of don't recognize Coca-Cola.
(4)
Val G.
I know, Im eating my way through Chicago. I bought this is for the train ride to Omaha. The sandwich is huge, I was hoping to wait until midway to my destination to Omaha but man did it smell good. I may have cheated...... by a couple hundred miles. Oh well, it was awesome.
(4)
Warren C.
Good but way too greasy to be enjoyed. Honestly, I would've gone somewhere else to eat if it weren't for that pouring rain. Italian beef is good like a lot of these reviews say, but it's pretty much drenched in oil, and after a few bites, it's hard to eat. The fries were the same way. Do yourself a favor and get some better food.
(2)
Jessica B.
Sorry Al, I could definitely live without your Italian beef in my life... While on the way to the Arlington Park horse track, we had time before catching the Metra train so we went off in search of a quick lunch. I found Al's on Yelp and figured it was probably one of the more "authentic" Chicago lunches we could have (versus, say, Subway), so we moseyed over. I ordered the italian beef and the bf had a Chicago style hotdog. I thought his hotdog was pretty good, but the beef hoagie was just seriously underwhelming. I just didn't like it. I think I was perhaps expecting more of a Philly cheese steak? This was definitely nothing like that and I was not impressed.
(2)
Jake G.
I am not from Chicago (far from it). I recently started working downtown and a coworker brought me here to try some Italian beef, and I loved it! It was fantastic and I hope to go back again! I cannot compare to other places with italian beef, but I can't really imagine anything better! Go here!!!!
(5)
trevor l.
So I haven't been posting on yelp for the last few years, but I have been using yelp quite a bit for exploring new restaurants, bars and clubs. Al's Beef has made me want to start posting and reviewing places more publicly again. 5 stars for their signature beef sandwich. I traveled to Chicago and tried a few places, including the deep dish places, and THIS place by far trumped all of them in my opinion! If you love meat, especially beef, and if you like sandwiches, and especially spicy sandwiches, THIS is the place for you! The Al's sandwich with Everything on it is incredible. Make sure you order specifically EVERYTHING ON IT! Say those words, because otherwise they will assume you want a plain sandwich. That is what happened to me one time and despite the confusion, I ate that one, and ordered a whole other one with everything on it because I loved it so much. (I went to this place twice while I was in Chicago for 3 days). Everything on it includes cheese, peppers, and a special sauce of Giardiniera sauce. The fries were great too! The burger was ok. The service and ambiance of this place is like a fast food joint, but they do have TVs and soda, not sure if they have beer... Overall this is a great casual place to eat a GREAT and quick sandwich!
(5)
Gene K.
Forget about it!!! I know, I know the bread is supposed to be soggy...but the damn thing completely feel apart when I took the first bite...a sandwich is not supposed to do that..emphasis on sandwich...and honestly the beef was not that great...!!!!
(2)
Kyle K.
I'm glad I had the chance to stop by and try the Italian beef sandwich while I was on a business trip. Definitely worthwhile and recommended.
(4)
Mila R.
This location is 2 blocks from my Apt in Presidential Towers. The last few times have been disappointing. Not in the quality of the food, but in the portions. The value just isn't there. On two occasions I had to go back to the counter to ask them to put some BEEF on my BEEF sandwich. On both occasions I was told that the amount of beef is based on a Corporate decision. Are you kidding me, I thought this was AL'S BEEF ? I've been to Jays, Buona, Mr Beef, Pete's in Berwyn and all have Great portions, almost 3 times the Beef on the sandwich.
(2)
Chrissy N.
Popped in here on a Wednesday night about 6pm. There were 3 of us in here- awesome. (I realize this place is a huge lunch crowd establishment.) B and I got Italian beef sandwiches, mine plain just provalone, B's with green peppers, peppers, and provalone. We also got fries and drinks. All ready in about 3 minutes. There is a big back room with probably seating for about 50. Again, ... place to ourselves. Clean. High tables, booths, tables, comfy really. There was some music playing. Cute music- but was a bit loud, and even though we weren't competing with other patrons, we still had to kid of shout to each other cross the table. But nobody was ther eto mind, so no biggie. The sandwich was tasty. Bread not too tough, meat heaping and delicious. The fries were gooood, and crispy, but not too thick. A tad on the salty side- which I almost never say- but they were. And the drinks are continually re-fillable, just walk your cup back up to the fountain drink bar. Together, for the 2 sandwiches, 2 fries, 2 drinks, we paid about $20 + some change. It was good. I'll go back here- and especially in the evening when you can own the place!
(3)
Ashley C.
The location at Adams and Jefferson has had a variety of diners and I was pleased when something new (that I had heard of) was coming to the spot. Enter Al's Italian Beef. I had never had one before, but learned that it was definitely a Chicago item. Considering they are known for the Italian Beef, we all get that. I got the regular sized portion which was perfect and also reasonably priced. As a side note, I must say I don't get why the "Big Al" guy is so much more expensive. I also have to mention that I didn't feel like the menu here was widely diverse (beef, hotdogs, etc), but I realize that this location just opened this week. [Supposedly they will start delivery later too which is a plus.] It was tender and juicy, but mine wasn't soaked - the way I prefer it. For those of you who love it dripping and juicy, don't worry - you can get it that way. It was good (3 to 3.5 stars) but what eventually bumped it up were the cheese fries. :-) They were SO good. Real potato fries with a generous, but not overwhelming, amount of cheese. That is the stuff. I'll stop in on lunch again.
(4)
Charles H.
Flew home a few weeks back and stopped by Al's. It seems like it is starting to get back on track (fresh ingredients, au jus, etc.). I have high hopes when I return it will go back to being one of the best...
(3)
Emily F.
I don't eat meat but the party I was with does. They loved it so much! It looked so good I wanted to eat it!
(4)
Dennis D.
Tried the Italian beef and sausage. Had both with hot giardiniera and sweet peppers. Sandwiches were delicious and would definitely recommend for visitors to Chicago.
(4)
Stephanie G.
This place is definitely over-rated. I only eat there because I take short lunches and this restaurant happens to be on my block. Their Italian Beef is ok, but certainly not the best in the city by any means. The flavor isn't delicious and it tastes like they add cleaning solution to the au jus. Today I got 2 tamales... I was not expecting them to be great, but I certainly was not expecting them to be so bad. Ok, so they don't make them from scratch, thats fine. But they served them with the original packaging still on! Thanks, but I could have 'heated and served' this tamale for about 50 cents. And I'm pretty sure the filling was half cornmeal and half mystery beef... The service is almost always poor when I go in there. After this tamale incident, I won't be going back to Al's.
(2)
Brad F.
Only OK. I had the "Regular Al's Italian Beef". I ordered it dipped and with hot peppers. I am not sure if I went on a bad day, but the bread felt and tasted cheap, I was not impressed by the mushy, almost pasty, texture of the meat, and half way through, I realized they forgot the peppers. I am not going to count out Al's all together, I will try their original location on 1070 W Taylor St. and get the Char-Grilled Italian Sausage.
(2)
Dylan H.
My coworkers were trying to persuade me to go to this place for over 3 months. Since it's just 5 mins from my work I decided to finally have my lunch here. "Meh. I've experienced better" is the perfect name for this place. Nothing special. My soggy beef sandwich tasted like some medicine. Will not be coming back. I hope they had Buona Beef near my place... -Sadface-
(2)
Jennifer M.
How does this only have 3 stars???? This place is fantastic. Complete your visit to Chicago by visiting the same restaurant that many of the rich and famous people have frequented such as Hilary Clinton, Gary Sinise, and Adam Richman (Man V Food Host). The sandwiches are fantastic because they have a great blend of flavors from the meat, sweet peppers if you desire, and is dipped in the juices of the meat. At first I was hesitant about this, but it does NOT make the bread soggy. Instead, it creates a chewy mess of deliciousness. Can I say Yum?
(5)
Mike E.
Saw Al's on Man Vs. Food, so had to give it a try. I ordered an Italian Beef Sandwich and cheese frys and have to say that I was dissapointed. It definitely wasn't the worst thing I've ever eaten, but it was far from impressive. I think I went into the place having high expectations that were not met. The beef had a decent flavor to it, but was pretty dry. The bread was pretty good, which helped to make up for the meat. The cheese frys were probably the best thing about the meal, which makes the sandwich performance even more dissapointing. The place has decent prices but unfortunately has a fast food feel to it. I won't be going back to Al's again next time I'm in Chicago, there are to many other great places to eat.
(3)
Mike K.
After being rudely awoken the day after TBOX by noises that sounded like a cross between a Santa Claus laugh and a dying duck, downing a few cups of tea, reviewing the kitchen contents several times to only discover frozen Potatoes O'Brien each time and then taking in the schooling of the Bears by the Pats in the first half to the tune of 33-0, I decided I would have to leave the house in the middle of the season's first blizzard for sustenance. I knew I didn't want to drive in that mess, so that left only two options within reasonable distance: 7-11 and Al's. So I got on a few layers, some boots and my goofy Elmer Fudd hat and had the huskies pull the sled over to Al's on a cold, snowy and blustery Sunday. Like Old St. Pat's and Greek Town (Dugan's notwithstanding), I've walked past Al's hundreds of times. My excuse for walking past all of Greek Town apart from Dugan's is that I don't like Greek food (too heavy). My excuse for walking past Al's without ever trying it was that I usually go for Portillo's, which has always been king, when I want that type of food. I have no excuse for not going to mass at Old St. Pat's every Sunday, if not even daily. The authorities wouldn't be very happy. It's a good thing they forgive you. This particular Al's would seem, based on its exterior, to either be some sort of import of a Pittsburgh fast food icon, as it's festooned in the colors of the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, or maybe a Peoria, Illinois, import with its Caterpillar like color scheme. Neither is the case though. Al's is all Chicago. I went with a Big Beef and a hot dog, which comes with fries. I figured I'd have some now and then the rest sometime after the Bears were done getting torn up. I found the Big Beef to be a skinny beef. Long? Yes. But skinny all the same. As to the flavor, there was just too much of some particular spice I can't put my finger on. It almost tasted like too much basil. My unsophisticated palate strikes again. I've had a better beef from Aurelio's. And Portillo's retains its crown as Beef King. The hot dog was better. I'll certainly be back for another one. And it comes with fries, which were excellent. (By the way, fries are the Achilles heel of Portillo's. So weak!). Service was lightning fast. I was in and out in five minutes' time. It probably helped that it was during a Bears game and a big snowstorm. I imagine these guys are just as quick and efficient though at peak hour. I'll be back sometime soon (for a dog), although the last time I was at Old St. Pat's I also said I'd be back soon and haven't. Mayor Daley must be very upset with me for being such a bad Chicagoan and bad Catholic. I hope he doesn't send a Caterpillar tractor over to "X" me out. Three stars.
(3)
Andy B.
Had an absolute craving for Italian Beef while commuting into downtown on my way to a Bulls game. Since I had a "lay over" at Union Station, I whipped out my phone and figured out there was an Al's around the corner. . . This is obviously a new location - nothing wrong with that just a little jarring to get something as messy as an Italian Beef sandwich at a shiny, clean place with granite countertops. Service was fast and efficient - your typical order and wait deal. I got the standard size Beef, double-dipped with hot and sweet peppers. Also got an order of the BBQ fries. Took less than 5 minutes for the order. I slowly unwrapped the package of glorious meat, bread and peppers - the first thing that hit me was the sweet smell of slow cooked roast beef and the accompanying italian spices (nothing like it). Once I'd laid out my "nest" I dug in. HEAVEN ON A BUN. Utterly and completely hit the spot - this is not fine dining, but "stick to your ribs" goodness and just the thing to take the chill away. The surprise was the BBQ fries - didn't have high hopes but I love BBQ sauce so I thought I'd give it a shot. They were awesome - solid spuds fried to a golden crisp and perfectly salted. The sauce was your classic Chicago style sweet tomato-based BBQ sauce, but it perfectly complimented the fries. Overall a fine meal - no complaints whatever.
(3)
Ariel L.
Al's beef blows chunks. For anyone looking for a traditional, quality, Chicago Italian Beef sandwich, this is NOT the place to come. Mr. Beef wipes the floor with this place frankly, as well as do another dozen Beef places in Chicago. If you like tasteless beef, soggy fries, and no character, go to Al's!
(1)
Matt C.
I'm torn because the taste was good, for the most part - the fries were horrible. But, the sandwich itself was not what I expected. To be honest, after awhile it got sort of bland tasting after tasting the same thing. I know that sounds weird, but it's weird to explain my problems with this sandwich. I got a regular Italian beef with sweet peppers and onions thinking that'd be enough to make it tasty. It wasn't. The service is another story. I had roughly 5 seconds to decide what I wanted here. I told the woman working that this was my first time here and she kind of shrugged it off and made me feel incredibly uncomfortable. So bad service for me too. It's a disappointment because after hearing rave reviews for this place on food tv shows, I expected better.
(3)
Sean L.
Fate brought me to Al's on my recent visit to Chicago. I was watching Man vs Food the night before my flight to the windy city and what do I see? A mountainous beef sandwich dripping with Al's love and spiciness. When I asked my friend if she had heard of this place, her reply was, "actually I live a block from there but haven't been". It was my responsibility to make sure we had visited before the weekend was out. I'd like to point out a few of the reviews before mine and question their validity- A vegetarian gave it a low rating because of their lack of meatless options. The place is called Al's BEEF! I am surprised they don't automatically smother everything they serve with cow. Another low-rater points out the lack of healthy options on the menu. I bring to you the same argument- AL'S BEEF! I rest my case. Now for my experience- The menu is rather simple, if you don't want beef, sausage, dogs, tamales (yeah, weird huh?), or fries, you might as well get the F out. I opted for 3 add-ons to my beef: hot giardiniera, sweet peppers and melted provolone. The sandwich was loaded with meat (note; there is still an option to add even MORE meat if it's already not enough), and the sweet & hot pepper combo was a delicious addition to the sandwich. As a second entree, a Chicago dog. This was my only complaint about Al's. I've had many Chicago dogs, and anyone who has ever put one together knows there are certain and specific ingredients. Al's lacked tomatoes, pickles and celery salt. I can handle it without the salt and pickles, but a bright red tomato is crucial to offset the other colors laced throughout the poppy-seed bun. What's up Al? Yes, they clearly state the ingredients on their menu, but who reads what they already know should rightly be included on a CHICAGO DOG? I have to imagine most Chicagoans would have a problem with this as well, unless you're one of those weirdos that don't like tomatoes. Then my question to you is,what's your deal? Anyway, I opted to add the buffalo fries. The fries are fresh cut, skins on (nice), and then covered in buffalo sauce and blue cheese. These were great! Anyone who is a fan of buffalo wings would gladly chomp down a side order. Overall, my Al's experience was great. I'm sure I could add pickles and tomatoes to my dog if I asked nicely. I definitely won't pass up a chance to eat here again!
(4)
Michelle M.
Hey sometimes a gal wants a hot dog with fries or even cheese fries. Depending on the weather I walk over to get me a hot dog with YES I GET ketchup and mustard on mine...totally not a Chicago dog but shoot me for liking my hot dog with ketchup and mustard. This is a Chicago place everyone needs to experience at least once. Staff is cool. Prices are OK. Place is clean.
(4)
Farrah D.
Love these hot-dogs and fries! The Taylor Street location is the original cash only no seating joint. That's how to do it!
(4)
Colleen B.
A vegetarian's NIGHTMARE. The only things to eat are: 1) mediocre french fries, and 2) pepper and egg sandwiches. The sandwiches are tasty, but they're served for breakfast. Unless you stop in on a Friday during lunch, they won't serve a P&E sandwich after "breakfast" is over. So veggies of Chicago, dine elsewhere if you desire a meal consisting of more than potatoes and oil.
(1)
Michael S.
A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity Darn. I was hoping an interesting food joint would open up here, next door to my office. But alas, Al's Fat Asses seems to be the only type of establishment that can open across the street from a law school and a major office building during a recession. Sign of the times. The food: I did try it (just so I could write this review). Blech. I tried a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and Italian sausage. It took forever, I dumped the fries I didn't order, it was cumbersome to eat, and the taste: average. The garish black and yellow decor, the giant size yellow soda cup jutting out above the front door, and the constant smell of beef and fast food grease wafting all around my neck of the woods: Nauseating. yelp.com/biz_photos/4nrM… A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity.
(2)
Chris R.
This was my first foray into Chicago's Italian Beef's and so far not so impressive. I will be trying additional places just to see how other places execute this "classic". We got 2 beef's one with sweet peppers and the other with hot giardenera, 2 beverages, and a large fry The beef is cooked to "well" and is rather dry and basically lacks flavor. The only flavor comes from the giardenera which is solid but frankly I like the stuff I get bottled from Jewel as it has more celery / carrots yielding more crunch. Why not just put it on shredded news print as it basically yields the same result? The fries were good being skin on fresh cut fries and they were well done (not burnt but nice and brown) as I like em. But again this is Al's Beef not Al's French Fries so it is hardly a saving grace. All and all for $18.00 I would expect much better. Personally I would take about $10 and get to really good Vietnamese Banh Mi's from Uptown over this any day of the week.
(2)
Nana G.
Go for the beef. I always get mine with extra sweet peppers. Its juicy, heavenly and makes you happy. Its the best. However I'm a little disappointed that their Chicago dog isn't really a Chicago dog i.e. no tomatoes, pickles. I would've added another star if they had a complete Chi dog. Their french fries are just so-so too. So unless you're here for the beef, I wouldn't really recommend anything else. Service is fast. Only problem is there isn't much space to sit and eat so I always just go for take out.
(3)
Cat C.
Awesome eats! Husband and I tried to stop at another location but they were closed on Sundays, so we quickly googled and GPSd our way to another location so we could get our hands on the beef sandwich. We both got the 4" beef sandwich -- his with peppers, mine plain -- and shared a large order of fries. Yum!!! Just enough tasty food to fill us up and hold us over until we got to the Cubs game later that evening. If I were to visit Chicago again, I'd definitely stop in for a bite!
(4)
Jonathan H.
Just went here for lunch and expected an explosion of flavors because of the reviews I've heard about italian beef in Chicago. Well, I thought it was mediocre. I had the 6 inch beef sandwich with sausage. Didn't want to get the fries because being in here already made me feel 10 lbs heavier. Plus, the fries didn't look that entirely good. The sandwich was tasty but nothing I'd come back for. The beef was thinly sliced, which I can appreciate but the sausage tasted like something I can pick up from a supermarket - not much flavor here. Also, I asked for spicy peppers and when I opened my sandwich, no peppers were there. So minus 1 star for messing up my order. Honestly, I prefer the taste of Arbys sliced beef sandwiches. The bread at Al's is already soaked in au jous so when you bite into it, the sandwich is a bit soggy. Keep this in mind if you order to-go or want to eat it later in the day...no bueno. Verdict: OK sandwich but nothing I'd bring my out of town friends to check out. For 8 bucks (sandwich + drink), I consider a little pricey for the quality, but it's decent if you need a quick bite and are in the area.
(3)
Melissa M.
I was in the area, so in my quest to venture to new places, I decided to hit Big Al's. Italian Beef is honestly something I would not usually order, but after asking for suggestions, of course, it was the recommendation. I have to say that this place looks more exciting and unique from the outside than the inside. Inside it was just another fast food type of place. Nothing really stood out as unique. The order taker/cashier was less than thrilled to make a recommendation and it was hard to tell where to place my order. I ended up ordering Italian Beef and fries and I must say the Italian Beef itself was definitely extraordinary. The bun was another matter. Unfortunately, the bun was soggy and terrible. I ended up just eating the insides out of the sandwich. Fries were awesome and crisp. I must admit I love a good french fry. All in all, this place was ok. It didn't stand out as a place to go back to or a place to bash to bits. I think the bun of the sandwich and just the a staff with personality could help this place in the short term.
(3)
Arlene Y.
I knew I was going to be in Chicago and checked where Man vs. Food had gone when he was there. I was happy to see that he went to a place that was about a 5 minute walk from my hotel (Crown Plaza Metro). I was able to go there for lunch. I ordered the regular sized Italian beef sandwich. At first it looked small but it had so much meat in it, that it easily filled me up. My brother and I shared small fries. I did not look carefully at the menu and thought that the peppers and onions automatically came with the sandwich as pictured on the menu. So when I unwrapped it and saw just beef I was disappointed but wasn't about to go back in line to add it. This Italian beef tasted Chinese to me! I AM Chinese and the flavors remind me of the beef that is eaten with noodles at Chinese noodle shops. While the beef is very juicy and tender (melts in your mouth), it was way too salty. Maybe the addition of peppers and onions would have helped tone the saltiness down. Overall, it was good but it didn't wow me. I thought the fries were overpriced and salty as well. I didn't mind the soggy bread because that is what is to be expected with au jus. To the Chinese folks reading this...please go and try one and let me know what you think!
(3)
Dorotka K.
This would have been the perfect lunch spot: close to work and fairly priced. Unfortunately, the hot dog and fries combo did not deliver. The hotdog was very plain, while the fries were soggy and greasy.
(2)
Jeffrey H.
This is not the original Al's Beef in case you didn't know. It's a good attempt. There's a bigger menu, with great french fry options. They attempt to do as much extras that the original can't do. Though in fact, the original has a better Chicago Beef. I like the beef, but not a big fan about the hot peppers. They are different than most places in Chicago. It's their original recipe. Do not come here if you're a vegetarian or looking for something healthy. I have no clue why people would try.
(4)
Munchie N.
We were visiting from New York and Al's Beef was our first stop after getting off the plane. Maybe it was because we were starving but the Italian sandwiches were delicious!! I got the beef and sausage combo and the boyfriend got the beef sandwich and buffalo fries. Everything was great here. I thought his sandwich was so much better, probably because the bread was dipped. My sausage and beef combo was good, but the beef flavor was so much more prominent in his sandwich. I have to get the Al's sandwich next time. I would definitely come again if I were in Chicago.
(5)
Maureen B.
I agree with the comments of Charles H. The franchise has lost a lot somewhere along the line. The customer service is rude to inept. Go somewhere else for your Italian beef.
(1)
David K.
Here's a restaurant chain resting on its laurels, and it shows. What a disappointment. Here's the bottom line: inflated prices, desultory service, meager portions. We live in the neighborhood and thought we'd give this new Al's a try, We ordered two "Regular Al's" beef sandwiches and the beef was barely visible beyond the bread...it looked like they had been assembled according to strict corporate portion control. We also had asked for hot peppers, but a quick look at our sandwiches revealed virtually none present. When I went to the front to request some more peppers, the woman behind the counter grudgingly gave me a small plastic container with a few small pieces of hot peppers floating in a lot of oil and said "you know, we usually charge extra for this." Had I thought more quickly, I would have replied "yes, and when I order an Italian Beef with hot peppers I usually receive a sandwich with peppers on it!" With so many good places for beef, hot dogs and Polish sausage in Chicago, Al's ought to be ashamed of this poor level of service and food quality!
(1)
Joshua M.
Love the food and love the people. I have been there enough that the know my order. They are always on point with the sandwiches and fries. They even somehow find me something sweet in the freezer on occasion! I will go to this place over any other Al's even though I just moved to Lincoln Square.
(5)
Tia G.
food is alright. ive been here a couple times But what really turned me off was seeing the owner talk to his employees like they were garbage. Working in customer service myself, i appreciate an establishment that treats their employees well. But seeing this guy in action honestly made me never want to come here again. I don't think anyone knew i was in there because he was yelling and cursing so i just walked right back out! Maybe if they treated their employees better they would have better food.
(1)
Gareth D.
I've yet to visit the original; let's all make a pact to do that, but I like the proximity of this one to the financial district. Al's giard is very celery-y--it's not my favorite vegetable, and the heat is delivered from dried red pepper (pimenta calabresa--at least in my Brazilianized Italian)... I prefer my hot peppers more like Potbelly's delivers -- maybe there's no purity or adherence to the classics, but it's a bouquet of peppers, veg, olives, etc... definite heat, and definitely from slices of real peppers. Though initially a little confusing, I am digging the option of customizing the size and girth of your sandwich. It's not so intuitive as Portillo's "beef" and "big beef," however. Maybe someday I will drag one of these bad boys to Portillo's and compare them side by side. You really don't get to select the size or girth of the clientele, which makes me save this lunch option for rarer occasions.
(3)
C. H.
It's hard not to get excited about "local food" that has everyone else buzzing with madness. I have to to admit that this was one great dog while I was eating, but it didn't treat my sensitive CA stomach the rest of the day or the flight home. All in all, I'd eat it again, but only after a few late night rounds at the local bars.
(3)
Chris C.
Visited the newly opened Al's Beef in the West Loop today. Its occupying the location that was previously the West Loop Cafe. I've been to another Al's Beef location before so I knew what to expect and this location didn't disappoint. I ordered the combo beef / sausage sandwich, and the friends I was with ordered some of the buffalo blue cheese fries, which were very good. Service was a little slow but I think they are just working out the kinks that a new business inevitably will face. I don't really have any major gripes. I can't quite give it four stars because I just don't think the actual sandwiches are anything remarkable. I'm a big fan of Johnnys out in Elmwood Park, and this sandwich just doesn't offer any unique flavors like my Johnnys does. The fries are nice and everything is tasty enough, but I can't quite bump this up to four stars. I feel bad starting them off this way, but I know others will quickly bump them up to the 3.5ish range that I'd like to see it in. Anyway, you won't be disappointed after a trip here, you just wont wake up in a cold sweat dreaming about it.
