Anthony Bourdain's Favorite Italian Beef Spot in Chicago

A Culinary Icon’s Endorsement of Johnnie’s Beef

Anthony Bourdain, the legendary chef, traveler, and storyteller, was known for his sharp opinions and unfiltered commentary on food. While he often criticized viral food trends, there were a few exceptions—Italian beef being one of them. Bourdain had a particular fondness for this Chicago staple, and his endorsement of Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park remains a highlight of his television series “Parts Unknown.”

During his whirlwind culinary tour of the Windy City, Bourdain took the time to visit Johnnie’s Beef, a modest eatery that has since become a must-visit destination for food lovers. He famously declared, “Either on my way into town or out of town, I'm going Italian beef at Johnnie's.” His order? An Italian beef with both hot and sweet peppers, plus extra juice—a testament to his love for bold flavors.

What Makes an Italian Beef Special

For those unfamiliar with the dish, an Italian beef is a seasoned roast beef sandwich served on a long roll, topped with thin gravy and a selection of peppers. It’s a Chicago specialty, and while there are many places to try it, Bourdain’s recommendation points to Johnnie’s as a standout.

The restaurant may look like a simple hole-in-the-wall spot, but its reputation speaks volumes. The sandwiches are renowned for their abundance, fragrance, and rich, dripping gravy. However, visitors should be prepared for a wait. Johnnie’s operates as a cash-only establishment, so it’s wise to grab a quick trip to the ATM before heading in. The line can often snake out the door, but for many, the wait is well worth it.

More Than Just a Sandwich

Despite its humble appearance, Johnnie’s offers more than just Italian beef. The menu includes Italian ice, milkshakes, and fries, making it a go-to spot for a quick meal. But as Bourdain would likely emphasize, the focus here is on the food—not the ambiance. This isn’t the place for trendy alternatives like a Chicago-style vegetarian carrot hot dog. Instead, it’s all about the classic Italian beef, which remains the star of the show.

A Place That Speaks Volumes

Johnnie’s Beef has earned a loyal following, with many customers declaring it the best in the city. One Redditor shared, “This will sound like a bad thing but Johnnie's beef kinda ruined Italian beefs for me. I used to order Italian beefs from places around me all the time but once I finally [tried] [J]ohnnie's, nothing else ever hit the same.”

Food Network host Jeff Mauro praised the spot on TikTok, calling it “probably the number-one most well-reviewed, most-visited, most well-regarded, legendary beef stand in all of Chicagoland.” Fans have even described it as their first stop after landing in Chicago and their last stop before leaving.

Why It Matters

While Bourdain’s endorsement alone is enough to draw attention, the popularity of Johnnie’s goes beyond his influence. The restaurant has consistently delivered high-quality food at affordable prices. As of this writing, a nine-inch Italian beef sandwich costs just $9, with no entree exceeding $10. For a place that offers finger-licking deliciousness at rock-bottom prices, it’s hard to resist.

If it was good enough for Anthony Bourdain, it’s definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Johnnie’s Beef is a must-try destination that continues to captivate food lovers with its authenticity and flavor.