Johnnie’s Beef
1935 S Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL, 60005
Johnnie’s Beef Menu
Sorry, We are updating this restaurant menu details.
Diabetics at Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets serves burgers which are generally high in sodium and fat. Ensure that you pick the burgers which are light and doesn't contain too much sodium. Try ordering salads if you're concerned about your sugar intake and looking for healthy choices.
Foods to Avoid at Johnny Rockets for Diabetics:
Johnny Rockets is a fine dining place for burgers, but you must be selective if you're a diabetic. Skip all kinds of dressing when you order a burger at Johnny Rockets as it will only spike the sodium content on your meal. Salads are often considered diabetic-friendly but not the ones at Johnny Rockets. Avoid Crispy Chicken Club Salad and Grilled Chicken Club Salad as they are too high in sodium and fat.
Make sure you opt for water instead of the drinks available on the Johnny Rockets menu. Besides Diet Coke and Coffee, most of the drinks served at Johnny Rockets are high in sugar. Skip the shakes at Johnny Rockets to avoid high sugar intake. Breakfast is always preferred heavy for diabetics but most of the breakfast items on the Johnny Rockets menu are high in sodium and must be avoided.
Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Johnny Rockets:
Rocket Single Burger (1 Serving)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 10g), 350mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Bacon Cheddar Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 330 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 10g), 650mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Route 66 Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 330 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 10g), 280mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Route 66 Double Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 410 calories, 40g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 10g), 320mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
The Original Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat0g), 590mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Tea (8 fluid ounces)
Nutritional Facts: 0 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat0g), 10mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Sweet Potato Fries, Side (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 220 calories, 10g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat0g), 370mg sodium, 30g carbs, 10g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Side of Fries (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 190 calories, 10g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 460mg sodium, 30g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Arlington Heights for healthy meals suggestion.
High Blood Pressure at Johnny Rockets
Fast-food restaurants are your last resort if you are suffering from high BP. Most fast food restaurants including Johnny Rockets offer foods rich in sodium. High sodium intake can be even lethal for people concerned with high blood pressure. However, you can always try the salads or choose food without any extra dressing or side dishes to limit your sodium intake.
Foods to Avoid at Johnny Rockets for High Blood Pressure
It is extremely important to avoid any kind of burgers with extra dressing at Johnny Rockets. You must also skip any kind of breakfast items except Pancakes at Johnny Rockets. Also, avoid Breakfast Belt Sandwich and Rocket Breakfast Burger at Johnny Rockets as both these items are too high in sodium. Also, avoid Crispy Chicken Salad and Grilled Chicken Club Salad as well as any kind of dressing on other low-sodium salads available at Johnny Rockets. Skip shakes containing Oreo on the Johnny Rockets menu as Oreo shakes served at Johnny Rockets are high in sodium.
Food Suggestions for High Blood Pressure at Johnny Rockets
Strawberry Chocolate Swirl Milkshake (1 shake)
Nutritional Facts: 810 calories, 40g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 30g), 300mg sodium, 90g carbs, 90g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Rocket Single Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 350mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Route 66 Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 240 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 350mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Garden Salad (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 150 calories, 10g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 260mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Side Salad (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 70 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat0g), 110mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Apple Juice (10 fluid ounces)
Nutritional Facts: 140 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat0g), 30mg sodium, 30g carbs, 30g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Arlington Heights for healthy meals suggestion.
High Cholesterol at Johnny Rockets
Burgers fall into the fast-food category and most fast-food items are high in cholesterol. If you're suffering from high cholesterol, then it is advised that you skip any meal with excessive fat and sugar.
Foods to Avoid at Johnny Rockets for High Cholesterol
You must skip all types of dressing on your burger. Also, avoid burgers like Smoke House Burger at all costs from Johnny Rockets menu. Skip all the drinks except coffee, iced tea, and diet coke as they are completely unhealthy for people with high cholesterol. Breakfast items on Johnny Rockets are very high in cholesterol and it is strictly recommended to avoid all the breakfast items on their menu including the sandwiches.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Johnny Rockets
Kids Cappuccino Crunch Milkshake (1 shake)
Nutritional Facts: 740 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 20g), 310mg sodium, 100g carbs, 80g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Garden Black Bean Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 330 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 650mg sodium, 10g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
The Spicy Houston Burger (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 190 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 700mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Kids Banana Shake (1 shake)
Nutritional Facts: 560 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat20g), 190mg sodium, 60g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Johnny's Breakfast Sandwich (1 serving)
Nutritional Facts: 180 calories, 20g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat10g), 230mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 10g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Arlington Heights for healthy meals suggestion.
Q & A on Johnny Rockets
Who owns Johnny Rockets?
Johnny Rockets is founded by Ronn Teitelbaum. Today, the restaurant chain is owned by Sun Capital Partners.
Does Johnny Rockets serve breakfast?
Yes, Johnny Rockets has a separate breakfast section, especially for breakfast meal. Johnny Rockets serves breakfast all day and night.
Where is Johnny Rockets located near me?
There are over 320 Johnny Rockets outlets across the United States. You can find a Johnny Rockets restaurant nearby using our Restaurant Listings directory.
What time does Johnny Rockets open and close?
All Johnny Rockets restaurants in the United States opens at 8 AM and stays open till 9 PM. Some Johnny Rockets restaurants stay open till midnight at some locations.
Does Johnny Rockets have gluten-free?
Johnny Rockets offers a wide range of gluten-free items. You can opt for the gluten-free bun to turn your burger into a gluten-free burger. For assurance, you can check out Johnny Rockets gluten-free menu.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
About Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets is a restaurant franchise headquartered in the United States. The American restaurant chain features 1950s diner-style restaurant format with individual jukebox stations, red vinyl seats, chrome accents, etc. There are around 320 Johnny Rockets restaurants in the United States.
Ron Teitelbaum from Los Angeles, California founded Johnny Rockets as a recreation of the 1940s vintage themed malt shops of his childhood. The first Johnny Rockets began its operations on June 6, 1986. Johnny Rockets specializes in American burgers and sandwiches as well as offers salads, starters, and shakes to enrich your dining experience at Johnny Rockets.
Healthy Food Options at Johnny Rockets
Johnny Rockets is a fast-food restaurant and finding healthy food at Johnny Rockets can be a bit tricky. While you can always opt for the salads and healthy shakes at Johnny Rockets for healthy options, there are also some healthy burgers and sandwiches which you can bet on. Ensure that the sugar, sodium, and cholesterol is in check when you order food at Johnny Rockets.
-
Address :
1935 S Arlington Heights Rd
Arlington Heights, IL, 60005 - Phone (847) 357-8100
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 12
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
Looky Weed - Buy Marijuana Online
Looky Weed is here to help you navigate the maze of legalized marijuana. We provide you with a complete dispensary directory.
Richard T.
I have Italian Beef at many different places and this is by far my wife's and my favorite place. As others have said, it is cash only, and the service is not the friendliest, but the beef is so flavorful. Your bun is "wet" as in they put plenty Aus Jus on it, but the roll holds up. They put just enough beef on it. We live in Virginia, so on our last day in town, we ended up eating twice here. My wife prefers the hot peppers over the sweet peppers. I prefer mine plain. The fries are really good as well. We didn't try the Italian ice as we were too full. Maybe next time. Those of you who live in Illinois, I hope you realize how lucky you are to have Italian beef so readily available.
(5)Anna L.
Beef. Dipped. Hot. Fries. Watermelon. Combo. Dipped. Hot. Fries. That's the way we like it. Got that? Probably my 4th-ish/forgot how many times visiting from out of state and I've finally figured out the lingo in ordering here. I tell ya, it saves a LOT of time and confusion. Eat in. Out in the patio. Or I suppose the real way is to stand in front of the window facing the parking lot doing the "Chicago Lean". 1) Put your massive juicy sandwich on the counter. 2) Stand in front of it with your chest about a foot from the counter's edge. 3) Lean forward until your chest is at a 45 degree angle to the counter. (Gents, tuck your ties...ladies pull back your hair.) 4) Pick up your sandwich with your elbows propped on the counter. 5) Angle the sandwich 45 degrees to the counter with top end towards your mouth. 6) Eat and enjoy. Let the juicy drippings/toppings hit the floor! Disclaimer: For best results, keep the sandwich wrapped in the wax paper and unwrap it as you go. It'll save you greasy mess and a massive amount of napkins. Well...I didn't do the "Chicago Lean" today, simply because the weather was superb and we sat in the patio. I was free to drop things and let the little fat birdies feast on it. Lunch for 2 only set us back a mere $16. I think the meat and toppings are getting a little skimpier than previous visits. Tsk tsk. Nonetheless, still satisfies my craving for a hot Italian beef.
(4)Molly S.
I love the Johnnie's in Elmwood Park, so working a couple of blocks away from this location tempted me to try it. Cash only, but they do have an atm inside. Or if you don't want to pay the fee and have chase bank, there in an atm in the Walgreens 2 stores away! I got the Italian beef juicy with sweet peppers, an order of fries and a lemon ice. There was no lemon peel in my ice which sometimes happens at the other location. :( But besides that, they are pretty similar. This location even has a shaded outdoor patio which provides the perfect place for sitting and enjoying your food!
(4)Y.D. K.
Similar to the other Johnnie's in Elmwood Park, convenience did me in for this one since its way closer. Beef was good, whether its with hot peppers or sweet peppers. I prefer mine hot or sweet, mood depending, and dipped. Also, the fries were good, fountain drinks well mixed. Also had their lemon Italian ice, very very nice and cold and lemony. Plenty of seats/tables indoors and out, so you can bring some friends/family. Its no 5-star restaurant, but its no dive either, casual dining. And you don't come here for a burger or sutchi! (yeah, a Terry Bradshaw-ism for fun).
(4)Mickey M.
Beef was okay sausage was a bit overlooked and seasoned for me. It's cash only and no frills but a solid affordable lunch. Obviously go with hot peppers!
(3)Jess F.
Beef's are great from here and may even be better than Portillo's beef. Italian ice is awesome! The only thing that needs change is the ketchup. I stopped asking for any because they don't have ketchup packets. They squeeze ketchup in a waxed paper bag and twist the end and give it to you. Very odd and unsanitary to me.
(4)Jay K.
I was really disappointed in my visit there yesterday because I love this place! My combo had an odd and different flavor than I'm used to there and I asked for my sandwiched dipped and they were to dry... I guess when the cashier says juicy he means just touch the ends of the sandwiches in the auju. I'm not ready to give up on this place by any means but it was my first bad experience and I wasn't happy because I have such high expectations for their food. Excellent value.
(2)Jonathan K.
Best beef...period. Lots of black pepper which I love. The sweet peppers are well seasoned and cut into nice bite size pieces. It is the perfect combination of beef, gravy, bread, peppers and spices. Outstanding fries! Thin and crispy. You can't beat Johnnie's for value, taste and portion size.
(5)Bobby J.
Best Italian Beef in the world. I had the luxury of living a few blocks from this delicacy. It filled up my entire childhood with Juicy Beefs and Italian Ice's and couldn't be more happy. Once I moved out and tried other Beef joints I was always left disappointed. If you recommend Portillo's over this you probably live in a suburb.
(5)Anne S.
Italian ice (don't be the fool that asks for cheese on the beef lol.. even though we all want that gooey mozz on top.. their beef really doesn't need it)
(5)T Q.
I've lost count of how many times I've been here. It's the best Italian beef in the Chicagoland area! I've never had anything else from there because the Italian beef is so amazing. I've been going here for years and they're always consistent with their beef. Ive also been to the one in Elmwood park which is a lot smaller but still just as good. I've had Italian beef at many other places in Chicago and it just doesn't compare to johnnie's.
(5)Mike P.
Great beef sandwiches awesome service very reasonably priced fast service for how busy they get worth the trip from Lake Geneva Wi Keep up the hard work Johnny
(5)Carol G.
On my way to the university of wisconsin-madison hospital to see my son he lost his leg yesterday in a accident at work.went to Johnnie's beef Asked for 3 beef sandwiches. 2 to eat in 1 to go for my son with the au- jus on the side the man named Phil said he could not put the au-jus on the side policy reasons. That's what my son ask me to bring him. That was one of the most disappointing think ever. I will never ever go back. I personally think it's because they r so cheap they couldn't even make exception for a my 22 year old son that lost his leg. Can't imagine what other corner they are cutting. VERY DISAPPOINTED. WENT THERE ALL THE TIME
(1)Evan D.
I wish I could leave them half star the staff with very nasty attitude. Overrated The only thing it's good they're really good Italian ice that's it don't even bother with Italian sausage I thought it was a plastic made it was so damn dry
(1)Steve C.
Not the fanciest restaurant you'll get a sandwich at, but for the price it's hard to beat. The Italian beef, served wet and with hot peppers is a rich masterpiece dripping with juice. The peppers bring a bright pop to each bite, making the soggy mess your holding feel worth it. The Italian ice is marvelous, the clean lemonade helps cut the fatty aftertaste of the meal, leaving a refreshing flavor in its wake. All in all, a great experience of cheap and easy food that is well prepared and balanced to make you smile.
(5)Kimsy S.
When I came here, no employees were wearing gloves while handling food. And I mean really handling the food. No gloves while digging in the hot dog steam bin. No gloves while dressing the hot dogs with utensils. I don't think I even saw anyone wash their hands. Thank you, but no thank you.
(1)M G.
If I could give zero I would . I asked for a beef without bread because I have crohns and cannot eat gluten because I will get very sick . I was told they cannot serve me beef without bread ??? Really ? Ok nice service jerk ! Discriminatory I say .
(1)Marty R.
I've been eating here a lot since May as the patio is open and don't have to deal with the chemical stink inside.
(5)Christina A.
I love how quick they are. We went in right at the tail end of lunch the other day and walked out a few minutes later with a bag full of beefs. The beefs here are awesome. Flavorful with the right amount of spice. Tender, not rubbery at all. The bread is fantastic. Even though I order my beef wet, the bread holds together. And they don't skimp on the hot peppers. Truly my most favorite beef anywhere.
(5)Steve F.
One of the best Italian beef stands in Chicago the Italian beef and Italian sausage is great very good hotdogs and one of my favorites Italian ice
(5)B S.
Great tasting beef sandwiches, be sure to ask them to dip the beef in the gravy! Fries are adequate, Italian ice is refreshing and a great compliment to the beef sandwich!
(5)Diane C.
I love this place. Great beef sandwiches. Tamales. Great Italian ice. Fries are the best. Fast service.
(5)Baba P.
I love this place. My favorite is the combo hot. The tamales are also great. Another thing I love is how fast the food comes after I order. Great place to eat!
(5)Dan B.
Johnnie's Beef is a place that quite a few people have told me about over the years. I'd never had the opportunity to stop by but one day after leaving the nearby Mitsuwa Market I spotted it and being right around lunchtime I figured I would stop in and try the hot dog. I went to the counter and placed my order for a hot dog with fries and a drink. While ordering I witnessed the guy working at the counter absolutely screaming at and admonishing another employee who had incorrectly filled my drink. I felt very bad for the employee and immediately my experience was off to a negative start. Once I had my food I sat a ways from the counter to avoid hearing any other screaming that might further dampen my experience and decided to dig into the hot dog. The hot dog served here came on a regular non-poppy seed bun.There was a pickle spear easily the size of the hot dog itself right on top of the hot dog, some nicely slicked pickle, and hot sport peppers on top. The mustard and relish application were fine, the type of relish used here didn't really suit the dog too well. There was no noticeable celery salt. After my first bite I had to remove the pickle spear, the pickle is just way too thick and is the dominant flavor here. With the pickle removed the hot dog tasted pretty decent. Had it been cut thinner or used a slice rather than a spear I would have had the pickle flavor in with the hot dog as well. The hot dog also came with fries, these were thin crispy fries very similar to McDonalds fries. They were not too salty and had a good overall flavor, a fair number of hot dog stands I've visited use these same fries and I find them to be an excellent compliment to hot dogs as long as they're not cooked in a funky tasting oil. These were tasty overall and a nice compliment to the hot dog. Overall my impression of the food here was pretty positive, the hot dog had its problems but wasn't bad, and the fries were good. While service was friendly to me, it was a bit of a downer seeing the employee filling the drink orders get screamed at like that. I hope that the screaming I heard at the drink filler isn't a pattern and was just a rare incident. Overall I'd say Johnny's Beef is an average place to get a hot dog and will get three stars.
(3)Philip S.
Cash only! Are you kidding? This is not the tiny Johnnies in the old neighborhood. This is a corporate, chain-like restaurant in Arlington Heights. Go to Luke's and get a bigger sandwich with your credit card.
(1)Matt B.
I really enjoyed the beef and tamales. Way better than Als Beef, which may be the place tourist know. This place is great and I would highly recommend it.
(5)Brandie E.
Good ... But what's the hype? We are here over the weekend ... Not atmosphere or decor to speak of, but very kid-friendly since the interior was reminiscent of a fast food joint with its tables. Had a beef sandwich - was pretty lean but could have used some cheese. My bf had sausage and peppers and also wasn't overly impressed with it - very basic staples. If I was in the neighborhood I might stop here because the prices are cheap - 2 of us ate for like $12, but I guess that's where I should have kept my expectations.
(3)Melinda M.
THE BEST Italian beef in the Chicago area!
(5)Maigen A.
** CASH ONLY!! ** In true Chicago form, Johnnie's Beef is a hole-in-the-wall, gem-in-the-rough, no-nonsense joint loudly boasting the best Italian beef in the city. Better than Al's? Well, that's what they say. Me, I've never been a big fan of Italian beef (I'm more of a dainty sushi-eating chick than a beef sammich-in-yo-face, juices drippin' down my arms chick) even when I lived in Chicago back in the day. My papa bear, however, LIVES for this stuff... so when we were in town for the holidays, we decided we should check this place out. And then, when we heard the rumor that Johnnie's beat Al's, my dad immediately started rounding us up into the car like cattle. Like I said, no frills. No expensive prices. No emotional expressions either, apparently - as our gruffy cashier didn't even bat an eye when we mentioned we came from out of town to try their stuff. Oh well, whatever, 2mins later and we had a smorgasbord of dripping, juicy, spicy, dipped Italian beef sandwiches with fries and Italian ice on our table. The sandwiches were good (mind the jalapenos, for all you spice-fearing), but my dad swore Al's still reigned supreme. The Italian ice was sooooo refreshing! Forget that it was like, 10 degrees outside. It definitely ain't Mario's Lemonade, but if you're in the 'burbs, it's good enough. GET THE ITALIAN ICE! Watermelon, lemon - they're both awesome! Now, what ISN'T awesome is that weird, tacky animal-zoo mural painted on the wall. Why are there cartoon animals painted on the wall? How did they get names? Why are they eating Italian roast beef sandwiches?! #whatislife
(3)Elizabeth G.
It was a Sunday. I wanted an edible hotdog. I was in the area. Ordered a hotdog with fries. Asked for ketchup(I was taking it to go). I was handed a piece of wax paper in which there was ketchup squeezed into it(I posted of picture of it). TACKY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will not be back just because of this. Cheap! Cheap! Cheap! Charge an extra 10 cents per hotdog and hand out actual ketchup packets! I ended up throwing the ketchup away. The one star is for the edible hotdog. As I said, will not be returning. YUCK!!!!
(1)Christy C.
Wow, I don't like to throw shade but my hot dog was so gross I couldn't even finish it. I ordered the hot dog with fries and a drink. Maybe I've been going to Superdawg too much or maybe I should've ordered the beef, but I doubt I'll ever return to this place. The women running the counter were rude and less than welcoming. The place was clean but not a good atmosphere. More like an eat and get out place. Like I said maybe I didn't order the right thing, but for those of you looking for a hot dog don't order one here. They taste like a horrible ball park or grocery store hot dog. It didn't taste like anything real was inside, certainly didn't taste like a beef hot dog. The fries were okay, nothing like Superdawg and nothing to write home about. Forgettable at best.
(1)Tracie D.
If you see my reviews you'll know I was recently at the Original Johnny's in EP. With that, this review is from someone that regularly visited the EP location most of their life. I knew this location had opened but it just didn't feel right to cheat and visit this place rather than make the trip to the sacrosanct original. But-after driving by for years I stopped in. I saw the "Cash only" note on the door when I walked up and smiled. But I stopped smiling when I came through the doors. To me, this place was soulless. While managers have changed over the 30+ years in EP, the building and order process is reminiscent of the Seinfeld Soup Nazi episode. EP is so small -stand up eating room only inside and a few tables outside that you need to know how to order and step to the side. (My favorite is Combo, dipped, with hot n sweet, large ice, No Lid). The Arlington Height location was silent as a tomb at 2:30 pm on a Monday afternoon. A women with a huge bucket and mop was washing the floor right in front of the register. I was blind sided by this apparition. Surely all places need to be clean but as I gazed around at the "new" Johnny's it was all I could do to order a small ice (no lid) and pay my $1.49. Call me biased but as I ate my ice in the car on the way home-it didn't taste the same. If you are going to Johnny's for the food I'm sure you'll get something good. If you are trying to recapture your youth or share a bit of Chicago with someone visiting you--go to EP to taste and see how old school Chicago style is done.