(3)
Abbie B.
This review is regarding Al's Beef Catering. I work in an office of 80 people where we cater lunch everyday. We use Al's Beef bi-weekly due to the quality and quantity of both the food and the customer service. There catering menu has lots of items on and you can please both meat eaters and vegetarians. My favorites are the potatoes, they have a variety, and the wraps, which come on platers or in convient boxes with chips and a cookie. All food items are very reasonably priced. The portion sizes provided always leave us with plenty leftovers which are enjoyed by the night staff and I have seen people eating them for breakfast as well. There customer service is remarkable and if you have any issues you shouldn't hesitate to speak with them as they will make it right. The deliveries are always on time and set-up is included. I have only had one issue, we have ordered from them at least 10 times, when they switched from in-house delivery to a delivery company and our food arrived 20 minutes late. Chrissy, the catering manager, made it right and I will continue to order from them bi-weekly. As I order catering five days a week I can tell you Al's beef is a step above the rest. They are on time, provide more than enough food and everyone in my office enjoys it. The italian beef is DELICIOUS! Hot peppers are amazing. Potatoes are packed full of cheese are are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Cookies are large and great finish to any wonderful meal. I would highly recommend them for office catering, social event, or a large family picnic.
(5)
Emily K.
2 stars for food, 3 stars for overall experience. Line moved quick and employees were friendly. The restaurant is clean and it's easy to find somewhere to eat. Music was irritatingly loud one time I ate here. Food: eh. My "Little Al" sandwich was $4.30 for 4" of sandwich and didn't taste like much. Very bland. I don't think you should have to rely on cheese and peppers for flavor in an italian beef sandwich. A well seasoned beef sandwich can make my heart soar. I'll probably be back. Because it's fine. And it's within walking distance of work. But if a better tasting beef joint opened up around there I'd jet over there so fast.
(3)
Robyn T.
I've lived in Chicago for almost 9 years now and I have never been to an Al's Italian Beef. What?! You're shocked? So was I. I've enjoyed the sandwiches at catered events and thought I got the true experience but I guess I was wrong. Waiting in line during the lunch rush at Al's downtown is in and of itself an experience. Lots of good people watching from the patrons down to the service staff hurriedly preparing your order. I knew I wanted to the Italian beef and though I have big eyes, my belly isn't always as accommodating. Lucky for me they actually have a "lil beef" sandwich which is just my size. Same great moist, hot beef (insert joke here) but half the size. You want fries with that? Good thing because in addition to their fresh cut options there were nacho cheese fries, chili fries, buffalo fries and Gorgonzola cheese fries. Filling? Aboslutely. For just under $10 I walked away with my mini beef, small specialty fries and a drink. I wouldn't spend that much every day for an unhealthy lunch but it sure is a treat.
(4)
Dagwood S.
Not sure how this place has only three stars if being compared to other Chicago places, because there is no comparision for the italian beef; Al's is the best, hands down. Now, the fries are really greasy as other have stated which is a significant portion of a sandwich/fies lunch and knock it down a star. The burgers are also very good, but you come to Al's for the beef, wet with peppers. BTW - thank you for the closer and MUCH larger location so I know I can always get a table.
(4)
Megan R.
Meh. I distinctly remember my first Italian Beef. I had moved to Chicago, and a friend from out of town came in determined to take me to the "best italian beef in Chicago". I didn't know what Italian beef was, but I adventured down to the river north location (off the chicago ave brown line stop) with her and OH MY GOD. So good. It is now my fave food, my fave place. So when I saw that a location was opening up LESS than a block from my office, I counted down the days until it's opening with anticipation. So, to treat myself for my birthday, I went to Al's and got my favorite meal: regular sized al, large fries, dipped, sweet peppers. And, meh. The meat was tougher and more dried out than any I've ever had, the peppers barely tasted like peppers (more like squishy nothing), and it just did not taste like the delicious Al's I am used to. I still swear by Al's, but from now on I'll save my money and grab dinner on my way home on the brown line to the river north location.
(3)
Sterling S.
Awesome....the beef sandwich of the gods.
(5)
Roman M.
I left full. For me, the Italian Beef sandwich I ate at Al's had very little flavor to it. I guess the best way to describe it was boring. The peppers were bland and you could feel them more than test them. Next time, I'll have to go spicy to see if that helps. However, I really expected the meat to stand on it's own. Nice concept... friendly people... fast service. It's just OK overall. I'll be back Al's! I'm not done with you yet.
(3)
Italo C.
This is the nicest looking and most spacious Al's I've been to. Also, they deliver which is a plus. Their delivery range covers the entire loop and they also cater. Best thing about Al's is you can purchase the beef to take home and make it yourself! I also recommend Al's as the world's best hangover cure.
(4)
Nick F.
There are certain places you go for certain kind's of food in Chicago...and this where you go for Italian Beef... hand's down! Generous portions for the price. I also recommend some cheese fries.
(4)
Bob W.
As usual, I was lost while driving in a city. As luck would have it, we just happen to drive by Al's Italian Beef which we had seen on the food channel. The sandwiches were exceptional.
(5)
Will K.
I love going to Al's Beef! This place is definitely a busy lunch crowd, so try to avoid Fridays at 12pm Lunch Rush. However, when i'm looking for a fix I definitely hit up Al's. It does not disappoint!
(3)
Andrea C.
maybe it's because this one isnt the original. maybe i just wasnt in the mood for italian beef. i dont know...i just dont. whatever it was, al's just did not sit well with me. the service is quick, the decor is basic- and the people watching is great, but the prices are sky high and the beef seems overly salted and dry. i just couldnt get on board w/this supposed 'chicago institution'. if you find yourself there, try the fries- they're great...but by all means, avoid the tamale...WHAT a disappointment...it was still in its prepackaged plastic wrap! i mean really? really?! im not mad, just disappointed.
(3)
Rino Z.
I had seen this place on the travel channel. I was hyped to try this out. It was such a fat attack, but quite delicious.
(4)
Denise R.
We ate at Al's after seeing the "Man vs. Food" episode that featured their Italian Beef sandwiches. They looked delicious on tv and totally lived up to their reputation! Everything was delicious...the beef, the toppings, the bread, and the fries! We'd absolutely eat here again. The service was quick and friendly. They weren't rude while we tried to figure out exactly what to get and were helpful with information. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms.
(4)
Brian C.
I don't come here for the Italian Beef. What I do come here for is the Polish and fries combo, which is pretty solid and pretty cheap compared to other spots in the area.
(3)
Daphne C.
There are Chicago institutions and then...there are CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS. As Chicago as Chicago-style pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and Maxwell Street Polishes...we have Italian beef places. Al's is in the upper strata of Chicago Italian beef places. My boyfriend and I were mulling over what to do for dinner when we saw a giant-size soda cup in the distance. OMG! I exclaimed with glee...THAT is an Al's Italian beef giant sized soda cup! We did not realize this branch had been in the West Loop location for over a year now...having taken over the space formerly occupied by the West Loop Cafe. I was walking there, drooling with anticipation as well as some trepidation. It was Ash Wednesday, after all...what's a Catholic girl to do at Al's Italian Beef??? (ok, so I'd already gone to hell with my meat-infested lunch, lol...). My agnostic boyfriend did not have this issue, as he readily ordered up his Chicago-style polish with fries. I saw hanging posters advertising the Pepper and Egg sandwiches...but these were for every Friday through Easter. My bf asked if they had the Pepper and Egg sandwiches today and the man behind the counter (who was a triple threat as salesperson, greeter - perhaps an owner/operator/manager, as well as cashier) said that included today, as it was Ash Wednesday. He suggested adding American cheese to the sandwich, saying it tasted like an omelet. (yum!). I went for it. My previous experiences with Pepper and Egg sandwiches at other establishments during Lent were nothing to Yelp! about. Dry, stuck in your throat, can't wait till-this-is-over experiences. That was all about to change, from my first bite on. Fluffy scrambled egg with pepper the condiment as well as sweet peppers...melted in my mouth, with the right amount of melted American cheese between a hard French roll. I requested small fries on the side, which were amazing...medium-sized, with skin on, the perfect amount of salt and...I don't know what. There was another flavor. Ancient Al's Secret? After he rang our order up, I asked for cheese as an afterthought, which is normally $.50 but he gave me free as a first time customer. Me, always liking variety and wanting to try everything, exchanged a couple of bites of sandwich for a couple bites of my bf's polish. Juicy...with condiments and sauteed onions...It was Breaded Bliss! (as I told the greeter...I wasn't supposed to be doing that today!). I will definitely be a frequent diner at this Al's. Evening is probably your best to go there, to beat the crowds. Hillary Clinton would agree, as she had Al's served on her 50th birthday!
(5)
Matt F.
Al's beef is really good. I go here regularly for lunch and I am never disappointed by my meal. My favorite is the beef and sausage combo, dipped. I also recommend the beef with hot peppers and the maxwell polish. My only gripe is that their "Chicago Style" items are not actually Chicago Style. The hot dogs are conspicuously missing tomato and pickle...I am not sure why considering they correctly list the ingredients on their website...who knows. This location also lacks the burgers that are available at some of their other locations.
(4)
C L.
I had the "Little Al's" Italian Beef sandwich, which was basically a standard 1/2 sub. FOOD - I was super hungry, so to me, everything tasted pretty good. In hindsight, I do see how some people may complain about the food not being up to par. The Italian beef was good, not great. The spicy peppers are just mildly spicy. The beef & peppers per sandwich ratio wasn't much value for money compared to other subs/sandwich places I've tried in various cities. The fries looked like they were either drenched in oil before frying, or was thrown in to fry before the oil heated up, thus soaking the entire fry completely in oil. But again, it tasted pretty good still. SERVICE - All the staff were really friendly. Among the best customer service I've had at a "Food Network" restaurant. I still recommend this as a good experience, for tourists or locals alike.
(4)
K T.
it was good but for a place that boasts spicy peppers i didn't feel the heat. I had it double dipped and it was juicy and the meat was good but once was enough to head to this joint. service was a five star nice and helpful folks behind the counter.
(3)
W L.
It was okay and forgettable.
(3)
Gareth D.
I've yet to visit the original; let's all make a pact to do that, but I like the proximity of this one to the financial district. Al's giard is very celery-y--it's not my favorite vegetable, and the heat is delivered from dried red pepper (pimenta calabresa--at least in my Brazilianized Italian)... I prefer my hot peppers more like Potbelly's delivers -- maybe there's no purity or adherence to the classics, but it's a bouquet of peppers, veg, olives, etc... definite heat, and definitely from slices of real peppers. Though initially a little confusing, I am digging the option of customizing the size and girth of your sandwich. It's not so intuitive as Portillo's "beef" and "big beef," however. Maybe someday I will drag one of these bad boys to Portillo's and compare them side by side. You really don't get to select the size or girth of the clientele, which makes me save this lunch option for rarer occasions.
(3)
Chris C.
Visited the newly opened Al's Beef in the West Loop today. Its occupying the location that was previously the West Loop Cafe. I've been to another Al's Beef location before so I knew what to expect and this location didn't disappoint. I ordered the combo beef / sausage sandwich, and the friends I was with ordered some of the buffalo blue cheese fries, which were very good. Service was a little slow but I think they are just working out the kinks that a new business inevitably will face. I don't really have any major gripes. I can't quite give it four stars because I just don't think the actual sandwiches are anything remarkable. I'm a big fan of Johnnys out in Elmwood Park, and this sandwich just doesn't offer any unique flavors like my Johnnys does. The fries are nice and everything is tasty enough, but I can't quite bump this up to four stars. I feel bad starting them off this way, but I know others will quickly bump them up to the 3.5ish range that I'd like to see it in. Anyway, you won't be disappointed after a trip here, you just wont wake up in a cold sweat dreaming about it.
(3)
Abbie B.
This review is regarding Al's Beef Catering. I work in an office of 80 people where we cater lunch everyday. We use Al's Beef bi-weekly due to the quality and quantity of both the food and the customer service. There catering menu has lots of items on and you can please both meat eaters and vegetarians. My favorites are the potatoes, they have a variety, and the wraps, which come on platers or in convient boxes with chips and a cookie. All food items are very reasonably priced. The portion sizes provided always leave us with plenty leftovers which are enjoyed by the night staff and I have seen people eating them for breakfast as well. There customer service is remarkable and if you have any issues you shouldn't hesitate to speak with them as they will make it right. The deliveries are always on time and set-up is included. I have only had one issue, we have ordered from them at least 10 times, when they switched from in-house delivery to a delivery company and our food arrived 20 minutes late. Chrissy, the catering manager, made it right and I will continue to order from them bi-weekly. As I order catering five days a week I can tell you Al's beef is a step above the rest. They are on time, provide more than enough food and everyone in my office enjoys it. The italian beef is DELICIOUS! Hot peppers are amazing. Potatoes are packed full of cheese are are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Cookies are large and great finish to any wonderful meal. I would highly recommend them for office catering, social event, or a large family picnic.
(5)
Emily K.
2 stars for food, 3 stars for overall experience. Line moved quick and employees were friendly. The restaurant is clean and it's easy to find somewhere to eat. Music was irritatingly loud one time I ate here. Food: eh. My "Little Al" sandwich was $4.30 for 4" of sandwich and didn't taste like much. Very bland. I don't think you should have to rely on cheese and peppers for flavor in an italian beef sandwich. A well seasoned beef sandwich can make my heart soar. I'll probably be back. Because it's fine. And it's within walking distance of work. But if a better tasting beef joint opened up around there I'd jet over there so fast.
(3)
C. H.
It's hard not to get excited about "local food" that has everyone else buzzing with madness. I have to to admit that this was one great dog while I was eating, but it didn't treat my sensitive CA stomach the rest of the day or the flight home. All in all, I'd eat it again, but only after a few late night rounds at the local bars.
(3)
Robyn T.
I've lived in Chicago for almost 9 years now and I have never been to an Al's Italian Beef. What?! You're shocked? So was I. I've enjoyed the sandwiches at catered events and thought I got the true experience but I guess I was wrong. Waiting in line during the lunch rush at Al's downtown is in and of itself an experience. Lots of good people watching from the patrons down to the service staff hurriedly preparing your order. I knew I wanted to the Italian beef and though I have big eyes, my belly isn't always as accommodating. Lucky for me they actually have a "lil beef" sandwich which is just my size. Same great moist, hot beef (insert joke here) but half the size. You want fries with that? Good thing because in addition to their fresh cut options there were nacho cheese fries, chili fries, buffalo fries and Gorgonzola cheese fries. Filling? Aboslutely. For just under $10 I walked away with my mini beef, small specialty fries and a drink. I wouldn't spend that much every day for an unhealthy lunch but it sure is a treat.
(4)
Dagwood S.
Not sure how this place has only three stars if being compared to other Chicago places, because there is no comparision for the italian beef; Al's is the best, hands down. Now, the fries are really greasy as other have stated which is a significant portion of a sandwich/fies lunch and knock it down a star. The burgers are also very good, but you come to Al's for the beef, wet with peppers. BTW - thank you for the closer and MUCH larger location so I know I can always get a table.
(4)
Megan R.
Meh. I distinctly remember my first Italian Beef. I had moved to Chicago, and a friend from out of town came in determined to take me to the "best italian beef in Chicago". I didn't know what Italian beef was, but I adventured down to the river north location (off the chicago ave brown line stop) with her and OH MY GOD. So good. It is now my fave food, my fave place. So when I saw that a location was opening up LESS than a block from my office, I counted down the days until it's opening with anticipation. So, to treat myself for my birthday, I went to Al's and got my favorite meal: regular sized al, large fries, dipped, sweet peppers. And, meh. The meat was tougher and more dried out than any I've ever had, the peppers barely tasted like peppers (more like squishy nothing), and it just did not taste like the delicious Al's I am used to. I still swear by Al's, but from now on I'll save my money and grab dinner on my way home on the brown line to the river north location.
(3)
Roman M.
I left full. For me, the Italian Beef sandwich I ate at Al's had very little flavor to it. I guess the best way to describe it was boring. The peppers were bland and you could feel them more than test them. Next time, I'll have to go spicy to see if that helps. However, I really expected the meat to stand on it's own. Nice concept... friendly people... fast service. It's just OK overall. I'll be back Al's! I'm not done with you yet.
(3)
Sterling S.
Awesome....the beef sandwich of the gods.
(5)
Munchie N.
We were visiting from New York and Al's Beef was our first stop after getting off the plane. Maybe it was because we were starving but the Italian sandwiches were delicious!! I got the beef and sausage combo and the boyfriend got the beef sandwich and buffalo fries. Everything was great here. I thought his sandwich was so much better, probably because the bread was dipped. My sausage and beef combo was good, but the beef flavor was so much more prominent in his sandwich. I have to get the Al's sandwich next time. I would definitely come again if I were in Chicago.
(5)
Maureen B.
I agree with the comments of Charles H. The franchise has lost a lot somewhere along the line. The customer service is rude to inept. Go somewhere else for your Italian beef.
(1)
Italo C.
This is the nicest looking and most spacious Al's I've been to. Also, they deliver which is a plus. Their delivery range covers the entire loop and they also cater. Best thing about Al's is you can purchase the beef to take home and make it yourself! I also recommend Al's as the world's best hangover cure.
(4)
Nick F.
There are certain places you go for certain kind's of food in Chicago...and this where you go for Italian Beef... hand's down! Generous portions for the price. I also recommend some cheese fries.
(4)
Bob W.
As usual, I was lost while driving in a city. As luck would have it, we just happen to drive by Al's Italian Beef which we had seen on the food channel. The sandwiches were exceptional.
(5)
Will K.
I love going to Al's Beef! This place is definitely a busy lunch crowd, so try to avoid Fridays at 12pm Lunch Rush. However, when i'm looking for a fix I definitely hit up Al's. It does not disappoint!
(3)
Andrea C.
maybe it's because this one isnt the original. maybe i just wasnt in the mood for italian beef. i dont know...i just dont. whatever it was, al's just did not sit well with me. the service is quick, the decor is basic- and the people watching is great, but the prices are sky high and the beef seems overly salted and dry. i just couldnt get on board w/this supposed 'chicago institution'. if you find yourself there, try the fries- they're great...but by all means, avoid the tamale...WHAT a disappointment...it was still in its prepackaged plastic wrap! i mean really? really?! im not mad, just disappointed.
(3)
Rino Z.
I had seen this place on the travel channel. I was hyped to try this out. It was such a fat attack, but quite delicious.
(4)
Denise R.
We ate at Al's after seeing the "Man vs. Food" episode that featured their Italian Beef sandwiches. They looked delicious on tv and totally lived up to their reputation! Everything was delicious...the beef, the toppings, the bread, and the fries! We'd absolutely eat here again. The service was quick and friendly. They weren't rude while we tried to figure out exactly what to get and were helpful with information. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms.
(4)
Brian C.
I don't come here for the Italian Beef. What I do come here for is the Polish and fries combo, which is pretty solid and pretty cheap compared to other spots in the area.
(3)
Daphne C.
There are Chicago institutions and then...there are CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS. As Chicago as Chicago-style pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and Maxwell Street Polishes...we have Italian beef places. Al's is in the upper strata of Chicago Italian beef places. My boyfriend and I were mulling over what to do for dinner when we saw a giant-size soda cup in the distance. OMG! I exclaimed with glee...THAT is an Al's Italian beef giant sized soda cup! We did not realize this branch had been in the West Loop location for over a year now...having taken over the space formerly occupied by the West Loop Cafe. I was walking there, drooling with anticipation as well as some trepidation. It was Ash Wednesday, after all...what's a Catholic girl to do at Al's Italian Beef??? (ok, so I'd already gone to hell with my meat-infested lunch, lol...). My agnostic boyfriend did not have this issue, as he readily ordered up his Chicago-style polish with fries. I saw hanging posters advertising the Pepper and Egg sandwiches...but these were for every Friday through Easter. My bf asked if they had the Pepper and Egg sandwiches today and the man behind the counter (who was a triple threat as salesperson, greeter - perhaps an owner/operator/manager, as well as cashier) said that included today, as it was Ash Wednesday. He suggested adding American cheese to the sandwich, saying it tasted like an omelet. (yum!). I went for it. My previous experiences with Pepper and Egg sandwiches at other establishments during Lent were nothing to Yelp! about. Dry, stuck in your throat, can't wait till-this-is-over experiences. That was all about to change, from my first bite on. Fluffy scrambled egg with pepper the condiment as well as sweet peppers...melted in my mouth, with the right amount of melted American cheese between a hard French roll. I requested small fries on the side, which were amazing...medium-sized, with skin on, the perfect amount of salt and...I don't know what. There was another flavor. Ancient Al's Secret? After he rang our order up, I asked for cheese as an afterthought, which is normally $.50 but he gave me free as a first time customer. Me, always liking variety and wanting to try everything, exchanged a couple of bites of sandwich for a couple bites of my bf's polish. Juicy...with condiments and sauteed onions...It was Breaded Bliss! (as I told the greeter...I wasn't supposed to be doing that today!). I will definitely be a frequent diner at this Al's. Evening is probably your best to go there, to beat the crowds. Hillary Clinton would agree, as she had Al's served on her 50th birthday!
(5)
Matt F.
Al's beef is really good. I go here regularly for lunch and I am never disappointed by my meal. My favorite is the beef and sausage combo, dipped. I also recommend the beef with hot peppers and the maxwell polish. My only gripe is that their "Chicago Style" items are not actually Chicago Style. The hot dogs are conspicuously missing tomato and pickle...I am not sure why considering they correctly list the ingredients on their website...who knows. This location also lacks the burgers that are available at some of their other locations.
(4)
C L.
I had the "Little Al's" Italian Beef sandwich, which was basically a standard 1/2 sub. FOOD - I was super hungry, so to me, everything tasted pretty good. In hindsight, I do see how some people may complain about the food not being up to par. The Italian beef was good, not great. The spicy peppers are just mildly spicy. The beef & peppers per sandwich ratio wasn't much value for money compared to other subs/sandwich places I've tried in various cities. The fries looked like they were either drenched in oil before frying, or was thrown in to fry before the oil heated up, thus soaking the entire fry completely in oil. But again, it tasted pretty good still. SERVICE - All the staff were really friendly. Among the best customer service I've had at a "Food Network" restaurant. I still recommend this as a good experience, for tourists or locals alike.
(4)
K T.
it was good but for a place that boasts spicy peppers i didn't feel the heat. I had it double dipped and it was juicy and the meat was good but once was enough to head to this joint. service was a five star nice and helpful folks behind the counter.
(3)
W L.
It was okay and forgettable.
(3)
Jared P.
I've never been so disappointed in my life with an Italian roast beef sandwich. I understand that it's supposed to be greasy, fattening, and ect. We got ours dipped, so it was even more artery clogging. It went downhill when we got lukewarm reception by the guys behind the counter. The delivery guy was arguing loudly with the cook. I ordered two beef, a drink, and a large fry. It came to over $20. The fries were burnt, the sandwich was disgusting and had no taste, and it was just a nauseating experience. I couldn't find a shred of cheese in my sandwich. I've had good beef. This is NOT good beef. I would have been better off with McDonald's.
(1)
Justin S.
Lean in, get it hot & wet, and enjoy one of these Windy city staples. I enjoyed this sandwich very much and I think you will too.
(4)
Amy H.
Yea it was OKAY! I've heard so much about this place and how good etc etc it was like just a fast food joint. While it wasn't terribly horrible it was underrated for sure. As an out of towner I expected it to be lines out the door based in the hype. Again it wasn't bad. Got the small beef w the hot peppers w the French fries!
(3)
Chris Z.
Beef isn't that good and overpriced. Spent $30 on two beefs and fries (no drinks). Portillo's is the king
(1)
Kristy B.
Friendly staff, good food. Those are really the only things I care about when going out to lunch in the West Loop. The only thing I don't like about this place is the wait time to get the food. It can get pretty crowded in there during the week for lunch. But....good things come to those who wait. So I'll keep waiting for my yummy roast beef sandwich and chili cheese fries.
So, I came to Chicago for the July 5 Grateful Dead finale. I read a great deal about this spot in advance and was determined to go. And even though I learned from friends after the fact that there might be better "Beef" spots, I am thrilled that I went to Al's. I memorized what to order in advance. Regular beef, no cheese, hot peppers and grilled onions. Dipped. Large fries. My lunch was epic. A fabulous sandwich, spicy, dripping with the famous gravy. Fries were some of the best I have ever had. Because I knew I had a three mile walk back to my hotel after the show and because I didn't know when I might return to Chicago, I had a second sandwich!! Are there better spots in Chicagoland? Don't ask me, I'm no expert. I'm from Jersey. What I do know is I walked out of Al's with a full belly and a big smile. Isn't THAT what it's all about? Hope to return one day.
(4)
Ramone B.
