Regional Specialties

You may think that Chicagoland is all about pizza, but it’s not the only delicious food associated with this great region of the Midwest. This metropolitan area is a melting pot of cultures and each nationality has made contributions in the culinary landscape of the area. In particular, Italian and Polish food have found a lasting spot in the hearts of locals. So, if you’re wondering ‘Where’s the Beef?” or the Italian sausage or Polish sausage or Pierogi, here’s a little guide to make your belly happy:

Italian Beef and Sausage

• Andy’s Hot Dogs - Riverdale, South Holland
• Aurelio’s Pizza - Chicago Heights, Crete, Homewood, Palos Heights, Richton Park, South Holland
• Buona Beef - Flossmoor, Frankfort, Orland Park
• JimBooo’s - Thornton
• Pop’s Italian Beef & Sausage - Homewood, Orland Park, Palos Heights
• Portillo’s - Crestwood, Homewood
• The Original Mr. Beef - Homer Glen

Polish Specialties

• Gorka Deli - Orland Park
• Highlander House - Palos Heights
• Nad Tatrami - Monee
• Tradycja Polish Fusion Cuisine - Orland Park

Building a Perfect Beef Sandwich

• Start with fresh Italian bread
• Tuck in your thinly sliced beef
• Add mozzarella cheese
• Add sweet peppers
• Top with Giardiniera - hot or mild
• If you want it soaked in the beef gravy, ask for it “dipped” or “baptized.”
• If you want it without gravy, order it “dry.”
• If you want it topped with marinara, ask for “red sauce.”

What’s Giardiniera?

This pickled condiment comes in hot and mild varieties and typically includes peppers, carrots, cauliflower, celery and gherkins. No Italian beef sandwich is complete without it. It’s also good on top of Italian sausage and bratwurst. For Polish sausage, stick to sauerkraut.