(3)Rozalynn B.
I've been coming to Johnnie's since I was a child, I now bring my kids here. I use 2 only love the Elmwood location, but lately Elmwood has been disappointing me. They don't dip well enough for my tastes. I like my beefs SOAKED & HELD IN GRAVY. So I haven't bn lately as much as I usually go. I drove to this location because I work near by & I'm ELATED AGAIN!!!!! Ordered a beef hot xtra xtra juicy & got that!!!!! I'm so happy I may go again 2day!!!!!! I wish they'd take debit cards tho!!! This is 2015 guys! Also ppl complain about no cheese, I don't eat that crap anyway!!!!!!
(5)Rachael G.
The food was all pretty good & aside from it being a bit too small, the beef sandwich was one if the best we have ever had! If it was all about the food, I'd give this place 4 stars, but unfortunately the unprofessionalism of the guy taking the orders is RIDICULOUS & ruins the whole experience. If he is not the owner, then he needs to be fired, & if he is the owner he should care about his business & his customers more than he apparently does! Both times we have been there he has been rude, he argues with the female employees behind him & they all look extremely unhappy, plus the last time we went, he had the audacity to laugh when I asked for a cup for water. We are not cheap, my husband orders cokes, but water is really all that I drink! We will not go back!
(1)Joseph W.
Great sandwich, juicy is the way to go! I just read this as being one of the top places to grab a sandwich and I feel lucky to have tried Johnnies. The sausage beef sandwich is really good. I like how fast they move. The sandwich is really good and you can tell they've been doing this a long time. The fries were ok. I think i tried 2 different sandwiches there... but just remember the sausage. The prices are pretty cheap so grab a few! Also, the italian ice is great. The watermelon flavor was good as was the lemon.....
(5)Nellie K.
I grew up with the original in Elmwood Park. I do not think this place is as good with the beef sandwiches. The one in Arlington Heights is a tad too spicy. If I go back for a Johnnie's it will be to the Elmwood Park location. Second, I am all for a clean restaurant to eat at. That being said, the lady that was doing mopping today was mopping the whole restaurant obsessively. I could understand the walk way where people could track in mud or snow. I can understand clearing off tables and wiping them down after people leave. This lady was mopping where people were eating. I mean right where people were eating. Despite there NOT being a mess from it being winter in those areas and despite it looking pretty clean where she was mopping, she continued to move chairs around customers trying to eat. What made it even worse is she used what SMELLED like a whole bottle of Pinesol in her mop bucket. As I tried to eat my fries my upper lip started to burn and my fries tasted like Pinesol. That is how STRONG the smell was. As she got an inch from my feet I told her not to mop. To, "just please wait until we are done eating." I'm all for a hard worker but the smell ruined the eating experience. Next time it's either the original Johnnie's as I mentioned or Portillo's.
(2)Angie L.
Limited menu, cash only.... and the cashier threw my change at me....it gets 3 stars because the food is good..... especially the pepper and egg.....
(3)Don K.
I used to go to the one in Oak park area whenever I was nearby. Boy, was I glad to find out that they have the location in Arlington Heights since I frequent Northwest Suburb. Also it is very close to I-90 so that I can stop by here anytime when I am on I-90 even if I do not have plan to stop by at Arlington Heights. Strorefront: This location is definately much better than Oak Park location. They are fairly clean for italian beef place. Also, this independant building has ample parking. Service: In-personal, but very very quick. Once you are at the register for ordering, you wait time is less than one minute. For many, it will just be 20-30 seconds until you have your food on your hand. This is the same concept with Oak Park location where the store is much more busier, but I do not think it fits the purpose in this store. I think they should make ordering process a little bit more friendly. Food: The number one reason why I come to this place is lemon ice. Unlike Oak Park, they also have watermelon flavor, which I do not like. It does not have a kick like lemon. Their ice is like no other. Usual italian ice is much more smooth than theirs. Believe it or not, I like it much better Johnny's way than any others. While thier portion is very large, but they do not pack it nicely as Oak Park does. But with that size, I won't complaint. In terms of beef, I am in an opinion that they are in a better side, but not too different. Ther portion for beef happens to be smaller than usual. Go here for Lemon ice. You won't be sorry.
(4)Jack O.
Does not take credit cards. Really? The product served is outstanding. It's a real issue as they do not want their income tracked.
(1)A T.
The watermelon ice is so delicious. Order a large. The sweet peppers on the Italian beef were still a little spicey, so if you are wary of heat, stick with the sweet option.
(4)Daniel P.
I have eaten here plenty of times and have never had a bad experience. They food is incredible and the prices are fitting. The icie's are the way to go during the summer. Don't judge a place simply on its dated appearance. Yes its cash only but I am sure it helps keep costs down.
(5)Anthony R.
Good tasting food, but the beef sandwiches were a little on the small side. Excellent italian ice. Definitely is not a place you go to for the atmosphere, seating, and cleanliness... You go there for the tasty beefs and italian ices! Remember to have cash on hand as they do not take credit. If I remember I think there is an ATM there if needed.
(4)Jim P.
I revisited this place partly with the hope that things would have improved. I pretty much stand by my original review. My Italian beef and sausage combo was poor. it was not fresh tasting at all. I'd describe it as mushy but not moist. This time the beef was bland, quite dry and essentially tasteless. The sausage was spicy but not flavorful. Basically when you bit into it you just had a sense of a hot and spicy taste and nothing else. One had the feeling the sandwich had been prepared hours ago and then set off to the side. The (boiled) hot dog was decent if slightly undercooked. The fries were fair. The tamale was good (it's pretty hard to mess up a tamale). I'd say their prices are reasonable, but that assumes a quality product. I wouldn't want this combo sandwich if they gave it away. A positive is their service has always been quick and efficient. The counter people have always been polite to me.
(2)jun k.
Yes, yes, and YES. Most favorite place! Hole in the wall. Cheap. Unassuming. Soggy, dipped sandwiches. SO. GOOD. The watermelon italian ice - you have to get it. Amazing. The dipped sandwich. Amazing beef. LOVED the sweet peppers and the spicy peppers. Would skip the fries. Watched the SF49'ers win also!
(5)Margarita M.
"BEST" Italian beef and watermelon ice, AHYI DELICIOUS!!! Maybe they'll consider coming to Stafford, Virginia, OH wishful thinking!
(5)Linda C.
Good Beef. Pretty consistent but cash only. Open late! Good area lots of parking ! Nice Dine In eating area as well. I would recommend Johnny's Beef.
(3)Jim D.
Food is ok but the policy's are bull. $1.90 for a large fountain drink 32oz and they refuse to give refills. Napkins are very small need 50 to keep clean. No towels in restroom and very dirty restroom, paper all over the floor garbage over flowing with 7 employees standing around talking.
(2)Rebecca H.
Although they do only accept cash, this restaurant has possibly the best Italian beef sandwiches I've ever had! They're especially good with sweet peppers :-) Also, great shaved ice. The service is efficient - they leave no time for deciding at the counter, so you better know what you want beforehand, and speak quickly! It pays off - you get your food almost immediately after ordering. It has a very interesting "big city" ambience to it, and is overall a great business if you're looking for a filling and delicious lunch.
(5)Brian P.
For the best combo in Chicagoland. Nothing like a combo sweet & hot. With a nice large Lemon ice.
(5)John O.
As good as it gets. Quick service. Love the combo with hot peppers. Extra parking available in next parking lot. Cash only btw.
(5)Henry A.
Ok I may be new to Yelp BUT WHAT GIVES? I post an honest review last week and now my review is buried?!? I did not start Yelping to "Slam" businesses like others. I did it bc I love food and great service! Any review less than 4-stars isn't factored! Reviews 3&4 yrs old rate but mine doesn't! i found Cafe Zalute (a fine establishment I've been to a dozen times) in Rosemont has 2-one star reviews in the first four! Guess i should rate Yelp instead! What happened to the 12% of two stars that supposedly are included? Thus i moved it up 1-star, u happy?!!! I've lived in Chicago my whole life and now I'm seeing first hand...REALLY! See original post below:( Sorry to the Johnnie's 'die-hards' but bottom line, the 'au jus' is way, way too oily and the beef nothing special to rate all those 4 & 5 star ratings. Perhaps those reviews weigh too heavy the fact that they ARE a great institution, decent prices with super-duper fast service second to none AND have the BEST Italian Ice...But the food is only so-so and am not a fan of over-cooked Italian Sausage. Nor the fact they refuse to supply any ketchup packets for hot dogs to-go. Very good David Berg dogs but ketchup rolled up in the wax paper makes eating the fries a messy royal-pia to eat. Sorry.
(3)Lucas N.
Cheap! Quick ! And delicious !! The lines are always long there but it goes by fast Only down side is that they only accept cash and let's be real who carries cash these days right ?
(5)Marcus O.
Good Italian Ice and for you money you can't beat it.
(4)Juan M.
Definitely a great beef sammy. Price is very reasonable with the way food cost are. Always clean and fast. The best Italian ice around.
(5)Matt D.
If you are from the area and don't know about Johnny's you are missing out. This place is a local hot spot. They have great beef, hot dogs, etc. I always get the double dog with everything and it comes with a drink for right around $3. It's a great deal and delicious.
(5)Jason E.
If you want a tasty italian beef or italian ice - or loads of fries - and want them fast and cheap, Johnnie's is your place. It's a casual place with good prices and good food. But bring cash - they don't take cards.
(4)Faye B.
Want a simple beef place then definitely check this out. A no nonsense place with a simplified menu, but it's solid so no major complaints here. I was feeling the beef, but was concerned that I couldn't douse it with cheese like I do when I'm at Portillos, but when you get your meal you really find there is no need. The beef is tasty with just the right balance of jus and you are good to go!
(4)Ross P.
Yes cash only, yes small menu, yes it's not much for looks but who cares? BEST BEEF EVER. The meat is tender the bread is fluffy and they have the most flavorful au jous imaginable. I don't live close but if I am in the area I always make the extra effort to go. This is a beef place and it nails it. Also they make their own Italian ice and its not too shabby either
(5)bob j.
reasonable price, beef sandwich was tasty, Chicago dog was a bit cold and on a plain bun (prefer poppy seed) Italian ice was GREAT!
(4)Donald O.
ohhh the best beef ever. FYI you can order beef by the pound and cook yourself at home. They just need a day or 2 notice. Great idea if you have a big group. But this place is just so good.
(5)John V.
My favorite place to get a dog. The complimentary fries truly compliment their dogs as well. I like to stick the fries in my hot dog. When you order their beef, never forget to ask for it wet. Very reasonable prices but make sure you have cash on you because it's cash only!
(5)Lisa J.
The beef and Italian ice are delicious, sausage is not, fries are just ok. The workers can be pretty rude, but who cares. THE BEEF IS AMAZING.
(5)Keith S.
I came to Johnnie's on a recommendation to get the Italian Beef and a lemonade Italian ice. I'm glad I listened. I have had several Italian beef sandwiches in the recent past on my "gluttony of chicago" self tour. I would have to give Johnnie's the edge so far on overall taste. The bread tasted good but was not quite as sturdy as I would like, but the meat was just plain delicious. On a hot day, there isn't much better than pairing it all with an Italian Ice. Brain freeze heaven. Service was friendly and extremely fast during the lunch rush. Only negative is cash only.
(5)Danny M.
Haven't been to Johnnie's in years, but when I went back last week...this place is still bomb! This place have the best Italian Beef for a great price. They taste great in both sweet or hot peppers! I am sad I live about 30 minutes from here, but every chance I get when I am around, this place will be 1st on my list!
(5)Jason P.
I think I perfer Portillo's. i dunno about you but cash only in 2014? come on... my Italian beef was pretty dry the last time i ordered from here. i didn't know i needed to ask for it dipped or anything.
(3)Jim S.
I had to give johnnies only 2-stars even though it's is the best flavored beef sandwich In Chicagoland. The sandwiches are tiny, around 5 inches sometimes less. The amount of beef in my sandwich this afternoon was minuscule. If I had to guess about 1/8 lbs soaking wet. You could not see the meat or hot peppers in the sandwich, the bread (5" in length) engulfed everything. Highly recommend the tamales and Italian Ice!
(2)Janni V.
Hands-down, this is my favorite Italian beef sandwich. Something about the way they spice their beef just leaves everyone else in the dust. Portillo's is good. Curly's is good. But Johnnie's? Johnnie's is great. Get it dipped, like everyone else says. Both sweet and hot peppers are good. This place looks like an old-school hot dog stand. It's very utilitarian inside, with a lot of outdoor seating that's nice when the weather cooperates. Bathrooms are simple and clean. (Beware: it's difficult to get the doors open to go wash your hands if you get really messy with your sandwich while you sit outside. Eat with friends and make them open the door.) The other reason to go here, and the one that sets them apart IMHO? Their Italian ice. Get a small lemon ice and share with a friend. Don't get a large unless you know what you're doing, or have brought your family with to share it (or a close group of friends who don't mind sharing). The small is big enough for two to share. The large is family-sized. I feel like I never really understood Italian ice until I had this Italian ice. Then, it was like a light bulb went on, sort of like that scene out of the Blues Brothers. I did a bunch of somersaults out to the parking lot, hopped on my motorcycle, and got the band back together. I think James Brown may have been involved. That's some good Italian ice.
(5)Elizabeth R.
Heard great things about this place so had to check it out while in the area. When we got there we realized it's cash only, luckily there was an ATM inside. My husband got the beef and sausage combo, my daughter got a hot dog and I got the pepper sandwich. I love that they had the option to get a pepper sandwich because I don't always like to eat meat. I had my sandwich au jus style and it seemed a little spicy which I loved but keep that in mind if your sensitive to heat. I wouldn't say the customer service was great but they seemed accustom to a fast-paced service. The food was good enough but not anything unusually great or different from what I have had before. Now for the real reason I went there we also tried their Italian ice, seems hard to find good Italian ice. They had two flavors watermelon and lemon we had both and it was excellent! Everything was reasonably priced but for the distance I would have to drive, I would have to say I won't be making a trip back anytime soon.
(3)Rachel E.
Best place for an Italian beef and Italian ice at a great price. It is worth paying only in cash. I come out of my way just to eat here. Make sure you order your Italian beef dipped with hot and sweet peppers on top..it will be one of the best sandwiches you've ever had.
(5)Jinah Y.
love love love johnnies! I'm not a huge Italian beef fan but this place does it right with the flavor/juices. I usually get the Italian sausage w/hot peppers and it never disappoints! follow the advice of all the other reviewers: GET THE ITALIAN ICE! its great to come out when the weather is nice and sit on their picnic style tables. my one and only complaint about this place (and why I could not give it 5 stars) is the inability to pay with a credit card =( but hey, if you don't mind paying the fee equivalent to the price of one of their sandwiches to take use their ATM, knock yourself out!
(4)Jacob D.
Good food, cash only. If you like Italian beef, you must try this place.
(4)Somchai S.
Ive been to Johnnies in Elmwood Park and it wasnt great. I realized what was wrong...I did not get it dipped! The italian beef sandwich is moist and oozing with flavor once dipped. The fries were fresh and crispy. The surprising star was the watermelon italian ice. Clean, affordable, and delicious. What more could you ask for?
(5)Jared W.
There are a lot of good places in Chicago to get a beef, but Johnnie's is the best. I think the difference maker is their au jus. It's more flavorful than other places, so the whole sandwich has more flavor than any other beef place. Not only that, but the sausage they have has a spicy kick to it that makes for a great sandwich by itself, or in a combo with the beef. The icing on the Johnnie's cake is the lemon ice. Made in house, and it's head and shoulders above anything else like it. Get one. Seriously. Just make sure to have cash when you go, because they don't take cards.
(5)Jorge C.
Very quick service. Amazing beef. Very delicious Italian ice! It is cash only but it's okay because this place is awesome!
(5)Elizabeth S.
I love how this place is so simple and so quick. I literally handed the cashier the cash and my order was right infront of me. The kitchen is all open and right infront of you at this eatery where they have a team of people all listening to what you order with the cashier and set right off in making it as you pay. Beef sandwiches $3.95. If you want sweet peppers or hot peppers, they're 32 cents each. They're worth getting if you like them to add to your sandwich. Once you have it, you know what they hype is all about. How could something so simple as beef and a bun taste so good??!! The fries are average. Nothing spectacular about them, but you order them to compliment the sandwich= $1.34. Large lemonade italian ice=$1.85. TOTALLY WORTH GETTING. So refreshing and you don't feel guilty having it because it's ice!
(5)Chet M.
What an iconic place, and the prices, so fair! Fed my family of 4 for under $25 and we ate like kings. Beef, sausage are very good but the Itailian lemonade is to die for at $1.89. Sorry Marios, don't need you anymore!
(4)Mike V.
Only $4 for an Italian beef? Wow! Smaller but it leaves room for other things......like Two Italian beefs. Dunked with hot peppers. The lemon ice is amazing too. A small isn't too small.
(5)Gary H.
Italian sausage was dry and not at all juicy like I would expect it to be. Manager (owner?) did not seem to care when asked if this is how they are used to serving it. Peppers were over cooked and tasteless. Went back to counter for a lemon ice and manager asked about how sausage was. I said it got better on other end and may be over-cooked on end I started on. He said that was probably it. I said yeah but you should want the whole thing to be good. He had no response. Anyhow, the ice was good so I give them two stars for that. Maybe their beef is better but I don't plan to try after experiencing their nonchalance about a customer's dissatisfaction.
(2)John S.
Cash only but damn good beef! Insanely fast as well. Going back everytime I'm in Chicago. Friendly staff. No cheese for your fries though!
(5)Joe J.
Really good beef sandwiches. I always ordered the beef with fries - which is amazing until the other day when I tried a combo. I didn't like the sausage on the combo and regretted not just ordering a beef. If I had never been adventurous and tried something new I would have given it 5 stars. Otherwise the beef sandwiches and fries are incredible. They don't take credit cards though which is really odd, and I never carry cash so my girlfriend had to pay. Sucker!!!
(4)Chris W.
Really don't understand why everyone is giving them 5 stars......their hot dogs are tasteless (was hoping for something like Gene & Judes) husband had the combo beef/sausage and holy cow extremely spicy.....I like spice but it was hot in the spice department and their sausage was like ground meat...wasn't anything like any Italian Sausage I've ever tasted.....sorry but it was a waste of money
(1)Bridget B.
Did NOT even approach us for our order NO meat ALL BREAD Portillos ROCKS!
(1)Bnilla R.
Delicious! Their Italian beef sandwich with peppers is tantalizing. My husband and I dined here two days in a row. I will miss this kind of food when we return home to Oklahoma.
(5)Beth J.
My husband eats there for lunch a lot. One night we decided to go there and really I was quite surprised how great the food was.
(4)Tony U.
Ok, I guess when you want it "soaked" you have to say "dipped with a fork." Good to know.
(4)Bill V.
I've been to both their locations. Until we found the Arlington Heights location we used to drive all the way back to Elmwood park for their beef and italian ice. Yes, it's that good. Put simply - best beef sandwich in Chicago. Best beef sandwich I've had - and I've been around the world for work. Portillos is second on my list in the local Chicago area - but a distant second. As other reviewers have stated it's no frills place and you must pay cash. But once you sample a beef with sweet peppers you will forever compare every other beef sandwich you eat to Johnny's and realize they have a flavor all their own.
(5)Bradley P.
There are very few hot dog joints that I rate low, considering I go to them often, and their hard enough to compare. But this specific one made me and my dad furious. The main problem I had here was when we had specifically made an order for my younger brother who has food allergies to wheat. My dad asked the cashier to make an order of a hot - dog, but simply without a bun. The cashier firmly said "no! We don't do that here!" Both my dad and I were upset, so we asked for the manager. He was even more rude to my 8 YEAR OLD LITTLE BROTHER! We asked what the trouble was and he simply said: "look at this sign!" that said they only serve hot dogs with buns. (Very silly: piece of paper under counter underneath a bunch of other things.) Then told my innocent brother to go eat somewhere else. I felt so bad and he was crying. His feelings were more hurt than I have seen in a long time. Not only were we trying to have some fun and go out to eat. But we also didn't get to because we just arrived when most other nearby restaurants closed. Don't visit: may sound good, but definitely not nice to people with allergies and are the opposite of accomodating: oh yeah another thing: cash only.
(1)Jenni E.
WHAT? I had no idea that the original Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood park had another location in Arlington Heights. When I was driving through one day and saw it, I had to stop. The one thing that this place has that the EP location doesn't is a good location. This one has plenty of places to enjoy your food inside and they also have an outdoor patio for seating as well. The food tasted the same to me and this location also has watermelon Italian ice which was delicious. If I was in the area again, I would definitely stop for a beef just like I do any time I am in EP. They only accept cash just like the EP location.
(4)Brooke A.