Confession- I've never been to Al's beef before! I've always heard they were Portillos competitor, but I wasn't really interested. I'm not really into Italian beef. Portillos food is NOT ALL THAT. My coworkers all voted against my choice(pizza) so Al's is where we went! Walking in the line was out to the door. I thought "Damn this might be a mistake!" I didn't want my entire break to spent waiting to get food. They handled that line very well! Props to whomever manages that place. When I walked in I said I wanted to order something small because I didn't want to be falling asleep after lunch. My fata$$ quickly threw that notion out the window as soon as the cashier said "Can I help you?" I blurted out buffalo fries, and a nacho cheeseburger. So much for small! #GoBigOrGoHomeB*tches The fries- Holy Sh*t. Those fries are going to be a problem for me. They are GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD! (I can feel my pants getting tighter as I type this!) they have some killer fries which in my opinion blows Portillos fries away! My burger however was kind of a letdown. The sign calls this sandwich a nacho cheeseburger. I could karate chop whomever came up with the name of this burger. I got a burger with regular sliced cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños. That's just a cheeseburger with jalapeños baybee call it for what it is. Al's is doing entirely too much with that deceptive advertising! #Fail #Ya'llPlayTooMuch The burger was okay. It was even better when put some of the buffalo sauce on my burger from my fries!! I'll have to request my burger to be made that way next time cuz as is the Nacho burger was a bust in my opinion!! I can't wait to try out more!
(3)
Trent R.
Placed an order for delivery tonight at 6:30 p.m. ....called at 8:00 p.m. to check on the status and the person on the phone made up an excuse that "the wifi here must be messed or something, I just got your order." How convenient...it is now 8:45 p.m. and I still have no food. Other locations might be better but I won't be ordering from this one again.
(1)
Michael S.
Born & raised in chicago when people think of Chicago food they think deep dish pizza...NOT!! Its the chicago beef...however i was very disappointed in the beef from here i ask for dipped & was very dry even the meat was dry...flavorless none the less...ill be back als is a chicago institution...hopefully my next visit be more better if not its my last...
(3)
Martin P.
Had just the BBQ fries (I recommend it) and a hot dog with everything fantastic as usual. Will try some combos or their special menu next time. timeout.com/chicago/blog… Main
(5)
Mark B.
Went here for lunch one day, as I was working just across the river. I looked up options for Italian Beef, and Al's was suggested by several I was working with. I ordered the Italian beef with peppers and provolone, dipped. It came with a side of fresh-cut fries, which were also great. Eating this sandwich often would probably kill you, but if so, it'd certainly be a great way to go.
(4)
Pieter W.
After having lived in the Chicagoland area off and on for many years and after having consumed countless Italian Beef sandwiches, I am embarrassed to say I had not tried Al's (the *original* Italian Beef sandwich, or so they claim) until today. Unsurprisingly, it was a solid, tasty Italian Beef sandwich I enjoyed. The beef was nice and tender like an Italian Beef should be. This should go without saying, but a lot of places screw it up and basically serve wet French Dip sandwiches instead of proper Italian Beefs. Bread was the classic Turano bread served juicy, but more like standard juicy when I had asked for extra juicy. The hot peppers were tasty too, although they were not the typical giardiniera. Although I could tell that all-in-all it was a top-notch Italian Beef sandwich, I can't say it is anywhere near my favorite, the reason being that there was way too much fennel (at least I think that was what it was,) in the spice mix. I much prefer the spices used at Johnnies, Buona Beef, or even Portillo's. Then again this is just personal preference, for those that love the flavor at Al's I'm sure this sandwich is to die for. Though for me personally Al's signature beef was a little disappointing, Al's fries are nothing short of AMAZING. They are seriously delicious. Fresh-cut fries are almost always delicious but something else put these ones over the top for me. Maybe it was the oil they are fried in, I really don't know. It wouldn't surprise me if they weren't vegetarian, but don't quote me on that one. So, my recommendation is go for the fries and certainly give the beef a try if you are a fan of Italian Beefs, you might really enjoy it. Not sure about the burgers and dogs. Oh, and a little note to reviewers: please do your homework before complaining about the bread on an Italian Beef being "to soggy." It's *supposed* to be juicy unless you order it dry. That's like ordering a pizza slice in NYC and complaining in your review that the slices are "too floppy!"
(4)
Eric V.
Damn good sandwich! I now understand why this Chicago institution is so loved. That was the juiciest beef sandwich I've ever eaten. Juicier than any cheesesteak I've had in Philly. The juice forms a puddle beneath the sandwich that you can use as au jous. Excellent! I Must return for a hot dog.
(4)
Jason H.
As far as "Chicago foods," I just don't think Italian Beef is my thing. Tried one the Chicago way, which meant dipped with hot and sweet peppers. I didn't enjoy the extra gravy at first - the taste got better as I went along, but I definitely enjoyed my gf's non-dipped sandwich much better. As for the rest of it, it was enjoyable, but just not something I see myself getting again. The fries weren't anything special. Have heard good things about everything else at Al's, so I'll be back.
(3)
Jim S.
I just love Al's Beef. I'm sent to Chicago on business once a year and this location is the closest to the hotel. I'm sure a local will say there's better in the area and I'm sure that's the case, but I can't get enough of Al's and that giardinara and the fries are decent too. Why not 5 stars? I thought they may of gotten a little stingy with the meat this year.
(4)
Krystal M.
The place was really clean so that was a good plus. I ordered a Lil Al (not dipped) and some chili cheese fries. My sandwich came dipped (ate it anyways) and could not even taste the provolone inside it... it was just very bland and kind of blah. However, the chili cheese fries were really delicious and a good portion for $4 bucks; so that's why I'm giving out 3 stars here. My friend got the Buffalo bleu cheese fries and they just gave her the regular bleu cheese fries so she had to go back up and get the buffalo sauce they forgot. However, those were really good too. So maybe the fries are the way to go here.
(3)
Alyssa M.
Chi polish. Yummy. Made right.
(5)
Chris S.
I lived in Chicago for 3.5 years and never had an Italian Beef. Shaking my head at myself. I finally had one after leaving the Windy City about 8 years ago. I walked down Adams to the closest Al's. I got an Italian Beef with hot and sweet peppers and I got that little SOB dipped as well. Shared a side of hand cut fries with my colleague and called it a day. Now the food was amazing, service was ok and the place was kept up pretty well. I did however go into a full blown diabetic shock after the meal and needed an adrenaline shot in my heart to bring me back. Would I do it again... yep.
(4)
Kayla A.
The food is yummy. What more can I say? I live here for 7 years and this is actually the first time I tried Italian beef. The price is definitely reasonable. For a small lady like me, the portion is a bit big. Love love love when they give me extra juice for me to dip the sandwich. On the phone staff is friendly. Fast delivery service. Will update the stars once I try other food from this place.
(4)
Charlene L.
I ordered the famour Al's Italian Beef. The bread was soggy due to the drenched meat. If it wasn't for the sweet peppers, I'd say the sandwich was pretty flavorless. I hit it, and now I'm quitting it!
(2)
Annie L.
Wanted to try this place after watching it on a Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. The Italian beef was delicious. It's better w/with the hot peppers. It's like a French dip sandwich. The small chili cheese fries were delicious. So tasty! Regular 6" Italian Sandwich costs $6 and chili fries $5. The bathroom smelled horribly. I had to wash my hands w/the door open. The location is very big and I'm sure gets busier during evenings or lunch hour.
(3)
Seth S.
With the name brand "Al's" I would anticipate paying a slight premium, but nearly $16 for a beef sandwich with peppers and cheese, fries, and a coke. Plenty of other beef sandwiches combos for around $12 in the downtown area. Dont get me wrong the sandwich was good, but nothing special. Sadly disappointed :(
(2)
Elizabeth D.
I already don't like Al's from previous experiences. But I decided to give them another shot because this is a different location. I came here a few weeks ago and ordered a hot dog. They weren't ready so they put them on the grill to heat them up saying it wouldn't take long. I said I have to catch a train in a few minutes so they said it WILL be ready in time. My HOT dog was COLD!! I went today, called ahead to ask if the hot dogs were in the warmer dude says yes. I say I will be there in two minutes "OK we will make it right now" he says. I arrived the cashier looked stupidly at me and mentioned to the manager that I had called. The manager says that they will make it now..This is why I called so it would be READY!! WTF?! Again my HOT dog was COLD!! Moral of this story: I won't go back again unless I'm not in a rush or want to eat there.. But I thought it was fast food!!
(2)
Jordy S.
We ordered a couple things for clients in my office. It was quite irritating that nothing was labeled on the wrappers. So I had 4 sandwiches, very similar, and had no idea what was what. I also feel terrible because when I ordered they told me my total, which was completely different from what it was when they arrived (I believe she didn't include the delivery fee), so the poor delivery man got stuck with a lousy $.90 tip because it was not discovered until after he left. So when placing a delivery order, tack on an extra $3 to your estimate in case the person placing the order for you doesn't include it.
(2)
Frank G.
Went there once to fill my stomach and got hooked. Great beef and delicious french fries. They give a student discount so bring your ID. From never going there in the past, I usually eat there 3 times a week now.
(5)
Jack S.
Total crap.Beef sandwich ,what a joke the worst service ever. bimbos talking on the phone (PERSOANL CALLS) Too busy to take care of a customer..yuo have to wait a minimu of 15 min for a beef ?????and the place was empty.. IGNORANT MGR. that has no idea how terrible the people are that work there. AVOID .. AND SAVE YOURSELF THE STOMACH PUMP TOTAL CACA
(1)
Miriam A.
The WORST WORLD ITALIAN BEEF! Cold and dry like the pavements on the streets. The burger is frozen and freaking disgusted. No good at all. Chicago has better than this piece of $^*¥£
(1)
Joanne C.
Went to Al's today, 1/2 hour after they opened. Not a clean table or counter area to sit at. I had to get napkins & wet them to wash a spot to sit at. Will not return. I can't believe how dirty it was.
(1)
M A.
The food was awesome however the service was horrible. Employees having an argument with each other in front of customers and saying shut up I'm talking to someone is not appropriate. The saving grace was the food. I would go back for the food. Restaurant was clean and maintained. The beef sandwiches and cheese fries were awesome.
(4)
David T.
When I tell people that my favorite Italian Beef in Chicago is at Portillos, many tell me that I need to try Al's. I finally did and was not too impressed. This was mainly for two reasons. First, the hot peppers weren't hot at all. Whereas at Portillos the hot peppers give you the bite on your lips, that was not the case with Al's. Second, Al's seemed to have a strong ginger flavor that seemed out of place. While the beef was decent, it didn't live up to all the hype. I don't plan on eating here again, but would if there was no Portillos.
(3)
Ally B.
A few months back my boyfriend and I were dog sitting in Greektown and were looking around for a place to eat. It was already dark out and we randomly found this Al's Beef; we were psyched! We've always considered Al's italian beefs to be the best of the best. Now the Al's Beef restaurants that we're use to are usually open late so we didn't know until after we were done eating there that they had already closed. We were so embarrassed to be those people who strolled in minutes before closing time and sat down to eat. However every employee was so nice to us and polite to the point where we had no idea the place had closed. They also loaded our beefs up with a ton of meat and gave us over-flowing bags of fries; it was fantastic! I'll never forget how nice they were to us.
(5)
Lylian D.
I have never had an Italian beef, so for my recent visit to Chicago getting an Italian Beef sandwich from Al's was a must eat. Omg am I glad I made sure to eat here! The sandwich had great seasoning and the beef & peppers were so tender. I like that the juices of the beef soaked into the bread. Italian beef sandwiches here remind me of eating a bowl of pho, but in sandwich form. Love this!
(5)
Lefai K.
I haven't gone here for over a year. It's a great place for the non-health conscious. I ordered the chicken sandwich and it was OK. Nothing really special that stood out. In the past, I've had the "Big Al" which is basically a super-sized italian beef sandwich. The sandwich has the right amount of beef and the bread was dunked in just enough juice. The fries were nice and crispy with a nice blend of skin-on and skin-off fries. If you're looking for a good italian beef, chicago-style hotdogs, or a nice and decently healthy chicken sandwich, check this out.
(3)
Megan S.
I've never written a review before... But this place is review worthy. Worst customer service ever!! I always go back, giving it another chance and it's the same experience. Little ghetto girl with attitude at the Counter taking orders and people just throw your food at you. Hmm.... Won't be returning
(2)
Am C.
I like the proximity to Union Station. That means it's practically mandatory to pick up a Little Al with Hot to eat on the train. There isn't much else to say except that these things are really good.
(4)
Khadijah L.
My heart is still for Portillo's Italian Beef. Al's is close to the office so it's convenient. It's still good, but not really impressed.
(3)
Skydiving N.
People who complain about soggy bread don't want a Chicago Italian Beef sandwich. My wife and I wait all year to take the train to Chicago for her birthday so we can go to Al's for their "dipped" beef sandwich. (Their fresh-cut fries are awesome too.) This location is great as it is only a couple blocks west of Union Station. (Go out of the main Canal Street entrance, turn right up to Adams St. and then go left for two blocks to Jefferson St. You'll see the yellow and black building right on the corner.) We go there for lunch and then stop their again on our way back to Union Station, ZipLoc bags in hand, to buy some more "Big Al's dipped" to take back home with us. One bad thing about Al's is you get spoiled. We've tried Italian beefs in other cities and they all suck compared to Al's.
(5)
Stephen K.
2nd time at Al's. Best italian beef ever. No other place can compare. The meat is so juicy it melts in your mouth. Ive had the bbq fries which is okay. Short walk from union station. Go to stop if visiting Chicago.
(5)
Gasper S.
Italian beef is not Italian! It is strictly a Chicago thing with Italo-americans in its history. Also, unless you grew up in Chicago or environs and had these at Italian weddings as a kid or somehow acquired a taste for them, they are gawd-awful. However, I was raised in the Chicago area and was scolded by my mom for eating too many sandwiches at the Italian weddings we attended. Gawd, I love them. Hint to beginners, when ordering your first Italian beef, ask them to go easy on the juice. Later you can graduate to the full dip in the juice.
(5)
Patrick L.
My buddies and I go to Al's on touhy all the time and were craving a beef sandwich. We all ordered the 6in with peppers. The portions were tiny and instead of getting nice slices of beef, I got a pile of mostly shavings. When my sandwich was dipped, it was overly soggy and they poured a ton if giadinera oil on it with not a lot of actual giadinera. When I called to complain, the manager said she hadn't gotten any other complaints form the 500 other people that ordered that day. She offered to do nothing to address our complaints. I'm not sure where she got her management training, but you never leave a customer disappointed. Mistakes happen and when you drop the ball, it really illustrates your commitment to service when you show what you can do to pick up the fumble. She failed miserable. I called corporate and they sent out a certificate which was nice. Avoid this location like the plague!!
(1)
Christina B.
I'm really not a big meat-eater, but after seeing this on Man vs. Food, I had to check out Al's. It was so delicious (and ridiculously messy) but even better-- the buffalo bleu cheese fries. I really didn't think I would like them (I don't usually like bleu cheese) but I am craving this right now!
(4)
Brittany L.
OK, I am going to preface this by stating that I am a vegetarian. I probably shouldn't be writing reviews for famous roast beef sandwich shops. However, I want to encourage other vegetarians who may be in a group with meat eaters to try the veggie wrap at Al's. It was filling, had good cheese on it, giardiniera, and a really tasty olive slaw. I love olives and peppers, so it was perfect for me. My meat eating boyfriend and his meat eating brother seemed to enjoy their meals, too. My boyfriend ordered the italian beef and his brother received a sausage sandwich even though he ordered something else. I'm not going to knock off a lot of stars for this, because he did not bother to ask for his order to be corrected. He enjoyed the mistake sandwich, so all is well, in my book. If he had tried to get his correct order, and come into complications, then I would address that, but he didn't, so oh well.
(4)
Stephanie S.
Gotta give these guys major props. I've always been an Al's fan. But today I called in a catering order an hour before I needed to pick it up. They got it done no problem. Good food is nothing without good service.
(5)
Dr P.
3 of 5. Better italian beef in Chi.
(3)
Kai L.
Service was fast and efficient. I ordered a Big Al's plain with a side of gravy. It was moist and had some flavor to it. I asked for a bit of gravy on the side. I was surprised by the $0.25 charge for it! Shouldn't it be free?
(3)
Rick L.
Stale frys. Hot but seemingly re heated.
(1)
Meatdowntown C.
Terrible customer service. They were training a new employee and they did not even acknowledge waiting customers. They probably just assumed that people in-line must figure out in their own that they are doping a training session. The Italian beef sandwich along with the soggy fries were simply greasy and D I S G U S T I N G. Just drive to johnnies beef if you are really dying for Italian beef. You could also pickup Italian ice since they don't sell it at Al's. Skip this place and you will be happy!
(1)
Alex D.
My first time in USA, landing at O'Hare, I was pretty excited about trying their famous Chicago-style hot dog. The first day in the city I went out to visit Willis tower and I got that dog. Not that it was bad, it was okay.. my expectations fell through anyway. Then I though to myself, there must be something else out here which tastes really great. This is it, Al's Italian beef big, nasty, deep-in-juice sandwich. I am trying to be smart about what I eat, but at that time I was just enjoying my juicy beef with a sweet pepper on it, fries and a can of Pepsi. Really appreciate they have Pepsi, cause I kind of don't recognize Coca-Cola.
(4)
Val G.
I know, Im eating my way through Chicago. I bought this is for the train ride to Omaha. The sandwich is huge, I was hoping to wait until midway to my destination to Omaha but man did it smell good. I may have cheated...... by a couple hundred miles. Oh well, it was awesome.
(4)
Warren C.
Good but way too greasy to be enjoyed. Honestly, I would've gone somewhere else to eat if it weren't for that pouring rain. Italian beef is good like a lot of these reviews say, but it's pretty much drenched in oil, and after a few bites, it's hard to eat. The fries were the same way. Do yourself a favor and get some better food.
(2)
Jessica B.
Sorry Al, I could definitely live without your Italian beef in my life... While on the way to the Arlington Park horse track, we had time before catching the Metra train so we went off in search of a quick lunch. I found Al's on Yelp and figured it was probably one of the more "authentic" Chicago lunches we could have (versus, say, Subway), so we moseyed over. I ordered the italian beef and the bf had a Chicago style hotdog. I thought his hotdog was pretty good, but the beef hoagie was just seriously underwhelming. I just didn't like it. I think I was perhaps expecting more of a Philly cheese steak? This was definitely nothing like that and I was not impressed.
(2)
Jake G.
I am not from Chicago (far from it). I recently started working downtown and a coworker brought me here to try some Italian beef, and I loved it! It was fantastic and I hope to go back again! I cannot compare to other places with italian beef, but I can't really imagine anything better! Go here!!!!
(5)
trevor l.
So I haven't been posting on yelp for the last few years, but I have been using yelp quite a bit for exploring new restaurants, bars and clubs. Al's Beef has made me want to start posting and reviewing places more publicly again. 5 stars for their signature beef sandwich. I traveled to Chicago and tried a few places, including the deep dish places, and THIS place by far trumped all of them in my opinion! If you love meat, especially beef, and if you like sandwiches, and especially spicy sandwiches, THIS is the place for you! The Al's sandwich with Everything on it is incredible. Make sure you order specifically EVERYTHING ON IT! Say those words, because otherwise they will assume you want a plain sandwich. That is what happened to me one time and despite the confusion, I ate that one, and ordered a whole other one with everything on it because I loved it so much. (I went to this place twice while I was in Chicago for 3 days). Everything on it includes cheese, peppers, and a special sauce of Giardiniera sauce. The fries were great too! The burger was ok. The service and ambiance of this place is like a fast food joint, but they do have TVs and soda, not sure if they have beer... Overall this is a great casual place to eat a GREAT and quick sandwich!
(5)
Gene K.
Forget about it!!! I know, I know the bread is supposed to be soggy...but the damn thing completely feel apart when I took the first bite...a sandwich is not supposed to do that..emphasis on sandwich...and honestly the beef was not that great...!!!!
(2)
Kyle K.
I'm glad I had the chance to stop by and try the Italian beef sandwich while I was on a business trip. Definitely worthwhile and recommended.
(4)
Mila R.
This location is 2 blocks from my Apt in Presidential Towers. The last few times have been disappointing. Not in the quality of the food, but in the portions. The value just isn't there. On two occasions I had to go back to the counter to ask them to put some BEEF on my BEEF sandwich. On both occasions I was told that the amount of beef is based on a Corporate decision. Are you kidding me, I thought this was AL'S BEEF ? I've been to Jays, Buona, Mr Beef, Pete's in Berwyn and all have Great portions, almost 3 times the Beef on the sandwich.
(2)
Chrissy N.
Popped in here on a Wednesday night about 6pm. There were 3 of us in here- awesome. (I realize this place is a huge lunch crowd establishment.) B and I got Italian beef sandwiches, mine plain just provalone, B's with green peppers, peppers, and provalone. We also got fries and drinks. All ready in about 3 minutes. There is a big back room with probably seating for about 50. Again, ... place to ourselves. Clean. High tables, booths, tables, comfy really. There was some music playing. Cute music- but was a bit loud, and even though we weren't competing with other patrons, we still had to kid of shout to each other cross the table. But nobody was ther eto mind, so no biggie. The sandwich was tasty. Bread not too tough, meat heaping and delicious. The fries were gooood, and crispy, but not too thick. A tad on the salty side- which I almost never say- but they were. And the drinks are continually re-fillable, just walk your cup back up to the fountain drink bar. Together, for the 2 sandwiches, 2 fries, 2 drinks, we paid about $20 + some change. It was good. I'll go back here- and especially in the evening when you can own the place!
(3)
Ashley C.
The location at Adams and Jefferson has had a variety of diners and I was pleased when something new (that I had heard of) was coming to the spot. Enter Al's Italian Beef. I had never had one before, but learned that it was definitely a Chicago item. Considering they are known for the Italian Beef, we all get that. I got the regular sized portion which was perfect and also reasonably priced. As a side note, I must say I don't get why the "Big Al" guy is so much more expensive. I also have to mention that I didn't feel like the menu here was widely diverse (beef, hotdogs, etc), but I realize that this location just opened this week. [Supposedly they will start delivery later too which is a plus.] It was tender and juicy, but mine wasn't soaked - the way I prefer it. For those of you who love it dripping and juicy, don't worry - you can get it that way. It was good (3 to 3.5 stars) but what eventually bumped it up were the cheese fries. :-) They were SO good. Real potato fries with a generous, but not overwhelming, amount of cheese. That is the stuff. I'll stop in on lunch again.
(4)
Charles H.
Flew home a few weeks back and stopped by Al's. It seems like it is starting to get back on track (fresh ingredients, au jus, etc.). I have high hopes when I return it will go back to being one of the best...
(3)
Emily F.
I don't eat meat but the party I was with does. They loved it so much! It looked so good I wanted to eat it!
(4)
Dennis D.
Tried the Italian beef and sausage. Had both with hot giardiniera and sweet peppers. Sandwiches were delicious and would definitely recommend for visitors to Chicago.
(4)
Stephanie G.
This place is definitely over-rated. I only eat there because I take short lunches and this restaurant happens to be on my block. Their Italian Beef is ok, but certainly not the best in the city by any means. The flavor isn't delicious and it tastes like they add cleaning solution to the au jus. Today I got 2 tamales... I was not expecting them to be great, but I certainly was not expecting them to be so bad. Ok, so they don't make them from scratch, thats fine. But they served them with the original packaging still on! Thanks, but I could have 'heated and served' this tamale for about 50 cents. And I'm pretty sure the filling was half cornmeal and half mystery beef... The service is almost always poor when I go in there. After this tamale incident, I won't be going back to Al's.
(2)
Brad F.
Only OK. I had the "Regular Al's Italian Beef". I ordered it dipped and with hot peppers. I am not sure if I went on a bad day, but the bread felt and tasted cheap, I was not impressed by the mushy, almost pasty, texture of the meat, and half way through, I realized they forgot the peppers. I am not going to count out Al's all together, I will try their original location on 1070 W Taylor St. and get the Char-Grilled Italian Sausage.
(2)
Dylan H.
My coworkers were trying to persuade me to go to this place for over 3 months. Since it's just 5 mins from my work I decided to finally have my lunch here. "Meh. I've experienced better" is the perfect name for this place. Nothing special. My soggy beef sandwich tasted like some medicine. Will not be coming back. I hope they had Buona Beef near my place... -Sadface-
(2)
Jennifer M.
How does this only have 3 stars???? This place is fantastic. Complete your visit to Chicago by visiting the same restaurant that many of the rich and famous people have frequented such as Hilary Clinton, Gary Sinise, and Adam Richman (Man V Food Host). The sandwiches are fantastic because they have a great blend of flavors from the meat, sweet peppers if you desire, and is dipped in the juices of the meat. At first I was hesitant about this, but it does NOT make the bread soggy. Instead, it creates a chewy mess of deliciousness. Can I say Yum?
(5)
Mike E.
Saw Al's on Man Vs. Food, so had to give it a try. I ordered an Italian Beef Sandwich and cheese frys and have to say that I was dissapointed. It definitely wasn't the worst thing I've ever eaten, but it was far from impressive. I think I went into the place having high expectations that were not met. The beef had a decent flavor to it, but was pretty dry. The bread was pretty good, which helped to make up for the meat. The cheese frys were probably the best thing about the meal, which makes the sandwich performance even more dissapointing. The place has decent prices but unfortunately has a fast food feel to it. I won't be going back to Al's again next time I'm in Chicago, there are to many other great places to eat.
