Al’s Beef

Reviews

• Torrey S.

  star star star star star 29 May 2026

  After a great experience at Drunk Shakespeare, we were a pair of Starvin' Marvins, so as soon as I could hail a cab, we were on our way to Al's. Why? What else you gonna do for a great, late dinner in Chicago?
  
  When in Rome, right? I've had Phillys in Philly. I've had Cubans in South Florida. I've had hot dogs at Pinks & pulled pork sandwiches at Corky's. There is something to be said for going with the gold standard.
  
  Al's did not disappoint, except that the cashier didn't ask if we wanted our sandwiches dipped. I also opted away from the peppers, which was a clear mistake.
  
  But I didn't care! We loved our dinner - it was gone in seconds. If we'd had a fridge in the hotel room, I might have taken a half dozen more home.
  
  The service was fast, friendly, and efficient. The dining room was very clean, and it looked like the outside tables were as well.

• La Tonya G.

  star star star star_border star_border 26 May 2026

  I truly forgot that this Al's Beef was close to me because I normally go to Al's Beef on Taylor Street.  I did like my combination Italian beef and sausage sandwich and the fries were hot and tasty but I still think my heart and taste buds belong to Taylor street.
  
  The service was fast and I gobbled up my sandwich.  I did think the prices were kind of high that is why I didn't get the drink added on and we shared a fry.  Although, after having the fries we both wished we had gotten a bigger size.
  
  The place was packed inside and out but they still got us our food without a very long wait which was a plus.
  
  If its late and I just have to have a combination Italian beef and sausage sandwich I will be back.
  
  As always folks...
  
  Enjoy!!!

• Anthony A.

  star star star star_border star_border 23 May 2026

  Look, I know the place is iconic and all but...
  My first night in town I asked a young woman where the best Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich would be and she quickly shouted, "AL'S!"  Obviously I was going to go to Al's the next day. Around 1:00 PM the following afternoon, a group of eight of us strolled into an old diner type building and ordered. This was much more Subway like than I expected. Several different type so f beef sandwiches or hot dogs to choose from. Most everything came with lava hot french fries. I ordered my sandwich and told him to dress it out the same way he would eat his. My Hot Italian Beef sammie arrived wrapped in foil paper. The sandwich was "Dipped" making the bread soggy. I love the dipped idea more than practice.  About a quarter of the way through this mess of a sandwich I thought about why this place was recommended. The woman who gave me the recommendation was about 23 years old This pace is open super late and has cheap, greasy food. Of course she recommended it! She is smashing these sammies after a full night at the bar! This is great drunk food! As for midday, sober lunch... Not so much
  The place is too small for a large group. Perfect for 2-3 buddies leaving the bars after striking out.

• Henry G.

  star star star star star_border 20 May 2026

  Quick sandwich shop stop. I picked up the beef sandwich with the sweet and spicy peppers. It was a messy sandwich, but so darn flavorful. The bun was soaking with juices reminding me of a french dip sandwich except they did the work for you. Definitely a spot I'd return to in Chicago.

• Mike J.

  star star star star star_border 18 May 2026

  It's my must stop when in Chicago, though now a chain it's consistent and damn good. Gotta get it dipped and with peppers, no other way, but may result in a food coma so good.