Johnnie's is a great place to have a quick bite. Unfortunately, it is CASH ONLY! It is always busy at lunch. Watch out if you drive. The parking lot is really dangerous! I've almost got hit numerous times. The service is fast and friendly. They normally get the line through real quick. I haven't had one thing on the menu that isn't good, granted there is only about a handful or two of items on the menu. The Italian Beef is one of the best in town and they use REAL beef hot dogs. Both items come with plenty of fresh hot fries. The will also give you "ketchup to go" if you ask. The literally squeeze ketchup onto paraffin wax paper and roll it up and give it to you. Fairly Funny. Also, try the Italian Ice! There is watermelon and lemon - both a delicious treat!
(4)Josh N.
Great day for Italian lemon ice
(5)John C.
I love Johnnie's Beef, but I've noticed the last few times I;ve been there the strong chemical smell of cleaning agents. It appears the manager is a clean freak, which is a good thing, but the constant smell of ammonia and other chemicals has been really strong. In fact, my wife and I were here on Tuesday and the beef actually had a chemical taste, like they cleaned out the serving trays and never rinsed them off. I'll still keep going, but stop with the cleaning chemicals, when the customers are eating folks!
(4)R W.
This place is great they have great beef, great fries, and great Italian ice. Over all I LIKE THIS JOINT
(4)Evan L.
I didn't eat there. So how can I write a review? Came for take out Italian Beef asked for au jus on the side and the counter man said we don't do that. How can this be if a beef is "dipped" at the restaurant it will be a soggy mess in minutes, if not it will be dry and not very tasty. I wAs patient and asked if they had containers they could put juice in- all responses were negative. Wish I could review the beef but the counter help wasn't helpful or english was not their language of choice or they're not very bright. Went east to Mr Beef, they put juice on the side and had a fine beef sandwich
(2)tim t.
Best beef on EARTH!! That is the truth!! Been going here 17 years... No need to go anywhere else!
(5)Judi S.
I'm from California and they don't serve Italian sandwiches like this there or if they do I haven't come across them yet. What is an Italian? It's oven roasted beef cut paper thin and then steamed to perfection. The grinder roll is dipped in au jus seasoned with organo? and you can get it with grilled green bell peppers (sweet) which is what I ordered or hot peppers. Johnnie's menu had a grand total of 13 food items on it, including hot dogs and fries and then you can get either a soda or an Italian ice to drink... it's shaved ice like a snow cone heaping over the top. And good God are they quick. By the time the cashier hands you your change and the soda, your food it up and waiting for you in a paper bag. Who needs trays? We don't need no stinkin' trays. The place has a family atmosphere. Let's put it this way, I finished the sandwich with as much mustard as I wanted before the drink and that rarely happens with me. When you're hankerin' for beef, Johnnie's is the place that does the trick. CASH ONLY.
(3)Katie Z.
not that great- place looks dirty and staff is unfriendly. they have to get with the times-people dont carry cash anymore. there were a few times we wanted to stop in but "Aw we dont have cash. well portillos it is." thought the Italian ice didnt taste quite right- something was off.
(3)Pixie L.
Amazing!!! I always have to get an Italian Beef sandwich when I am in Chicago, and this trip was no different. I found this place on yelp and had to try it -soooo thrilled that I did. Beef sandwiches were excellent, perfect seasoning, fresh bread, and made just perfectly! Yum!!! The fries were good, too, and I could not leave without grabbing a watermelon Italian ice bc everyone else was getting them, too, and they looked dee-licious! (It was!). Service was insanely fast, so practically no wait for the food, and it was HOT and tasty! Perfect meal. If you're in the area, this place is a must for beef sandwiches. I love it!
(5)Rob W.
I grew up near the Johnnie's in Elmwood Park and have always been a big fan. Their Italian Ice is truly an original and seldom found the way they make it at any other establishment. The beefs at the EP store are good too. But the beef at the Arlington Heights store is just OK. I stopped there recently and ordered a combo. The Italian sausage was good and enjoyable, but the beef was surprisingly void of flavor. Nothing wrong with the beef itself - it wasn't old or anything, just didn't have any taste. I see one reviewer ranks this above Portillo's - I just can't see that. As much as I'd rather say that this longtime place has a better beef than the somewhat "chainy" Portillo's, it just doesn't. Blandarama is more like it - wish I had more stars to offer, but 3 is pretty generous.
(3)Alex G.
If someone was heading to the airport and asked me where to get a Chicago style Italian beef, I wouldn't hesitate a moment before recommending Johnnie's. My visit on Saturday reaffirmed that this is one tasty sandwich. Now if they could replace the frozen, undercooked fries with fresh cut, they would rate 5 stars on my list. While there are no shortage of good beef stands in Chicago, Johnnie's is solidly in my top 5.
(4)Denise H.
First things first-I grew up in Elmwood Park-"home" of the first "Johnnie's Beef". I live in Schaumburg and Arlington Heights is much closer. I LOVE Johnnie's! Beef is great, Hot Dogs are yummy-LOVE the bunch tamales!!! The sausage/combo sandwiches are really good. And the Italian Ice...I don't think EP has watermelon-but I don't go there very often... And the mural of the animals on the wall? Why wouldn't they have names and why wouldn't they be eating at Johnnie's? I think it's adorable-and the names may be of people who have worked there-and the "location" of the Critter Picnic is EP...I really appreciate it!
(5)Tony T.
Amazing Beef Sandwiches! Has been a favorite of my family for years and even stopped by twice on my last Chicago visit! Beef, Dogs, fries, Italian Ice - all great! CASH ONLY!
(5)Dave W.
You must get the combo sandwich. The sausage is even better than the beef. As others stated both peppers are also great. I see lots of complaints about cash only but the prices are reasonable and the lines are still out the door. Wouldn't you only take cash if you could?
(4)Clifford B.
Awesome! Shredded beef sandwich and fries. Shaved ice in winter. Super fast service; I paid and had my freshly prepared sandwich in seconds. It was so good I asked my companions about the fries. They pointed out no one left any fries sitting, so I grabbed an order and was not disappointed.
(5)Donna M.
Gotta have cash when you go but it's worth it! I had an Italian beef and fries and it was delish!!! Food is fresh and so good!!! Happy tummy!
(4)Charlotte P.
I've been passing by this place for the past 2 years without giving it a second thought, but yesterday, I was out running errands, and though to myself "self....an italian ice sounds really good about now" so I pulled into Johnnie's. The line wasn't too bad--it was early on a Sunday evening. I knew ahead that it was cash only so that wasn't a problem. There were racks of sausages cooking on the grill, so it's a pity I wasn't really hungry....note to self--have to come back for that, but the italian ice was in a word.....AMAZEBALLS!! Very low key--ice from a plastic bucket. Watermelon or Lemon. I chose the watermelon--ordered a large, and it seriously took me like an hour to finish the whole thing. Part of the reason is because they only give you a spoon/straw, and no regular spoons are available, but I'm not complaining. Slightly sweet and very refreshing. Service was fast, but not friendly at all, so if you're looking for a warm fuzzy experience with the guy running the cash register, be prepared to be disappointed. I'm giving it 4 stars because I haven't tried the beef or sausage.....but judging on the Italian Ice alone---it's worth a trip back.
(4)N B.
I pretty much have to give this a 5 star review as it is my favorite italian beef place in the Chicagoland area. The beef sandwich by itself is above average, but the charcoal grilled sausage in the combo sandwich is what really sets this place apart from other beef stands. I would suggest to order the combo hot, fries, and a large lemon ice. Pros: -Great prices -All of the ingredients (bread, beef, sausage, fries...) are the best I've had at a beef place Cons: -Clearly unhealthy for you -watermelon italian ice is medicore at best -Only two locations. I feel that there is a market for sandwiches like this -Cash only
(5)Howard C.
Best beef around!!! Johnnie's has that giardiniera that leaves your lips burning for a little while. Sooooooo good. Fries are good enough, especially since always nice and hot. Italian Ice is really awesome! Hot dogs are solid. Not poppy seed buns, but delicious. Probably the only place I'm not complaining about no poppy seeds. You'll enjoy! CASH ONLY REMINDER!!!
(5)Aaron D.
We are in the area 2-3 times per year. Everytime we visit Johnnie's is a must visit. My daughter loves the Watermelow Italian Ice and I am partial to the beef with sweet & hot peppers. Perfect stop for lunch if you do not mind the lines. Lines move fast, the staff is awesome and efficient. Food is priced perfectly, sized large, and always tastes great. Basic interior, but what else do you need? Hotdogs, fries, italian beef, sausages and Italian Ice.
(4)Adam R.
Thank you Yelp! This is probably the best Italian Beef I've ever had. The meat had great taste, the peppers were strong but not over powering, the bread stayed firm enough despite being dipped. Really good stuff. The fries were crispy when I asked for them that way too, which was great of course. Even my grandfather and uncle who'd never been there before were skeptical going in, as they'd only been having Portillo's. But Johnnie's changed their mind. I will definitely be back.
(5)Xavier W.
Italian beef sandwich with the hot peppers for the win, I devoured that thing in an instant. The store isn't exactly spectacular looking, old and a little run down but I guess they pass the savings onto the customers. The frozen lemonade was delicious and a great refreshing drink/dessert to top off that meal, dont bother with the frozen watermelon whatever though, that was just pink cotton candy tasting nonsense. One tip of advice though, as much as I love fries and theirs is pretty good, just leave it and either save room for another sandwich/hot dog or fill up on the large frozen lemonade.
(5)James T.
I grew up in Elmwood Park and Johnnies was the yard stick for all others. When they opened in Arlington hts I was excited but now very disappointed . The great French gonnella bread they used to use is replaced by some cheap mushy imitation bread and the beef has been surpassed by Portillo s and Bouna . The end of an era. Jim T..
(2)Ari T.
The reviews are spot-on -- holy crap this is good. A beef sandwich will set you back $4. It's not huge, but they're pretty generous with the beef. The beef is flavorful -- it puts places like Al's to shame. And the sandwich was in front of me before I was able to get my money out of my wallet. I didn't get an Italian ice (it was 20 degrees outside), but I saw them serve someone else and it was a very generous portion. Bottom line: I wouldn't start my New Year's diet here, but if you're looking for good, cheap food in Arlington Heights, this is the place.
(5)levramosis H.
Great Italian beef, great lemon ice. The combo was interesting, but I would probably stick to the regular beef in the future. We got them dipped with hot giardiniera. The giardiniera was dominated by peppers and didn't have much crunch. The dip was incomplete with still plenty of dry bun which still disintegrated partway through the sandwich. The fries are standard fast food, frozen ore ida fries. The watermelon ice was like a watermelon jolly rancher ice, although they report using real watermelon.
(4)Joe M.
The food here is delicious. The fries are always cooked perfectly and the beefs and combos are always up to standard. If you want a beef, you come to Johnnie's. The Italian ice is also huge and comes in lemon or watermelon, both are awesome.
(5)Will S.
I would say that I enjoyed Johnny's Beef, but it wasn't my favorite. Yes, the service was fast, and the food was ready at the time I paid IN CASH! They do NOT accept credit or debit cards, but they DO have an ATM machine in the lobby (big deal). The beef was very tasty, and plentiful on the fresh french bread. The fries were hot, crispy on the outside, and warm & soft inside. The clerks were robotic, not particularly friendly, but for what I paid, I'd say it was OK. I opted for a watermelon Italian ice which was also tasty, but they DON'T HAVE SPOONS! I had to eat mine with a plastic fork, and then drank it down when it became liquidy towards the end. Plenty of seats inside, and a few outside (I don't eat outside in hot weather). I asked for a lid for my Italian ice, and the clerk said nothing at all, retrieving the plastic lid and presenting it to me Positives: Good tasting Italian beef plentiful on a fresh piece of French bread Lots of fries, cooked to a tasty crispy outside & soft inside Good portion of Italian Ice for the price ATM in lobby (I still say big deal) Negatives: Do not accept credit or debit cards No spoons, just plastic forks available Stoic, unfriendly clerks & employees Would I return here? Possibly. Would I recommend it? Maybe, but they need to lighten up, and be a little more animated with their customers.
(3)Stephanie C.
THE BEST ITALIAN BEEF IN CHICAGO. -1 Star for not having cheese sauce and for it being cash-only.
(4)Mark F.
Best Italian beef. End of story. With a decor straight out of another decade and prices to match, if you ever have a hankering for some Italian beef look no further. You can enjoy a sandwich, fries, Italian ice and a soda for under $10. That's a tasty deal if you ask me. If there were a downside it would be that they only accept cash. Meh, so what? There's an ATM machine right inside in case you forget that one rule. I want another sandwich just writing about it...
(5)David M.
It's probably a sin to say that my favorite Beef in Chicago is... not in Chicago at all! But this one is the best I've had so far. And no, I'm not biased because I live here now. I'll freely admit that Arlington Heights does not have the kind of food options that Chicago has. That's probably the understatement of the year. But when it comes to Italian Beefs, Johnnie's beats Al's and everything else. There are only 13 or so items on the menu, but that's part of the charm; do a few things and do them well. And they don't take cash. That's also part of the charm. And they aren't the friendliest people you've ever met. Did I mention this place is loaded with charm? On the plus side, your food will be ready before you've gotten your change back, and in the summer the patio is beautiful and shaded. It IS the image of summertime to me. I almost can't drive by it without stopping in, at least for a lemon ice. But my recommended dishes here are the beef - extra juicy with hot peppers - and a tamale. They also have quite serviceable Chicago-style hot dogs and fries, however. I'm not sure why the Italian Beef has to be such a contentious affair in Chicago and the surrounding area, but I'll gladly go out on my shield defending Johnnie's.
(5)Hera J.
This place is no frills and only accepts cash so be prepared! We all have our favorite Italian beef spot. And we all know that Portillo's is a safe bet. However pound for pound the Italian beef at Johnny's has more flavor then most other spots. The reason for the four stars is because they have been rather inconsistent in their seasoning. At times their beef may be salty and fries may be overcooked. However when you catch them on the good day you would be surprised that you have lived this long without eating here. Plus on their fast and friendly staff.
(4)Esther L.
Pretty accessible as far as the indoor sitting. They also have outdoor seating and restrooms, but I didn't get to scope out the wheelchair accessibility. They do have wheelchair accessible parking. They had a cloth tent in front of the main door, probably to keep the AC and heat inside, which made it harder for my sister to hold the doors both open for me. Not the best Italian beef, but pretty cheap. It was kind of salty. We like the Italian beef at Portillo's and Torre and Luke's better. They have a limited menu. We did like the watermelon Italian ice. We shared a small that had some seeds, but it was served so it looked like a flower in a cup. There was ample seating, TVs, and a mural of the restaurant in Chicago.
(3)Mike M.
Excellent tasting beef (I usually get the Italian combo which is beef and sausage). I like their fries, they remind of how McDonald's fries used to taste. You also have to get their Italian ice. Don't leave there without at least a small Italian ice. Even if the line is long and out the door you won't wait long. They move the customers along pretty fast. Fyi - cash only (they do have an ATM inside)
(5)Steve D.
Stopped in here for one of their beef sandwiches. They have a zillion reviews already so not much more that I can add. Been here a whole bunch of times. A very solid beef sandwich can be had here. Fries are so-so, Italian ice is good. If you are in the area, worth checking out. Cheers to All
(4)Jessica S.
Visited this place for the first time yesterday. Actually, it was my first meal back in the Chicagoland area after living in Madison for 4 years (where they don't eat beef, apparently). I've been to so many places where the beef has no taste & it's an awful thing. Johnnies beef is the tastiest beef I've ever had, even without peppers and cheese. Sandwiches are cheap, too. I definitely plan on eating at this place more now that I'm back in the area.
(5)Salima B.
best beef you can get in the subs! Love the spicy giardiniera, could eat it with a spoon thats how good it is!
(5)Peter Q.
Johnnie's comes well rated and it's not hard to see why. Quick service and a heaping Italian beef sandwich will get you that. But...to me the sandwich was a bit bland. Yeah, you can throw a bunch of stuff on it, but to me the beef shouldn't need all that extra help. Above average, but nothing special.
(3)Sean F.
Oh my freaking god that is a good beef sandwich. Throw in the wonderful lemon ice and you're set. The fries are totally average, but who cares. Get a beef. Get a lemon ice. Get happy.
(5)scott k.
service fast. beef is good not great. fries ok. itailian ice makes it worth the trip.
(3)Shannon S.
Johnnie's Beef - Thumbs Up! I had a window of time to drive out, grab lunch, and sit down and Johnnie's Beef ended up being my 25-minute destination. I am a big fan of simplicity and Johnnie's does not make it complicated. I ordered the beef (soaked) with hot peppers, fries, and a soda. All this for under $10. It really is possible to have dreams about food, especially Johnnie's Beef. It's CASH ONLY so you better bring your spare change, Washingtons, Lincolns, or Hamiltons.
(5)Colie L.
RUDE. I have celiac disease which means I am allergic to wheat, flour, etc. which includes bread. When I went to this location and asked for an italian beef without bread I was told no. I asked for the bread on the side and they said no. I asked if I could still pay for the bread just not get it andI was told no. When I explained I am allergic to the bread they still said no. I said fine, no beef I'll take fries and the rest of my party ordered. When we got our order they still charged me for a the beef I said no to! When I took the beef back they turned around and gave it to someone else (gross). The whole time my party and I sat there to eat I was getting stares, they talked about me in Spanish (which I understand) and were rude. I don't see why the beef HAS to go on the bread when the beef just sits there alone already. SO many people have celiac disease today, and they will lose a lot of potential customers for this silly 'rule' and they lost a loyal costumer today.
(1)Dave P.
Ever crave some salty, hearty, delicious beef? Stop by Johnnie's. In my opinion, this place beats Portillo's beef. Now, you're probably howling at me and going to say that Portillo's has some of the best beef in Chicago. But let me give my reasons why. Ever have a dry beef at Portillo's? Not enough flavor? Too much beef? Johnnie's is just the opposite. The beef and bread are perfectly moist. The beef to bread ratio is perfect every time. Johnnie's may not have the variety of a Portillo's. You can't have mozzarella on the beef. The menu is not as large. But I think the taste is a good trade. And where else can you get a heaping italian ice around the area for under 2 bucks?
(4)Frank B.
I've lived in Chicagoland my whole life and go out to eat all the time. I only have a tiny handful of truly amazing places to eat at and this is one. Beef with sweet peppers and lemonade are amazing. I mean best I ever had. Prices reasonable, consistent, and good service. Does not get much better than this.
(5)Michele B.
Nothing is better than a nice hot Italian Beef with hot peppers after digging out of the blizzard. Rolled into Johnnies and ordered a beef dry (otherwise the bread just falls apart) with hot peppers and I didn't even have to wait in line! Where is everyone, still buried???? Well my answer came when I opened my beef--where is it? The beef I mean?? I know the economy is bad, but not desperate. I now understand where the line went--probably to Mr. Beefy down the street. I usually stop in here when I need my beef fix and don't want to do the drive to LuLu's in the City (see Hot Diggity Dog list), but it will be a while before I make Johnnies my go to.
(2)Ruoyu S.
Italian beef sandwich of Johnnies's is good. Best beef one can expect in a fastfood restaurant! Definitely recommend it! I ordered one Italian beef, one Italian sausage, only 7 bucks.
(4)Fendi F.
Ok here we go this place is ok but thay are the cheap on the meat and look at you like your a jag bag if you ask for more I rather pay more then get treated like a jag off so keep your shit jonnies I'm going to mr beef on Harlem try asking for more beef and judge for your self
(1)Helen W.
When in Chitown, ya gotta try the Italian Beef sandwiches. No other city makes them as good as this! Went to Johnnies for our 1st sampling. The order was placed and a minute later we were looking for a table with our food. The beef was hot and juicy, and with both sweet and hot peppers, it had just enough spice. Beef was flavorful and tender. Fries were just so so, the italian sausage in the combo was good, but just typical and order the drinks with ez ice, otherwise you get ice with some drink. Pretty reasonable price compared to SD, but then there is alot of competition here.
(4)James K.
Best Italian Beef in Chicago hands down. To top it off, you get your meal quicker than you get it at the "Freaky Fast" sandwich shop down the street. Watermelon Italian ice is great, and when you order a tamale, you actually get two.
(5)Cheryl F.
If it's not Johnnie's Italian Beef, why eat it? Seriously, that's where Johnnie's has gotten me in my beef-eating life. If they are closed, I go home. I won't settle for Buona or Portillos when I know there could be Johnnie's. The beef is always tender, bread soaked just enough, and the sweet peppers, oh man, just talking about it makes me crave. I swear they put some kind of addictive drug in the meat to make me want to eat more. All I can say is go here and you will not be disappointed. Service is FAST and they only take cash, NO CREDIT CARDS! Open 11-11 every day.
(5)shaun M.