(3)
Mike K.
After being rudely awoken the day after TBOX by noises that sounded like a cross between a Santa Claus laugh and a dying duck, downing a few cups of tea, reviewing the kitchen contents several times to only discover frozen Potatoes O'Brien each time and then taking in the schooling of the Bears by the Pats in the first half to the tune of 33-0, I decided I would have to leave the house in the middle of the season's first blizzard for sustenance. I knew I didn't want to drive in that mess, so that left only two options within reasonable distance: 7-11 and Al's. So I got on a few layers, some boots and my goofy Elmer Fudd hat and had the huskies pull the sled over to Al's on a cold, snowy and blustery Sunday. Like Old St. Pat's and Greek Town (Dugan's notwithstanding), I've walked past Al's hundreds of times. My excuse for walking past all of Greek Town apart from Dugan's is that I don't like Greek food (too heavy). My excuse for walking past Al's without ever trying it was that I usually go for Portillo's, which has always been king, when I want that type of food. I have no excuse for not going to mass at Old St. Pat's every Sunday, if not even daily. The authorities wouldn't be very happy. It's a good thing they forgive you. This particular Al's would seem, based on its exterior, to either be some sort of import of a Pittsburgh fast food icon, as it's festooned in the colors of the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, or maybe a Peoria, Illinois, import with its Caterpillar like color scheme. Neither is the case though. Al's is all Chicago. I went with a Big Beef and a hot dog, which comes with fries. I figured I'd have some now and then the rest sometime after the Bears were done getting torn up. I found the Big Beef to be a skinny beef. Long? Yes. But skinny all the same. As to the flavor, there was just too much of some particular spice I can't put my finger on. It almost tasted like too much basil. My unsophisticated palate strikes again. I've had a better beef from Aurelio's. And Portillo's retains its crown as Beef King. The hot dog was better. I'll certainly be back for another one. And it comes with fries, which were excellent. (By the way, fries are the Achilles heel of Portillo's. So weak!). Service was lightning fast. I was in and out in five minutes' time. It probably helped that it was during a Bears game and a big snowstorm. I imagine these guys are just as quick and efficient though at peak hour. I'll be back sometime soon (for a dog), although the last time I was at Old St. Pat's I also said I'd be back soon and haven't. Mayor Daley must be very upset with me for being such a bad Chicagoan and bad Catholic. I hope he doesn't send a Caterpillar tractor over to "X" me out. Three stars.
(3)
Andy B.
Had an absolute craving for Italian Beef while commuting into downtown on my way to a Bulls game. Since I had a "lay over" at Union Station, I whipped out my phone and figured out there was an Al's around the corner. . . This is obviously a new location - nothing wrong with that just a little jarring to get something as messy as an Italian Beef sandwich at a shiny, clean place with granite countertops. Service was fast and efficient - your typical order and wait deal. I got the standard size Beef, double-dipped with hot and sweet peppers. Also got an order of the BBQ fries. Took less than 5 minutes for the order. I slowly unwrapped the package of glorious meat, bread and peppers - the first thing that hit me was the sweet smell of slow cooked roast beef and the accompanying italian spices (nothing like it). Once I'd laid out my "nest" I dug in. HEAVEN ON A BUN. Utterly and completely hit the spot - this is not fine dining, but "stick to your ribs" goodness and just the thing to take the chill away. The surprise was the BBQ fries - didn't have high hopes but I love BBQ sauce so I thought I'd give it a shot. They were awesome - solid spuds fried to a golden crisp and perfectly salted. The sauce was your classic Chicago style sweet tomato-based BBQ sauce, but it perfectly complimented the fries. Overall a fine meal - no complaints whatever.
(3)
Ariel L.
Al's beef blows chunks. For anyone looking for a traditional, quality, Chicago Italian Beef sandwich, this is NOT the place to come. Mr. Beef wipes the floor with this place frankly, as well as do another dozen Beef places in Chicago. If you like tasteless beef, soggy fries, and no character, go to Al's!
(1)
Matt C.
I'm torn because the taste was good, for the most part - the fries were horrible. But, the sandwich itself was not what I expected. To be honest, after awhile it got sort of bland tasting after tasting the same thing. I know that sounds weird, but it's weird to explain my problems with this sandwich. I got a regular Italian beef with sweet peppers and onions thinking that'd be enough to make it tasty. It wasn't. The service is another story. I had roughly 5 seconds to decide what I wanted here. I told the woman working that this was my first time here and she kind of shrugged it off and made me feel incredibly uncomfortable. So bad service for me too. It's a disappointment because after hearing rave reviews for this place on food tv shows, I expected better.
(3)
Sean L.
Fate brought me to Al's on my recent visit to Chicago. I was watching Man vs Food the night before my flight to the windy city and what do I see? A mountainous beef sandwich dripping with Al's love and spiciness. When I asked my friend if she had heard of this place, her reply was, "actually I live a block from there but haven't been". It was my responsibility to make sure we had visited before the weekend was out. I'd like to point out a few of the reviews before mine and question their validity- A vegetarian gave it a low rating because of their lack of meatless options. The place is called Al's BEEF! I am surprised they don't automatically smother everything they serve with cow. Another low-rater points out the lack of healthy options on the menu. I bring to you the same argument- AL'S BEEF! I rest my case. Now for my experience- The menu is rather simple, if you don't want beef, sausage, dogs, tamales (yeah, weird huh?), or fries, you might as well get the F out. I opted for 3 add-ons to my beef: hot giardiniera, sweet peppers and melted provolone. The sandwich was loaded with meat (note; there is still an option to add even MORE meat if it's already not enough), and the sweet & hot pepper combo was a delicious addition to the sandwich. As a second entree, a Chicago dog. This was my only complaint about Al's. I've had many Chicago dogs, and anyone who has ever put one together knows there are certain and specific ingredients. Al's lacked tomatoes, pickles and celery salt. I can handle it without the salt and pickles, but a bright red tomato is crucial to offset the other colors laced throughout the poppy-seed bun. What's up Al? Yes, they clearly state the ingredients on their menu, but who reads what they already know should rightly be included on a CHICAGO DOG? I have to imagine most Chicagoans would have a problem with this as well, unless you're one of those weirdos that don't like tomatoes. Then my question to you is,what's your deal? Anyway, I opted to add the buffalo fries. The fries are fresh cut, skins on (nice), and then covered in buffalo sauce and blue cheese. These were great! Anyone who is a fan of buffalo wings would gladly chomp down a side order. Overall, my Al's experience was great. I'm sure I could add pickles and tomatoes to my dog if I asked nicely. I definitely won't pass up a chance to eat here again!
(4)
Michelle M.
Hey sometimes a gal wants a hot dog with fries or even cheese fries. Depending on the weather I walk over to get me a hot dog with YES I GET ketchup and mustard on mine...totally not a Chicago dog but shoot me for liking my hot dog with ketchup and mustard. This is a Chicago place everyone needs to experience at least once. Staff is cool. Prices are OK. Place is clean.
(4)
Farrah D.
Love these hot-dogs and fries! The Taylor Street location is the original cash only no seating joint. That's how to do it!
(4)
Colleen B.
A vegetarian's NIGHTMARE. The only things to eat are: 1) mediocre french fries, and 2) pepper and egg sandwiches. The sandwiches are tasty, but they're served for breakfast. Unless you stop in on a Friday during lunch, they won't serve a P&E sandwich after "breakfast" is over. So veggies of Chicago, dine elsewhere if you desire a meal consisting of more than potatoes and oil.
(1)
Michael S.
A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity Darn. I was hoping an interesting food joint would open up here, next door to my office. But alas, Al's Fat Asses seems to be the only type of establishment that can open across the street from a law school and a major office building during a recession. Sign of the times. The food: I did try it (just so I could write this review). Blech. I tried a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and Italian sausage. It took forever, I dumped the fries I didn't order, it was cumbersome to eat, and the taste: average. The garish black and yellow decor, the giant size yellow soda cup jutting out above the front door, and the constant smell of beef and fast food grease wafting all around my neck of the woods: Nauseating. yelp.com/biz_photos/4nrM… A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity.
(2)
Chris R.
This was my first foray into Chicago's Italian Beef's and so far not so impressive. I will be trying additional places just to see how other places execute this "classic". We got 2 beef's one with sweet peppers and the other with hot giardenera, 2 beverages, and a large fry The beef is cooked to "well" and is rather dry and basically lacks flavor. The only flavor comes from the giardenera which is solid but frankly I like the stuff I get bottled from Jewel as it has more celery / carrots yielding more crunch. Why not just put it on shredded news print as it basically yields the same result? The fries were good being skin on fresh cut fries and they were well done (not burnt but nice and brown) as I like em. But again this is Al's Beef not Al's French Fries so it is hardly a saving grace. All and all for $18.00 I would expect much better. Personally I would take about $10 and get to really good Vietnamese Banh Mi's from Uptown over this any day of the week.
(2)
Nana G.
Go for the beef. I always get mine with extra sweet peppers. Its juicy, heavenly and makes you happy. Its the best. However I'm a little disappointed that their Chicago dog isn't really a Chicago dog i.e. no tomatoes, pickles. I would've added another star if they had a complete Chi dog. Their french fries are just so-so too. So unless you're here for the beef, I wouldn't really recommend anything else. Service is fast. Only problem is there isn't much space to sit and eat so I always just go for take out.
(3)
Cat C.
Awesome eats! Husband and I tried to stop at another location but they were closed on Sundays, so we quickly googled and GPSd our way to another location so we could get our hands on the beef sandwich. We both got the 4" beef sandwich -- his with peppers, mine plain -- and shared a large order of fries. Yum!!! Just enough tasty food to fill us up and hold us over until we got to the Cubs game later that evening. If I were to visit Chicago again, I'd definitely stop in for a bite!
(4)
Jonathan H.
Just went here for lunch and expected an explosion of flavors because of the reviews I've heard about italian beef in Chicago. Well, I thought it was mediocre. I had the 6 inch beef sandwich with sausage. Didn't want to get the fries because being in here already made me feel 10 lbs heavier. Plus, the fries didn't look that entirely good. The sandwich was tasty but nothing I'd come back for. The beef was thinly sliced, which I can appreciate but the sausage tasted like something I can pick up from a supermarket - not much flavor here. Also, I asked for spicy peppers and when I opened my sandwich, no peppers were there. So minus 1 star for messing up my order. Honestly, I prefer the taste of Arbys sliced beef sandwiches. The bread at Al's is already soaked in au jous so when you bite into it, the sandwich is a bit soggy. Keep this in mind if you order to-go or want to eat it later in the day...no bueno. Verdict: OK sandwich but nothing I'd bring my out of town friends to check out. For 8 bucks (sandwich + drink), I consider a little pricey for the quality, but it's decent if you need a quick bite and are in the area.
(3)
Melissa M.
I was in the area, so in my quest to venture to new places, I decided to hit Big Al's. Italian Beef is honestly something I would not usually order, but after asking for suggestions, of course, it was the recommendation. I have to say that this place looks more exciting and unique from the outside than the inside. Inside it was just another fast food type of place. Nothing really stood out as unique. The order taker/cashier was less than thrilled to make a recommendation and it was hard to tell where to place my order. I ended up ordering Italian Beef and fries and I must say the Italian Beef itself was definitely extraordinary. The bun was another matter. Unfortunately, the bun was soggy and terrible. I ended up just eating the insides out of the sandwich. Fries were awesome and crisp. I must admit I love a good french fry. All in all, this place was ok. It didn't stand out as a place to go back to or a place to bash to bits. I think the bun of the sandwich and just the a staff with personality could help this place in the short term.
(3)
Tia G.
food is alright. ive been here a couple times But what really turned me off was seeing the owner talk to his employees like they were garbage. Working in customer service myself, i appreciate an establishment that treats their employees well. But seeing this guy in action honestly made me never want to come here again. I don't think anyone knew i was in there because he was yelling and cursing so i just walked right back out! Maybe if they treated their employees better they would have better food.
(1)
Arlene Y.
I knew I was going to be in Chicago and checked where Man vs. Food had gone when he was there. I was happy to see that he went to a place that was about a 5 minute walk from my hotel (Crown Plaza Metro). I was able to go there for lunch. I ordered the regular sized Italian beef sandwich. At first it looked small but it had so much meat in it, that it easily filled me up. My brother and I shared small fries. I did not look carefully at the menu and thought that the peppers and onions automatically came with the sandwich as pictured on the menu. So when I unwrapped it and saw just beef I was disappointed but wasn't about to go back in line to add it. This Italian beef tasted Chinese to me! I AM Chinese and the flavors remind me of the beef that is eaten with noodles at Chinese noodle shops. While the beef is very juicy and tender (melts in your mouth), it was way too salty. Maybe the addition of peppers and onions would have helped tone the saltiness down. Overall, it was good but it didn't wow me. I thought the fries were overpriced and salty as well. I didn't mind the soggy bread because that is what is to be expected with au jus. To the Chinese folks reading this...please go and try one and let me know what you think!
(3)
Dorotka K.
This would have been the perfect lunch spot: close to work and fairly priced. Unfortunately, the hot dog and fries combo did not deliver. The hotdog was very plain, while the fries were soggy and greasy.
(2)
Jeffrey H.
This is not the original Al's Beef in case you didn't know. It's a good attempt. There's a bigger menu, with great french fry options. They attempt to do as much extras that the original can't do. Though in fact, the original has a better Chicago Beef. I like the beef, but not a big fan about the hot peppers. They are different than most places in Chicago. It's their original recipe. Do not come here if you're a vegetarian or looking for something healthy. I have no clue why people would try.
(4)
David K.
Here's a restaurant chain resting on its laurels, and it shows. What a disappointment. Here's the bottom line: inflated prices, desultory service, meager portions. We live in the neighborhood and thought we'd give this new Al's a try, We ordered two "Regular Al's" beef sandwiches and the beef was barely visible beyond the bread...it looked like they had been assembled according to strict corporate portion control. We also had asked for hot peppers, but a quick look at our sandwiches revealed virtually none present. When I went to the front to request some more peppers, the woman behind the counter grudgingly gave me a small plastic container with a few small pieces of hot peppers floating in a lot of oil and said "you know, we usually charge extra for this." Had I thought more quickly, I would have replied "yes, and when I order an Italian Beef with hot peppers I usually receive a sandwich with peppers on it!" With so many good places for beef, hot dogs and Polish sausage in Chicago, Al's ought to be ashamed of this poor level of service and food quality!
(1)
Joshua M.
Love the food and love the people. I have been there enough that the know my order. They are always on point with the sandwiches and fries. They even somehow find me something sweet in the freezer on occasion! I will go to this place over any other Al's even though I just moved to Lincoln Square.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Drive-Thru : No Caters : Yes
Kristy B.
Friendly staff, good food. Those are really the only things I care about when going out to lunch in the West Loop. The only thing I don't like about this place is the wait time to get the food. It can get pretty crowded in there during the week for lunch. But....good things come to those who wait. So I'll keep waiting for my yummy roast beef sandwich and chili cheese fries.
(4)Mark B.
I stopped into Al's Beef for lunch and had an enjoyable meal. Décor: It's your pretty standard "fast food" place: there's a long counter, where you can kind of see them making your food, where you order at one end and pick up at the other. There are a bunch of tables in the next room and some bar seats along the windows, and the lighting is decent enough. It's pretty clean as well. Bathroom: unknown Staff: The cashier and the food-preppers were fine - not overly friendly but quick with their tasks. Food: I had a Big Beef, extra juicy (a solid-sized sandwich and tasted pretty well) and a hot dog (not sure that it's Vienna Beef but it was pretty good) that came wrapped with fries (fresh cut and enjoyable). Everything was warm/hot and tasted fine - certainly hit the spot for what I was looking for. Their water cups, however, could be a bit larger... it's probably the smallest plastic cup I've ever see (slight larger than a double-shot shot glass). Value: The prices are about what I expected. My meal was enjoyable but not better than The King (Portillo's). I'd come back again, but I won't rush back anytime soon.
(3)David B.
So, I came to Chicago for the July 5 Grateful Dead finale. I read a great deal about this spot in advance and was determined to go. And even though I learned from friends after the fact that there might be better "Beef" spots, I am thrilled that I went to Al's. I memorized what to order in advance. Regular beef, no cheese, hot peppers and grilled onions. Dipped. Large fries. My lunch was epic. A fabulous sandwich, spicy, dripping with the famous gravy. Fries were some of the best I have ever had. Because I knew I had a three mile walk back to my hotel after the show and because I didn't know when I might return to Chicago, I had a second sandwich!! Are there better spots in Chicagoland? Don't ask me, I'm no expert. I'm from Jersey. What I do know is I walked out of Al's with a full belly and a big smile. Isn't THAT what it's all about? Hope to return one day.
(4)Amy H.
Yea it was OKAY! I've heard so much about this place and how good etc etc it was like just a fast food joint. While it wasn't terribly horrible it was underrated for sure. As an out of towner I expected it to be lines out the door based in the hype. Again it wasn't bad. Got the small beef w the hot peppers w the French fries!
(3)Jared P.
I've never been so disappointed in my life with an Italian roast beef sandwich. I understand that it's supposed to be greasy, fattening, and ect. We got ours dipped, so it was even more artery clogging. It went downhill when we got lukewarm reception by the guys behind the counter. The delivery guy was arguing loudly with the cook. I ordered two beef, a drink, and a large fry. It came to over $20. The fries were burnt, the sandwich was disgusting and had no taste, and it was just a nauseating experience. I couldn't find a shred of cheese in my sandwich. I've had good beef. This is NOT good beef. I would have been better off with McDonald's.
(1)Justin S.
Lean in, get it hot & wet, and enjoy one of these Windy city staples. I enjoyed this sandwich very much and I think you will too.
(4)Ramone B.
Confession- I've never been to Al's beef before! I've always heard they were Portillos competitor, but I wasn't really interested. I'm not really into Italian beef. Portillos food is NOT ALL THAT. My coworkers all voted against my choice(pizza) so Al's is where we went! Walking in the line was out to the door. I thought "Damn this might be a mistake!" I didn't want my entire break to spent waiting to get food. They handled that line very well! Props to whomever manages that place. When I walked in I said I wanted to order something small because I didn't want to be falling asleep after lunch. My fata$$ quickly threw that notion out the window as soon as the cashier said "Can I help you?" I blurted out buffalo fries, and a nacho cheeseburger. So much for small! #GoBigOrGoHomeB*tches The fries- Holy Sh*t. Those fries are going to be a problem for me. They are GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD! (I can feel my pants getting tighter as I type this!) they have some killer fries which in my opinion blows Portillos fries away! My burger however was kind of a letdown. The sign calls this sandwich a nacho cheeseburger. I could karate chop whomever came up with the name of this burger. I got a burger with regular sliced cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños. That's just a cheeseburger with jalapeños baybee call it for what it is. Al's is doing entirely too much with that deceptive advertising! #Fail #Ya'llPlayTooMuch The burger was okay. It was even better when put some of the buffalo sauce on my burger from my fries!! I'll have to request my burger to be made that way next time cuz as is the Nacho burger was a bust in my opinion!! I can't wait to try out more!
(3)Trent R.
Placed an order for delivery tonight at 6:30 p.m. ....called at 8:00 p.m. to check on the status and the person on the phone made up an excuse that "the wifi here must be messed or something, I just got your order." How convenient...it is now 8:45 p.m. and I still have no food. Other locations might be better but I won't be ordering from this one again.
(1)Michael S.
Born & raised in chicago when people think of Chicago food they think deep dish pizza...NOT!! Its the chicago beef...however i was very disappointed in the beef from here i ask for dipped & was very dry even the meat was dry...flavorless none the less...ill be back als is a chicago institution...hopefully my next visit be more better if not its my last...
(3)Martin P.
Had just the BBQ fries (I recommend it) and a hot dog with everything fantastic as usual. Will try some combos or their special menu next time. timeout.com/chicago/blog… Main
(5)Mark B.
Went here for lunch one day, as I was working just across the river. I looked up options for Italian Beef, and Al's was suggested by several I was working with. I ordered the Italian beef with peppers and provolone, dipped. It came with a side of fresh-cut fries, which were also great. Eating this sandwich often would probably kill you, but if so, it'd certainly be a great way to go.
(4)Pieter W.
After having lived in the Chicagoland area off and on for many years and after having consumed countless Italian Beef sandwiches, I am embarrassed to say I had not tried Al's (the *original* Italian Beef sandwich, or so they claim) until today. Unsurprisingly, it was a solid, tasty Italian Beef sandwich I enjoyed. The beef was nice and tender like an Italian Beef should be. This should go without saying, but a lot of places screw it up and basically serve wet French Dip sandwiches instead of proper Italian Beefs. Bread was the classic Turano bread served juicy, but more like standard juicy when I had asked for extra juicy. The hot peppers were tasty too, although they were not the typical giardiniera. Although I could tell that all-in-all it was a top-notch Italian Beef sandwich, I can't say it is anywhere near my favorite, the reason being that there was way too much fennel (at least I think that was what it was,) in the spice mix. I much prefer the spices used at Johnnies, Buona Beef, or even Portillo's. Then again this is just personal preference, for those that love the flavor at Al's I'm sure this sandwich is to die for. Though for me personally Al's signature beef was a little disappointing, Al's fries are nothing short of AMAZING. They are seriously delicious. Fresh-cut fries are almost always delicious but something else put these ones over the top for me. Maybe it was the oil they are fried in, I really don't know. It wouldn't surprise me if they weren't vegetarian, but don't quote me on that one. So, my recommendation is go for the fries and certainly give the beef a try if you are a fan of Italian Beefs, you might really enjoy it. Not sure about the burgers and dogs. Oh, and a little note to reviewers: please do your homework before complaining about the bread on an Italian Beef being "to soggy." It's *supposed* to be juicy unless you order it dry. That's like ordering a pizza slice in NYC and complaining in your review that the slices are "too floppy!"
(4)Eric V.
Damn good sandwich! I now understand why this Chicago institution is so loved. That was the juiciest beef sandwich I've ever eaten. Juicier than any cheesesteak I've had in Philly. The juice forms a puddle beneath the sandwich that you can use as au jous. Excellent! I Must return for a hot dog.
(4)Jason H.
As far as "Chicago foods," I just don't think Italian Beef is my thing. Tried one the Chicago way, which meant dipped with hot and sweet peppers. I didn't enjoy the extra gravy at first - the taste got better as I went along, but I definitely enjoyed my gf's non-dipped sandwich much better. As for the rest of it, it was enjoyable, but just not something I see myself getting again. The fries weren't anything special. Have heard good things about everything else at Al's, so I'll be back.
(3)Jim S.
I just love Al's Beef. I'm sent to Chicago on business once a year and this location is the closest to the hotel. I'm sure a local will say there's better in the area and I'm sure that's the case, but I can't get enough of Al's and that giardinara and the fries are decent too. Why not 5 stars? I thought they may of gotten a little stingy with the meat this year.
(4)Krystal M.
The place was really clean so that was a good plus. I ordered a Lil Al (not dipped) and some chili cheese fries. My sandwich came dipped (ate it anyways) and could not even taste the provolone inside it... it was just very bland and kind of blah. However, the chili cheese fries were really delicious and a good portion for $4 bucks; so that's why I'm giving out 3 stars here. My friend got the Buffalo bleu cheese fries and they just gave her the regular bleu cheese fries so she had to go back up and get the buffalo sauce they forgot. However, those were really good too. So maybe the fries are the way to go here.
(3)Alyssa M.
Chi polish. Yummy. Made right.
(5)Chris S.
I lived in Chicago for 3.5 years and never had an Italian Beef. Shaking my head at myself. I finally had one after leaving the Windy City about 8 years ago. I walked down Adams to the closest Al's. I got an Italian Beef with hot and sweet peppers and I got that little SOB dipped as well. Shared a side of hand cut fries with my colleague and called it a day. Now the food was amazing, service was ok and the place was kept up pretty well. I did however go into a full blown diabetic shock after the meal and needed an adrenaline shot in my heart to bring me back. Would I do it again... yep.
(4)Kayla A.
The food is yummy. What more can I say? I live here for 7 years and this is actually the first time I tried Italian beef. The price is definitely reasonable. For a small lady like me, the portion is a bit big. Love love love when they give me extra juice for me to dip the sandwich. On the phone staff is friendly. Fast delivery service. Will update the stars once I try other food from this place.
(4)Charlene L.
I ordered the famour Al's Italian Beef. The bread was soggy due to the drenched meat. If it wasn't for the sweet peppers, I'd say the sandwich was pretty flavorless. I hit it, and now I'm quitting it!
(2)Annie L.
Wanted to try this place after watching it on a Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. The Italian beef was delicious. It's better w/with the hot peppers. It's like a French dip sandwich. The small chili cheese fries were delicious. So tasty! Regular 6" Italian Sandwich costs $6 and chili fries $5. The bathroom smelled horribly. I had to wash my hands w/the door open. The location is very big and I'm sure gets busier during evenings or lunch hour.
(3)Seth S.
