The ultimate guide to Chicago’s Italian beef

CHICAGO — At last, the Italian beef is having a moment. While deep-dish and Chicago-style hot dogs long ago achieved national fame, the Italian beef was one of those dishes with only limited appeal outside of Chicagoland. But now publications like The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times suddenly care about our beloved soggy sandwich.

We have “The Bear” to thank for this, the FX show that follows a fictional hotshot young chef who unexpectedly leaves the fine-dining world to take control of his family’s classic Italian beef stand. Fellow Tribune food critic Louisa Chu was able to chat with star Jeremy Allen White a few months ago about the portrayal.

While happy to see interest coming from the coasts, no one knows beef like Chicagoans. The Chicago Tribune has been covering this messy, meaty sandwich for years — here’s everything you need to know.

What is an Italian beef?

At its most basic, the Italian beef is a thinly sliced roast beef sandwich served with juices derived from the roasting