OK seriously this place is not as good as people make it sound. The service is the fastest you will get anywhere, probably because the menu is about 2 items long. The guy behind the counter was a little rude. The sandwich was good but seriously soggy. The only options you get are hot peppers or sweet peppers. The Italian ice is where it's at, next time I come here I think I would just get this. I've had better, hey I think a Portillo's is even right down the block from this place. In conclusion, come here if you want some really fast cheap food that is kinda good.
(3)Alexandra R.
One of the best places to get italian beef and the watermelon italian ice is AMAZING. I come here all the time and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for good, affordable food
(5)Shamoon E.
Don't accept credit/debit which is wack but the beef sandwiches are solid
(4)Paul K.
My favorite beef in Chicago. Reliable, delicious, and a great value. If you like Chicago-style beef, you'll want to try Johnnie's. I love the fries. It gets crowded around lunch time. They have outdoor seating for when the weather is nice. Yes, they only accept cash, and yes, the man who runs it tends to be a little stiff, but I can't really fault him for that - he makes a hell of a beef sandwich.
(5)Mark B.
Johnnie's is a regular haunt for us. Excellent italian beef, wet, with hot peppers and cheese.. fries are a solid performer and the italian ices are perfect. I have yet to try the italian sausage.. but it looks amazing hanging over the grill. The tamales are average, bulk buy, pre-made. Go for the beef and ices..
(5)Jane T.
After extensive research in an attempt to find the best beef in Chicago, the conclusion was Johnnie's beef. And then I realized I had been here months prior to my research. Johnnie's is the best - peppers with a kick, tender juicy beef, and bread dipped liberally. I'm also glad to have found out that the food here is comparable to their original location so I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. They're very generous with the Italian ice too, piled as high as the cup can hold. I just wish they gave a tad more beef in their sandwiches. Johnnie's is worth the drive out. Their beef is an addiction!
(5)david s.
1) I ordered a beef to take home, and they wouldn't give me any au jus on the side, even tho I offered to pay extra. I don't like to eat the beef dry. So what am I to do? If I have them dunk it, the bun will be soggy and falling apart by the time I get home. I have been to many other italian beef places, and all have given me a container of juice. This is a deal-breaker for me. 2) The beef to bun ratio is off. Others have complained that the sandwich is too small, but it's probably fair for the low price they charge. If they would give a smaller bun with the same amount of beef, it would have a better mouthfeel in each bite. They should do that, plus offer a larger size option for, say, $1.50 more. 3)The beef itself is just fine, but I have no idea why it gets all the hoopla for being one of the very best. I drove over 30 minutes to try it, and my reaction was, "Why the fuss?". There are 3 places much closer to my house where the beef is just as good, IMO.
(1)Elizabeth T.
Pros - super quick service, straight forward menu Cons - cash only, no substitutions allowed, food was "eh". Boring. Fries was disgustingly soggy. I've had better. Skip...skip...skip to Portillo's
(1)Dan M.
Awesome beef. Still my favorite. I usually go to the on North since it's closer to me but I came by here the other day since I was in the area. Just as tasty as the other location and the patio is better at this location. Seriously, I'm moving close to double digits in terms of the number former Al's lovers that I have converted after having them visit Johnnie's. Give it a shot, it's a solid beef and a good value. ($7 for beef/fries/drink)
(5)Pari S.
OMG!! This is a YUM Place!! Best Italian beef sandwiches ever. They don't have a huge menu, (Italian beef sandwiches, hotdogs, french fries, italian ice, soda.) but surprisingly the business they get here is RIDICULOUS. (I've seen the line out the door, several times before.) I usually order the combo... (beef with sausage) I like my sandwich extra wet, meaning really really soaked that the bread is almost soggy. (they'll make it whichever way you want.) There beef is very thin sliced and juicy. The sausage... smoked and spicy. I like sweet and hot peppers and always ask for it on the side... However you can have it on your sandwich if you prefer. The portion is just right... the fries are good. My favorite is the Italian ice. Only 2 flavors though, lemon & watermelon. The service is FAST FAST FAST. You walk In, order, get your food, eat and out you go. My only complaint about this place is its a "cash only" place... (with an atm by the door.) However the prices here are descent and well worth it. Would I go again? Yes!! It is located close to the laundromat, so I always feel tempted to grab a sandwich and Italian ice, before laundry time.
(5)Paul G.
Cash only. This is 2013............ Atm was broken. Not giving this a second chance since its clear they dont want my money
(1)J L.
Excellent Beef Sandwich (better than Portillos). Peppers are amazing and plentiful!
(5)Jean C.
For the longest time growing up, I would never get Italian beef. Ever. And I don't know why. So, I guess I am making up for it now since when I go to Portillo's or Johnnie's, I'm getting it every time. I came here about two weeks ago with my dad. Their beef is so tasty. And the giardinera just makes it better. I like it juicy and have to get extra on the side so I can just pour it over my sandwich. I do like their italian ice as well. Lemon is my favorite but sometimes I will get watermelon or strawberry. This place is always hopping and am happy to have it so close to my parents house!
(5)A B.
Keep driving... Wish we had. Portillos is down the street. The beef was okay, hot dog was run of the mill. Inquired about the "italian tuna salad" but couldnt understand what the guy said. Little english. If we weren't so hungry we would have walked out. Place is dark, limited menu, cash only and no pop refills.
(1)Peter K.
best Italian beef EVER! they don't take credit cards which is a bummer, but its by FAR the best beef in Chicago!
(5)Erick P.
Best Italian beef in the worlddd. I love mine with hot peppers and fries. This stuff is the fucking bombbbb
(5)Les O.
Best beef in the NW Suburbs. They need to work on their fries though. Not crispy enough.
(4)Bobbi S.
I just feel sorry for the people that didn't like the beef sandwith at johnnys,I go out of my way to eat at Johnny's whenever I can. Try the hot tamale, they are very good. I no longer order a beef when I'm at portello's since I found Johnny's. I do agree that the beef is on the skimpy side, but oh so good. I have mine forked. Yummy!
(5)Kevin B.
I've been to Johnnie's twice but it is easily one of my favorite Italian Beefs in Chicago. Rarely do I get peppers on my beef, but I did there and it was perfect. The sweet peppers were cut small so it was distributed throughout evenly. Like many places, you can get the bread wet. That is how it is default here and it is well done. Not very soggy (that is okay) but it is certainly wet and adds flavor. On a different point, the fries were pretty good too. Pricing isn't too bad either. The price escapes me, but it seemed very reasonable for the quality and quantity. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. During the winter I could see seating getting a bit cramped. In any decent weather, there should be enough seating for most situations with the outdoor area opened up. To summarize, if you're looking for a good beef, Johnnie's is a great option.
(5)Aloysius T.
Johnnie's is the best! Order a beef and some cheap homemade italian ice, and you are good to go. The beef - velvety ribbons of razon thin beef. nowhere for the flavor to hide. Seasoned well, but not bland or overpowering The bread - crusty and chewy. strong enough to withstand being dipped without falling apart, not too tough to where it's hard to tear the bread The giardiniera - fresh, spicey and crunchy. not too overpowering If it weren't for this place. I dont' think I'd be able to live in the burbs.
(5)Tina B.
Because I am a newly practising vegetarian, I feel like it is my duty to warn you that the pepper and egg sandwich is contaminated with beef grease and au jus...deliciously contaminated. It is an amazing freaking sandwich - an egg scramble with green bell peppers on deliciously chewy french bread and dripping with the beef gravy from their very good namesake Italian beef sandwiches. And true to its religious origins, it's only available on Fridays - so go then. And because I am a newly practicing vegetarian with a really loose definition of what all of that means still, I only ate half of an Italian beef/Italian sausage combo(That's okay, right?) instead of a whole one. The do a very nice beef, but their gravy is clearly the star, bringing pretty average beef up a notch. Their sweet peppers are weak - chunky and a bit too hard, not really drowning in beefy juice enough. And they don't put cheese on their Italian beefs - I've been shamed in asking for it so you won't have to. All of that makes their beef good, maybe even really good, but hardly the best all of Chicagoland has to offer, but great if you're in the area. The prices are noteworthy in their cheapness - you can get a combo for just over $3 - in a city where they regularly cost over $5...or $6...sometimes $7....And they have Italian ice year round - the watermelon was amazing and huge for just over a dollar. But cash only. The sausage is amazing - dry and flavorful. And they offer the egg sandwich with the sausage, which has to be the best thing available here by far. I will totally get that one the next time I go, depending on how vegetarian I am that day (I might have to try to specifically NOT be vegetarian on the (Fri)day I go back...).
(4)Dan Y.
This place gives new meaning to 'Woohoo! As good as it gets!" Whether I'm in Arlington Heights for two weeks or two minutes, I make it a point to stop at Johnnie's for a beef and a lemonade. The sandwich is simply the best. The giardinara is the perfect compliment to this little slice of heaven that falls from the sky. The bread doesn't fall apart and the sandwich is the perfect size. Order a lemonade to wash it down. I don't know what more I can add that hasn't been said, except that Johnnie's is the best around...I guess that has been said. Oh well.
(5)Jenny J.
I have tried the one in Elmwood Park, IL and this location. Both locations are great. The service is fast, even with long lunch lines. They only take cash. They put your ketchup in paper, I guess it is a way to keep cost down, but it works. I love the italian ice and they serve it all year. Great idea to put one in the burbs.
(4)Brandon E.
People "in the know" order the juicy beef. They'll dip the entire sandwich in the au jus, taking the taste to a whole different level. I personally prefer the juicy combo (beef and Italian sausage). The Italian ice is also incredible. They have a choice between lemon and watermelon. They're both great, but the watermelon is absolutely to die for. They don't accept credit or debit cards, so BRING CASH! There's an ATM on site if you forget your cash, but why pay the service charge? Around lunchtime this place gets crazy-busy, so don't come at that time and expect to get in and out. During the warmer months they have outdoor seating, which is nice. Don't ask for extra gravy on the side, they won't do it. They even have signs up to remind you.
(5)Michael W.
The perfect combo at Johnnie's: Italian ice & my mouth. Soo cold yet soo good. The Italian beef & sausage is pretty satisfying too, especially given the high prices found at better known chains throughout the suburbs. Nice tight menu and quick service make this place a standout on Arlington Heights Road.
(5)Virgil M.
There is no better Italian Beef on Earth. Its ultra fast and ultra tasty. I'm actually eating it right now. When ever we go I hope that when I open the door we am greeted with a sea of people. This can only mean one thing: Happy people with good taste just out packin the good beef. Utah! Gimme two.
(5)Raj P.
great beef in less than 20 SECONDS! no joke, top 3 beefs in chicagoland!!!!!
(5)Eric P.
4.5 stars Johnnie's beef is amazing. I would pick this place above portillos any day. I mean where else can you get lightning fast service for the quality of the food which by the way is amazing. The beef is tender and juicy with the fresh hot peppers that give it a kick. But seriously where else can you get two sausages on one bun or two hot dogs on one bun for a very cheap reasonable price? Tell me??!! To have the meat and carb (bun) ratio being equal made me shed tears of joy. And to top it off, their italian ice (especially the watermelon) is thick and sweet. It might even beat Mario's in chicago. Either way check this gem out and ditch portillos.
(4)Darren F.
they make the best Italian beef combo! i always order that plus a large fry and sometimes even with a hot dog too if I'm that hungry.. but they did went cheap on the quantity of the meat in the sandwiches now and that made me stop coming up there so much.. i used to make an extra trip up here on the weekends and now i just go there whenever I'm around the area.
(3)Liliana V.
Great Italian beef. Great Italian ice. Great Fries. Great combo's. Not so good tamales but that's OK... Why would you want those anyways?! We ordered one hot beef, combo , hot dog with fries, large drink, Italian ice and two tamales all under $20. If it were Portillos we would have spent close to $40. Only thing I didn't like is that it was cash only.
(4)Charlie R.
Take note; they don't take credit cards. Everytime I go in, someone manages to get past the giant "Credit Cards Not Accepted" sign on the door, ignore the ones on and around the registers, and puts up a big stink about it. The Italian beef is probably the best I've had in the NW suburbs. The only comparable one I can think of is Tommys, but this one just edges it out in terms of consistency and taste. Plus I believe its a bit cheaper. And thank God somewhere does Italian ice this good. At just over 2 bucks for a large, heaping Italian ice, you get exactly what it should be. Not syrupy, or fake tasting. Perfectly done. Let it melt, and you've got really good lemonade, too.
(5)Nicole M.
I've had Johnnie's Beef a number of times, but I always got a hot dog and fries. Finally tired the Beef! The Beef was good but the bun was way to soggy for my liking... It was way to messy. Guess I should have asked for it dry. Little sad I can't get cheese on it. Fries good, nothing special. Italian ice is yummy... BUT you can only get 2 sizes Small (like Dixie cup small) Or Large (like a large coke) Where's the in between!? Oh PS. It's cheap and CASH ONLY!
(3)Jay C.
Amazingly good. First I had their beef, it was good. Then I learned they will put some juice on it to keep it moist, better. Then I learned they will put hot peppers on it, really good. Then I learned they will be more than happy to jam an Italian sausage in the middle, amazing. I have had this "combo" ordered the same way at other places and it is never even half as good. Their sausage makes it! Cap the meal off with a tamale and I am in heaven. My mouth is watering writing this!
(5)Katelyn C.
Be aware: the staff is rude and they do not take credit cards! I believe I met the owner once when I was here because he was the only white Guy and yelled a whole lot. The food is great, the outdoor seating is awesome, but for the life of me I do not understand the mural inside. Is that supposed to make it kid friendly?! The Italian ices are to die for on a hot summer night. If you are from the area you have heard about it, so go!
(4)Sam Y.
Hands down the best Italian beef I've every tried. The combo was fantastic as well.
(5)Josh O.
Hate on it because they don't have cheese? Please. One of my favorite places for a delicious beef. Simple menu and fast service. There's always a line in the morning before they open but they move so quick you won't have to wait long. The combo is delicious as well. Don't forget the italian ice!
(5)Sandra R.
My boyfriend and i just moved to the Arlington heights area and each Friday is fast food Friday at our house. we drove past the Johnie's beef one day and we decided we needed to try it to see if that would be our place to go for beefs. instead of portillos. on our way there i was expecting to see bigger menu, but instead i was surprised to see that there wasn't much to choose from. so i was stuck just getting the beef with hot peppers and soaked. i asked if i cud add cheese to my beef and the man said they didn't have cheese. we ordered fries and a drink. the fries were not the best fries. and while =eating the beef it just felt very messy and greasy. didn't even want to touch my 8 month old baby cuz my hands felt dirty. the service was super fast. so I'd say we were eating there for less then 15 minutes. nothing fancy very casual. don't think i wud go back there for a beef again. think i just wanna stick to portillos next time. at least they make my beef just the way i like it. probably a good place to go if u want fast o-k beefs.
(2)Max P.
This is premier beef. The service is excellent... totally excellent. The fastest food of all time, coupled with easily the best beef in the northwest suburbs. Some people are bewildered that they don't have cheese, but dude.... come on. Just do yourself a favor, don't look at the menu... as soon as its your turn just say "sweet juicy beef with a small lemon italian ice" your day will be made.
(5)James L.
Easily the best Italian beef sandwich I've ever had. That's probably all I need to say. Didn't try the fries or hot dogs... but OMG... that beef sandwich is to die for. Portillo's is good, but Johnnie's is GREAT.
(5)Gen T.
Kudos and Thank you. We don't live super close but had signed up for baby classes at Northwest Community Hospital nearby. Since they were baby classes you have probably guessed it but I was pregnant at the time. My greatest craving during my pregnancy was watermelon and although the fresh stuff satisfied me, the watermelon ice at Johnnie's Beef was so much better. I'm smiling just thinking about it now. By the time you're done ordering your food it's ready to go but that doesn't mean it's all pre-made sitting in a warming oven getting old and cold, it comes out piping hot and tasting amazing. They only take cash but it's ok because their prices are beyond reasonable, cheap actually. So, anyways, so I don't go into a overly gracious rant, just want to say kudos and thank you to Johnnie's Beef for making my pregnancy much more tolerable!
(5)Fiona F.
We lucked into finding Johnnie's as we were headed to our hotel. What good luck it was! My first Italian Beef sandwich and a truly scrumptious, delectable version! That was two weeks ago and I am already ready to be back there for another.
(5)Linda H.
Yes, Johnnie's Beef has the best flavor around. But ever since the economic downturn, you can clearly see how Johnnie's is cutting back. Less and less meat..it's ridiculous. Raise the prices, don't cut back on the beef impact you dopes. I had to open up the bun just to see "where's the beef?" I'm going down the block to Buono Beef...You at least get what you pay for.
(2)Angela P.
**This review is based on their catering sized beef take out only** I have still not physically been here but the friend of mine who recommended it to me had some leftover from a party that she had gotten it for and invited me over for a beef sandwich. The take out beef comes like Portillo's does with the beef in a vacuum sealed bag and the seasoned gravy in a tub and you heat them up together in batches so you don't overcook the beef. She also had gotten a side of sweet peppers which to my surprise were chopped up and not in strips, but it didn't matter because they were very good! Everything in fact was very good! The beef was seasoned nicely, the bread was soft and the peppers, again were yummy! I have to say that this place comes in second to my number one favorite...you all know who that is! I will definitely be going back to have another beef sandwich and also to take my husband so he can see what I was raving about!
(4)Roy A.
I fancy myself an Italian beef aficionado and this is the place. In the city that invented this sandwich, this is the place to go if you only have one choice. Get up, go wait in line which is generally not crazy long and sit down and have some beef. Hot peppers, sweet, fries, italian ice, sausages, whatever. If you want the best Italian beef in the Chicagoland, you've come to the right place. Al's and Mr Beef and Portillo's are all fine, but this is clearly the best one. The beef just tastes better here and the bread is so fresh and soft with all the juices flowing everywhere, it can't be beat. This is their other location for the suburbanites and it if fairly large inside, especially compared to their other locale. Just wonderfrul food.
(5)David K.
Combo Sandwich every day except friday when I order the pepper and egg combo. small Italian ice(lemon)
(5)Taylor M.
My brother and his girlfriend came in from Florida and of course wanted to try out THE BEST Italian beef in Chicago. My brother who was from here wanted Johnnie's and his girlfriend wanted Al's Beef on Taylor St. since she had seen it on Man vs. Food. So we decided to go on a journey to find the best Italian beef in Chicago. Johnnies was our first stop.. but hands down the best beef. It is so juicy and messy that you want to wash up after eating (this is a good thing when it comes to beef sandwiches! The beef is seasoned perfectly and moist... Al's beef seemed dry and the seasoning was just off. We all came to the same conclusion Johnnie's has the best beef in Chicago! (and bathrooms- unlike Al's- which are necessary for clean up!) The Italian ice was also to die for here. I got watermelon which was sweet and fluffy. But I am sorry Johnnie's you have nothing on Mario's (Taylor St. across from Al's) when it comes to Italian ice... maybe if you added some fruit chunks!
(5)Stanley S.
johnnie's is just as good as i remembered it! had to go to an appt. in the area and i arrived to the area early enough to have a bite first! i used to work and live in the area, however now back in the city! perfect, perfect, perfect sandwich! plus their prices are very very low or i am just used to the city life pricing where every sandwich starts at 10 bucks! out the door w/ fries for just over 6! beat the lunch crowd. beef,, sweet peppers, dipped (wet) and sliced in 1/2 w/ fries! i'm ready for another. i remember this place as the old mr. beef and the food is just as good! pleasant staff and nice little patio...5 star rating all the way. i shall return even though my waste line doesn't need it!
(5)Tony C.
I don't do reviews, however I had the Beef with Peppers; OMG is was awesome. I wish I bought two. Visiting from California, I may go here every night.
(5)Tim F.
Absolutely the best beef I've ever had in the northwest suburbs.
(5)Mark S.
I've been really studying up on my beefs over the last year or so. Johnnie's out in Elmwood Park has pretty much become my favorite on weekends, it's not too far from my house. I've been to this one only for weekday lunches, probably a half dozen times in the last 6 months. So this Johnnie's beef serves beef almost exactly like the original- on the small side (but enough for God's sake), juice is more beefy/gravy-y than most, and cooked perfectly (not dried out or boiled to death). If anything, my hot and juicy is made even more juicy here than out in EP; I actually like this place better when that happens!
(5)Nikki C.
what to get. what to get, what to get..... combo. combo...COMBO! ...ooh yes! ;-) tasty spiced beef and encased meat oozing wet and juicy meat juice on the perfect french roll....please don't forget the peppers...spicy ...not so hot, but tasty just the same. Fries are doable. not big or extra crispy, still a must just like the frozen lemonade. Small and overflowing, BRain Freeze! ....ooooh becareful of that....yes eat it slowly...how?...share it with a friend and take turns...yes;-) good times, good food...definitely worth a trip if you're in the hood.
(4)Eric W.
There are already enough detailed reviews on this place, I don't need to make this long. Five star worthy, both price and quality are top notch. I've never had anything bad from this place. The only negative is that I wish they took credit cards...but I guess they can keep the price low by being cash only.
(5)Mandy S.