With the name brand "Al's" I would anticipate paying a slight premium, but nearly $16 for a beef sandwich with peppers and cheese, fries, and a coke. Plenty of other beef sandwiches combos for around $12 in the downtown area. Dont get me wrong the sandwich was good, but nothing special. Sadly disappointed :(
(2)Elizabeth D.
I already don't like Al's from previous experiences. But I decided to give them another shot because this is a different location. I came here a few weeks ago and ordered a hot dog. They weren't ready so they put them on the grill to heat them up saying it wouldn't take long. I said I have to catch a train in a few minutes so they said it WILL be ready in time. My HOT dog was COLD!! I went today, called ahead to ask if the hot dogs were in the warmer dude says yes. I say I will be there in two minutes "OK we will make it right now" he says. I arrived the cashier looked stupidly at me and mentioned to the manager that I had called. The manager says that they will make it now..This is why I called so it would be READY!! WTF?! Again my HOT dog was COLD!! Moral of this story: I won't go back again unless I'm not in a rush or want to eat there.. But I thought it was fast food!!
(2)Jordy S.
We ordered a couple things for clients in my office. It was quite irritating that nothing was labeled on the wrappers. So I had 4 sandwiches, very similar, and had no idea what was what. I also feel terrible because when I ordered they told me my total, which was completely different from what it was when they arrived (I believe she didn't include the delivery fee), so the poor delivery man got stuck with a lousy $.90 tip because it was not discovered until after he left. So when placing a delivery order, tack on an extra $3 to your estimate in case the person placing the order for you doesn't include it.
(2)Frank G.
Went there once to fill my stomach and got hooked. Great beef and delicious french fries. They give a student discount so bring your ID. From never going there in the past, I usually eat there 3 times a week now.
(5)Jack S.
Total crap.Beef sandwich ,what a joke the worst service ever. bimbos talking on the phone (PERSOANL CALLS) Too busy to take care of a customer..yuo have to wait a minimu of 15 min for a beef ?????and the place was empty.. IGNORANT MGR. that has no idea how terrible the people are that work there. AVOID .. AND SAVE YOURSELF THE STOMACH PUMP TOTAL CACA
(1)Miriam A.
The WORST WORLD ITALIAN BEEF! Cold and dry like the pavements on the streets. The burger is frozen and freaking disgusted. No good at all. Chicago has better than this piece of $^*¥£
(1)Joanne C.
Went to Al's today, 1/2 hour after they opened. Not a clean table or counter area to sit at. I had to get napkins & wet them to wash a spot to sit at. Will not return. I can't believe how dirty it was.
(1)M A.
The food was awesome however the service was horrible. Employees having an argument with each other in front of customers and saying shut up I'm talking to someone is not appropriate. The saving grace was the food. I would go back for the food. Restaurant was clean and maintained. The beef sandwiches and cheese fries were awesome.
(4)David T.
When I tell people that my favorite Italian Beef in Chicago is at Portillos, many tell me that I need to try Al's. I finally did and was not too impressed. This was mainly for two reasons. First, the hot peppers weren't hot at all. Whereas at Portillos the hot peppers give you the bite on your lips, that was not the case with Al's. Second, Al's seemed to have a strong ginger flavor that seemed out of place. While the beef was decent, it didn't live up to all the hype. I don't plan on eating here again, but would if there was no Portillos.
(3)Ally B.
A few months back my boyfriend and I were dog sitting in Greektown and were looking around for a place to eat. It was already dark out and we randomly found this Al's Beef; we were psyched! We've always considered Al's italian beefs to be the best of the best. Now the Al's Beef restaurants that we're use to are usually open late so we didn't know until after we were done eating there that they had already closed. We were so embarrassed to be those people who strolled in minutes before closing time and sat down to eat. However every employee was so nice to us and polite to the point where we had no idea the place had closed. They also loaded our beefs up with a ton of meat and gave us over-flowing bags of fries; it was fantastic! I'll never forget how nice they were to us.
(5)Lylian D.
I have never had an Italian beef, so for my recent visit to Chicago getting an Italian Beef sandwich from Al's was a must eat. Omg am I glad I made sure to eat here! The sandwich had great seasoning and the beef & peppers were so tender. I like that the juices of the beef soaked into the bread. Italian beef sandwiches here remind me of eating a bowl of pho, but in sandwich form. Love this!
(5)Megan S.
I've never written a review before... But this place is review worthy. Worst customer service ever!! I always go back, giving it another chance and it's the same experience. Little ghetto girl with attitude at the Counter taking orders and people just throw your food at you. Hmm.... Won't be returning
(2)Lefai K.
I haven't gone here for over a year. It's a great place for the non-health conscious. I ordered the chicken sandwich and it was OK. Nothing really special that stood out. In the past, I've had the "Big Al" which is basically a super-sized italian beef sandwich. The sandwich has the right amount of beef and the bread was dunked in just enough juice. The fries were nice and crispy with a nice blend of skin-on and skin-off fries. If you're looking for a good italian beef, chicago-style hotdogs, or a nice and decently healthy chicken sandwich, check this out.
(3)Am C.
I like the proximity to Union Station. That means it's practically mandatory to pick up a Little Al with Hot to eat on the train. There isn't much else to say except that these things are really good.
(4)Khadijah L.
My heart is still for Portillo's Italian Beef. Al's is close to the office so it's convenient. It's still good, but not really impressed.
(3)Skydiving N.
People who complain about soggy bread don't want a Chicago Italian Beef sandwich. My wife and I wait all year to take the train to Chicago for her birthday so we can go to Al's for their "dipped" beef sandwich. (Their fresh-cut fries are awesome too.) This location is great as it is only a couple blocks west of Union Station. (Go out of the main Canal Street entrance, turn right up to Adams St. and then go left for two blocks to Jefferson St. You'll see the yellow and black building right on the corner.) We go there for lunch and then stop their again on our way back to Union Station, ZipLoc bags in hand, to buy some more "Big Al's dipped" to take back home with us. One bad thing about Al's is you get spoiled. We've tried Italian beefs in other cities and they all suck compared to Al's.
(5)Stephen K.
2nd time at Al's. Best italian beef ever. No other place can compare. The meat is so juicy it melts in your mouth. Ive had the bbq fries which is okay. Short walk from union station. Go to stop if visiting Chicago.
(5)Gasper S.
Italian beef is not Italian! It is strictly a Chicago thing with Italo-americans in its history. Also, unless you grew up in Chicago or environs and had these at Italian weddings as a kid or somehow acquired a taste for them, they are gawd-awful. However, I was raised in the Chicago area and was scolded by my mom for eating too many sandwiches at the Italian weddings we attended. Gawd, I love them. Hint to beginners, when ordering your first Italian beef, ask them to go easy on the juice. Later you can graduate to the full dip in the juice.
(5)Patrick L.
My buddies and I go to Al's on touhy all the time and were craving a beef sandwich. We all ordered the 6in with peppers. The portions were tiny and instead of getting nice slices of beef, I got a pile of mostly shavings. When my sandwich was dipped, it was overly soggy and they poured a ton if giadinera oil on it with not a lot of actual giadinera. When I called to complain, the manager said she hadn't gotten any other complaints form the 500 other people that ordered that day. She offered to do nothing to address our complaints. I'm not sure where she got her management training, but you never leave a customer disappointed. Mistakes happen and when you drop the ball, it really illustrates your commitment to service when you show what you can do to pick up the fumble. She failed miserable. I called corporate and they sent out a certificate which was nice. Avoid this location like the plague!!
(1)Christina B.
I'm really not a big meat-eater, but after seeing this on Man vs. Food, I had to check out Al's. It was so delicious (and ridiculously messy) but even better-- the buffalo bleu cheese fries. I really didn't think I would like them (I don't usually like bleu cheese) but I am craving this right now!
(4)Brittany L.
OK, I am going to preface this by stating that I am a vegetarian. I probably shouldn't be writing reviews for famous roast beef sandwich shops. However, I want to encourage other vegetarians who may be in a group with meat eaters to try the veggie wrap at Al's. It was filling, had good cheese on it, giardiniera, and a really tasty olive slaw. I love olives and peppers, so it was perfect for me. My meat eating boyfriend and his meat eating brother seemed to enjoy their meals, too. My boyfriend ordered the italian beef and his brother received a sausage sandwich even though he ordered something else. I'm not going to knock off a lot of stars for this, because he did not bother to ask for his order to be corrected. He enjoyed the mistake sandwich, so all is well, in my book. If he had tried to get his correct order, and come into complications, then I would address that, but he didn't, so oh well.
(4)Stephanie S.
Gotta give these guys major props. I've always been an Al's fan. But today I called in a catering order an hour before I needed to pick it up. They got it done no problem. Good food is nothing without good service.
(5)Dr P.
3 of 5. Better italian beef in Chi.
(3)Kai L.
Service was fast and efficient. I ordered a Big Al's plain with a side of gravy. It was moist and had some flavor to it. I asked for a bit of gravy on the side. I was surprised by the $0.25 charge for it! Shouldn't it be free?
(3)Rick L.
Stale frys. Hot but seemingly re heated.
(1)Meatdowntown C.
Terrible customer service. They were training a new employee and they did not even acknowledge waiting customers. They probably just assumed that people in-line must figure out in their own that they are doping a training session. The Italian beef sandwich along with the soggy fries were simply greasy and D I S G U S T I N G. Just drive to johnnies beef if you are really dying for Italian beef. You could also pickup Italian ice since they don't sell it at Al's. Skip this place and you will be happy!
(1)Alex D.
My first time in USA, landing at O'Hare, I was pretty excited about trying their famous Chicago-style hot dog. The first day in the city I went out to visit Willis tower and I got that dog. Not that it was bad, it was okay.. my expectations fell through anyway. Then I though to myself, there must be something else out here which tastes really great. This is it, Al's Italian beef big, nasty, deep-in-juice sandwich. I am trying to be smart about what I eat, but at that time I was just enjoying my juicy beef with a sweet pepper on it, fries and a can of Pepsi. Really appreciate they have Pepsi, cause I kind of don't recognize Coca-Cola.
(4)Val G.
I know, Im eating my way through Chicago. I bought this is for the train ride to Omaha. The sandwich is huge, I was hoping to wait until midway to my destination to Omaha but man did it smell good. I may have cheated...... by a couple hundred miles. Oh well, it was awesome.
(4)Warren C.
Good but way too greasy to be enjoyed. Honestly, I would've gone somewhere else to eat if it weren't for that pouring rain. Italian beef is good like a lot of these reviews say, but it's pretty much drenched in oil, and after a few bites, it's hard to eat. The fries were the same way. Do yourself a favor and get some better food.
(2)Jessica B.
Sorry Al, I could definitely live without your Italian beef in my life... While on the way to the Arlington Park horse track, we had time before catching the Metra train so we went off in search of a quick lunch. I found Al's on Yelp and figured it was probably one of the more "authentic" Chicago lunches we could have (versus, say, Subway), so we moseyed over. I ordered the italian beef and the bf had a Chicago style hotdog. I thought his hotdog was pretty good, but the beef hoagie was just seriously underwhelming. I just didn't like it. I think I was perhaps expecting more of a Philly cheese steak? This was definitely nothing like that and I was not impressed.
(2)Jake G.
I am not from Chicago (far from it). I recently started working downtown and a coworker brought me here to try some Italian beef, and I loved it! It was fantastic and I hope to go back again! I cannot compare to other places with italian beef, but I can't really imagine anything better! Go here!!!!
(5)trevor l.
So I haven't been posting on yelp for the last few years, but I have been using yelp quite a bit for exploring new restaurants, bars and clubs. Al's Beef has made me want to start posting and reviewing places more publicly again. 5 stars for their signature beef sandwich. I traveled to Chicago and tried a few places, including the deep dish places, and THIS place by far trumped all of them in my opinion! If you love meat, especially beef, and if you like sandwiches, and especially spicy sandwiches, THIS is the place for you! The Al's sandwich with Everything on it is incredible. Make sure you order specifically EVERYTHING ON IT! Say those words, because otherwise they will assume you want a plain sandwich. That is what happened to me one time and despite the confusion, I ate that one, and ordered a whole other one with everything on it because I loved it so much. (I went to this place twice while I was in Chicago for 3 days). Everything on it includes cheese, peppers, and a special sauce of Giardiniera sauce. The fries were great too! The burger was ok. The service and ambiance of this place is like a fast food joint, but they do have TVs and soda, not sure if they have beer... Overall this is a great casual place to eat a GREAT and quick sandwich!
(5)Gene K.
Forget about it!!! I know, I know the bread is supposed to be soggy...but the damn thing completely feel apart when I took the first bite...a sandwich is not supposed to do that..emphasis on sandwich...and honestly the beef was not that great...!!!!
(2)Kyle K.
I'm glad I had the chance to stop by and try the Italian beef sandwich while I was on a business trip. Definitely worthwhile and recommended.
(4)Mila R.
This location is 2 blocks from my Apt in Presidential Towers. The last few times have been disappointing. Not in the quality of the food, but in the portions. The value just isn't there. On two occasions I had to go back to the counter to ask them to put some BEEF on my BEEF sandwich. On both occasions I was told that the amount of beef is based on a Corporate decision. Are you kidding me, I thought this was AL'S BEEF ? I've been to Jays, Buona, Mr Beef, Pete's in Berwyn and all have Great portions, almost 3 times the Beef on the sandwich.
(2)Chrissy N.
Popped in here on a Wednesday night about 6pm. There were 3 of us in here- awesome. (I realize this place is a huge lunch crowd establishment.) B and I got Italian beef sandwiches, mine plain just provalone, B's with green peppers, peppers, and provalone. We also got fries and drinks. All ready in about 3 minutes. There is a big back room with probably seating for about 50. Again, ... place to ourselves. Clean. High tables, booths, tables, comfy really. There was some music playing. Cute music- but was a bit loud, and even though we weren't competing with other patrons, we still had to kid of shout to each other cross the table. But nobody was ther eto mind, so no biggie. The sandwich was tasty. Bread not too tough, meat heaping and delicious. The fries were gooood, and crispy, but not too thick. A tad on the salty side- which I almost never say- but they were. And the drinks are continually re-fillable, just walk your cup back up to the fountain drink bar. Together, for the 2 sandwiches, 2 fries, 2 drinks, we paid about $20 + some change. It was good. I'll go back here- and especially in the evening when you can own the place!
(3)Ashley C.
The location at Adams and Jefferson has had a variety of diners and I was pleased when something new (that I had heard of) was coming to the spot. Enter Al's Italian Beef. I had never had one before, but learned that it was definitely a Chicago item. Considering they are known for the Italian Beef, we all get that. I got the regular sized portion which was perfect and also reasonably priced. As a side note, I must say I don't get why the "Big Al" guy is so much more expensive. I also have to mention that I didn't feel like the menu here was widely diverse (beef, hotdogs, etc), but I realize that this location just opened this week. [Supposedly they will start delivery later too which is a plus.] It was tender and juicy, but mine wasn't soaked - the way I prefer it. For those of you who love it dripping and juicy, don't worry - you can get it that way. It was good (3 to 3.5 stars) but what eventually bumped it up were the cheese fries. :-) They were SO good. Real potato fries with a generous, but not overwhelming, amount of cheese. That is the stuff. I'll stop in on lunch again.
(4)Charles H.
Flew home a few weeks back and stopped by Al's. It seems like it is starting to get back on track (fresh ingredients, au jus, etc.). I have high hopes when I return it will go back to being one of the best...
(3)Emily F.
I don't eat meat but the party I was with does. They loved it so much! It looked so good I wanted to eat it!
(4)Dennis D.
Tried the Italian beef and sausage. Had both with hot giardiniera and sweet peppers. Sandwiches were delicious and would definitely recommend for visitors to Chicago.
(4)Stephanie G.
This place is definitely over-rated. I only eat there because I take short lunches and this restaurant happens to be on my block. Their Italian Beef is ok, but certainly not the best in the city by any means. The flavor isn't delicious and it tastes like they add cleaning solution to the au jus. Today I got 2 tamales... I was not expecting them to be great, but I certainly was not expecting them to be so bad. Ok, so they don't make them from scratch, thats fine. But they served them with the original packaging still on! Thanks, but I could have 'heated and served' this tamale for about 50 cents. And I'm pretty sure the filling was half cornmeal and half mystery beef... The service is almost always poor when I go in there. After this tamale incident, I won't be going back to Al's.
(2)Brad F.
Only OK. I had the "Regular Al's Italian Beef". I ordered it dipped and with hot peppers. I am not sure if I went on a bad day, but the bread felt and tasted cheap, I was not impressed by the mushy, almost pasty, texture of the meat, and half way through, I realized they forgot the peppers. I am not going to count out Al's all together, I will try their original location on 1070 W Taylor St. and get the Char-Grilled Italian Sausage.
(2)Dylan H.
My coworkers were trying to persuade me to go to this place for over 3 months. Since it's just 5 mins from my work I decided to finally have my lunch here. "Meh. I've experienced better" is the perfect name for this place. Nothing special. My soggy beef sandwich tasted like some medicine. Will not be coming back. I hope they had Buona Beef near my place... -Sadface-
(2)Jennifer M.
How does this only have 3 stars???? This place is fantastic. Complete your visit to Chicago by visiting the same restaurant that many of the rich and famous people have frequented such as Hilary Clinton, Gary Sinise, and Adam Richman (Man V Food Host). The sandwiches are fantastic because they have a great blend of flavors from the meat, sweet peppers if you desire, and is dipped in the juices of the meat. At first I was hesitant about this, but it does NOT make the bread soggy. Instead, it creates a chewy mess of deliciousness. Can I say Yum?
(5)Mike E.
Saw Al's on Man Vs. Food, so had to give it a try. I ordered an Italian Beef Sandwich and cheese frys and have to say that I was dissapointed. It definitely wasn't the worst thing I've ever eaten, but it was far from impressive. I think I went into the place having high expectations that were not met. The beef had a decent flavor to it, but was pretty dry. The bread was pretty good, which helped to make up for the meat. The cheese frys were probably the best thing about the meal, which makes the sandwich performance even more dissapointing. The place has decent prices but unfortunately has a fast food feel to it. I won't be going back to Al's again next time I'm in Chicago, there are to many other great places to eat.
(3)Mike K.
After being rudely awoken the day after TBOX by noises that sounded like a cross between a Santa Claus laugh and a dying duck, downing a few cups of tea, reviewing the kitchen contents several times to only discover frozen Potatoes O'Brien each time and then taking in the schooling of the Bears by the Pats in the first half to the tune of 33-0, I decided I would have to leave the house in the middle of the season's first blizzard for sustenance. I knew I didn't want to drive in that mess, so that left only two options within reasonable distance: 7-11 and Al's. So I got on a few layers, some boots and my goofy Elmer Fudd hat and had the huskies pull the sled over to Al's on a cold, snowy and blustery Sunday. Like Old St. Pat's and Greek Town (Dugan's notwithstanding), I've walked past Al's hundreds of times. My excuse for walking past all of Greek Town apart from Dugan's is that I don't like Greek food (too heavy). My excuse for walking past Al's without ever trying it was that I usually go for Portillo's, which has always been king, when I want that type of food. I have no excuse for not going to mass at Old St. Pat's every Sunday, if not even daily. The authorities wouldn't be very happy. It's a good thing they forgive you. This particular Al's would seem, based on its exterior, to either be some sort of import of a Pittsburgh fast food icon, as it's festooned in the colors of the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, or maybe a Peoria, Illinois, import with its Caterpillar like color scheme. Neither is the case though. Al's is all Chicago. I went with a Big Beef and a hot dog, which comes with fries. I figured I'd have some now and then the rest sometime after the Bears were done getting torn up. I found the Big Beef to be a skinny beef. Long? Yes. But skinny all the same. As to the flavor, there was just too much of some particular spice I can't put my finger on. It almost tasted like too much basil. My unsophisticated palate strikes again. I've had a better beef from Aurelio's. And Portillo's retains its crown as Beef King. The hot dog was better. I'll certainly be back for another one. And it comes with fries, which were excellent. (By the way, fries are the Achilles heel of Portillo's. So weak!). Service was lightning fast. I was in and out in five minutes' time. It probably helped that it was during a Bears game and a big snowstorm. I imagine these guys are just as quick and efficient though at peak hour. I'll be back sometime soon (for a dog), although the last time I was at Old St. Pat's I also said I'd be back soon and haven't. Mayor Daley must be very upset with me for being such a bad Chicagoan and bad Catholic. I hope he doesn't send a Caterpillar tractor over to "X" me out. Three stars.
(3)Andy B.
Had an absolute craving for Italian Beef while commuting into downtown on my way to a Bulls game. Since I had a "lay over" at Union Station, I whipped out my phone and figured out there was an Al's around the corner. . . This is obviously a new location - nothing wrong with that just a little jarring to get something as messy as an Italian Beef sandwich at a shiny, clean place with granite countertops. Service was fast and efficient - your typical order and wait deal. I got the standard size Beef, double-dipped with hot and sweet peppers. Also got an order of the BBQ fries. Took less than 5 minutes for the order. I slowly unwrapped the package of glorious meat, bread and peppers - the first thing that hit me was the sweet smell of slow cooked roast beef and the accompanying italian spices (nothing like it). Once I'd laid out my "nest" I dug in. HEAVEN ON A BUN. Utterly and completely hit the spot - this is not fine dining, but "stick to your ribs" goodness and just the thing to take the chill away. The surprise was the BBQ fries - didn't have high hopes but I love BBQ sauce so I thought I'd give it a shot. They were awesome - solid spuds fried to a golden crisp and perfectly salted. The sauce was your classic Chicago style sweet tomato-based BBQ sauce, but it perfectly complimented the fries. Overall a fine meal - no complaints whatever.
(3)Ariel L.
Al's beef blows chunks. For anyone looking for a traditional, quality, Chicago Italian Beef sandwich, this is NOT the place to come. Mr. Beef wipes the floor with this place frankly, as well as do another dozen Beef places in Chicago. If you like tasteless beef, soggy fries, and no character, go to Al's!
(1)Matt C.
I'm torn because the taste was good, for the most part - the fries were horrible. But, the sandwich itself was not what I expected. To be honest, after awhile it got sort of bland tasting after tasting the same thing. I know that sounds weird, but it's weird to explain my problems with this sandwich. I got a regular Italian beef with sweet peppers and onions thinking that'd be enough to make it tasty. It wasn't. The service is another story. I had roughly 5 seconds to decide what I wanted here. I told the woman working that this was my first time here and she kind of shrugged it off and made me feel incredibly uncomfortable. So bad service for me too. It's a disappointment because after hearing rave reviews for this place on food tv shows, I expected better.
(3)Sean L.
Fate brought me to Al's on my recent visit to Chicago. I was watching Man vs Food the night before my flight to the windy city and what do I see? A mountainous beef sandwich dripping with Al's love and spiciness. When I asked my friend if she had heard of this place, her reply was, "actually I live a block from there but haven't been". It was my responsibility to make sure we had visited before the weekend was out. I'd like to point out a few of the reviews before mine and question their validity- A vegetarian gave it a low rating because of their lack of meatless options. The place is called Al's BEEF! I am surprised they don't automatically smother everything they serve with cow. Another low-rater points out the lack of healthy options on the menu. I bring to you the same argument- AL'S BEEF! I rest my case. Now for my experience- The menu is rather simple, if you don't want beef, sausage, dogs, tamales (yeah, weird huh?), or fries, you might as well get the F out. I opted for 3 add-ons to my beef: hot giardiniera, sweet peppers and melted provolone. The sandwich was loaded with meat (note; there is still an option to add even MORE meat if it's already not enough), and the sweet & hot pepper combo was a delicious addition to the sandwich. As a second entree, a Chicago dog. This was my only complaint about Al's. I've had many Chicago dogs, and anyone who has ever put one together knows there are certain and specific ingredients. Al's lacked tomatoes, pickles and celery salt. I can handle it without the salt and pickles, but a bright red tomato is crucial to offset the other colors laced throughout the poppy-seed bun. What's up Al? Yes, they clearly state the ingredients on their menu, but who reads what they already know should rightly be included on a CHICAGO DOG? I have to imagine most Chicagoans would have a problem with this as well, unless you're one of those weirdos that don't like tomatoes. Then my question to you is,what's your deal? Anyway, I opted to add the buffalo fries. The fries are fresh cut, skins on (nice), and then covered in buffalo sauce and blue cheese. These were great! Anyone who is a fan of buffalo wings would gladly chomp down a side order. Overall, my Al's experience was great. I'm sure I could add pickles and tomatoes to my dog if I asked nicely. I definitely won't pass up a chance to eat here again!
(4)Michelle M.
Hey sometimes a gal wants a hot dog with fries or even cheese fries. Depending on the weather I walk over to get me a hot dog with YES I GET ketchup and mustard on mine...totally not a Chicago dog but shoot me for liking my hot dog with ketchup and mustard. This is a Chicago place everyone needs to experience at least once. Staff is cool. Prices are OK. Place is clean.
(4)Farrah D.
Love these hot-dogs and fries! The Taylor Street location is the original cash only no seating joint. That's how to do it!
(4)Colleen B.
A vegetarian's NIGHTMARE. The only things to eat are: 1) mediocre french fries, and 2) pepper and egg sandwiches. The sandwiches are tasty, but they're served for breakfast. Unless you stop in on a Friday during lunch, they won't serve a P&E sandwich after "breakfast" is over. So veggies of Chicago, dine elsewhere if you desire a meal consisting of more than potatoes and oil.
