(05-06-2025, 12:49 AM)MontanaLon Wrote: Oh man, if you are passing through my area you have to try Marchelloni's. They've only got 2 shops about 10 miles apart but holy Sweet Baby Jesus to they do it right. They do a beef roll, basically pizza dough, cheese and beef folded over on itself that is amazing. Their pizzas are fantastic. But that beef roll I could live on. They have a full menu but I get to the beef roll and stop.

(06-07-2025, 12:50 AM)Rampy Wrote: Been looking at the menu, going to pack a roll of paper towels as well as wet naps 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

To order at Johnnie’s Beef in Elmwood Park, Chicago, follow these steps for a smooth experience, as the process is fast-paced and the line moves quickly:

1. **Know Your Order**: Johnnie’s is a cash-only, counter-service spot with a focus on Italian beef sandwiches, combos (beef and sausage), hot dogs, and Italian ice. Decide in advance to avoid holding up the line. Key terms:
  - **Beef**: Italian beef sandwich.
  - **Combo**: Italian beef with Italian sausage.
  - **Juicy** or **Dipped**: Sandwich dipped in gravy (jus).
  - **Wet**: Sandwich with extra gravy, not fully dipped.
  - **Hot**: With giardiniera (spicy pickled vegetables).
  - **Sweet**: With roasted sweet bell peppers.
  - **Sweet and Hot**: Both sweet peppers and giardiniera.
  - **Plain**: No peppers.
  - **Fries**: Often come with extra fries thrown in the bag.
  - **Italian Ice**: Lemon or other flavors, a popular side.

  Example orders:
  - “One beef, juicy, sweet and hot, one fry.”
  - “Combo, wet, hot, Italian ice.”
  - “Two beef, plain, dipped, one fry.”

2. **Rehearse Your Order**: The counter staff are efficient and expect quick, precise orders. Practice saying it clearly and concisely, as the environment is busy and the staff may shout to confirm orders.

3. **Cash Only**: Bring cash, as Johnnie’s does not accept cards. An ATM is available across the street if needed. Prices are reasonable (e.g., ~$6-7 for a combo sandwich).

4. **Order at the Counter**: Step up to the counter when it’s your turn. Speak loudly and clearly to the staff, who will relay your order to the kitchen. The line moves fast, so be ready.

5. **Pay and Move**: After ordering, pay immediately and step aside to let the next customer order. Your food is typically ready within seconds, handed over in a paper bag. Check your order, as mistakes can happen in the rush (e.g., “sweet and hot” instead of “mixed” for both peppers).

6. **Tips for First-Timers**:
  - Expect a line, often out the door, but it moves quickly.
  - No indoor seating; limited outdoor tables are available, or eat in your car.
  - For a classic experience, try the Italian beef, juicy, with sweet and hot peppers, paired with fries and a lemon Italian ice.
  - If you’re unsure, observe others in line or ask the staff for clarification.

(06-08-2025, 04:24 AM)Rampy Wrote: Wife hates spice & wet bread, she refuses to eat anything but dry bread 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Looking at Iowa Galavant for ideas & woza hid Facebook is full of drool worthy stops

https://theiowagallivant.com/

(06-08-2025, 03:59 PM)srjdsmith Wrote:

(06-08-2025, 04:24 AM)Rampy Wrote: Wife hates spice & wet bread, she refuses to eat anything but dry bread 🤣🤣🤣🤣

Looking at Iowa Galavant for ideas & woza hid Facebook is full of drool worthy stops

https://theiowagallivant.com/

I had a West Dubuque Tap yesterday. The best pork T I’ve had was in Traer at the bowling alley- now closed.

(06-11-2025, 06:28 PM)Rampy Wrote: The lemon ice alone was worth the drive, had to use a fork as juice was super soggy but mummmmmmm good

(06-11-2025, 08:37 PM)srjdsmith Wrote:

(06-11-2025, 06:28 PM)Rampy Wrote: The lemon ice alone was worth the drive, had to use a fork as juice was super soggy but mummmmmmm good

You got your combo!! So jealous! Johnnie’s Ice is the BEST. I hope your wife was impressed with her dry bread 🤣 If that was my only choice I’d still love an Italian beef, but dip mine, please. Those little straw/spoons are a trip, aren’t they?