Great food, great price! We went to Johnnie's Beef for the first time today - have the Chicago-style hot dog w/ frieds ($2.49) and the Italian beef with sweet peppers (around $3.50). Also picked up an Italian lemonade (lemon ice, $1.60) that was fresh and huge! All 4 of us were extremely pleased with the food - and it was a great value! We'll definitely be going back! Things to note: they only accept cash.
(5)Carlito B.
What else can you say about this place - its awesome
(5)Rich W.
Hearkening back to my youth, I used to frequent Johnnies in Elmwood Park. It was only about 6 blocks from where I lived and was great if you wanted to grab a good beef sandwich on the run. It wasn't my favorite. At the time there was a place in River Grove on River Rd. [just south of Gene & Jude's] which was my long standing fave, but alas, is long gone. Anyway, I didn't even know about Johnnies in A.H., until I ran across the reviews here in yelp*. Well, my old Elmwood Park pals and I went there for lunch recently, and all agreed that it was a great nostalgic experience. I had the combo beef & sausage sandwich which was great. Of course, just like old times, I had to have a tamale with it. I think the tamales today are better than the ones from the old days in E.P. Great place! Good, Cheap, Fast! What more could you ask for? I've been back around 3 more times since we first ate there. I would like it better than the Portillo's on Dundee in A. H. , but you can get a beer at Portillo's!
(4)Suzanne C.
Rockin Great Beef sandwiches and extremely reasonable prices make Johnny's the BEST beef sandwich around! The sweet peppers are delicious. The Italian Ice is really good and you get a whopping helping. Go in on a Friday for their pepper and egg sandwich. TDF! Get it with sausage! I thought the sausage would be scrambled up into the egg, until I opened the massive sandwich and saw it was a whole sausage under the pepper and egg. OMG enough for two people. Beef sandwiches are only 3.45. They could charge more for the yumminess factor but they don't and that makes Johnny's ultra wonderful in my book.
(5)Chris J.
Best beef I have ever had end of story! I feel there is a very addictive ingredient used in the beef because I crave it only a week after I have eaten one.
(5)Justin D.
I'm a huge Al's Beef fan, but felt that it wouldn't be fair to keep promoting Al's without trying Johnnie's. I have to say I really wasn't too impressed. I ordered the beef, hot, and a large lemonade ice. The lemonade ice I would go back for especially on a hot summer day. The beef, I would rather face the traffic and head down to the city to get some Al's. There was just nothing special about it. Sorry Johnnie fan's, I was really craving a good beef and wanted Johnnie's to be my go-to in the burbs but sorry to say, it won't be.
(3)Craig L.
Better than Al's, better than Portillo's and both of those are good places. Johnnie's makes few things but makes them right. Wet sandwich is mouth watering, service is fast, and you eat for less than $6 a person. Best tasting beef in NW suburbs and would be 5 stars if took credit cards. Otherwise a great casual stop along Arl. Hts. Road.
(4)Eclectic E.
Our choice was to stay at the hotel and go to the nice steak place, or trek for 5 miles to Johnny's. We absolutely made the best decision. Great beef, just the right juiciness, and the "hot" was sublime. Nice service, very clean with plenty of seats (at 8:30pm).
(5)E A.
I decided to go because my son loves going there with his Dad. I went there 3 times, twice during lunch hour in the Summer and once at night in the Fall. I kept going back because I thought maybe I went on a bad day thus got blah food, but the food was consistently blah each time. I was first taken aback by the Cash only sign at the door. I almost never carry cash, so I was lucky I had some that day, especially because I had my son with me and he was looking forward to eating there. We got the Italian beef and the sausage and both were dry and ordinary. They don't give you much beef either. I found it an inconvenience to have to go to the front counter to get skimpy napkins out of the skimpy dispensers. The Italian ice was good. I would probably order that for myself and my kids if I go back. Parking structure is nutty, but we always find spots.
(2)Alex N.
Since I am working in the great city of Palatine these days, I am going to be trying out the hotdog-combo-italian beef scene in the area. Johnnie's beef was the first stop on my fantastic voyage of clogging my arteries. So I wanted to get a hotdog at lunch this day but I guess the place is called "Johnnie's BEEF" and my co-worker "Simpson Eh" recommended the beef as well. So I got a combo. However... WARNING! WARNING!! Cheeseheads or former cheeseheads (like myself, well I guess you never stop being a cheesehead) beware!!! They dont have any cheese in the whole place!!! The guy scoffed at me (light heartedly though so I wasnt offended) when I wanted cheese on my combo. And yet again when I wanted cheese sauce for fry dipping! At least the guy had an explanation for why there's no cheese for the beef. He said it takes away from the tasting of the beef! Well, as rediculous as that is to me, at least the guy cares enough about the beef there that he'd give me that line of reasoning! The combo itself was pretty decent though. I would say better than Portillo's, but not quite as good as Buona Beef or Dukes (see my previous reviews if you'd like). Good beef and better than average Italian sausage. Fry's were the thin type and also quite good. Place got pretty busy around the noon lunch hour that Friday. I also had the watermelon Italian Ice which was better than I expected. The size small came overflowing in a cup and it tasted very good. I didnt think I'd be able to it all but it tasted so good I actually did. I'd say the place was worth the trip, I'm going to get the hotdogs next time, and I'll update this piece.
(3)Sarah G.
food ok service needs better attitude fast , yes fast , and italian ice - great
(4)Michael S.
Good food. Better price. I return every so often.
(3)Jimmo X.
Juicy beef with hot peppers, and then an Italian ice lemonade to sweeten the bite. Wow, amazing -- melts in your mouth. Make sure you take lots of napkins -- it'll be messy!
(5)Rob U.
Cheap, fast, delicious. When I am stuck in Lincoln Park (I know, so few choices for good food here) I often find myself yearning for a Johnnie's Beef sandwich and an italian ice. I stopped in last week and was in a rush so I made the mistake of taking it to go. Now dont get me wrong, the food was still as great as always, but it was a mistake to take it to go because I spent 15 minutes on Arlington Heights Road lusting after my sandwich, suffering while the simply wonderful smells filled up my car. Then I got home, ran upstairs, wolfed down my beef sandwich and contemplated heading right back for another. I can only hope that I return sooner rather than later!
(5)Collin M.
Great Italian beef no matter how you like it dipped and the service is incredibly fast. The sandwich is inexpensive juicy, spicy, and flavorful I highly recommend it.
(4)Loreen O.
I was in there with my aunt last night and we were both disappointed. The guy at the counter was rude! Just throw in your face service! I thought Johnnies beef should care about there food, service and quality. The beefs were really spicy and asked for xtra juicy and wasn't given that either. I will have a beef in the city instead of this place any day.
(1)Patrick W.
Great beef sandwich, and the Italian sausage is great too. I can't tell you how many times I went in planning on getting a beef, and because they were cooking the sausage, it smelled so good that I either got the sausage or a combo. The beef sandwiches tend not to have as much meat on them as, say, a Portillos. Don't overlook the pepper and egg! It's only available on Fridays, but it's really good and worth the wait. The hot dog is a great deal- it comes with fries for around $1.50. The Italian ice's are great- they have the best lemon ice I've ever had, but the banana is great too. The service is really fast here. Sometime's seating is limited; the outdoor patio is a great thing in the right time of year and almost doubles the seating capacity.
(4)Joanne Z.
If you're ever driving by this place, even if you're not hungry, pop in for some Italian ice. It only comes in 2 flavors, lemon and watermelon, but it is the most delicious, refreshing thing on this planet! If that's not good enough for ya, it's under $2 for the biggest size!!!!!! The only negative thing is that they DO NOT take credit cards - only cash :(
(4)Jacqueline S.
Went here for a beef. I got it juicy with no peppers. I really like the flavor, it had just a bit of spice without any peppers. The size was smaller than what I am used to but it was still a good size (it's probably not very healthy for me to be scarfing down those big beefs from Portillo's). The beef seemed more shredded than sliced, which was interesting - I prefer sliced. Given the low price and the super fast service along with the good food, we will definitely be back. I want to try the watermelon Italian Ice.
(4)Mark S.
Probably the best (and cheapest) beef around! The italian and watermelon ice are both amazing as well! An all-around excellent place: great food, quick service, great prices!
(5)calvin y.
really great place. awesome beefs, good hot dogs, great italian ice. simple menu, simple food, and simple review
(4)Nick S.
I just love this place. This place has the best beef in the city and suburbs. I've tried them all. The service is extremely fast, also. I also love their Italian ice. This is a very limited menu, but who cares? What they got is just good!
(5)Andy C.
Everything i want and love in a good beef place. Yes the beefs are on the smaller side, but they sure make up for it in taste. The gravy is super tasty, the hot peppers are actually spicy, and the bread is really good. Plus it is fairly cheap. Oh and you have to get one of their lemon ices, with small chunks of lemon rind in there. Killer way to wash down the beef. I try to ignore it when i drive by, because if i make contact with it i usually have to stop in. Cash only and no cheese on the beefs, do not even ask. :)
(5)Cordell J.
Really good italian beefs, fast service. Must pay with cash. Always busy. They have good italian lemonade too.
(4)David T.
I have been eating Italian Beef Sandwiches my whole life and Johnnie's is the best I've had. My only complaint is that the sandwiches are comparatively small.
(5)Kesey K.
I like to consider myself a fairly well versed beef eater and I just found the time to head out to Johnnie's in AH. I ordered the Beef/Sausage Combo with no peppers and my wife had a hot dog. The combo was tasty and had great spice. Since I go no peppers, I often find the beef at various places rather bland, but not here. The Italian sausage gave the beef the perfect kick. My wife was satisfied with the hot dog. Based on my first visit, the only thing keeping this place from 4.5/5 stars is the fries. Sure their good, but get some hand-cut fries in there and we have a champion beef stand. A total bonus of Johnnie's is their Italian ice. They appear to serve it year round. If you're a beef eater, you owe it to yourself to give Johnnie's a try. If you're thinking of going just to try another hot dog stand, the Menu is VERY limited (Beef, Sausage, Hot Dog, Pepper/Egg Sandwhich, Tuna) and they don't have cheese (for the fries).
(4)Abraham P.
Place is amazing. Theres nothing wrong with it. The food is great. Not expensive at all. Their Italian ice is amazing. Definitely no complaints!
(5)Mark S.
Beef is the best I've had. Hot dogs are not so good.
(4)Mark B.
Johnnie's is good, it's very good. But it's only the best because everyone says so. A little small and a little too salty. Portillo's is actually a little better. That said, I'm having Johnnie's for lunch today.
(4)Tommy A.
Not going to go on too much about this place. What else needs to be said. Unless you're doing something at home yourself with a beef slicer, you can't beat this. Also the place is called Johnnie's beef, so if you are on here complaining about the tamale, the cash only factor or the fact that they use too many paper products for your liking, then you're a fool. For the price and all things consider, this place is Earth shattering. I'm a lifelong southsider and the first time I went a couple of year ago I wanted to like Pop's better, in one bite I knew this was the best. Their green peppers are especially amazing, the hot giardinera is a tad weak (this is the one thing that Pop's does best them). Finally it needs to be mentioned that they may have the best sausage in the world too! Now if you go on Friday then brace yourself for the sausage, pepper and egg. In fact, eat it sitting down otherwise it will bring you to your knees. Long live Johnnie's. (this review applies to both locations, been to both a lot and they are both great)
(5)Steve M.
One of if not the best combo sandwiches I've had in my 34 years. You must have with hot giardinara. I was a fan of Portillo's until some buddies from work brought me here. Its cash only .
(4)oh y.
Love the Italian Ice! Lemon and watermelon flavors are both good! The hot dogs are pretty good too and they come with fries. it's open till midnight! and the patio is perfect for enjoying an italian ice in the summertime!
(4)ron k.
i'd definitely go here again.. the beef is awesome and i have a certain appreciation for places that only do a few things... my only complaint... make the beef a little bigger and charge more... don't make em smaller and keep the prices the same thats some McDonalds BS cuz i sweat the big mac was bigger when i was kind...
(3)nicole a.
In my opinion, this is the best beef around. It's the same juicy beef goodness that's had us standing in line outside the Elmwood Park location, just minus the line. Actually, the speed of the service at the Arlington Heights location is amazingly lightning quick and efficient. But back to the beef - it really is the best of the many I've tried. The beef isn't overly spiced up, they offer small bits of sweet pepper, not the giant monster pepper of some beef joints, the juice isn't pure grease, and the hot peppers have a nice spicy kick. The italian ices are a great treat and the fries, while not the highlight of the meal or the best I've had, are a nice compliment to the beefs. Definitely worth a try if you're looking for a great beef.
(5)J H.
Totally lived up to expectations! I was told that Johnnie's had the best beef in all of Chicagoland. When I was driving by, I decided to pull over and test that claim. In order to taste as much as I can, I ordered a beef with hot peppers, beef and sausage combo, hot dog chicago style and tamale. Everything was great as said. The hot beef sandwich was a killer as it came out juicy and flavorful. The beef was not sliced as thin as Al's and Portillo's but thicker and meatier. The bread didn't need to be dipped as it came out hot an juicy. The flavor was intense and beautifully balanced with the spices and the beef. The amount of beef was less than Portillo's but still it was fantastic. The italian sausage was good as it as meaty and had the authentic flavor of a true italian sausage. As I ate it in a combo, the bread came relatively dry and not as juicy as the beef alone. However, I say this is worth it. The hotdog came with fries and it was normal hotdog that you'd find on any Chicago street food joint. There wasn't much differentiation to mention about it. The tamale was good and for the price, a great value but I wasn't sold on it as the beef blew me away and made everything pale in comparison.
(5)Brad B.
good stuff. ordered juicy & hot with a small watermelon ice. definitely juicy -- but the roll was a little crunchier than I expected after the dip. Think the peppers would be better if they were cooked down a bit and warm -- but it was definitely good and a really good value for the price.
(4)Allen H.
being from San Diego, after a Chicago friend recommended Johnnie's, we recently ate there 2x in a week while visiting Chi-Town - I love their hot beef with pep!
(5)Jeff S.
Beef, Hot, Juicy, LG Raspberry ice tea, and fries..that's all you need to know and get.
(5)V B.
My husband and I live in San Francisco and we had never heard of Italian beef. Our local Chicago relatives recommended this place and it was the BEST meal we had during our entire stay in Chicago! We will definitely be coming back to Chicago and to Johnnie's!!!
(5)kb j.
The restaurant has a limited menu (Italian Beef, Italian Sausage, Hot Dogs and Italian Ice), but, the Italian Beef sandwich is very good. The Italian Beef, served wet and with hot peppers, is a memorable experience (though somewhat salty). Good french fries.
(4)Patty D.
depending on what time you go --- say perhaps around 9pm - this place really goes down hill. the bread is stale, the beef is scarce... too bad. Also - they will not go beyond their scope of duty - how complex is it to ask for hot peppers on the side - they won't do it. stooopid!
(2)John C.
The beef is dry and dull. The sausage is good. The original on North Ave is so much better it is hard to believe they are the same people.
(2)Peter F.
This is IT. The best dam Italian beef and sausage anywhere. And anyone that says the North Ave. Johnnie's tasts different the the Arlington Heights one is "stunod".
(5)dave p.
I was in the Arlington Heights area traveling for work and a local co-worker insisted we go to Johnie's Beef for lunch. What a great choice, their Italian Beef is simply tremendous! I got a beef only and then the combo next time, both are very good.Service was very fast for being during a busy lunch time crowd. I'd go back for sure the next time I'm in the neighborhood.
(5)Laura O.
The best italian beef!! The original place is on North Avenue in Elmwood Park.
(5)Barbara A.
This past Saturday my boyfriend & I decided to take a ride to Johnny's beef in Arlington Heights. Although the North Avenue location is much closer to us, we decided to drive to A.H. so we could sit down in the restaurant rather than get carryout at the North Ave. location. The beefs-GREAT as usual although our meal was ruined by the employee that was constantly washing the floor during our entire visit. I appreciate the fact that the management wants to keep the place spotlesss but the cleaning product being used overpowered the aroma of our food. Another customer mentioned this to the employee but unfortunatelty she did not understand the english language and continued to mop. The management must come up with a better plan before losing customers. I doubt I will be back anytime soon.
(2)Michael B.
Finally!!! A decent beef in the burbs!!! I was surprised the beefs were so large. I have been to the one on North Avenue and they always had tasty beefs just too small for the buck. And the Italian Lemonade is second to none. You can feed a family of 4 at this place for under 20 bucks!!!! Thank You Johnnie's for not making me drive into the city for a decent sammich!!!!
(4)Brian H.
what else can you say, the best beef and Italian ice around.
(5)Stacey D.
Great beef, ok lemonade/lemon ice. They have banana and lemon italian ice, I've only had the lemon. Great place to stop for lunch.
(4)Amanda L.
My husband and I really like Johnnie's (he grew up going to Johnnie's). You know a place has good food when the line is out the door, there's no parking, and all the tables are taken even with such a simple menu. There are a TON of hot dog joints on Arlington Heights Rd., but none of them are like Johnnie's. Yes, like everyone else said, we do long for cheese on our beef sandwiches, but it has never stopped us from getting one and enjoying the heck out of it. Also, you can't leave without getting their OUTSTANDING Italian ice. Sometimes they have seasonal flavors (watermelon last summer), but the lemon is always a winner. And you get so much of it! It's the best Italian ice hands down.
(4)Melanie S.
The food here is exactly the same as the one the Elmwood Park location, and that's a good thing. The interior is a little nicer, but I suspect that's because it's in Arlington Heights, a more upscale suburb. Personally, I prefer the Elmwood Park outpost. There were no seats inside so we were forced to eat outside. There was one table open outside, but as soon as I saw it, I shuddered in horror. It was smack dab in the middle of tables of shreiking, unruly 9 year-olds, probably just fresh off a little league game. I swear, there must have been at least 30 of them. It was exactly like being in a fenced-in dog park. Some of the dogs, er kids, were calm, but most were running around off leash while the owners were busy chatting amongst themselves completely oblivious to the chaos while their dogs got their ya yas out. The only difference is that the kids didn't sniff each other's assh*les. Oh wait, they did that too. I do love that this location has watermelon Italian ice while the EP location does not, and the Italian beef is still some of the best around, but I'll happily stick to their other location just for my own sanity. Visiting Johnnie's Beef is the best form of birth control EVER!
(4)Nancy L.
they have the best beef and the best fries and the best italian ice I'll ever eat
(5)Jennifer S.
We grabbed a quick dinner at Johnnie's Beef tonight and when I say quick, I mean QUICK! We ordered, paid and had our food in less than two minutes. I didn't even think that the bag on the counter was ours because it appeared so quickly. Here's what I figured out: Da' Beef - It's definitely homemade, but I didn't love it. There was a lot of fat bits running through it and I felt like I had to pick that out before I started to eat. Da' Bread - It's fresh and delicious. Da' Hot Peppers - They had the perfect amount of zing and zip without setting my mouth on fire. Da' Fries - Skip them. They are shoestring, frozen, not really tasty bits of potato. It wasn't worth it at all and was more of a filler than anything. Da' Tamale - You get a lotta tamale for less than $2.00. We shared and barely finished it. Overall, it's a fun little place with a great crowd that runs in and runs out. Nothing fancy. But the hubby likes it, so we will probably be back.
(3)Matt P.
My reason to live. Enough said
(5)Cathy G.
After reading an article in the local paper about how people literally line up around the building in the summer to get Johnnie's beef, not to mention the 4.5 star average rating by 100+ Yelp users, I couldn't wait to try it. I went quite a bit out of my way, but didn't mind because of the rave reviews and because of my LOVE of Italian beef sandwiches. Sorry, Johnnie's but I couldn't have been more disappointed. I got a beef sandwich with hot peppers, fries and a drink. While reasonably priced, that was the only high point. The fries were just okay and the beef was....I really hate to say it......not good. To me, the gravy tasted like lipton onion soup mix, all salt and no italian spices. Maybe they were having a bad day, I don't know, but I was stunned since I had such high anticipation going in. Portillo's, you have nothing to worry about from me at least.
(2)Anna K.
Poor costumer service! I initially requested 1/2 lemon and 1/2 watermelon Italian ice and the cashier kept mumbling "wedonemix." I needed to ask him several times to repeat himself. ENUNCIATE and SPEAK UP ASSHOLE! We then ordered 2 Lemonades and a second later I changed my mind and asked for a watermelon. The cashier and a gentlemen behind him kept exchanging looks and smirks as if my request was out of line. Poor communication between him and his employee caused confusion and I had to step in and explain to the girl that I only want 1 lemon and 1 watermelon. NOT that difficult. The italian ice was AMAZING! I've had much better Hot dogs and beef sandwich elsewhere.. I don't plan on returning to this place for food.
(1)Sherwin C.
Great place for an Italian Beef, fries, and Italian ice. It's debatable whether this or Portillos is better so I won't make a definitive judgment. The menu is small but all the items are done well at a good price and very quick service.
(5)Matthew A.