(1)Michael S.
A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity Darn. I was hoping an interesting food joint would open up here, next door to my office. But alas, Al's Fat Asses seems to be the only type of establishment that can open across the street from a law school and a major office building during a recession. Sign of the times. The food: I did try it (just so I could write this review). Blech. I tried a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and Italian sausage. It took forever, I dumped the fries I didn't order, it was cumbersome to eat, and the taste: average. The garish black and yellow decor, the giant size yellow soda cup jutting out above the front door, and the constant smell of beef and fast food grease wafting all around my neck of the woods: Nauseating. yelp.com/biz_photos/4nrM… A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity.
(2)Chris R.
This was my first foray into Chicago's Italian Beef's and so far not so impressive. I will be trying additional places just to see how other places execute this "classic". We got 2 beef's one with sweet peppers and the other with hot giardenera, 2 beverages, and a large fry The beef is cooked to "well" and is rather dry and basically lacks flavor. The only flavor comes from the giardenera which is solid but frankly I like the stuff I get bottled from Jewel as it has more celery / carrots yielding more crunch. Why not just put it on shredded news print as it basically yields the same result? The fries were good being skin on fresh cut fries and they were well done (not burnt but nice and brown) as I like em. But again this is Al's Beef not Al's French Fries so it is hardly a saving grace. All and all for $18.00 I would expect much better. Personally I would take about $10 and get to really good Vietnamese Banh Mi's from Uptown over this any day of the week.
(2)Nana G.
Go for the beef. I always get mine with extra sweet peppers. Its juicy, heavenly and makes you happy. Its the best. However I'm a little disappointed that their Chicago dog isn't really a Chicago dog i.e. no tomatoes, pickles. I would've added another star if they had a complete Chi dog. Their french fries are just so-so too. So unless you're here for the beef, I wouldn't really recommend anything else. Service is fast. Only problem is there isn't much space to sit and eat so I always just go for take out.
(3)Cat C.
Awesome eats! Husband and I tried to stop at another location but they were closed on Sundays, so we quickly googled and GPSd our way to another location so we could get our hands on the beef sandwich. We both got the 4" beef sandwich -- his with peppers, mine plain -- and shared a large order of fries. Yum!!! Just enough tasty food to fill us up and hold us over until we got to the Cubs game later that evening. If I were to visit Chicago again, I'd definitely stop in for a bite!
(4)Jonathan H.
Just went here for lunch and expected an explosion of flavors because of the reviews I've heard about italian beef in Chicago. Well, I thought it was mediocre. I had the 6 inch beef sandwich with sausage. Didn't want to get the fries because being in here already made me feel 10 lbs heavier. Plus, the fries didn't look that entirely good. The sandwich was tasty but nothing I'd come back for. The beef was thinly sliced, which I can appreciate but the sausage tasted like something I can pick up from a supermarket - not much flavor here. Also, I asked for spicy peppers and when I opened my sandwich, no peppers were there. So minus 1 star for messing up my order. Honestly, I prefer the taste of Arbys sliced beef sandwiches. The bread at Al's is already soaked in au jous so when you bite into it, the sandwich is a bit soggy. Keep this in mind if you order to-go or want to eat it later in the day...no bueno. Verdict: OK sandwich but nothing I'd bring my out of town friends to check out. For 8 bucks (sandwich + drink), I consider a little pricey for the quality, but it's decent if you need a quick bite and are in the area.
(3)Melissa M.
I was in the area, so in my quest to venture to new places, I decided to hit Big Al's. Italian Beef is honestly something I would not usually order, but after asking for suggestions, of course, it was the recommendation. I have to say that this place looks more exciting and unique from the outside than the inside. Inside it was just another fast food type of place. Nothing really stood out as unique. The order taker/cashier was less than thrilled to make a recommendation and it was hard to tell where to place my order. I ended up ordering Italian Beef and fries and I must say the Italian Beef itself was definitely extraordinary. The bun was another matter. Unfortunately, the bun was soggy and terrible. I ended up just eating the insides out of the sandwich. Fries were awesome and crisp. I must admit I love a good french fry. All in all, this place was ok. It didn't stand out as a place to go back to or a place to bash to bits. I think the bun of the sandwich and just the a staff with personality could help this place in the short term.
(3)Arlene Y.
I knew I was going to be in Chicago and checked where Man vs. Food had gone when he was there. I was happy to see that he went to a place that was about a 5 minute walk from my hotel (Crown Plaza Metro). I was able to go there for lunch. I ordered the regular sized Italian beef sandwich. At first it looked small but it had so much meat in it, that it easily filled me up. My brother and I shared small fries. I did not look carefully at the menu and thought that the peppers and onions automatically came with the sandwich as pictured on the menu. So when I unwrapped it and saw just beef I was disappointed but wasn't about to go back in line to add it. This Italian beef tasted Chinese to me! I AM Chinese and the flavors remind me of the beef that is eaten with noodles at Chinese noodle shops. While the beef is very juicy and tender (melts in your mouth), it was way too salty. Maybe the addition of peppers and onions would have helped tone the saltiness down. Overall, it was good but it didn't wow me. I thought the fries were overpriced and salty as well. I didn't mind the soggy bread because that is what is to be expected with au jus. To the Chinese folks reading this...please go and try one and let me know what you think!
(3)Dorotka K.
This would have been the perfect lunch spot: close to work and fairly priced. Unfortunately, the hot dog and fries combo did not deliver. The hotdog was very plain, while the fries were soggy and greasy.
(2)Jeffrey H.
This is not the original Al's Beef in case you didn't know. It's a good attempt. There's a bigger menu, with great french fry options. They attempt to do as much extras that the original can't do. Though in fact, the original has a better Chicago Beef. I like the beef, but not a big fan about the hot peppers. They are different than most places in Chicago. It's their original recipe. Do not come here if you're a vegetarian or looking for something healthy. I have no clue why people would try.
(4)Munchie N.
We were visiting from New York and Al's Beef was our first stop after getting off the plane. Maybe it was because we were starving but the Italian sandwiches were delicious!! I got the beef and sausage combo and the boyfriend got the beef sandwich and buffalo fries. Everything was great here. I thought his sandwich was so much better, probably because the bread was dipped. My sausage and beef combo was good, but the beef flavor was so much more prominent in his sandwich. I have to get the Al's sandwich next time. I would definitely come again if I were in Chicago.
(5)Maureen B.
I agree with the comments of Charles H. The franchise has lost a lot somewhere along the line. The customer service is rude to inept. Go somewhere else for your Italian beef.
(1)David K.
Here's a restaurant chain resting on its laurels, and it shows. What a disappointment. Here's the bottom line: inflated prices, desultory service, meager portions. We live in the neighborhood and thought we'd give this new Al's a try, We ordered two "Regular Al's" beef sandwiches and the beef was barely visible beyond the bread...it looked like they had been assembled according to strict corporate portion control. We also had asked for hot peppers, but a quick look at our sandwiches revealed virtually none present. When I went to the front to request some more peppers, the woman behind the counter grudgingly gave me a small plastic container with a few small pieces of hot peppers floating in a lot of oil and said "you know, we usually charge extra for this." Had I thought more quickly, I would have replied "yes, and when I order an Italian Beef with hot peppers I usually receive a sandwich with peppers on it!" With so many good places for beef, hot dogs and Polish sausage in Chicago, Al's ought to be ashamed of this poor level of service and food quality!
(1)Joshua M.
Love the food and love the people. I have been there enough that the know my order. They are always on point with the sandwiches and fries. They even somehow find me something sweet in the freezer on occasion! I will go to this place over any other Al's even though I just moved to Lincoln Square.
(5)Tia G.
food is alright. ive been here a couple times But what really turned me off was seeing the owner talk to his employees like they were garbage. Working in customer service myself, i appreciate an establishment that treats their employees well. But seeing this guy in action honestly made me never want to come here again. I don't think anyone knew i was in there because he was yelling and cursing so i just walked right back out! Maybe if they treated their employees better they would have better food.
(1)Gareth D.
I've yet to visit the original; let's all make a pact to do that, but I like the proximity of this one to the financial district. Al's giard is very celery-y--it's not my favorite vegetable, and the heat is delivered from dried red pepper (pimenta calabresa--at least in my Brazilianized Italian)... I prefer my hot peppers more like Potbelly's delivers -- maybe there's no purity or adherence to the classics, but it's a bouquet of peppers, veg, olives, etc... definite heat, and definitely from slices of real peppers. Though initially a little confusing, I am digging the option of customizing the size and girth of your sandwich. It's not so intuitive as Portillo's "beef" and "big beef," however. Maybe someday I will drag one of these bad boys to Portillo's and compare them side by side. You really don't get to select the size or girth of the clientele, which makes me save this lunch option for rarer occasions.
(3)C. H.
It's hard not to get excited about "local food" that has everyone else buzzing with madness. I have to to admit that this was one great dog while I was eating, but it didn't treat my sensitive CA stomach the rest of the day or the flight home. All in all, I'd eat it again, but only after a few late night rounds at the local bars.
(3)Chris C.
Visited the newly opened Al's Beef in the West Loop today. Its occupying the location that was previously the West Loop Cafe. I've been to another Al's Beef location before so I knew what to expect and this location didn't disappoint. I ordered the combo beef / sausage sandwich, and the friends I was with ordered some of the buffalo blue cheese fries, which were very good. Service was a little slow but I think they are just working out the kinks that a new business inevitably will face. I don't really have any major gripes. I can't quite give it four stars because I just don't think the actual sandwiches are anything remarkable. I'm a big fan of Johnnys out in Elmwood Park, and this sandwich just doesn't offer any unique flavors like my Johnnys does. The fries are nice and everything is tasty enough, but I can't quite bump this up to four stars. I feel bad starting them off this way, but I know others will quickly bump them up to the 3.5ish range that I'd like to see it in. Anyway, you won't be disappointed after a trip here, you just wont wake up in a cold sweat dreaming about it.
(3)Abbie B.
This review is regarding Al's Beef Catering. I work in an office of 80 people where we cater lunch everyday. We use Al's Beef bi-weekly due to the quality and quantity of both the food and the customer service. There catering menu has lots of items on and you can please both meat eaters and vegetarians. My favorites are the potatoes, they have a variety, and the wraps, which come on platers or in convient boxes with chips and a cookie. All food items are very reasonably priced. The portion sizes provided always leave us with plenty leftovers which are enjoyed by the night staff and I have seen people eating them for breakfast as well. There customer service is remarkable and if you have any issues you shouldn't hesitate to speak with them as they will make it right. The deliveries are always on time and set-up is included. I have only had one issue, we have ordered from them at least 10 times, when they switched from in-house delivery to a delivery company and our food arrived 20 minutes late. Chrissy, the catering manager, made it right and I will continue to order from them bi-weekly. As I order catering five days a week I can tell you Al's beef is a step above the rest. They are on time, provide more than enough food and everyone in my office enjoys it. The italian beef is DELICIOUS! Hot peppers are amazing. Potatoes are packed full of cheese are are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Cookies are large and great finish to any wonderful meal. I would highly recommend them for office catering, social event, or a large family picnic.
(5)Emily K.
2 stars for food, 3 stars for overall experience. Line moved quick and employees were friendly. The restaurant is clean and it's easy to find somewhere to eat. Music was irritatingly loud one time I ate here. Food: eh. My "Little Al" sandwich was $4.30 for 4" of sandwich and didn't taste like much. Very bland. I don't think you should have to rely on cheese and peppers for flavor in an italian beef sandwich. A well seasoned beef sandwich can make my heart soar. I'll probably be back. Because it's fine. And it's within walking distance of work. But if a better tasting beef joint opened up around there I'd jet over there so fast.
(3)Robyn T.
I've lived in Chicago for almost 9 years now and I have never been to an Al's Italian Beef. What?! You're shocked? So was I. I've enjoyed the sandwiches at catered events and thought I got the true experience but I guess I was wrong. Waiting in line during the lunch rush at Al's downtown is in and of itself an experience. Lots of good people watching from the patrons down to the service staff hurriedly preparing your order. I knew I wanted to the Italian beef and though I have big eyes, my belly isn't always as accommodating. Lucky for me they actually have a "lil beef" sandwich which is just my size. Same great moist, hot beef (insert joke here) but half the size. You want fries with that? Good thing because in addition to their fresh cut options there were nacho cheese fries, chili fries, buffalo fries and Gorgonzola cheese fries. Filling? Aboslutely. For just under $10 I walked away with my mini beef, small specialty fries and a drink. I wouldn't spend that much every day for an unhealthy lunch but it sure is a treat.
(4)Dagwood S.
Not sure how this place has only three stars if being compared to other Chicago places, because there is no comparision for the italian beef; Al's is the best, hands down. Now, the fries are really greasy as other have stated which is a significant portion of a sandwich/fies lunch and knock it down a star. The burgers are also very good, but you come to Al's for the beef, wet with peppers. BTW - thank you for the closer and MUCH larger location so I know I can always get a table.
(4)Megan R.
Meh. I distinctly remember my first Italian Beef. I had moved to Chicago, and a friend from out of town came in determined to take me to the "best italian beef in Chicago". I didn't know what Italian beef was, but I adventured down to the river north location (off the chicago ave brown line stop) with her and OH MY GOD. So good. It is now my fave food, my fave place. So when I saw that a location was opening up LESS than a block from my office, I counted down the days until it's opening with anticipation. So, to treat myself for my birthday, I went to Al's and got my favorite meal: regular sized al, large fries, dipped, sweet peppers. And, meh. The meat was tougher and more dried out than any I've ever had, the peppers barely tasted like peppers (more like squishy nothing), and it just did not taste like the delicious Al's I am used to. I still swear by Al's, but from now on I'll save my money and grab dinner on my way home on the brown line to the river north location.
(3)Sterling S.
Awesome....the beef sandwich of the gods.
(5)Roman M.
I left full. For me, the Italian Beef sandwich I ate at Al's had very little flavor to it. I guess the best way to describe it was boring. The peppers were bland and you could feel them more than test them. Next time, I'll have to go spicy to see if that helps. However, I really expected the meat to stand on it's own. Nice concept... friendly people... fast service. It's just OK overall. I'll be back Al's! I'm not done with you yet.
(3)Italo C.
This is the nicest looking and most spacious Al's I've been to. Also, they deliver which is a plus. Their delivery range covers the entire loop and they also cater. Best thing about Al's is you can purchase the beef to take home and make it yourself! I also recommend Al's as the world's best hangover cure.
(4)Nick F.
There are certain places you go for certain kind's of food in Chicago...and this where you go for Italian Beef... hand's down! Generous portions for the price. I also recommend some cheese fries.
(4)Bob W.
As usual, I was lost while driving in a city. As luck would have it, we just happen to drive by Al's Italian Beef which we had seen on the food channel. The sandwiches were exceptional.
(5)Will K.
I love going to Al's Beef! This place is definitely a busy lunch crowd, so try to avoid Fridays at 12pm Lunch Rush. However, when i'm looking for a fix I definitely hit up Al's. It does not disappoint!
(3)Andrea C.
maybe it's because this one isnt the original. maybe i just wasnt in the mood for italian beef. i dont know...i just dont. whatever it was, al's just did not sit well with me. the service is quick, the decor is basic- and the people watching is great, but the prices are sky high and the beef seems overly salted and dry. i just couldnt get on board w/this supposed 'chicago institution'. if you find yourself there, try the fries- they're great...but by all means, avoid the tamale...WHAT a disappointment...it was still in its prepackaged plastic wrap! i mean really? really?! im not mad, just disappointed.
(3)Rino Z.
I had seen this place on the travel channel. I was hyped to try this out. It was such a fat attack, but quite delicious.
(4)Denise R.
We ate at Al's after seeing the "Man vs. Food" episode that featured their Italian Beef sandwiches. They looked delicious on tv and totally lived up to their reputation! Everything was delicious...the beef, the toppings, the bread, and the fries! We'd absolutely eat here again. The service was quick and friendly. They weren't rude while we tried to figure out exactly what to get and were helpful with information. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms.
(4)Brian C.
I don't come here for the Italian Beef. What I do come here for is the Polish and fries combo, which is pretty solid and pretty cheap compared to other spots in the area.
(3)Daphne C.
There are Chicago institutions and then...there are CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS. As Chicago as Chicago-style pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and Maxwell Street Polishes...we have Italian beef places. Al's is in the upper strata of Chicago Italian beef places. My boyfriend and I were mulling over what to do for dinner when we saw a giant-size soda cup in the distance. OMG! I exclaimed with glee...THAT is an Al's Italian beef giant sized soda cup! We did not realize this branch had been in the West Loop location for over a year now...having taken over the space formerly occupied by the West Loop Cafe. I was walking there, drooling with anticipation as well as some trepidation. It was Ash Wednesday, after all...what's a Catholic girl to do at Al's Italian Beef??? (ok, so I'd already gone to hell with my meat-infested lunch, lol...). My agnostic boyfriend did not have this issue, as he readily ordered up his Chicago-style polish with fries. I saw hanging posters advertising the Pepper and Egg sandwiches...but these were for every Friday through Easter. My bf asked if they had the Pepper and Egg sandwiches today and the man behind the counter (who was a triple threat as salesperson, greeter - perhaps an owner/operator/manager, as well as cashier) said that included today, as it was Ash Wednesday. He suggested adding American cheese to the sandwich, saying it tasted like an omelet. (yum!). I went for it. My previous experiences with Pepper and Egg sandwiches at other establishments during Lent were nothing to Yelp! about. Dry, stuck in your throat, can't wait till-this-is-over experiences. That was all about to change, from my first bite on. Fluffy scrambled egg with pepper the condiment as well as sweet peppers...melted in my mouth, with the right amount of melted American cheese between a hard French roll. I requested small fries on the side, which were amazing...medium-sized, with skin on, the perfect amount of salt and...I don't know what. There was another flavor. Ancient Al's Secret? After he rang our order up, I asked for cheese as an afterthought, which is normally $.50 but he gave me free as a first time customer. Me, always liking variety and wanting to try everything, exchanged a couple of bites of sandwich for a couple bites of my bf's polish. Juicy...with condiments and sauteed onions...It was Breaded Bliss! (as I told the greeter...I wasn't supposed to be doing that today!). I will definitely be a frequent diner at this Al's. Evening is probably your best to go there, to beat the crowds. Hillary Clinton would agree, as she had Al's served on her 50th birthday!
(5)Matt F.
Al's beef is really good. I go here regularly for lunch and I am never disappointed by my meal. My favorite is the beef and sausage combo, dipped. I also recommend the beef with hot peppers and the maxwell polish. My only gripe is that their "Chicago Style" items are not actually Chicago Style. The hot dogs are conspicuously missing tomato and pickle...I am not sure why considering they correctly list the ingredients on their website...who knows. This location also lacks the burgers that are available at some of their other locations.
(4)C L.
I had the "Little Al's" Italian Beef sandwich, which was basically a standard 1/2 sub. FOOD - I was super hungry, so to me, everything tasted pretty good. In hindsight, I do see how some people may complain about the food not being up to par. The Italian beef was good, not great. The spicy peppers are just mildly spicy. The beef & peppers per sandwich ratio wasn't much value for money compared to other subs/sandwich places I've tried in various cities. The fries looked like they were either drenched in oil before frying, or was thrown in to fry before the oil heated up, thus soaking the entire fry completely in oil. But again, it tasted pretty good still. SERVICE - All the staff were really friendly. Among the best customer service I've had at a "Food Network" restaurant. I still recommend this as a good experience, for tourists or locals alike.
(4)K T.
it was good but for a place that boasts spicy peppers i didn't feel the heat. I had it double dipped and it was juicy and the meat was good but once was enough to head to this joint. service was a five star nice and helpful folks behind the counter.
(3)W L.
It was okay and forgettable.
(3)Gareth D.
I've yet to visit the original; let's all make a pact to do that, but I like the proximity of this one to the financial district. Al's giard is very celery-y--it's not my favorite vegetable, and the heat is delivered from dried red pepper (pimenta calabresa--at least in my Brazilianized Italian)... I prefer my hot peppers more like Potbelly's delivers -- maybe there's no purity or adherence to the classics, but it's a bouquet of peppers, veg, olives, etc... definite heat, and definitely from slices of real peppers. Though initially a little confusing, I am digging the option of customizing the size and girth of your sandwich. It's not so intuitive as Portillo's "beef" and "big beef," however. Maybe someday I will drag one of these bad boys to Portillo's and compare them side by side. You really don't get to select the size or girth of the clientele, which makes me save this lunch option for rarer occasions.
(3)Chris C.
Visited the newly opened Al's Beef in the West Loop today. Its occupying the location that was previously the West Loop Cafe. I've been to another Al's Beef location before so I knew what to expect and this location didn't disappoint. I ordered the combo beef / sausage sandwich, and the friends I was with ordered some of the buffalo blue cheese fries, which were very good. Service was a little slow but I think they are just working out the kinks that a new business inevitably will face. I don't really have any major gripes. I can't quite give it four stars because I just don't think the actual sandwiches are anything remarkable. I'm a big fan of Johnnys out in Elmwood Park, and this sandwich just doesn't offer any unique flavors like my Johnnys does. The fries are nice and everything is tasty enough, but I can't quite bump this up to four stars. I feel bad starting them off this way, but I know others will quickly bump them up to the 3.5ish range that I'd like to see it in. Anyway, you won't be disappointed after a trip here, you just wont wake up in a cold sweat dreaming about it.
(3)Abbie B.
This review is regarding Al's Beef Catering. I work in an office of 80 people where we cater lunch everyday. We use Al's Beef bi-weekly due to the quality and quantity of both the food and the customer service. There catering menu has lots of items on and you can please both meat eaters and vegetarians. My favorites are the potatoes, they have a variety, and the wraps, which come on platers or in convient boxes with chips and a cookie. All food items are very reasonably priced. The portion sizes provided always leave us with plenty leftovers which are enjoyed by the night staff and I have seen people eating them for breakfast as well. There customer service is remarkable and if you have any issues you shouldn't hesitate to speak with them as they will make it right. The deliveries are always on time and set-up is included. I have only had one issue, we have ordered from them at least 10 times, when they switched from in-house delivery to a delivery company and our food arrived 20 minutes late. Chrissy, the catering manager, made it right and I will continue to order from them bi-weekly. As I order catering five days a week I can tell you Al's beef is a step above the rest. They are on time, provide more than enough food and everyone in my office enjoys it. The italian beef is DELICIOUS! Hot peppers are amazing. Potatoes are packed full of cheese are are sure to be a crowd pleaser. Cookies are large and great finish to any wonderful meal. I would highly recommend them for office catering, social event, or a large family picnic.
(5)Emily K.
2 stars for food, 3 stars for overall experience. Line moved quick and employees were friendly. The restaurant is clean and it's easy to find somewhere to eat. Music was irritatingly loud one time I ate here. Food: eh. My "Little Al" sandwich was $4.30 for 4" of sandwich and didn't taste like much. Very bland. I don't think you should have to rely on cheese and peppers for flavor in an italian beef sandwich. A well seasoned beef sandwich can make my heart soar. I'll probably be back. Because it's fine. And it's within walking distance of work. But if a better tasting beef joint opened up around there I'd jet over there so fast.
(3)C. H.
It's hard not to get excited about "local food" that has everyone else buzzing with madness. I have to to admit that this was one great dog while I was eating, but it didn't treat my sensitive CA stomach the rest of the day or the flight home. All in all, I'd eat it again, but only after a few late night rounds at the local bars.
(3)Robyn T.
I've lived in Chicago for almost 9 years now and I have never been to an Al's Italian Beef. What?! You're shocked? So was I. I've enjoyed the sandwiches at catered events and thought I got the true experience but I guess I was wrong. Waiting in line during the lunch rush at Al's downtown is in and of itself an experience. Lots of good people watching from the patrons down to the service staff hurriedly preparing your order. I knew I wanted to the Italian beef and though I have big eyes, my belly isn't always as accommodating. Lucky for me they actually have a "lil beef" sandwich which is just my size. Same great moist, hot beef (insert joke here) but half the size. You want fries with that? Good thing because in addition to their fresh cut options there were nacho cheese fries, chili fries, buffalo fries and Gorgonzola cheese fries. Filling? Aboslutely. For just under $10 I walked away with my mini beef, small specialty fries and a drink. I wouldn't spend that much every day for an unhealthy lunch but it sure is a treat.
(4)Dagwood S.
Not sure how this place has only three stars if being compared to other Chicago places, because there is no comparision for the italian beef; Al's is the best, hands down. Now, the fries are really greasy as other have stated which is a significant portion of a sandwich/fies lunch and knock it down a star. The burgers are also very good, but you come to Al's for the beef, wet with peppers. BTW - thank you for the closer and MUCH larger location so I know I can always get a table.
(4)Megan R.
