Paging Dr srjdsmith, Chicago Question

In Davenport for an errand with my daughter. I gotta say, a Portillo’s combo is every bit as good as any Chicago beef stand (of course Portillo’s is from there, but the recipe and prep is exactly the same, even here in Davenport).




Of course, you still have to go to Johnnie’s for the Italian Lemonade…

Rumor is Portillo’s is coming to Colorado & will be about 100 miles due south of us

Rumor is Portillo’s is coming to Colorado & will be about 100 miles due south of us

That would be nice. A good wet Italian beef is so scrumptious!

Rumor is Portillo’s is coming to Colorado & will be about 100 miles due south of us

That would be nice. A good wet Italian beef is so scrumptious!

I

honestly don’t ever remember getting one, love Chicago dogs, but a wet Italian beef just does not sound familiar 

had wet beef of some kind with broccoli raub in PA but don’t remember what they were called and the broccoli was meh, could easily skip that

It's an Italian beef sandwich that's been plunged into the broth. Really messy, but Oh so good!

Trying to figure out how to drive to Ohio (West of Acron) and back for a funeral next week 🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔🤔

Looks like it would be a “short” detour off of 80 to Johnnie’s Beef if we are able to make the trip

Lots of logistics to work out if the wife can even get the time off from school as close to the end of the year it is……..

Johnnie’s is worth a detour. Portillo’s in Davenport- just off I80/I74 is a very close second.

Wife has 6 school days left and they would not give her any time off unless it was the death of an immediate family member

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.

Large combo sweet & hot dipped…..large lemon ice no top & im already drooling….