This place is great! PROs Very affordable! A hotdog, fries, two lemon ices and a beef/sausage combo cost less than $10. Lightning FAST! Food is in your hands the second you give them payment. Delicious! The sausage and beef by itself is on the spicy side, so if you're sensitive to that you may want to stick with a hotdog. Also, the Italian ices were phenomenal. CONs CASH ONLY. Probably has to do with keeping their prices down. There is an ATM inside that has a $2.50 fee. Staff seems kind of bitter. Limited selection. They have beefs, sausages, and hotdogs. Pretty much it. Food is a tad in the greasy side. All in all, glad I went here. My new destination for a quick bite!
(4)Richard C.
this place beats al's beef for their italian beef sandwich any day. i personally like their combo, which is italian beef and sauage, and i also add sweet peppers and hot peppers. be aware their 'combo' does not include fries and drink. fries are good, italian ice is good, price is good, only not good is cash-only. $6~8 highly recommended!!
(4)Felix V.
Great place. I love there hot dogs and fires. The combo beef and sausage is great to. To finish a nice italian lemonade. Super quick service!
(4)Daniel P.
Small portions per price point leave me a bit wanting. The pics show sandwiches stuffed with beef. Perhaps my prep person was having an off day but my sandwiches were not stuffed like the pics show and my GFs sandwich was barely dipped. Dipping something should be pretty simple process. The beef was just "ok" which was a bit of a let down given the high reviews. Fries were nothing spectacular either. The only thing i can say is it was very fast from order to food but perhaps take a few more seconds to prepare the food better. I would not visit again.
(1)Kat L.
Thank God! Appropriate proportions and appropriate prices. Italian beef is good. Little bit of juice and not too soggy. The beef can get a little gritty and dry though in some areas. Otherwise, pretty soft throughout and not chewy. Fries not super salty or greasy. Another big plus. Watermelon italian ice is yummy but with seeds. Good for hot days. Decor is blech but liveable, as long as the place isn't crowded. Another blech: cash only. Super quick. Really no wait for the food to finish. Definitely a preferred choice when looking for cheap but good fast food
(4)Jeffrey B.
The Italian beef here is amazing. Soaked to perfection! Nice juices coming out of the bread and the meat is nice and soaked in all of its goodness. I asked for hot and sweet peppers on the side though just so I can put as much on as I want. The sweet peppers here are really delicious. They gave me enough to stuff 2 Italian beefs with. The hot peppers here are also delicious. Not too hot and not too oily either. I liked the fries here too, they're not too greasy and not too soggy either. They are kind of like McDonald's fries minus the ultra fattiness. Next time I come here with an appetite I do want to try the Combo its the Italian beef with sausage. Just thinking about the aroma of the sausage and Italian beef makes me salivate as i type. I would give this place 5 stars only if their Italian beefs were a bit bigger. Maybe my appetite was above average but I am sure a bigger beef would have kept me smiling on my drive home to the city. (pause)
(4)Keith E.
This might be my first 5 star but I think they deserve it. Pooh-pooh for the service nay- sayers. It's fast, good. Hot dogs are great, too. The italian ice is REAL italian ice. It was so good, I asked if I could buy some for my kid's birthday party but no go! The beef is just so tasty - as far opposite from dry, imaginable. Fries are decent considering they are frozen. Enjoy.
(5)J D.
Great beef sandwich, very juicy and well seasoned, could of used a bit more beef. Fries are crispy and come well salted. Next time I will try the combo. Fast and efficient service. Would recommend to my friends.
(4)Jeff K.
The best beef sammiches in the northwest suburbs, maybe the best beef sammiches in Chicagoland. Try the combo with beef and sausage, make sure to get it dipped.
(5)Heather L.
Italian beef and tamales are pretty much all they do. And maybe that's what makes them Best In Class. Excellent! Quick grab on the way home from work.
(5)D G.
Blows portillos out of the water!!! Best beef, I usually get the combo tho yum!! And its cheap!! I am a local and its my fav!
(5)Frank A.
This place is awesome. The best combo sandwiches! The sausage has great kick. The beef is perfect, never dry, even when ordered dry! Yeah, so the menu is limited to combo sandwiches and hot dogs. They're the best at it! The fries are just ehh.. but the Combo Sandwich and Italian ice is soooo good. This place gets packed at times, but they work real fast and you'll be in and out of there before you know it. Speaking of the Italian Ice, they serve lemon and watermelon. My wife likes the watermelon for it's sweetness, but I'm in love with classic lemon. Sweet and tangy. It's so good... the best ice outside of the city.
(5)B L.
Wow!! Wow!! Wow!! If you know me, you know how much I love Italian Beef sandwiches. If Italian Beef were a religion, I would be high priestess. Of course I have my favorites: Portillo's (of course), Beggars Pizza in Oak Lawn, Irving's in Wilmette. I venture to say (and this is big for me, Queen of all Beefs) that Johnnie's Beef is above and beyond them all. Even Portillo's! Making Italian Beefs just right is an art form if you're from Chicago, have been to as many hot dog stands as I have and understand the importance of a good beef-bread ratio. Not only that but for spicy beef lovers such as myself, Johnnie's does not disappoint. Make sure you get some of those good fries to go with your beef here, you are gonna need them as a buffer. The grape Italian Ice is really good too for helping put out the fire in your mouth. Sometimes I think about the time I was really broke and went to Johnnie's to meet a friend and all I could afford was a small grape ice. It saddens me. If you go here, you GOTTA GET THE BEEF! They named the place after it for Chrissakes! Go here, go here, go here! I can't recommend this place enough.
(5)Pascal M.
Johnnie's has a not so serious "Soup Nazi" type line going on. My experience: Man steps forward, "1 beef, hot, dipped, please." He pays, and takes one large side step to his left. The beef is in his hands in less than 45 seconds. I rode my bike here from Naperville to enjoy this highly raved about beef. I thought the price was generously low, the beef hot dipped was full of flavor. Lot's of heat in the girdinara. For me, that's a must. It wasn't painful heat by the way, the heat is pleasing and keeps you taking bite after bite after bite. My only quarrels were that they don't offer cheese. Is that a sin? I don't want pump cheese or anything. However I do like a nice slice of Provolone or Mozzarella. Mind you, the beef was very good without the cheese. Johnnie's is a great beef. This location is out of the way (for me), but I wouldn't mind checking out their location on Elmwood Park. This location would be easy to get to during a commute to or from the city.
(4)john r.
Q&D: very good prices, quick service, clean place, average tasting food Italian beef - a true Chicago treat - no other city has come close to mastering this fabulous and simple sandwich. I often make it a point that when I am visiting an area of Chicagoland that I do not normally visit, I either look for a beef, or thin crust pizza. Tonight I was in Arlington Heights (Denis Savard was signing at the new Binny's) - and based on the high marks, Johnnies was the place to visit. A buddy and I rolled in just around 7:30p - I order a beef with hot peppers, and a side of fries. I ordered, the cashier leaned his head toward the beef guy, and in his monotone voice said "beef, hot peppers" or was it "beef, hot". The beef guy, forked some beef into a sliced bread, added peppers, and wrapped. I paid $5.98, and not even 30 seconds later I was sitting at table munching on hot fries and a rolled beef (no drink). The hot fries were salted to my liking, and were awesome. They are the frozen type...nothing special...perhaps I was hungry...but I finished them off before I started on the beef. I unrolled the beef, the outside bun was not soggy, that was good. I took a bite, the beef was moist, and the peppers added some needed flavor. The beef seemed bland, do have to say that imo this beef was very average. Perhaps the beef had been sitting in its juices all day long, and an earlier visit would result in a better experience, but since I live about 30 miles away, I doubt I will find out.
(3)Norah D.
After growing up by the original Johnny's, I was super excited to find this one close to me! Boy was I disappointed!!!! The service was HORRIBLE and the cashier had the nerve to call me a bitch in spanish!!!! I may be white, but I speak it fluently!!! Horrible business ethics!!!!
(1)Kim M.
I lived on Johnnie's Lemon Italian Ice while pregnant with my first child. I love this place! The sausage is spicy, the beef has a kick. The hot dogs have snap. The fries are always fresh. What I don't like about it is that they don't take debit cards. But if that's the worst thing about it, you really can't do wrong by going there.
(5)Jim F.
The best beef in all of Chicagoland. I once knew a guy who said his only complaint was the sandwich wasn't big enough, I said so get 2! Case closed, I've never heard another complaint from anyone about Johnnie's.
(5)Christopher G.
Im from Columbus, Ohio, but my Daughter (who lives in Chicago) said I must go. I did, and WOW! Got mine dipped and with sweet peppers, and it was awesome! It was the best beef sandwich Ive ever had. I cant wait to return.
(5)Bart H.
Ahhh Johnnie's. The best beef in the burbs! I live right near here and go way to often but I cannot say enough good things about this place. Great food, fast, good sides. Love the tamale. Beef's are a little small but I like that I don't need a nap after eating one. The combo is a great choice if you need a little extra. And there fries are good, but I would advise you to try the tamale. The two together just work. Only complaint is that it is cash only and who carries cash these days. At least they have an ATM for people like me.
(5)Tom L.
Summary: Amazing Italian Beef that is one of the best in Chicago. The hotdogs were on the standard to any other place. The Italian Ice is something you come craving at 10pm. The store owner talks like super mario. What more can you ask for? Oh yeah..its super cheap!!! I start off with a summary because it is needed in this case. Nothing fancy about this place. If you like italian beef, look no further. This place is usually one of the places I like to go to when I come back to visit my family in Chicago. Surprising how good it is and the fact that its in the suburbs does shock me. The italian beef with the peppers, dipped is just a treat to have. The broth is so juicy and the meat is so tender it just makes you feel like you are in heaven. I always get a hotdog with my italian beef and i can't argue if you just want a classic chicago style hotdog. (nothing special but its hard to differentiate hotdogs). To top it off, this place makes some of the best italian ice. It's really something else to have that strawberry italian ice especially late at night when you are craving for a refreshing desert. It's good in the Winter and that horrible summer. I encourage everyone to try Johnnie's Beef, it should be a landmark and most importantly, it should the standard in italian beef.
(5)Chuck S.
The Italian beef is very good BUT stay away from the sausage unless you like yours cooked to death! The place seems to be on auto pilot and the non-English speaking staff overcooks the sausage to the consistancy of an old cigar butt! No amount of juice can help revive it. It ruins what could be a great beef and sausage combo.
(3)Jude M.
Everything I have had here has been great. I drive past it once in a while, but never stopped, I decided one day that I needed to stop in and try it. It was great! I am happy I decided to come here and can't wait to come back.
(5)Milton B.
Best sausage beef combo in the city all day long. Don't forget to get a large lemon or watermelon Italian ice.
(5)Patsy D.
I would have said that Mr. Beef ruled, until I came to this place. Absolutely fantastic and so quick. Having to have cash makes me grouchy, but I can't fault them for not wanting to deal with all the bookkeeping just because I can be lazy. Order the beef, double dipped with sweet peppers Can't be beat.
(5)Erik H.
This is what everyone rants and raves about? This place was terrible! Ha no I'm kidding, it was great. I got an Italian Beef with a side order of hot dog (so what?) and it was all delicious. The Beef was, obviously, the star. I always get mine dipped ("juicy") with sweet peppers and whatever is in their beef juice here was pretty magical. The hot dog was also very good. Not particularly special, but everything was fresh and high quality. The fries were surprisingly average; you would think a place like Johnnie's would have something greasy or interesting, but they reminded me of McDonald's fries if anything. And the lemon ice had kind of a weird taste, although it wasn't bad. Do you want an Italian Beef? If you're near Arlington Heights or Elmwood Park, I would say don't go anywhere but Johnnie's.
(4)Kensey W.
yum! this place was delicious. tried the italian beef and it was juicy and tasty and everything a sandwich should be. the bread is chewy and perfectly soaks up the juiciness. the hot peppers are so great too! also got to try the hot dog but i don't think i like hot dogs with tomato or onions or pickles. so i don't think i can judge it. anyway the fries are mcdonald's-cut and hot and delicious. i also had to get the tamale because i don't think i've ever turned down a tamale when it's on the menu. i had mixed feelings about it though - it was nice and wet like i like it but the filling was kind of weirdly seasoned. i can't completely say i didn't like it though. just not what i would have expected. anyway, i'm really glad i got to eat here! wish they had a little more room to sit in here, but i guess it's just that popular. haha
(4)Justine R.
"Beef, hot and juicy with a large ice please!" Now, I don't mean to start any arguments here (because it's happened with many of my friends already, but hands down: Johnnies beef is WAY better than Portillos.. and I believe that's saying a lot considering the line at the drive-thru at EVERY portillos I see during lunch / dinner hour. But back to Johnnies.. their beef is different because they keep some of the trimmings on - which definitely adds to the flavor. It retains a lot of the juice and of course having them dip it in the juice helps too ;) Their menu is very short, which I also appreciate because they know that people are there for the beef. Their tamales are good but not the best I've had.. but that italian ice! I don't care how cold it is, I could have their Italian ice everyday of the year.. Ah, but definitely bring cash like others have warned.. that ATM in there is terrible.. it takes so long and you have to pay a fee.. booo.. dig up all your loose change on the way! ;) Their beef is less than $4 anyway! (How much is it at Portillos again? lol)
(5)Sara M.
You cannot get good Italian beef outside of the Chicago area, I swear. At least not in the NE, where they have never even heard of it! This place does it right and even if my stomach get a little growly at me afterwards, it is totally worth it. The beef is hot, running with juices, tons of hot peppers, and that bread sops up everything. It's smells good, looks good, tastes good, and feels good. You can get an Italian ice if you can't take the heat! Thumbs up for this greasy treat!
(4)Colin S.
I stayed out in Schaumburg and relied on Yelp to find a good cheap place to eat nearby. Johnnie's Beef was just what I wanted. The beef and the au jus were the best parts as many reviews have noted. The fries were typical and the prices fair. If you need a quick fix then this is the place. Note: NO CREDIT CARD, DEBIT CARDS, BANK CARDS, ETC.
(4)Mike M.
Excellent tasting beef (I usually get the Italian combo which is beef and sausage). I like their fries, they remind of how McDonald's fries used to taste. You also have to get their Italian ice. Don't leave there without at least a small Italian ice. Even if the line is long and out the door you won't wait long. They move the customers along pretty fast. Fyi - cash only (they do have an ATM inside)
(5)Steve D.
Stopped in here for one of their beef sandwiches. They have a zillion reviews already so not much more that I can add. Been here a whole bunch of times. A very solid beef sandwich can be had here. Fries are so-so, Italian ice is good. If you are in the area, worth checking out. Cheers to All
(4)Hera J.
This place is no frills and only accepts cash so be prepared! We all have our favorite Italian beef spot. And we all know that Portillo's is a safe bet. However pound for pound the Italian beef at Johnny's has more flavor then most other spots. The reason for the four stars is because they have been rather inconsistent in their seasoning. At times their beef may be salty and fries may be overcooked. However when you catch them on the good day you would be surprised that you have lived this long without eating here. Plus on their fast and friendly staff.
(4)Esther L.
Pretty accessible as far as the indoor sitting. They also have outdoor seating and restrooms, but I didn't get to scope out the wheelchair accessibility. They do have wheelchair accessible parking. They had a cloth tent in front of the main door, probably to keep the AC and heat inside, which made it harder for my sister to hold the doors both open for me. Not the best Italian beef, but pretty cheap. It was kind of salty. We like the Italian beef at Portillo's and Torre and Luke's better. They have a limited menu. We did like the watermelon Italian ice. We shared a small that had some seeds, but it was served so it looked like a flower in a cup. There was ample seating, TVs, and a mural of the restaurant in Chicago.
(3)Anna L.
Beef. Dipped. Hot. Fries. Watermelon. Combo. Dipped. Hot. Fries. That's the way we like it. Got that? Probably my 4th-ish/forgot how many times visiting from out of state and I've finally figured out the lingo in ordering here. I tell ya, it saves a LOT of time and confusion. Eat in. Out in the patio. Or I suppose the real way is to stand in front of the window facing the parking lot doing the "Chicago Lean". 1) Put your massive juicy sandwich on the counter. 2) Stand in front of it with your chest about a foot from the counter's edge. 3) Lean forward until your chest is at a 45 degree angle to the counter. (Gents, tuck your ties...ladies pull back your hair.) 4) Pick up your sandwich with your elbows propped on the counter. 5) Angle the sandwich 45 degrees to the counter with top end towards your mouth. 6) Eat and enjoy. Let the juicy drippings/toppings hit the floor! Disclaimer: For best results, keep the sandwich wrapped in the wax paper and unwrap it as you go. It'll save you greasy mess and a massive amount of napkins. Well...I didn't do the "Chicago Lean" today, simply because the weather was superb and we sat in the patio. I was free to drop things and let the little fat birdies feast on it. Lunch for 2 only set us back a mere $16. I think the meat and toppings are getting a little skimpier than previous visits. Tsk tsk. Nonetheless, still satisfies my craving for a hot Italian beef.
(4)Molly S.
I love the Johnnie's in Elmwood Park, so working a couple of blocks away from this location tempted me to try it. Cash only, but they do have an atm inside. Or if you don't want to pay the fee and have chase bank, there in an atm in the Walgreens 2 stores away! I got the Italian beef juicy with sweet peppers, an order of fries and a lemon ice. There was no lemon peel in my ice which sometimes happens at the other location. :( But besides that, they are pretty similar. This location even has a shaded outdoor patio which provides the perfect place for sitting and enjoying your food!
(4)Y.D. K.
Similar to the other Johnnie's in Elmwood Park, convenience did me in for this one since its way closer. Beef was good, whether its with hot peppers or sweet peppers. I prefer mine hot or sweet, mood depending, and dipped. Also, the fries were good, fountain drinks well mixed. Also had their lemon Italian ice, very very nice and cold and lemony. Plenty of seats/tables indoors and out, so you can bring some friends/family. Its no 5-star restaurant, but its no dive either, casual dining. And you don't come here for a burger or sutchi! (yeah, a Terry Bradshaw-ism for fun).
(4)Mickey M.
Beef was okay sausage was a bit overlooked and seasoned for me. It's cash only and no frills but a solid affordable lunch. Obviously go with hot peppers!
(3)Jess F.
Beef's are great from here and may even be better than Portillo's beef. Italian ice is awesome! The only thing that needs change is the ketchup. I stopped asking for any because they don't have ketchup packets. They squeeze ketchup in a waxed paper bag and twist the end and give it to you. Very odd and unsanitary to me.
(4)Jay K.
I was really disappointed in my visit there yesterday because I love this place! My combo had an odd and different flavor than I'm used to there and I asked for my sandwiched dipped and they were to dry... I guess when the cashier says juicy he means just touch the ends of the sandwiches in the auju. I'm not ready to give up on this place by any means but it was my first bad experience and I wasn't happy because I have such high expectations for their food. Excellent value.
(2)Jonathan K.
Best beef...period. Lots of black pepper which I love. The sweet peppers are well seasoned and cut into nice bite size pieces. It is the perfect combination of beef, gravy, bread, peppers and spices. Outstanding fries! Thin and crispy. You can't beat Johnnie's for value, taste and portion size.
(5)Bobby J.
Best Italian Beef in the world. I had the luxury of living a few blocks from this delicacy. It filled up my entire childhood with Juicy Beefs and Italian Ice's and couldn't be more happy. Once I moved out and tried other Beef joints I was always left disappointed. If you recommend Portillo's over this you probably live in a suburb.
(5)Anne S.
Italian ice (don't be the fool that asks for cheese on the beef lol.. even though we all want that gooey mozz on top.. their beef really doesn't need it)
(5)T Q.
I've lost count of how many times I've been here. It's the best Italian beef in the Chicagoland area! I've never had anything else from there because the Italian beef is so amazing. I've been going here for years and they're always consistent with their beef. Ive also been to the one in Elmwood park which is a lot smaller but still just as good. I've had Italian beef at many other places in Chicago and it just doesn't compare to johnnie's.
(5)Mike P.
Great beef sandwiches awesome service very reasonably priced fast service for how busy they get worth the trip from Lake Geneva Wi Keep up the hard work Johnny
(5)Carol G.
On my way to the university of wisconsin-madison hospital to see my son he lost his leg yesterday in a accident at work.went to Johnnie's beef Asked for 3 beef sandwiches. 2 to eat in 1 to go for my son with the au- jus on the side the man named Phil said he could not put the au-jus on the side policy reasons. That's what my son ask me to bring him. That was one of the most disappointing think ever. I will never ever go back. I personally think it's because they r so cheap they couldn't even make exception for a my 22 year old son that lost his leg. Can't imagine what other corner they are cutting. VERY DISAPPOINTED. WENT THERE ALL THE TIME
(1)Evan D.
I wish I could leave them half star the staff with very nasty attitude. Overrated The only thing it's good they're really good Italian ice that's it don't even bother with Italian sausage I thought it was a plastic made it was so damn dry
(1)Steve C.