Meh. I distinctly remember my first Italian Beef. I had moved to Chicago, and a friend from out of town came in determined to take me to the "best italian beef in Chicago". I didn't know what Italian beef was, but I adventured down to the river north location (off the chicago ave brown line stop) with her and OH MY GOD. So good. It is now my fave food, my fave place. So when I saw that a location was opening up LESS than a block from my office, I counted down the days until it's opening with anticipation. So, to treat myself for my birthday, I went to Al's and got my favorite meal: regular sized al, large fries, dipped, sweet peppers. And, meh. The meat was tougher and more dried out than any I've ever had, the peppers barely tasted like peppers (more like squishy nothing), and it just did not taste like the delicious Al's I am used to. I still swear by Al's, but from now on I'll save my money and grab dinner on my way home on the brown line to the river north location.
(3)Roman M.
I left full. For me, the Italian Beef sandwich I ate at Al's had very little flavor to it. I guess the best way to describe it was boring. The peppers were bland and you could feel them more than test them. Next time, I'll have to go spicy to see if that helps. However, I really expected the meat to stand on it's own. Nice concept... friendly people... fast service. It's just OK overall. I'll be back Al's! I'm not done with you yet.
(3)Sterling S.
Awesome....the beef sandwich of the gods.
(5)Munchie N.
We were visiting from New York and Al's Beef was our first stop after getting off the plane. Maybe it was because we were starving but the Italian sandwiches were delicious!! I got the beef and sausage combo and the boyfriend got the beef sandwich and buffalo fries. Everything was great here. I thought his sandwich was so much better, probably because the bread was dipped. My sausage and beef combo was good, but the beef flavor was so much more prominent in his sandwich. I have to get the Al's sandwich next time. I would definitely come again if I were in Chicago.
(5)Maureen B.
I agree with the comments of Charles H. The franchise has lost a lot somewhere along the line. The customer service is rude to inept. Go somewhere else for your Italian beef.
(1)Italo C.
This is the nicest looking and most spacious Al's I've been to. Also, they deliver which is a plus. Their delivery range covers the entire loop and they also cater. Best thing about Al's is you can purchase the beef to take home and make it yourself! I also recommend Al's as the world's best hangover cure.
(4)Nick F.
There are certain places you go for certain kind's of food in Chicago...and this where you go for Italian Beef... hand's down! Generous portions for the price. I also recommend some cheese fries.
(4)Bob W.
As usual, I was lost while driving in a city. As luck would have it, we just happen to drive by Al's Italian Beef which we had seen on the food channel. The sandwiches were exceptional.
(5)Will K.
I love going to Al's Beef! This place is definitely a busy lunch crowd, so try to avoid Fridays at 12pm Lunch Rush. However, when i'm looking for a fix I definitely hit up Al's. It does not disappoint!
(3)Andrea C.
maybe it's because this one isnt the original. maybe i just wasnt in the mood for italian beef. i dont know...i just dont. whatever it was, al's just did not sit well with me. the service is quick, the decor is basic- and the people watching is great, but the prices are sky high and the beef seems overly salted and dry. i just couldnt get on board w/this supposed 'chicago institution'. if you find yourself there, try the fries- they're great...but by all means, avoid the tamale...WHAT a disappointment...it was still in its prepackaged plastic wrap! i mean really? really?! im not mad, just disappointed.
(3)Rino Z.
I had seen this place on the travel channel. I was hyped to try this out. It was such a fat attack, but quite delicious.
(4)Denise R.
We ate at Al's after seeing the "Man vs. Food" episode that featured their Italian Beef sandwiches. They looked delicious on tv and totally lived up to their reputation! Everything was delicious...the beef, the toppings, the bread, and the fries! We'd absolutely eat here again. The service was quick and friendly. They weren't rude while we tried to figure out exactly what to get and were helpful with information. The restaurant was clean and so were the restrooms.
(4)Brian C.
I don't come here for the Italian Beef. What I do come here for is the Polish and fries combo, which is pretty solid and pretty cheap compared to other spots in the area.
(3)Daphne C.
There are Chicago institutions and then...there are CHICAGO INSTITUTIONS. As Chicago as Chicago-style pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs and Maxwell Street Polishes...we have Italian beef places. Al's is in the upper strata of Chicago Italian beef places. My boyfriend and I were mulling over what to do for dinner when we saw a giant-size soda cup in the distance. OMG! I exclaimed with glee...THAT is an Al's Italian beef giant sized soda cup! We did not realize this branch had been in the West Loop location for over a year now...having taken over the space formerly occupied by the West Loop Cafe. I was walking there, drooling with anticipation as well as some trepidation. It was Ash Wednesday, after all...what's a Catholic girl to do at Al's Italian Beef??? (ok, so I'd already gone to hell with my meat-infested lunch, lol...). My agnostic boyfriend did not have this issue, as he readily ordered up his Chicago-style polish with fries. I saw hanging posters advertising the Pepper and Egg sandwiches...but these were for every Friday through Easter. My bf asked if they had the Pepper and Egg sandwiches today and the man behind the counter (who was a triple threat as salesperson, greeter - perhaps an owner/operator/manager, as well as cashier) said that included today, as it was Ash Wednesday. He suggested adding American cheese to the sandwich, saying it tasted like an omelet. (yum!). I went for it. My previous experiences with Pepper and Egg sandwiches at other establishments during Lent were nothing to Yelp! about. Dry, stuck in your throat, can't wait till-this-is-over experiences. That was all about to change, from my first bite on. Fluffy scrambled egg with pepper the condiment as well as sweet peppers...melted in my mouth, with the right amount of melted American cheese between a hard French roll. I requested small fries on the side, which were amazing...medium-sized, with skin on, the perfect amount of salt and...I don't know what. There was another flavor. Ancient Al's Secret? After he rang our order up, I asked for cheese as an afterthought, which is normally $.50 but he gave me free as a first time customer. Me, always liking variety and wanting to try everything, exchanged a couple of bites of sandwich for a couple bites of my bf's polish. Juicy...with condiments and sauteed onions...It was Breaded Bliss! (as I told the greeter...I wasn't supposed to be doing that today!). I will definitely be a frequent diner at this Al's. Evening is probably your best to go there, to beat the crowds. Hillary Clinton would agree, as she had Al's served on her 50th birthday!
(5)Matt F.
Al's beef is really good. I go here regularly for lunch and I am never disappointed by my meal. My favorite is the beef and sausage combo, dipped. I also recommend the beef with hot peppers and the maxwell polish. My only gripe is that their "Chicago Style" items are not actually Chicago Style. The hot dogs are conspicuously missing tomato and pickle...I am not sure why considering they correctly list the ingredients on their website...who knows. This location also lacks the burgers that are available at some of their other locations.
(4)C L.
I had the "Little Al's" Italian Beef sandwich, which was basically a standard 1/2 sub. FOOD - I was super hungry, so to me, everything tasted pretty good. In hindsight, I do see how some people may complain about the food not being up to par. The Italian beef was good, not great. The spicy peppers are just mildly spicy. The beef & peppers per sandwich ratio wasn't much value for money compared to other subs/sandwich places I've tried in various cities. The fries looked like they were either drenched in oil before frying, or was thrown in to fry before the oil heated up, thus soaking the entire fry completely in oil. But again, it tasted pretty good still. SERVICE - All the staff were really friendly. Among the best customer service I've had at a "Food Network" restaurant. I still recommend this as a good experience, for tourists or locals alike.
(4)K T.
it was good but for a place that boasts spicy peppers i didn't feel the heat. I had it double dipped and it was juicy and the meat was good but once was enough to head to this joint. service was a five star nice and helpful folks behind the counter.
(3)W L.
It was okay and forgettable.
(3)Jared P.
I've never been so disappointed in my life with an Italian roast beef sandwich. I understand that it's supposed to be greasy, fattening, and ect. We got ours dipped, so it was even more artery clogging. It went downhill when we got lukewarm reception by the guys behind the counter. The delivery guy was arguing loudly with the cook. I ordered two beef, a drink, and a large fry. It came to over $20. The fries were burnt, the sandwich was disgusting and had no taste, and it was just a nauseating experience. I couldn't find a shred of cheese in my sandwich. I've had good beef. This is NOT good beef. I would have been better off with McDonald's.
(1)Justin S.
Lean in, get it hot & wet, and enjoy one of these Windy city staples. I enjoyed this sandwich very much and I think you will too.
(4)Amy H.
Yea it was OKAY! I've heard so much about this place and how good etc etc it was like just a fast food joint. While it wasn't terribly horrible it was underrated for sure. As an out of towner I expected it to be lines out the door based in the hype. Again it wasn't bad. Got the small beef w the hot peppers w the French fries!
(3)Chris Z.
Beef isn't that good and overpriced. Spent $30 on two beefs and fries (no drinks). Portillo's is the king
(1)Kristy B.
Friendly staff, good food. Those are really the only things I care about when going out to lunch in the West Loop. The only thing I don't like about this place is the wait time to get the food. It can get pretty crowded in there during the week for lunch. But....good things come to those who wait. So I'll keep waiting for my yummy roast beef sandwich and chili cheese fries.
(4)Mark B.
I stopped into Al's Beef for lunch and had an enjoyable meal. Décor: It's your pretty standard "fast food" place: there's a long counter, where you can kind of see them making your food, where you order at one end and pick up at the other. There are a bunch of tables in the next room and some bar seats along the windows, and the lighting is decent enough. It's pretty clean as well. Bathroom: unknown Staff: The cashier and the food-preppers were fine - not overly friendly but quick with their tasks. Food: I had a Big Beef, extra juicy (a solid-sized sandwich and tasted pretty well) and a hot dog (not sure that it's Vienna Beef but it was pretty good) that came wrapped with fries (fresh cut and enjoyable). Everything was warm/hot and tasted fine - certainly hit the spot for what I was looking for. Their water cups, however, could be a bit larger... it's probably the smallest plastic cup I've ever see (slight larger than a double-shot shot glass). Value: The prices are about what I expected. My meal was enjoyable but not better than The King (Portillo's). I'd come back again, but I won't rush back anytime soon.
(3)David B.
So, I came to Chicago for the July 5 Grateful Dead finale. I read a great deal about this spot in advance and was determined to go. And even though I learned from friends after the fact that there might be better "Beef" spots, I am thrilled that I went to Al's. I memorized what to order in advance. Regular beef, no cheese, hot peppers and grilled onions. Dipped. Large fries. My lunch was epic. A fabulous sandwich, spicy, dripping with the famous gravy. Fries were some of the best I have ever had. Because I knew I had a three mile walk back to my hotel after the show and because I didn't know when I might return to Chicago, I had a second sandwich!! Are there better spots in Chicagoland? Don't ask me, I'm no expert. I'm from Jersey. What I do know is I walked out of Al's with a full belly and a big smile. Isn't THAT what it's all about? Hope to return one day.
(4)Ramone B.
Confession- I've never been to Al's beef before! I've always heard they were Portillos competitor, but I wasn't really interested. I'm not really into Italian beef. Portillos food is NOT ALL THAT. My coworkers all voted against my choice(pizza) so Al's is where we went! Walking in the line was out to the door. I thought "Damn this might be a mistake!" I didn't want my entire break to spent waiting to get food. They handled that line very well! Props to whomever manages that place. When I walked in I said I wanted to order something small because I didn't want to be falling asleep after lunch. My fata$$ quickly threw that notion out the window as soon as the cashier said "Can I help you?" I blurted out buffalo fries, and a nacho cheeseburger. So much for small! #GoBigOrGoHomeB*tches The fries- Holy Sh*t. Those fries are going to be a problem for me. They are GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOD! (I can feel my pants getting tighter as I type this!) they have some killer fries which in my opinion blows Portillos fries away! My burger however was kind of a letdown. The sign calls this sandwich a nacho cheeseburger. I could karate chop whomever came up with the name of this burger. I got a burger with regular sliced cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños. That's just a cheeseburger with jalapeños baybee call it for what it is. Al's is doing entirely too much with that deceptive advertising! #Fail #Ya'llPlayTooMuch The burger was okay. It was even better when put some of the buffalo sauce on my burger from my fries!! I'll have to request my burger to be made that way next time cuz as is the Nacho burger was a bust in my opinion!! I can't wait to try out more!
(3)Trent R.
Placed an order for delivery tonight at 6:30 p.m. ....called at 8:00 p.m. to check on the status and the person on the phone made up an excuse that "the wifi here must be messed or something, I just got your order." How convenient...it is now 8:45 p.m. and I still have no food. Other locations might be better but I won't be ordering from this one again.
(1)Michael S.
Born & raised in chicago when people think of Chicago food they think deep dish pizza...NOT!! Its the chicago beef...however i was very disappointed in the beef from here i ask for dipped & was very dry even the meat was dry...flavorless none the less...ill be back als is a chicago institution...hopefully my next visit be more better if not its my last...
(3)Martin P.
Had just the BBQ fries (I recommend it) and a hot dog with everything fantastic as usual. Will try some combos or their special menu next time. timeout.com/chicago/blog… Main
(5)Mark B.
Went here for lunch one day, as I was working just across the river. I looked up options for Italian Beef, and Al's was suggested by several I was working with. I ordered the Italian beef with peppers and provolone, dipped. It came with a side of fresh-cut fries, which were also great. Eating this sandwich often would probably kill you, but if so, it'd certainly be a great way to go.
(4)Pieter W.
After having lived in the Chicagoland area off and on for many years and after having consumed countless Italian Beef sandwiches, I am embarrassed to say I had not tried Al's (the *original* Italian Beef sandwich, or so they claim) until today. Unsurprisingly, it was a solid, tasty Italian Beef sandwich I enjoyed. The beef was nice and tender like an Italian Beef should be. This should go without saying, but a lot of places screw it up and basically serve wet French Dip sandwiches instead of proper Italian Beefs. Bread was the classic Turano bread served juicy, but more like standard juicy when I had asked for extra juicy. The hot peppers were tasty too, although they were not the typical giardiniera. Although I could tell that all-in-all it was a top-notch Italian Beef sandwich, I can't say it is anywhere near my favorite, the reason being that there was way too much fennel (at least I think that was what it was,) in the spice mix. I much prefer the spices used at Johnnies, Buona Beef, or even Portillo's. Then again this is just personal preference, for those that love the flavor at Al's I'm sure this sandwich is to die for. Though for me personally Al's signature beef was a little disappointing, Al's fries are nothing short of AMAZING. They are seriously delicious. Fresh-cut fries are almost always delicious but something else put these ones over the top for me. Maybe it was the oil they are fried in, I really don't know. It wouldn't surprise me if they weren't vegetarian, but don't quote me on that one. So, my recommendation is go for the fries and certainly give the beef a try if you are a fan of Italian Beefs, you might really enjoy it. Not sure about the burgers and dogs. Oh, and a little note to reviewers: please do your homework before complaining about the bread on an Italian Beef being "to soggy." It's *supposed* to be juicy unless you order it dry. That's like ordering a pizza slice in NYC and complaining in your review that the slices are "too floppy!"
(4)Eric V.
Damn good sandwich! I now understand why this Chicago institution is so loved. That was the juiciest beef sandwich I've ever eaten. Juicier than any cheesesteak I've had in Philly. The juice forms a puddle beneath the sandwich that you can use as au jous. Excellent! I Must return for a hot dog.
(4)Jason H.
As far as "Chicago foods," I just don't think Italian Beef is my thing. Tried one the Chicago way, which meant dipped with hot and sweet peppers. I didn't enjoy the extra gravy at first - the taste got better as I went along, but I definitely enjoyed my gf's non-dipped sandwich much better. As for the rest of it, it was enjoyable, but just not something I see myself getting again. The fries weren't anything special. Have heard good things about everything else at Al's, so I'll be back.
(3)Jim S.
I just love Al's Beef. I'm sent to Chicago on business once a year and this location is the closest to the hotel. I'm sure a local will say there's better in the area and I'm sure that's the case, but I can't get enough of Al's and that giardinara and the fries are decent too. Why not 5 stars? I thought they may of gotten a little stingy with the meat this year.
(4)Krystal M.
The place was really clean so that was a good plus. I ordered a Lil Al (not dipped) and some chili cheese fries. My sandwich came dipped (ate it anyways) and could not even taste the provolone inside it... it was just very bland and kind of blah. However, the chili cheese fries were really delicious and a good portion for $4 bucks; so that's why I'm giving out 3 stars here. My friend got the Buffalo bleu cheese fries and they just gave her the regular bleu cheese fries so she had to go back up and get the buffalo sauce they forgot. However, those were really good too. So maybe the fries are the way to go here.
(3)Alyssa M.
Chi polish. Yummy. Made right.
(5)Chris S.
I lived in Chicago for 3.5 years and never had an Italian Beef. Shaking my head at myself. I finally had one after leaving the Windy City about 8 years ago. I walked down Adams to the closest Al's. I got an Italian Beef with hot and sweet peppers and I got that little SOB dipped as well. Shared a side of hand cut fries with my colleague and called it a day. Now the food was amazing, service was ok and the place was kept up pretty well. I did however go into a full blown diabetic shock after the meal and needed an adrenaline shot in my heart to bring me back. Would I do it again... yep.
(4)Kayla A.
The food is yummy. What more can I say? I live here for 7 years and this is actually the first time I tried Italian beef. The price is definitely reasonable. For a small lady like me, the portion is a bit big. Love love love when they give me extra juice for me to dip the sandwich. On the phone staff is friendly. Fast delivery service. Will update the stars once I try other food from this place.
(4)Charlene L.
I ordered the famour Al's Italian Beef. The bread was soggy due to the drenched meat. If it wasn't for the sweet peppers, I'd say the sandwich was pretty flavorless. I hit it, and now I'm quitting it!
(2)Annie L.
Wanted to try this place after watching it on a Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. The Italian beef was delicious. It's better w/with the hot peppers. It's like a French dip sandwich. The small chili cheese fries were delicious. So tasty! Regular 6" Italian Sandwich costs $6 and chili fries $5. The bathroom smelled horribly. I had to wash my hands w/the door open. The location is very big and I'm sure gets busier during evenings or lunch hour.
(3)Seth S.
With the name brand "Al's" I would anticipate paying a slight premium, but nearly $16 for a beef sandwich with peppers and cheese, fries, and a coke. Plenty of other beef sandwiches combos for around $12 in the downtown area. Dont get me wrong the sandwich was good, but nothing special. Sadly disappointed :(
(2)Elizabeth D.
I already don't like Al's from previous experiences. But I decided to give them another shot because this is a different location. I came here a few weeks ago and ordered a hot dog. They weren't ready so they put them on the grill to heat them up saying it wouldn't take long. I said I have to catch a train in a few minutes so they said it WILL be ready in time. My HOT dog was COLD!! I went today, called ahead to ask if the hot dogs were in the warmer dude says yes. I say I will be there in two minutes "OK we will make it right now" he says. I arrived the cashier looked stupidly at me and mentioned to the manager that I had called. The manager says that they will make it now..This is why I called so it would be READY!! WTF?! Again my HOT dog was COLD!! Moral of this story: I won't go back again unless I'm not in a rush or want to eat there.. But I thought it was fast food!!
(2)Jordy S.
We ordered a couple things for clients in my office. It was quite irritating that nothing was labeled on the wrappers. So I had 4 sandwiches, very similar, and had no idea what was what. I also feel terrible because when I ordered they told me my total, which was completely different from what it was when they arrived (I believe she didn't include the delivery fee), so the poor delivery man got stuck with a lousy $.90 tip because it was not discovered until after he left. So when placing a delivery order, tack on an extra $3 to your estimate in case the person placing the order for you doesn't include it.
(2)Frank G.
Went there once to fill my stomach and got hooked. Great beef and delicious french fries. They give a student discount so bring your ID. From never going there in the past, I usually eat there 3 times a week now.
(5)Jack S.
Total crap.Beef sandwich ,what a joke the worst service ever. bimbos talking on the phone (PERSOANL CALLS) Too busy to take care of a customer..yuo have to wait a minimu of 15 min for a beef ?????and the place was empty.. IGNORANT MGR. that has no idea how terrible the people are that work there. AVOID .. AND SAVE YOURSELF THE STOMACH PUMP TOTAL CACA
(1)Miriam A.
The WORST WORLD ITALIAN BEEF! Cold and dry like the pavements on the streets. The burger is frozen and freaking disgusted. No good at all. Chicago has better than this piece of $^*¥£
(1)Joanne C.
Went to Al's today, 1/2 hour after they opened. Not a clean table or counter area to sit at. I had to get napkins & wet them to wash a spot to sit at. Will not return. I can't believe how dirty it was.
(1)M A.
The food was awesome however the service was horrible. Employees having an argument with each other in front of customers and saying shut up I'm talking to someone is not appropriate. The saving grace was the food. I would go back for the food. Restaurant was clean and maintained. The beef sandwiches and cheese fries were awesome.
(4)David T.
When I tell people that my favorite Italian Beef in Chicago is at Portillos, many tell me that I need to try Al's. I finally did and was not too impressed. This was mainly for two reasons. First, the hot peppers weren't hot at all. Whereas at Portillos the hot peppers give you the bite on your lips, that was not the case with Al's. Second, Al's seemed to have a strong ginger flavor that seemed out of place. While the beef was decent, it didn't live up to all the hype. I don't plan on eating here again, but would if there was no Portillos.
(3)Ally B.
A few months back my boyfriend and I were dog sitting in Greektown and were looking around for a place to eat. It was already dark out and we randomly found this Al's Beef; we were psyched! We've always considered Al's italian beefs to be the best of the best. Now the Al's Beef restaurants that we're use to are usually open late so we didn't know until after we were done eating there that they had already closed. We were so embarrassed to be those people who strolled in minutes before closing time and sat down to eat. However every employee was so nice to us and polite to the point where we had no idea the place had closed. They also loaded our beefs up with a ton of meat and gave us over-flowing bags of fries; it was fantastic! I'll never forget how nice they were to us.
(5)Lylian D.
I have never had an Italian beef, so for my recent visit to Chicago getting an Italian Beef sandwich from Al's was a must eat. Omg am I glad I made sure to eat here! The sandwich had great seasoning and the beef & peppers were so tender. I like that the juices of the beef soaked into the bread. Italian beef sandwiches here remind me of eating a bowl of pho, but in sandwich form. Love this!
(5)Lefai K.
I haven't gone here for over a year. It's a great place for the non-health conscious. I ordered the chicken sandwich and it was OK. Nothing really special that stood out. In the past, I've had the "Big Al" which is basically a super-sized italian beef sandwich. The sandwich has the right amount of beef and the bread was dunked in just enough juice. The fries were nice and crispy with a nice blend of skin-on and skin-off fries. If you're looking for a good italian beef, chicago-style hotdogs, or a nice and decently healthy chicken sandwich, check this out.
(3)Megan S.
I've never written a review before... But this place is review worthy. Worst customer service ever!! I always go back, giving it another chance and it's the same experience. Little ghetto girl with attitude at the Counter taking orders and people just throw your food at you. Hmm.... Won't be returning
(2)Am C.
I like the proximity to Union Station. That means it's practically mandatory to pick up a Little Al with Hot to eat on the train. There isn't much else to say except that these things are really good.
(4)Khadijah L.
My heart is still for Portillo's Italian Beef. Al's is close to the office so it's convenient. It's still good, but not really impressed.
(3)Skydiving N.
People who complain about soggy bread don't want a Chicago Italian Beef sandwich. My wife and I wait all year to take the train to Chicago for her birthday so we can go to Al's for their "dipped" beef sandwich. (Their fresh-cut fries are awesome too.) This location is great as it is only a couple blocks west of Union Station. (Go out of the main Canal Street entrance, turn right up to Adams St. and then go left for two blocks to Jefferson St. You'll see the yellow and black building right on the corner.) We go there for lunch and then stop their again on our way back to Union Station, ZipLoc bags in hand, to buy some more "Big Al's dipped" to take back home with us. One bad thing about Al's is you get spoiled. We've tried Italian beefs in other cities and they all suck compared to Al's.
(5)Stephen K.
2nd time at Al's. Best italian beef ever. No other place can compare. The meat is so juicy it melts in your mouth. Ive had the bbq fries which is okay. Short walk from union station. Go to stop if visiting Chicago.
(5)Gasper S.
Italian beef is not Italian! It is strictly a Chicago thing with Italo-americans in its history. Also, unless you grew up in Chicago or environs and had these at Italian weddings as a kid or somehow acquired a taste for them, they are gawd-awful. However, I was raised in the Chicago area and was scolded by my mom for eating too many sandwiches at the Italian weddings we attended. Gawd, I love them. Hint to beginners, when ordering your first Italian beef, ask them to go easy on the juice. Later you can graduate to the full dip in the juice.
(5)Patrick L.
My buddies and I go to Al's on touhy all the time and were craving a beef sandwich. We all ordered the 6in with peppers. The portions were tiny and instead of getting nice slices of beef, I got a pile of mostly shavings. When my sandwich was dipped, it was overly soggy and they poured a ton if giadinera oil on it with not a lot of actual giadinera. When I called to complain, the manager said she hadn't gotten any other complaints form the 500 other people that ordered that day. She offered to do nothing to address our complaints. I'm not sure where she got her management training, but you never leave a customer disappointed. Mistakes happen and when you drop the ball, it really illustrates your commitment to service when you show what you can do to pick up the fumble. She failed miserable. I called corporate and they sent out a certificate which was nice. Avoid this location like the plague!!
(1)Christina B.
I'm really not a big meat-eater, but after seeing this on Man vs. Food, I had to check out Al's. It was so delicious (and ridiculously messy) but even better-- the buffalo bleu cheese fries. I really didn't think I would like them (I don't usually like bleu cheese) but I am craving this right now!