Not the fanciest restaurant you'll get a sandwich at, but for the price it's hard to beat. The Italian beef, served wet and with hot peppers is a rich masterpiece dripping with juice. The peppers bring a bright pop to each bite, making the soggy mess your holding feel worth it. The Italian ice is marvelous, the clean lemonade helps cut the fatty aftertaste of the meal, leaving a refreshing flavor in its wake. All in all, a great experience of cheap and easy food that is well prepared and balanced to make you smile.
(5)Kimsy S.
When I came here, no employees were wearing gloves while handling food. And I mean really handling the food. No gloves while digging in the hot dog steam bin. No gloves while dressing the hot dogs with utensils. I don't think I even saw anyone wash their hands. Thank you, but no thank you.
(1)M G.
If I could give zero I would . I asked for a beef without bread because I have crohns and cannot eat gluten because I will get very sick . I was told they cannot serve me beef without bread ??? Really ? Ok nice service jerk ! Discriminatory I say .
(1)Marty R.
I've been eating here a lot since May as the patio is open and don't have to deal with the chemical stink inside.
(5)Christina A.
I love how quick they are. We went in right at the tail end of lunch the other day and walked out a few minutes later with a bag full of beefs. The beefs here are awesome. Flavorful with the right amount of spice. Tender, not rubbery at all. The bread is fantastic. Even though I order my beef wet, the bread holds together. And they don't skimp on the hot peppers. Truly my most favorite beef anywhere.
(5)Dan B.
Johnnie's Beef is a place that quite a few people have told me about over the years. I'd never had the opportunity to stop by but one day after leaving the nearby Mitsuwa Market I spotted it and being right around lunchtime I figured I would stop in and try the hot dog. I went to the counter and placed my order for a hot dog with fries and a drink. While ordering I witnessed the guy working at the counter absolutely screaming at and admonishing another employee who had incorrectly filled my drink. I felt very bad for the employee and immediately my experience was off to a negative start. Once I had my food I sat a ways from the counter to avoid hearing any other screaming that might further dampen my experience and decided to dig into the hot dog. The hot dog served here came on a regular non-poppy seed bun.There was a pickle spear easily the size of the hot dog itself right on top of the hot dog, some nicely slicked pickle, and hot sport peppers on top. The mustard and relish application were fine, the type of relish used here didn't really suit the dog too well. There was no noticeable celery salt. After my first bite I had to remove the pickle spear, the pickle is just way too thick and is the dominant flavor here. With the pickle removed the hot dog tasted pretty decent. Had it been cut thinner or used a slice rather than a spear I would have had the pickle flavor in with the hot dog as well. The hot dog also came with fries, these were thin crispy fries very similar to McDonalds fries. They were not too salty and had a good overall flavor, a fair number of hot dog stands I've visited use these same fries and I find them to be an excellent compliment to hot dogs as long as they're not cooked in a funky tasting oil. These were tasty overall and a nice compliment to the hot dog. Overall my impression of the food here was pretty positive, the hot dog had its problems but wasn't bad, and the fries were good. While service was friendly to me, it was a bit of a downer seeing the employee filling the drink orders get screamed at like that. I hope that the screaming I heard at the drink filler isn't a pattern and was just a rare incident. Overall I'd say Johnny's Beef is an average place to get a hot dog and will get three stars.
(3)Philip S.
Cash only! Are you kidding? This is not the tiny Johnnies in the old neighborhood. This is a corporate, chain-like restaurant in Arlington Heights. Go to Luke's and get a bigger sandwich with your credit card.
(1)Matt B.
I really enjoyed the beef and tamales. Way better than Als Beef, which may be the place tourist know. This place is great and I would highly recommend it.
(5)Steve F.
One of the best Italian beef stands in Chicago the Italian beef and Italian sausage is great very good hotdogs and one of my favorites Italian ice
(5)B S.
Great tasting beef sandwiches, be sure to ask them to dip the beef in the gravy! Fries are adequate, Italian ice is refreshing and a great compliment to the beef sandwich!
(5)Diane C.
I love this place. Great beef sandwiches. Tamales. Great Italian ice. Fries are the best. Fast service.
(5)Maigen A.
** CASH ONLY!! ** In true Chicago form, Johnnie's Beef is a hole-in-the-wall, gem-in-the-rough, no-nonsense joint loudly boasting the best Italian beef in the city. Better than Al's? Well, that's what they say. Me, I've never been a big fan of Italian beef (I'm more of a dainty sushi-eating chick than a beef sammich-in-yo-face, juices drippin' down my arms chick) even when I lived in Chicago back in the day. My papa bear, however, LIVES for this stuff... so when we were in town for the holidays, we decided we should check this place out. And then, when we heard the rumor that Johnnie's beat Al's, my dad immediately started rounding us up into the car like cattle. Like I said, no frills. No expensive prices. No emotional expressions either, apparently - as our gruffy cashier didn't even bat an eye when we mentioned we came from out of town to try their stuff. Oh well, whatever, 2mins later and we had a smorgasbord of dripping, juicy, spicy, dipped Italian beef sandwiches with fries and Italian ice on our table. The sandwiches were good (mind the jalapenos, for all you spice-fearing), but my dad swore Al's still reigned supreme. The Italian ice was sooooo refreshing! Forget that it was like, 10 degrees outside. It definitely ain't Mario's Lemonade, but if you're in the 'burbs, it's good enough. GET THE ITALIAN ICE! Watermelon, lemon - they're both awesome! Now, what ISN'T awesome is that weird, tacky animal-zoo mural painted on the wall. Why are there cartoon animals painted on the wall? How did they get names? Why are they eating Italian roast beef sandwiches?! #whatislife
(3)Elizabeth G.
It was a Sunday. I wanted an edible hotdog. I was in the area. Ordered a hotdog with fries. Asked for ketchup(I was taking it to go). I was handed a piece of wax paper in which there was ketchup squeezed into it(I posted of picture of it). TACKY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I will not be back just because of this. Cheap! Cheap! Cheap! Charge an extra 10 cents per hotdog and hand out actual ketchup packets! I ended up throwing the ketchup away. The one star is for the edible hotdog. As I said, will not be returning. YUCK!!!!
(1)Christy C.
Wow, I don't like to throw shade but my hot dog was so gross I couldn't even finish it. I ordered the hot dog with fries and a drink. Maybe I've been going to Superdawg too much or maybe I should've ordered the beef, but I doubt I'll ever return to this place. The women running the counter were rude and less than welcoming. The place was clean but not a good atmosphere. More like an eat and get out place. Like I said maybe I didn't order the right thing, but for those of you looking for a hot dog don't order one here. They taste like a horrible ball park or grocery store hot dog. It didn't taste like anything real was inside, certainly didn't taste like a beef hot dog. The fries were okay, nothing like Superdawg and nothing to write home about. Forgettable at best.
(1)Tracie D.
If you see my reviews you'll know I was recently at the Original Johnny's in EP. With that, this review is from someone that regularly visited the EP location most of their life. I knew this location had opened but it just didn't feel right to cheat and visit this place rather than make the trip to the sacrosanct original. But-after driving by for years I stopped in. I saw the "Cash only" note on the door when I walked up and smiled. But I stopped smiling when I came through the doors. To me, this place was soulless. While managers have changed over the 30+ years in EP, the building and order process is reminiscent of the Seinfeld Soup Nazi episode. EP is so small -stand up eating room only inside and a few tables outside that you need to know how to order and step to the side. (My favorite is Combo, dipped, with hot n sweet, large ice, No Lid). The Arlington Height location was silent as a tomb at 2:30 pm on a Monday afternoon. A women with a huge bucket and mop was washing the floor right in front of the register. I was blind sided by this apparition. Surely all places need to be clean but as I gazed around at the "new" Johnny's it was all I could do to order a small ice (no lid) and pay my $1.49. Call me biased but as I ate my ice in the car on the way home-it didn't taste the same. If you are going to Johnny's for the food I'm sure you'll get something good. If you are trying to recapture your youth or share a bit of Chicago with someone visiting you--go to EP to taste and see how old school Chicago style is done.
(3)Rozalynn B.
I've been coming to Johnnie's since I was a child, I now bring my kids here. I use 2 only love the Elmwood location, but lately Elmwood has been disappointing me. They don't dip well enough for my tastes. I like my beefs SOAKED & HELD IN GRAVY. So I haven't bn lately as much as I usually go. I drove to this location because I work near by & I'm ELATED AGAIN!!!!! Ordered a beef hot xtra xtra juicy & got that!!!!! I'm so happy I may go again 2day!!!!!! I wish they'd take debit cards tho!!! This is 2015 guys! Also ppl complain about no cheese, I don't eat that crap anyway!!!!!!
(5)Rachael G.
The food was all pretty good & aside from it being a bit too small, the beef sandwich was one if the best we have ever had! If it was all about the food, I'd give this place 4 stars, but unfortunately the unprofessionalism of the guy taking the orders is RIDICULOUS & ruins the whole experience. If he is not the owner, then he needs to be fired, & if he is the owner he should care about his business & his customers more than he apparently does! Both times we have been there he has been rude, he argues with the female employees behind him & they all look extremely unhappy, plus the last time we went, he had the audacity to laugh when I asked for a cup for water. We are not cheap, my husband orders cokes, but water is really all that I drink! We will not go back!
(1)Joseph W.
Great sandwich, juicy is the way to go! I just read this as being one of the top places to grab a sandwich and I feel lucky to have tried Johnnies. The sausage beef sandwich is really good. I like how fast they move. The sandwich is really good and you can tell they've been doing this a long time. The fries were ok. I think i tried 2 different sandwiches there... but just remember the sausage. The prices are pretty cheap so grab a few! Also, the italian ice is great. The watermelon flavor was good as was the lemon.....
(5)Nellie K.
I grew up with the original in Elmwood Park. I do not think this place is as good with the beef sandwiches. The one in Arlington Heights is a tad too spicy. If I go back for a Johnnie's it will be to the Elmwood Park location. Second, I am all for a clean restaurant to eat at. That being said, the lady that was doing mopping today was mopping the whole restaurant obsessively. I could understand the walk way where people could track in mud or snow. I can understand clearing off tables and wiping them down after people leave. This lady was mopping where people were eating. I mean right where people were eating. Despite there NOT being a mess from it being winter in those areas and despite it looking pretty clean where she was mopping, she continued to move chairs around customers trying to eat. What made it even worse is she used what SMELLED like a whole bottle of Pinesol in her mop bucket. As I tried to eat my fries my upper lip started to burn and my fries tasted like Pinesol. That is how STRONG the smell was. As she got an inch from my feet I told her not to mop. To, "just please wait until we are done eating." I'm all for a hard worker but the smell ruined the eating experience. Next time it's either the original Johnnie's as I mentioned or Portillo's.
(2)Angie L.
Limited menu, cash only.... and the cashier threw my change at me....it gets 3 stars because the food is good..... especially the pepper and egg.....
(3)Don K.
I used to go to the one in Oak park area whenever I was nearby. Boy, was I glad to find out that they have the location in Arlington Heights since I frequent Northwest Suburb. Also it is very close to I-90 so that I can stop by here anytime when I am on I-90 even if I do not have plan to stop by at Arlington Heights. Strorefront: This location is definately much better than Oak Park location. They are fairly clean for italian beef place. Also, this independant building has ample parking. Service: In-personal, but very very quick. Once you are at the register for ordering, you wait time is less than one minute. For many, it will just be 20-30 seconds until you have your food on your hand. This is the same concept with Oak Park location where the store is much more busier, but I do not think it fits the purpose in this store. I think they should make ordering process a little bit more friendly. Food: The number one reason why I come to this place is lemon ice. Unlike Oak Park, they also have watermelon flavor, which I do not like. It does not have a kick like lemon. Their ice is like no other. Usual italian ice is much more smooth than theirs. Believe it or not, I like it much better Johnny's way than any others. While thier portion is very large, but they do not pack it nicely as Oak Park does. But with that size, I won't complaint. In terms of beef, I am in an opinion that they are in a better side, but not too different. Ther portion for beef happens to be smaller than usual. Go here for Lemon ice. You won't be sorry.
(4)Jack O.
Does not take credit cards. Really? The product served is outstanding. It's a real issue as they do not want their income tracked.
(1)A T.
The watermelon ice is so delicious. Order a large. The sweet peppers on the Italian beef were still a little spicey, so if you are wary of heat, stick with the sweet option.
(4)Baba P.
I love this place. My favorite is the combo hot. The tamales are also great. Another thing I love is how fast the food comes after I order. Great place to eat!
(5)Brandie E.
Good ... But what's the hype? We are here over the weekend ... Not atmosphere or decor to speak of, but very kid-friendly since the interior was reminiscent of a fast food joint with its tables. Had a beef sandwich - was pretty lean but could have used some cheese. My bf had sausage and peppers and also wasn't overly impressed with it - very basic staples. If I was in the neighborhood I might stop here because the prices are cheap - 2 of us ate for like $12, but I guess that's where I should have kept my expectations.
(3)Melinda M.
THE BEST Italian beef in the Chicago area!
(5)Daniel P.
I have eaten here plenty of times and have never had a bad experience. They food is incredible and the prices are fitting. The icie's are the way to go during the summer. Don't judge a place simply on its dated appearance. Yes its cash only but I am sure it helps keep costs down.
(5)Anthony R.
Good tasting food, but the beef sandwiches were a little on the small side. Excellent italian ice. Definitely is not a place you go to for the atmosphere, seating, and cleanliness... You go there for the tasty beefs and italian ices! Remember to have cash on hand as they do not take credit. If I remember I think there is an ATM there if needed.
(4)Jim P.
I revisited this place partly with the hope that things would have improved. I pretty much stand by my original review. My Italian beef and sausage combo was poor. it was not fresh tasting at all. I'd describe it as mushy but not moist. This time the beef was bland, quite dry and essentially tasteless. The sausage was spicy but not flavorful. Basically when you bit into it you just had a sense of a hot and spicy taste and nothing else. One had the feeling the sandwich had been prepared hours ago and then set off to the side. The (boiled) hot dog was decent if slightly undercooked. The fries were fair. The tamale was good (it's pretty hard to mess up a tamale). I'd say their prices are reasonable, but that assumes a quality product. I wouldn't want this combo sandwich if they gave it away. A positive is their service has always been quick and efficient. The counter people have always been polite to me.
(2)jun k.
Yes, yes, and YES. Most favorite place! Hole in the wall. Cheap. Unassuming. Soggy, dipped sandwiches. SO. GOOD. The watermelon italian ice - you have to get it. Amazing. The dipped sandwich. Amazing beef. LOVED the sweet peppers and the spicy peppers. Would skip the fries. Watched the SF49'ers win also!
(5)Margarita M.
"BEST" Italian beef and watermelon ice, AHYI DELICIOUS!!! Maybe they'll consider coming to Stafford, Virginia, OH wishful thinking!
(5)Linda C.
Good Beef. Pretty consistent but cash only. Open late! Good area lots of parking ! Nice Dine In eating area as well. I would recommend Johnny's Beef.
(3)Jim D.
Food is ok but the policy's are bull. $1.90 for a large fountain drink 32oz and they refuse to give refills. Napkins are very small need 50 to keep clean. No towels in restroom and very dirty restroom, paper all over the floor garbage over flowing with 7 employees standing around talking.
(2)Rebecca H.
Although they do only accept cash, this restaurant has possibly the best Italian beef sandwiches I've ever had! They're especially good with sweet peppers :-) Also, great shaved ice. The service is efficient - they leave no time for deciding at the counter, so you better know what you want beforehand, and speak quickly! It pays off - you get your food almost immediately after ordering. It has a very interesting "big city" ambience to it, and is overall a great business if you're looking for a filling and delicious lunch.
(5)Brian P.
For the best combo in Chicagoland. Nothing like a combo sweet & hot. With a nice large Lemon ice.
(5)John O.
As good as it gets. Quick service. Love the combo with hot peppers. Extra parking available in next parking lot. Cash only btw.
(5)Henry A.
Ok I may be new to Yelp BUT WHAT GIVES? I post an honest review last week and now my review is buried?!? I did not start Yelping to "Slam" businesses like others. I did it bc I love food and great service! Any review less than 4-stars isn't factored! Reviews 3&4 yrs old rate but mine doesn't! i found Cafe Zalute (a fine establishment I've been to a dozen times) in Rosemont has 2-one star reviews in the first four! Guess i should rate Yelp instead! What happened to the 12% of two stars that supposedly are included? Thus i moved it up 1-star, u happy?!!! I've lived in Chicago my whole life and now I'm seeing first hand...REALLY! See original post below:( Sorry to the Johnnie's 'die-hards' but bottom line, the 'au jus' is way, way too oily and the beef nothing special to rate all those 4 & 5 star ratings. Perhaps those reviews weigh too heavy the fact that they ARE a great institution, decent prices with super-duper fast service second to none AND have the BEST Italian Ice...But the food is only so-so and am not a fan of over-cooked Italian Sausage. Nor the fact they refuse to supply any ketchup packets for hot dogs to-go. Very good David Berg dogs but ketchup rolled up in the wax paper makes eating the fries a messy royal-pia to eat. Sorry.
(3)Lucas N.
Cheap! Quick ! And delicious !! The lines are always long there but it goes by fast Only down side is that they only accept cash and let's be real who carries cash these days right ?
(5)Marcus O.
Good Italian Ice and for you money you can't beat it.
(4)Juan M.
Definitely a great beef sammy. Price is very reasonable with the way food cost are. Always clean and fast. The best Italian ice around.
(5)Matt D.
If you are from the area and don't know about Johnny's you are missing out. This place is a local hot spot. They have great beef, hot dogs, etc. I always get the double dog with everything and it comes with a drink for right around $3. It's a great deal and delicious.
(5)Jason E.
If you want a tasty italian beef or italian ice - or loads of fries - and want them fast and cheap, Johnnie's is your place. It's a casual place with good prices and good food. But bring cash - they don't take cards.
(4)Faye B.
Want a simple beef place then definitely check this out. A no nonsense place with a simplified menu, but it's solid so no major complaints here. I was feeling the beef, but was concerned that I couldn't douse it with cheese like I do when I'm at Portillos, but when you get your meal you really find there is no need. The beef is tasty with just the right balance of jus and you are good to go!
(4)Ross P.
Yes cash only, yes small menu, yes it's not much for looks but who cares? BEST BEEF EVER. The meat is tender the bread is fluffy and they have the most flavorful au jous imaginable. I don't live close but if I am in the area I always make the extra effort to go. This is a beef place and it nails it. Also they make their own Italian ice and its not too shabby either
(5)bob j.
reasonable price, beef sandwich was tasty, Chicago dog was a bit cold and on a plain bun (prefer poppy seed) Italian ice was GREAT!
(4)Donald O.
ohhh the best beef ever. FYI you can order beef by the pound and cook yourself at home. They just need a day or 2 notice. Great idea if you have a big group. But this place is just so good.
(5)John V.
My favorite place to get a dog. The complimentary fries truly compliment their dogs as well. I like to stick the fries in my hot dog. When you order their beef, never forget to ask for it wet. Very reasonable prices but make sure you have cash on you because it's cash only!
(5)Lisa J.
The beef and Italian ice are delicious, sausage is not, fries are just ok. The workers can be pretty rude, but who cares. THE BEEF IS AMAZING.
(5)Keith S.
I came to Johnnie's on a recommendation to get the Italian Beef and a lemonade Italian ice. I'm glad I listened. I have had several Italian beef sandwiches in the recent past on my "gluttony of chicago" self tour. I would have to give Johnnie's the edge so far on overall taste. The bread tasted good but was not quite as sturdy as I would like, but the meat was just plain delicious. On a hot day, there isn't much better than pairing it all with an Italian Ice. Brain freeze heaven. Service was friendly and extremely fast during the lunch rush. Only negative is cash only.
(5)Danny M.
Haven't been to Johnnie's in years, but when I went back last week...this place is still bomb! This place have the best Italian Beef for a great price. They taste great in both sweet or hot peppers! I am sad I live about 30 minutes from here, but every chance I get when I am around, this place will be 1st on my list!
(5)Jason P.
I think I perfer Portillo's. i dunno about you but cash only in 2014? come on... my Italian beef was pretty dry the last time i ordered from here. i didn't know i needed to ask for it dipped or anything.
(3)Jim S.
I had to give johnnies only 2-stars even though it's is the best flavored beef sandwich In Chicagoland. The sandwiches are tiny, around 5 inches sometimes less. The amount of beef in my sandwich this afternoon was minuscule. If I had to guess about 1/8 lbs soaking wet. You could not see the meat or hot peppers in the sandwich, the bread (5" in length) engulfed everything. Highly recommend the tamales and Italian Ice!
(2)Janni V.