(4)Brittany L.
OK, I am going to preface this by stating that I am a vegetarian. I probably shouldn't be writing reviews for famous roast beef sandwich shops. However, I want to encourage other vegetarians who may be in a group with meat eaters to try the veggie wrap at Al's. It was filling, had good cheese on it, giardiniera, and a really tasty olive slaw. I love olives and peppers, so it was perfect for me. My meat eating boyfriend and his meat eating brother seemed to enjoy their meals, too. My boyfriend ordered the italian beef and his brother received a sausage sandwich even though he ordered something else. I'm not going to knock off a lot of stars for this, because he did not bother to ask for his order to be corrected. He enjoyed the mistake sandwich, so all is well, in my book. If he had tried to get his correct order, and come into complications, then I would address that, but he didn't, so oh well.
(4)Stephanie S.
Gotta give these guys major props. I've always been an Al's fan. But today I called in a catering order an hour before I needed to pick it up. They got it done no problem. Good food is nothing without good service.
(5)Dr P.
3 of 5. Better italian beef in Chi.
(3)Kai L.
Service was fast and efficient. I ordered a Big Al's plain with a side of gravy. It was moist and had some flavor to it. I asked for a bit of gravy on the side. I was surprised by the $0.25 charge for it! Shouldn't it be free?
(3)Rick L.
Stale frys. Hot but seemingly re heated.
(1)Meatdowntown C.
Terrible customer service. They were training a new employee and they did not even acknowledge waiting customers. They probably just assumed that people in-line must figure out in their own that they are doping a training session. The Italian beef sandwich along with the soggy fries were simply greasy and D I S G U S T I N G. Just drive to johnnies beef if you are really dying for Italian beef. You could also pickup Italian ice since they don't sell it at Al's. Skip this place and you will be happy!
(1)Alex D.
My first time in USA, landing at O'Hare, I was pretty excited about trying their famous Chicago-style hot dog. The first day in the city I went out to visit Willis tower and I got that dog. Not that it was bad, it was okay.. my expectations fell through anyway. Then I though to myself, there must be something else out here which tastes really great. This is it, Al's Italian beef big, nasty, deep-in-juice sandwich. I am trying to be smart about what I eat, but at that time I was just enjoying my juicy beef with a sweet pepper on it, fries and a can of Pepsi. Really appreciate they have Pepsi, cause I kind of don't recognize Coca-Cola.
(4)Val G.
I know, Im eating my way through Chicago. I bought this is for the train ride to Omaha. The sandwich is huge, I was hoping to wait until midway to my destination to Omaha but man did it smell good. I may have cheated...... by a couple hundred miles. Oh well, it was awesome.
(4)Warren C.
Good but way too greasy to be enjoyed. Honestly, I would've gone somewhere else to eat if it weren't for that pouring rain. Italian beef is good like a lot of these reviews say, but it's pretty much drenched in oil, and after a few bites, it's hard to eat. The fries were the same way. Do yourself a favor and get some better food.
(2)Jessica B.
Sorry Al, I could definitely live without your Italian beef in my life... While on the way to the Arlington Park horse track, we had time before catching the Metra train so we went off in search of a quick lunch. I found Al's on Yelp and figured it was probably one of the more "authentic" Chicago lunches we could have (versus, say, Subway), so we moseyed over. I ordered the italian beef and the bf had a Chicago style hotdog. I thought his hotdog was pretty good, but the beef hoagie was just seriously underwhelming. I just didn't like it. I think I was perhaps expecting more of a Philly cheese steak? This was definitely nothing like that and I was not impressed.
(2)Jake G.
I am not from Chicago (far from it). I recently started working downtown and a coworker brought me here to try some Italian beef, and I loved it! It was fantastic and I hope to go back again! I cannot compare to other places with italian beef, but I can't really imagine anything better! Go here!!!!
(5)trevor l.
So I haven't been posting on yelp for the last few years, but I have been using yelp quite a bit for exploring new restaurants, bars and clubs. Al's Beef has made me want to start posting and reviewing places more publicly again. 5 stars for their signature beef sandwich. I traveled to Chicago and tried a few places, including the deep dish places, and THIS place by far trumped all of them in my opinion! If you love meat, especially beef, and if you like sandwiches, and especially spicy sandwiches, THIS is the place for you! The Al's sandwich with Everything on it is incredible. Make sure you order specifically EVERYTHING ON IT! Say those words, because otherwise they will assume you want a plain sandwich. That is what happened to me one time and despite the confusion, I ate that one, and ordered a whole other one with everything on it because I loved it so much. (I went to this place twice while I was in Chicago for 3 days). Everything on it includes cheese, peppers, and a special sauce of Giardiniera sauce. The fries were great too! The burger was ok. The service and ambiance of this place is like a fast food joint, but they do have TVs and soda, not sure if they have beer... Overall this is a great casual place to eat a GREAT and quick sandwich!
(5)Gene K.
Forget about it!!! I know, I know the bread is supposed to be soggy...but the damn thing completely feel apart when I took the first bite...a sandwich is not supposed to do that..emphasis on sandwich...and honestly the beef was not that great...!!!!
(2)Kyle K.
I'm glad I had the chance to stop by and try the Italian beef sandwich while I was on a business trip. Definitely worthwhile and recommended.
(4)Mila R.
This location is 2 blocks from my Apt in Presidential Towers. The last few times have been disappointing. Not in the quality of the food, but in the portions. The value just isn't there. On two occasions I had to go back to the counter to ask them to put some BEEF on my BEEF sandwich. On both occasions I was told that the amount of beef is based on a Corporate decision. Are you kidding me, I thought this was AL'S BEEF ? I've been to Jays, Buona, Mr Beef, Pete's in Berwyn and all have Great portions, almost 3 times the Beef on the sandwich.
(2)Chrissy N.
Popped in here on a Wednesday night about 6pm. There were 3 of us in here- awesome. (I realize this place is a huge lunch crowd establishment.) B and I got Italian beef sandwiches, mine plain just provalone, B's with green peppers, peppers, and provalone. We also got fries and drinks. All ready in about 3 minutes. There is a big back room with probably seating for about 50. Again, ... place to ourselves. Clean. High tables, booths, tables, comfy really. There was some music playing. Cute music- but was a bit loud, and even though we weren't competing with other patrons, we still had to kid of shout to each other cross the table. But nobody was ther eto mind, so no biggie. The sandwich was tasty. Bread not too tough, meat heaping and delicious. The fries were gooood, and crispy, but not too thick. A tad on the salty side- which I almost never say- but they were. And the drinks are continually re-fillable, just walk your cup back up to the fountain drink bar. Together, for the 2 sandwiches, 2 fries, 2 drinks, we paid about $20 + some change. It was good. I'll go back here- and especially in the evening when you can own the place!
(3)Ashley C.
The location at Adams and Jefferson has had a variety of diners and I was pleased when something new (that I had heard of) was coming to the spot. Enter Al's Italian Beef. I had never had one before, but learned that it was definitely a Chicago item. Considering they are known for the Italian Beef, we all get that. I got the regular sized portion which was perfect and also reasonably priced. As a side note, I must say I don't get why the "Big Al" guy is so much more expensive. I also have to mention that I didn't feel like the menu here was widely diverse (beef, hotdogs, etc), but I realize that this location just opened this week. [Supposedly they will start delivery later too which is a plus.] It was tender and juicy, but mine wasn't soaked - the way I prefer it. For those of you who love it dripping and juicy, don't worry - you can get it that way. It was good (3 to 3.5 stars) but what eventually bumped it up were the cheese fries. :-) They were SO good. Real potato fries with a generous, but not overwhelming, amount of cheese. That is the stuff. I'll stop in on lunch again.
(4)Charles H.
Flew home a few weeks back and stopped by Al's. It seems like it is starting to get back on track (fresh ingredients, au jus, etc.). I have high hopes when I return it will go back to being one of the best...
(3)Emily F.
I don't eat meat but the party I was with does. They loved it so much! It looked so good I wanted to eat it!
(4)Dennis D.
Tried the Italian beef and sausage. Had both with hot giardiniera and sweet peppers. Sandwiches were delicious and would definitely recommend for visitors to Chicago.
(4)Stephanie G.
This place is definitely over-rated. I only eat there because I take short lunches and this restaurant happens to be on my block. Their Italian Beef is ok, but certainly not the best in the city by any means. The flavor isn't delicious and it tastes like they add cleaning solution to the au jus. Today I got 2 tamales... I was not expecting them to be great, but I certainly was not expecting them to be so bad. Ok, so they don't make them from scratch, thats fine. But they served them with the original packaging still on! Thanks, but I could have 'heated and served' this tamale for about 50 cents. And I'm pretty sure the filling was half cornmeal and half mystery beef... The service is almost always poor when I go in there. After this tamale incident, I won't be going back to Al's.
(2)Brad F.
Only OK. I had the "Regular Al's Italian Beef". I ordered it dipped and with hot peppers. I am not sure if I went on a bad day, but the bread felt and tasted cheap, I was not impressed by the mushy, almost pasty, texture of the meat, and half way through, I realized they forgot the peppers. I am not going to count out Al's all together, I will try their original location on 1070 W Taylor St. and get the Char-Grilled Italian Sausage.
(2)Dylan H.
My coworkers were trying to persuade me to go to this place for over 3 months. Since it's just 5 mins from my work I decided to finally have my lunch here. "Meh. I've experienced better" is the perfect name for this place. Nothing special. My soggy beef sandwich tasted like some medicine. Will not be coming back. I hope they had Buona Beef near my place... -Sadface-
(2)Jennifer M.
How does this only have 3 stars???? This place is fantastic. Complete your visit to Chicago by visiting the same restaurant that many of the rich and famous people have frequented such as Hilary Clinton, Gary Sinise, and Adam Richman (Man V Food Host). The sandwiches are fantastic because they have a great blend of flavors from the meat, sweet peppers if you desire, and is dipped in the juices of the meat. At first I was hesitant about this, but it does NOT make the bread soggy. Instead, it creates a chewy mess of deliciousness. Can I say Yum?
(5)Mike E.
Saw Al's on Man Vs. Food, so had to give it a try. I ordered an Italian Beef Sandwich and cheese frys and have to say that I was dissapointed. It definitely wasn't the worst thing I've ever eaten, but it was far from impressive. I think I went into the place having high expectations that were not met. The beef had a decent flavor to it, but was pretty dry. The bread was pretty good, which helped to make up for the meat. The cheese frys were probably the best thing about the meal, which makes the sandwich performance even more dissapointing. The place has decent prices but unfortunately has a fast food feel to it. I won't be going back to Al's again next time I'm in Chicago, there are to many other great places to eat.
(3)Mike K.
After being rudely awoken the day after TBOX by noises that sounded like a cross between a Santa Claus laugh and a dying duck, downing a few cups of tea, reviewing the kitchen contents several times to only discover frozen Potatoes O'Brien each time and then taking in the schooling of the Bears by the Pats in the first half to the tune of 33-0, I decided I would have to leave the house in the middle of the season's first blizzard for sustenance. I knew I didn't want to drive in that mess, so that left only two options within reasonable distance: 7-11 and Al's. So I got on a few layers, some boots and my goofy Elmer Fudd hat and had the huskies pull the sled over to Al's on a cold, snowy and blustery Sunday. Like Old St. Pat's and Greek Town (Dugan's notwithstanding), I've walked past Al's hundreds of times. My excuse for walking past all of Greek Town apart from Dugan's is that I don't like Greek food (too heavy). My excuse for walking past Al's without ever trying it was that I usually go for Portillo's, which has always been king, when I want that type of food. I have no excuse for not going to mass at Old St. Pat's every Sunday, if not even daily. The authorities wouldn't be very happy. It's a good thing they forgive you. This particular Al's would seem, based on its exterior, to either be some sort of import of a Pittsburgh fast food icon, as it's festooned in the colors of the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers, or maybe a Peoria, Illinois, import with its Caterpillar like color scheme. Neither is the case though. Al's is all Chicago. I went with a Big Beef and a hot dog, which comes with fries. I figured I'd have some now and then the rest sometime after the Bears were done getting torn up. I found the Big Beef to be a skinny beef. Long? Yes. But skinny all the same. As to the flavor, there was just too much of some particular spice I can't put my finger on. It almost tasted like too much basil. My unsophisticated palate strikes again. I've had a better beef from Aurelio's. And Portillo's retains its crown as Beef King. The hot dog was better. I'll certainly be back for another one. And it comes with fries, which were excellent. (By the way, fries are the Achilles heel of Portillo's. So weak!). Service was lightning fast. I was in and out in five minutes' time. It probably helped that it was during a Bears game and a big snowstorm. I imagine these guys are just as quick and efficient though at peak hour. I'll be back sometime soon (for a dog), although the last time I was at Old St. Pat's I also said I'd be back soon and haven't. Mayor Daley must be very upset with me for being such a bad Chicagoan and bad Catholic. I hope he doesn't send a Caterpillar tractor over to "X" me out. Three stars.
(3)Andy B.
Had an absolute craving for Italian Beef while commuting into downtown on my way to a Bulls game. Since I had a "lay over" at Union Station, I whipped out my phone and figured out there was an Al's around the corner. . . This is obviously a new location - nothing wrong with that just a little jarring to get something as messy as an Italian Beef sandwich at a shiny, clean place with granite countertops. Service was fast and efficient - your typical order and wait deal. I got the standard size Beef, double-dipped with hot and sweet peppers. Also got an order of the BBQ fries. Took less than 5 minutes for the order. I slowly unwrapped the package of glorious meat, bread and peppers - the first thing that hit me was the sweet smell of slow cooked roast beef and the accompanying italian spices (nothing like it). Once I'd laid out my "nest" I dug in. HEAVEN ON A BUN. Utterly and completely hit the spot - this is not fine dining, but "stick to your ribs" goodness and just the thing to take the chill away. The surprise was the BBQ fries - didn't have high hopes but I love BBQ sauce so I thought I'd give it a shot. They were awesome - solid spuds fried to a golden crisp and perfectly salted. The sauce was your classic Chicago style sweet tomato-based BBQ sauce, but it perfectly complimented the fries. Overall a fine meal - no complaints whatever.
(3)Ariel L.
Al's beef blows chunks. For anyone looking for a traditional, quality, Chicago Italian Beef sandwich, this is NOT the place to come. Mr. Beef wipes the floor with this place frankly, as well as do another dozen Beef places in Chicago. If you like tasteless beef, soggy fries, and no character, go to Al's!
(1)Matt C.
I'm torn because the taste was good, for the most part - the fries were horrible. But, the sandwich itself was not what I expected. To be honest, after awhile it got sort of bland tasting after tasting the same thing. I know that sounds weird, but it's weird to explain my problems with this sandwich. I got a regular Italian beef with sweet peppers and onions thinking that'd be enough to make it tasty. It wasn't. The service is another story. I had roughly 5 seconds to decide what I wanted here. I told the woman working that this was my first time here and she kind of shrugged it off and made me feel incredibly uncomfortable. So bad service for me too. It's a disappointment because after hearing rave reviews for this place on food tv shows, I expected better.
(3)Sean L.
Fate brought me to Al's on my recent visit to Chicago. I was watching Man vs Food the night before my flight to the windy city and what do I see? A mountainous beef sandwich dripping with Al's love and spiciness. When I asked my friend if she had heard of this place, her reply was, "actually I live a block from there but haven't been". It was my responsibility to make sure we had visited before the weekend was out. I'd like to point out a few of the reviews before mine and question their validity- A vegetarian gave it a low rating because of their lack of meatless options. The place is called Al's BEEF! I am surprised they don't automatically smother everything they serve with cow. Another low-rater points out the lack of healthy options on the menu. I bring to you the same argument- AL'S BEEF! I rest my case. Now for my experience- The menu is rather simple, if you don't want beef, sausage, dogs, tamales (yeah, weird huh?), or fries, you might as well get the F out. I opted for 3 add-ons to my beef: hot giardiniera, sweet peppers and melted provolone. The sandwich was loaded with meat (note; there is still an option to add even MORE meat if it's already not enough), and the sweet & hot pepper combo was a delicious addition to the sandwich. As a second entree, a Chicago dog. This was my only complaint about Al's. I've had many Chicago dogs, and anyone who has ever put one together knows there are certain and specific ingredients. Al's lacked tomatoes, pickles and celery salt. I can handle it without the salt and pickles, but a bright red tomato is crucial to offset the other colors laced throughout the poppy-seed bun. What's up Al? Yes, they clearly state the ingredients on their menu, but who reads what they already know should rightly be included on a CHICAGO DOG? I have to imagine most Chicagoans would have a problem with this as well, unless you're one of those weirdos that don't like tomatoes. Then my question to you is,what's your deal? Anyway, I opted to add the buffalo fries. The fries are fresh cut, skins on (nice), and then covered in buffalo sauce and blue cheese. These were great! Anyone who is a fan of buffalo wings would gladly chomp down a side order. Overall, my Al's experience was great. I'm sure I could add pickles and tomatoes to my dog if I asked nicely. I definitely won't pass up a chance to eat here again!
(4)Michelle M.
Hey sometimes a gal wants a hot dog with fries or even cheese fries. Depending on the weather I walk over to get me a hot dog with YES I GET ketchup and mustard on mine...totally not a Chicago dog but shoot me for liking my hot dog with ketchup and mustard. This is a Chicago place everyone needs to experience at least once. Staff is cool. Prices are OK. Place is clean.
(4)Farrah D.
Love these hot-dogs and fries! The Taylor Street location is the original cash only no seating joint. That's how to do it!
(4)Colleen B.
A vegetarian's NIGHTMARE. The only things to eat are: 1) mediocre french fries, and 2) pepper and egg sandwiches. The sandwiches are tasty, but they're served for breakfast. Unless you stop in on a Friday during lunch, they won't serve a P&E sandwich after "breakfast" is over. So veggies of Chicago, dine elsewhere if you desire a meal consisting of more than potatoes and oil.
(1)Michael S.
A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity Darn. I was hoping an interesting food joint would open up here, next door to my office. But alas, Al's Fat Asses seems to be the only type of establishment that can open across the street from a law school and a major office building during a recession. Sign of the times. The food: I did try it (just so I could write this review). Blech. I tried a breakfast sandwich with scrambled eggs and Italian sausage. It took forever, I dumped the fries I didn't order, it was cumbersome to eat, and the taste: average. The garish black and yellow decor, the giant size yellow soda cup jutting out above the front door, and the constant smell of beef and fast food grease wafting all around my neck of the woods: Nauseating. yelp.com/biz_photos/4nrM… A Shrine to American Obesity and Mediocrity.
(2)Chris R.
This was my first foray into Chicago's Italian Beef's and so far not so impressive. I will be trying additional places just to see how other places execute this "classic". We got 2 beef's one with sweet peppers and the other with hot giardenera, 2 beverages, and a large fry The beef is cooked to "well" and is rather dry and basically lacks flavor. The only flavor comes from the giardenera which is solid but frankly I like the stuff I get bottled from Jewel as it has more celery / carrots yielding more crunch. Why not just put it on shredded news print as it basically yields the same result? The fries were good being skin on fresh cut fries and they were well done (not burnt but nice and brown) as I like em. But again this is Al's Beef not Al's French Fries so it is hardly a saving grace. All and all for $18.00 I would expect much better. Personally I would take about $10 and get to really good Vietnamese Banh Mi's from Uptown over this any day of the week.
(2)Nana G.
Go for the beef. I always get mine with extra sweet peppers. Its juicy, heavenly and makes you happy. Its the best. However I'm a little disappointed that their Chicago dog isn't really a Chicago dog i.e. no tomatoes, pickles. I would've added another star if they had a complete Chi dog. Their french fries are just so-so too. So unless you're here for the beef, I wouldn't really recommend anything else. Service is fast. Only problem is there isn't much space to sit and eat so I always just go for take out.
(3)Cat C.
Awesome eats! Husband and I tried to stop at another location but they were closed on Sundays, so we quickly googled and GPSd our way to another location so we could get our hands on the beef sandwich. We both got the 4" beef sandwich -- his with peppers, mine plain -- and shared a large order of fries. Yum!!! Just enough tasty food to fill us up and hold us over until we got to the Cubs game later that evening. If I were to visit Chicago again, I'd definitely stop in for a bite!
(4)Jonathan H.
Just went here for lunch and expected an explosion of flavors because of the reviews I've heard about italian beef in Chicago. Well, I thought it was mediocre. I had the 6 inch beef sandwich with sausage. Didn't want to get the fries because being in here already made me feel 10 lbs heavier. Plus, the fries didn't look that entirely good. The sandwich was tasty but nothing I'd come back for. The beef was thinly sliced, which I can appreciate but the sausage tasted like something I can pick up from a supermarket - not much flavor here. Also, I asked for spicy peppers and when I opened my sandwich, no peppers were there. So minus 1 star for messing up my order. Honestly, I prefer the taste of Arbys sliced beef sandwiches. The bread at Al's is already soaked in au jous so when you bite into it, the sandwich is a bit soggy. Keep this in mind if you order to-go or want to eat it later in the day...no bueno. Verdict: OK sandwich but nothing I'd bring my out of town friends to check out. For 8 bucks (sandwich + drink), I consider a little pricey for the quality, but it's decent if you need a quick bite and are in the area.
(3)Melissa M.
I was in the area, so in my quest to venture to new places, I decided to hit Big Al's. Italian Beef is honestly something I would not usually order, but after asking for suggestions, of course, it was the recommendation. I have to say that this place looks more exciting and unique from the outside than the inside. Inside it was just another fast food type of place. Nothing really stood out as unique. The order taker/cashier was less than thrilled to make a recommendation and it was hard to tell where to place my order. I ended up ordering Italian Beef and fries and I must say the Italian Beef itself was definitely extraordinary. The bun was another matter. Unfortunately, the bun was soggy and terrible. I ended up just eating the insides out of the sandwich. Fries were awesome and crisp. I must admit I love a good french fry. All in all, this place was ok. It didn't stand out as a place to go back to or a place to bash to bits. I think the bun of the sandwich and just the a staff with personality could help this place in the short term.
(3)Tia G.
food is alright. ive been here a couple times But what really turned me off was seeing the owner talk to his employees like they were garbage. Working in customer service myself, i appreciate an establishment that treats their employees well. But seeing this guy in action honestly made me never want to come here again. I don't think anyone knew i was in there because he was yelling and cursing so i just walked right back out! Maybe if they treated their employees better they would have better food.
(1)Arlene Y.
I knew I was going to be in Chicago and checked where Man vs. Food had gone when he was there. I was happy to see that he went to a place that was about a 5 minute walk from my hotel (Crown Plaza Metro). I was able to go there for lunch. I ordered the regular sized Italian beef sandwich. At first it looked small but it had so much meat in it, that it easily filled me up. My brother and I shared small fries. I did not look carefully at the menu and thought that the peppers and onions automatically came with the sandwich as pictured on the menu. So when I unwrapped it and saw just beef I was disappointed but wasn't about to go back in line to add it. This Italian beef tasted Chinese to me! I AM Chinese and the flavors remind me of the beef that is eaten with noodles at Chinese noodle shops. While the beef is very juicy and tender (melts in your mouth), it was way too salty. Maybe the addition of peppers and onions would have helped tone the saltiness down. Overall, it was good but it didn't wow me. I thought the fries were overpriced and salty as well. I didn't mind the soggy bread because that is what is to be expected with au jus. To the Chinese folks reading this...please go and try one and let me know what you think!
(3)Dorotka K.
This would have been the perfect lunch spot: close to work and fairly priced. Unfortunately, the hot dog and fries combo did not deliver. The hotdog was very plain, while the fries were soggy and greasy.
(2)Jeffrey H.
This is not the original Al's Beef in case you didn't know. It's a good attempt. There's a bigger menu, with great french fry options. They attempt to do as much extras that the original can't do. Though in fact, the original has a better Chicago Beef. I like the beef, but not a big fan about the hot peppers. They are different than most places in Chicago. It's their original recipe. Do not come here if you're a vegetarian or looking for something healthy. I have no clue why people would try.
(4)David K.
Here's a restaurant chain resting on its laurels, and it shows. What a disappointment. Here's the bottom line: inflated prices, desultory service, meager portions. We live in the neighborhood and thought we'd give this new Al's a try, We ordered two "Regular Al's" beef sandwiches and the beef was barely visible beyond the bread...it looked like they had been assembled according to strict corporate portion control. We also had asked for hot peppers, but a quick look at our sandwiches revealed virtually none present. When I went to the front to request some more peppers, the woman behind the counter grudgingly gave me a small plastic container with a few small pieces of hot peppers floating in a lot of oil and said "you know, we usually charge extra for this." Had I thought more quickly, I would have replied "yes, and when I order an Italian Beef with hot peppers I usually receive a sandwich with peppers on it!" With so many good places for beef, hot dogs and Polish sausage in Chicago, Al's ought to be ashamed of this poor level of service and food quality!
(1)Joshua M.
Love the food and love the people. I have been there enough that the know my order. They are always on point with the sandwiches and fries. They even somehow find me something sweet in the freezer on occasion! I will go to this place over any other Al's even though I just moved to Lincoln Square.
(5)