Hands-down, this is my favorite Italian beef sandwich. Something about the way they spice their beef just leaves everyone else in the dust. Portillo's is good. Curly's is good. But Johnnie's? Johnnie's is great. Get it dipped, like everyone else says. Both sweet and hot peppers are good. This place looks like an old-school hot dog stand. It's very utilitarian inside, with a lot of outdoor seating that's nice when the weather cooperates. Bathrooms are simple and clean. (Beware: it's difficult to get the doors open to go wash your hands if you get really messy with your sandwich while you sit outside. Eat with friends and make them open the door.) The other reason to go here, and the one that sets them apart IMHO? Their Italian ice. Get a small lemon ice and share with a friend. Don't get a large unless you know what you're doing, or have brought your family with to share it (or a close group of friends who don't mind sharing). The small is big enough for two to share. The large is family-sized. I feel like I never really understood Italian ice until I had this Italian ice. Then, it was like a light bulb went on, sort of like that scene out of the Blues Brothers. I did a bunch of somersaults out to the parking lot, hopped on my motorcycle, and got the band back together. I think James Brown may have been involved. That's some good Italian ice.
(5)Elizabeth R.
Heard great things about this place so had to check it out while in the area. When we got there we realized it's cash only, luckily there was an ATM inside. My husband got the beef and sausage combo, my daughter got a hot dog and I got the pepper sandwich. I love that they had the option to get a pepper sandwich because I don't always like to eat meat. I had my sandwich au jus style and it seemed a little spicy which I loved but keep that in mind if your sensitive to heat. I wouldn't say the customer service was great but they seemed accustom to a fast-paced service. The food was good enough but not anything unusually great or different from what I have had before. Now for the real reason I went there we also tried their Italian ice, seems hard to find good Italian ice. They had two flavors watermelon and lemon we had both and it was excellent! Everything was reasonably priced but for the distance I would have to drive, I would have to say I won't be making a trip back anytime soon.
(3)Rachel E.
Best place for an Italian beef and Italian ice at a great price. It is worth paying only in cash. I come out of my way just to eat here. Make sure you order your Italian beef dipped with hot and sweet peppers on top..it will be one of the best sandwiches you've ever had.
(5)Jinah Y.
love love love johnnies! I'm not a huge Italian beef fan but this place does it right with the flavor/juices. I usually get the Italian sausage w/hot peppers and it never disappoints! follow the advice of all the other reviewers: GET THE ITALIAN ICE! its great to come out when the weather is nice and sit on their picnic style tables. my one and only complaint about this place (and why I could not give it 5 stars) is the inability to pay with a credit card =( but hey, if you don't mind paying the fee equivalent to the price of one of their sandwiches to take use their ATM, knock yourself out!
(4)Jacob D.
Good food, cash only. If you like Italian beef, you must try this place.
(4)Somchai S.
Ive been to Johnnies in Elmwood Park and it wasnt great. I realized what was wrong...I did not get it dipped! The italian beef sandwich is moist and oozing with flavor once dipped. The fries were fresh and crispy. The surprising star was the watermelon italian ice. Clean, affordable, and delicious. What more could you ask for?
(5)Jared W.
There are a lot of good places in Chicago to get a beef, but Johnnie's is the best. I think the difference maker is their au jus. It's more flavorful than other places, so the whole sandwich has more flavor than any other beef place. Not only that, but the sausage they have has a spicy kick to it that makes for a great sandwich by itself, or in a combo with the beef. The icing on the Johnnie's cake is the lemon ice. Made in house, and it's head and shoulders above anything else like it. Get one. Seriously. Just make sure to have cash when you go, because they don't take cards.
(5)Jorge C.
Very quick service. Amazing beef. Very delicious Italian ice! It is cash only but it's okay because this place is awesome!
(5)Elizabeth S.
I love how this place is so simple and so quick. I literally handed the cashier the cash and my order was right infront of me. The kitchen is all open and right infront of you at this eatery where they have a team of people all listening to what you order with the cashier and set right off in making it as you pay. Beef sandwiches $3.95. If you want sweet peppers or hot peppers, they're 32 cents each. They're worth getting if you like them to add to your sandwich. Once you have it, you know what they hype is all about. How could something so simple as beef and a bun taste so good??!! The fries are average. Nothing spectacular about them, but you order them to compliment the sandwich= $1.34. Large lemonade italian ice=$1.85. TOTALLY WORTH GETTING. So refreshing and you don't feel guilty having it because it's ice!
(5)Chet M.
What an iconic place, and the prices, so fair! Fed my family of 4 for under $25 and we ate like kings. Beef, sausage are very good but the Itailian lemonade is to die for at $1.89. Sorry Marios, don't need you anymore!
(4)Mike V.
Only $4 for an Italian beef? Wow! Smaller but it leaves room for other things......like Two Italian beefs. Dunked with hot peppers. The lemon ice is amazing too. A small isn't too small.
(5)Gary H.
Italian sausage was dry and not at all juicy like I would expect it to be. Manager (owner?) did not seem to care when asked if this is how they are used to serving it. Peppers were over cooked and tasteless. Went back to counter for a lemon ice and manager asked about how sausage was. I said it got better on other end and may be over-cooked on end I started on. He said that was probably it. I said yeah but you should want the whole thing to be good. He had no response. Anyhow, the ice was good so I give them two stars for that. Maybe their beef is better but I don't plan to try after experiencing their nonchalance about a customer's dissatisfaction.
(2)John S.
Cash only but damn good beef! Insanely fast as well. Going back everytime I'm in Chicago. Friendly staff. No cheese for your fries though!
(5)Joe J.
Really good beef sandwiches. I always ordered the beef with fries - which is amazing until the other day when I tried a combo. I didn't like the sausage on the combo and regretted not just ordering a beef. If I had never been adventurous and tried something new I would have given it 5 stars. Otherwise the beef sandwiches and fries are incredible. They don't take credit cards though which is really odd, and I never carry cash so my girlfriend had to pay. Sucker!!!
(4)Chris W.
Really don't understand why everyone is giving them 5 stars......their hot dogs are tasteless (was hoping for something like Gene & Judes) husband had the combo beef/sausage and holy cow extremely spicy.....I like spice but it was hot in the spice department and their sausage was like ground meat...wasn't anything like any Italian Sausage I've ever tasted.....sorry but it was a waste of money
(1)Bridget B.
Did NOT even approach us for our order NO meat ALL BREAD Portillos ROCKS!
(1)Bnilla R.
Delicious! Their Italian beef sandwich with peppers is tantalizing. My husband and I dined here two days in a row. I will miss this kind of food when we return home to Oklahoma.
(5)Beth J.
My husband eats there for lunch a lot. One night we decided to go there and really I was quite surprised how great the food was.
(4)Tony U.
Ok, I guess when you want it "soaked" you have to say "dipped with a fork." Good to know.
(4)Bill V.
I've been to both their locations. Until we found the Arlington Heights location we used to drive all the way back to Elmwood park for their beef and italian ice. Yes, it's that good. Put simply - best beef sandwich in Chicago. Best beef sandwich I've had - and I've been around the world for work. Portillos is second on my list in the local Chicago area - but a distant second. As other reviewers have stated it's no frills place and you must pay cash. But once you sample a beef with sweet peppers you will forever compare every other beef sandwich you eat to Johnny's and realize they have a flavor all their own.
(5)Bradley P.
There are very few hot dog joints that I rate low, considering I go to them often, and their hard enough to compare. But this specific one made me and my dad furious. The main problem I had here was when we had specifically made an order for my younger brother who has food allergies to wheat. My dad asked the cashier to make an order of a hot - dog, but simply without a bun. The cashier firmly said "no! We don't do that here!" Both my dad and I were upset, so we asked for the manager. He was even more rude to my 8 YEAR OLD LITTLE BROTHER! We asked what the trouble was and he simply said: "look at this sign!" that said they only serve hot dogs with buns. (Very silly: piece of paper under counter underneath a bunch of other things.) Then told my innocent brother to go eat somewhere else. I felt so bad and he was crying. His feelings were more hurt than I have seen in a long time. Not only were we trying to have some fun and go out to eat. But we also didn't get to because we just arrived when most other nearby restaurants closed. Don't visit: may sound good, but definitely not nice to people with allergies and are the opposite of accomodating: oh yeah another thing: cash only.
(1)Jenni E.
WHAT? I had no idea that the original Johnnie's Beef in Elmwood park had another location in Arlington Heights. When I was driving through one day and saw it, I had to stop. The one thing that this place has that the EP location doesn't is a good location. This one has plenty of places to enjoy your food inside and they also have an outdoor patio for seating as well. The food tasted the same to me and this location also has watermelon Italian ice which was delicious. If I was in the area again, I would definitely stop for a beef just like I do any time I am in EP. They only accept cash just like the EP location.
(4)Brooke A.
Johnnie's is a great place to have a quick bite. Unfortunately, it is CASH ONLY! It is always busy at lunch. Watch out if you drive. The parking lot is really dangerous! I've almost got hit numerous times. The service is fast and friendly. They normally get the line through real quick. I haven't had one thing on the menu that isn't good, granted there is only about a handful or two of items on the menu. The Italian Beef is one of the best in town and they use REAL beef hot dogs. Both items come with plenty of fresh hot fries. The will also give you "ketchup to go" if you ask. The literally squeeze ketchup onto paraffin wax paper and roll it up and give it to you. Fairly Funny. Also, try the Italian Ice! There is watermelon and lemon - both a delicious treat!
(4)John C.
I love Johnnie's Beef, but I've noticed the last few times I;ve been there the strong chemical smell of cleaning agents. It appears the manager is a clean freak, which is a good thing, but the constant smell of ammonia and other chemicals has been really strong. In fact, my wife and I were here on Tuesday and the beef actually had a chemical taste, like they cleaned out the serving trays and never rinsed them off. I'll still keep going, but stop with the cleaning chemicals, when the customers are eating folks!
(4)R W.
This place is great they have great beef, great fries, and great Italian ice. Over all I LIKE THIS JOINT
(4)Evan L.
I didn't eat there. So how can I write a review? Came for take out Italian Beef asked for au jus on the side and the counter man said we don't do that. How can this be if a beef is "dipped" at the restaurant it will be a soggy mess in minutes, if not it will be dry and not very tasty. I wAs patient and asked if they had containers they could put juice in- all responses were negative. Wish I could review the beef but the counter help wasn't helpful or english was not their language of choice or they're not very bright. Went east to Mr Beef, they put juice on the side and had a fine beef sandwich
(2)tim t.
Best beef on EARTH!! That is the truth!! Been going here 17 years... No need to go anywhere else!
(5)Judi S.
I'm from California and they don't serve Italian sandwiches like this there or if they do I haven't come across them yet. What is an Italian? It's oven roasted beef cut paper thin and then steamed to perfection. The grinder roll is dipped in au jus seasoned with organo? and you can get it with grilled green bell peppers (sweet) which is what I ordered or hot peppers. Johnnie's menu had a grand total of 13 food items on it, including hot dogs and fries and then you can get either a soda or an Italian ice to drink... it's shaved ice like a snow cone heaping over the top. And good God are they quick. By the time the cashier hands you your change and the soda, your food it up and waiting for you in a paper bag. Who needs trays? We don't need no stinkin' trays. The place has a family atmosphere. Let's put it this way, I finished the sandwich with as much mustard as I wanted before the drink and that rarely happens with me. When you're hankerin' for beef, Johnnie's is the place that does the trick. CASH ONLY.
(3)Katie Z.
not that great- place looks dirty and staff is unfriendly. they have to get with the times-people dont carry cash anymore. there were a few times we wanted to stop in but "Aw we dont have cash. well portillos it is." thought the Italian ice didnt taste quite right- something was off.
(3)Pixie L.
Amazing!!! I always have to get an Italian Beef sandwich when I am in Chicago, and this trip was no different. I found this place on yelp and had to try it -soooo thrilled that I did. Beef sandwiches were excellent, perfect seasoning, fresh bread, and made just perfectly! Yum!!! The fries were good, too, and I could not leave without grabbing a watermelon Italian ice bc everyone else was getting them, too, and they looked dee-licious! (It was!). Service was insanely fast, so practically no wait for the food, and it was HOT and tasty! Perfect meal. If you're in the area, this place is a must for beef sandwiches. I love it!
(5)Rob W.
I grew up near the Johnnie's in Elmwood Park and have always been a big fan. Their Italian Ice is truly an original and seldom found the way they make it at any other establishment. The beefs at the EP store are good too. But the beef at the Arlington Heights store is just OK. I stopped there recently and ordered a combo. The Italian sausage was good and enjoyable, but the beef was surprisingly void of flavor. Nothing wrong with the beef itself - it wasn't old or anything, just didn't have any taste. I see one reviewer ranks this above Portillo's - I just can't see that. As much as I'd rather say that this longtime place has a better beef than the somewhat "chainy" Portillo's, it just doesn't. Blandarama is more like it - wish I had more stars to offer, but 3 is pretty generous.
(3)Alex G.
If someone was heading to the airport and asked me where to get a Chicago style Italian beef, I wouldn't hesitate a moment before recommending Johnnie's. My visit on Saturday reaffirmed that this is one tasty sandwich. Now if they could replace the frozen, undercooked fries with fresh cut, they would rate 5 stars on my list. While there are no shortage of good beef stands in Chicago, Johnnie's is solidly in my top 5.
(4)Denise H.
First things first-I grew up in Elmwood Park-"home" of the first "Johnnie's Beef". I live in Schaumburg and Arlington Heights is much closer. I LOVE Johnnie's! Beef is great, Hot Dogs are yummy-LOVE the bunch tamales!!! The sausage/combo sandwiches are really good. And the Italian Ice...I don't think EP has watermelon-but I don't go there very often... And the mural of the animals on the wall? Why wouldn't they have names and why wouldn't they be eating at Johnnie's? I think it's adorable-and the names may be of people who have worked there-and the "location" of the Critter Picnic is EP...I really appreciate it!
(5)Tony T.
Amazing Beef Sandwiches! Has been a favorite of my family for years and even stopped by twice on my last Chicago visit! Beef, Dogs, fries, Italian Ice - all great! CASH ONLY!
(5)Dave W.
You must get the combo sandwich. The sausage is even better than the beef. As others stated both peppers are also great. I see lots of complaints about cash only but the prices are reasonable and the lines are still out the door. Wouldn't you only take cash if you could?
(4)Clifford B.
Awesome! Shredded beef sandwich and fries. Shaved ice in winter. Super fast service; I paid and had my freshly prepared sandwich in seconds. It was so good I asked my companions about the fries. They pointed out no one left any fries sitting, so I grabbed an order and was not disappointed.
(5)Donna M.
Gotta have cash when you go but it's worth it! I had an Italian beef and fries and it was delish!!! Food is fresh and so good!!! Happy tummy!
(4)Charlotte P.
I've been passing by this place for the past 2 years without giving it a second thought, but yesterday, I was out running errands, and though to myself "self....an italian ice sounds really good about now" so I pulled into Johnnie's. The line wasn't too bad--it was early on a Sunday evening. I knew ahead that it was cash only so that wasn't a problem. There were racks of sausages cooking on the grill, so it's a pity I wasn't really hungry....note to self--have to come back for that, but the italian ice was in a word.....AMAZEBALLS!! Very low key--ice from a plastic bucket. Watermelon or Lemon. I chose the watermelon--ordered a large, and it seriously took me like an hour to finish the whole thing. Part of the reason is because they only give you a spoon/straw, and no regular spoons are available, but I'm not complaining. Slightly sweet and very refreshing. Service was fast, but not friendly at all, so if you're looking for a warm fuzzy experience with the guy running the cash register, be prepared to be disappointed. I'm giving it 4 stars because I haven't tried the beef or sausage.....but judging on the Italian Ice alone---it's worth a trip back.
(4)N B.
I pretty much have to give this a 5 star review as it is my favorite italian beef place in the Chicagoland area. The beef sandwich by itself is above average, but the charcoal grilled sausage in the combo sandwich is what really sets this place apart from other beef stands. I would suggest to order the combo hot, fries, and a large lemon ice. Pros: -Great prices -All of the ingredients (bread, beef, sausage, fries...) are the best I've had at a beef place Cons: -Clearly unhealthy for you -watermelon italian ice is medicore at best -Only two locations. I feel that there is a market for sandwiches like this -Cash only
(5)Howard C.
Best beef around!!! Johnnie's has that giardiniera that leaves your lips burning for a little while. Sooooooo good. Fries are good enough, especially since always nice and hot. Italian Ice is really awesome! Hot dogs are solid. Not poppy seed buns, but delicious. Probably the only place I'm not complaining about no poppy seeds. You'll enjoy! CASH ONLY REMINDER!!!
(5)Aaron D.
We are in the area 2-3 times per year. Everytime we visit Johnnie's is a must visit. My daughter loves the Watermelow Italian Ice and I am partial to the beef with sweet & hot peppers. Perfect stop for lunch if you do not mind the lines. Lines move fast, the staff is awesome and efficient. Food is priced perfectly, sized large, and always tastes great. Basic interior, but what else do you need? Hotdogs, fries, italian beef, sausages and Italian Ice.
(4)Josh N.
Great day for Italian lemon ice
(5)Adam R.
Thank you Yelp! This is probably the best Italian Beef I've ever had. The meat had great taste, the peppers were strong but not over powering, the bread stayed firm enough despite being dipped. Really good stuff. The fries were crispy when I asked for them that way too, which was great of course. Even my grandfather and uncle who'd never been there before were skeptical going in, as they'd only been having Portillo's. But Johnnie's changed their mind. I will definitely be back.
(5)Xavier W.
Italian beef sandwich with the hot peppers for the win, I devoured that thing in an instant. The store isn't exactly spectacular looking, old and a little run down but I guess they pass the savings onto the customers. The frozen lemonade was delicious and a great refreshing drink/dessert to top off that meal, dont bother with the frozen watermelon whatever though, that was just pink cotton candy tasting nonsense. One tip of advice though, as much as I love fries and theirs is pretty good, just leave it and either save room for another sandwich/hot dog or fill up on the large frozen lemonade.
(5)James T.
I grew up in Elmwood Park and Johnnies was the yard stick for all others. When they opened in Arlington hts I was excited but now very disappointed . The great French gonnella bread they used to use is replaced by some cheap mushy imitation bread and the beef has been surpassed by Portillo s and Bouna . The end of an era. Jim T..
(2)Ari T.
The reviews are spot-on -- holy crap this is good. A beef sandwich will set you back $4. It's not huge, but they're pretty generous with the beef. The beef is flavorful -- it puts places like Al's to shame. And the sandwich was in front of me before I was able to get my money out of my wallet. I didn't get an Italian ice (it was 20 degrees outside), but I saw them serve someone else and it was a very generous portion. Bottom line: I wouldn't start my New Year's diet here, but if you're looking for good, cheap food in Arlington Heights, this is the place.
(5)levramosis H.
Great Italian beef, great lemon ice. The combo was interesting, but I would probably stick to the regular beef in the future. We got them dipped with hot giardiniera. The giardiniera was dominated by peppers and didn't have much crunch. The dip was incomplete with still plenty of dry bun which still disintegrated partway through the sandwich. The fries are standard fast food, frozen ore ida fries. The watermelon ice was like a watermelon jolly rancher ice, although they report using real watermelon.
(4)Will S.
I would say that I enjoyed Johnny's Beef, but it wasn't my favorite. Yes, the service was fast, and the food was ready at the time I paid IN CASH! They do NOT accept credit or debit cards, but they DO have an ATM machine in the lobby (big deal). The beef was very tasty, and plentiful on the fresh french bread. The fries were hot, crispy on the outside, and warm & soft inside. The clerks were robotic, not particularly friendly, but for what I paid, I'd say it was OK. I opted for a watermelon Italian ice which was also tasty, but they DON'T HAVE SPOONS! I had to eat mine with a plastic fork, and then drank it down when it became liquidy towards the end. Plenty of seats inside, and a few outside (I don't eat outside in hot weather). I asked for a lid for my Italian ice, and the clerk said nothing at all, retrieving the plastic lid and presenting it to me Positives: Good tasting Italian beef plentiful on a fresh piece of French bread Lots of fries, cooked to a tasty crispy outside & soft inside Good portion of Italian Ice for the price ATM in lobby (I still say big deal) Negatives: Do not accept credit or debit cards No spoons, just plastic forks available Stoic, unfriendly clerks & employees Would I return here? Possibly. Would I recommend it? Maybe, but they need to lighten up, and be a little more animated with their customers.
(3)Stephanie C.
THE BEST ITALIAN BEEF IN CHICAGO. -1 Star for not having cheese sauce and for it being cash-only.
(4)Mark F.
Best Italian beef. End of story. With a decor straight out of another decade and prices to match, if you ever have a hankering for some Italian beef look no further. You can enjoy a sandwich, fries, Italian ice and a soda for under $10. That's a tasty deal if you ask me. If there were a downside it would be that they only accept cash. Meh, so what? There's an ATM machine right inside in case you forget that one rule. I want another sandwich just writing about it...
(5)David M.
It's probably a sin to say that my favorite Beef in Chicago is... not in Chicago at all! But this one is the best I've had so far. And no, I'm not biased because I live here now. I'll freely admit that Arlington Heights does not have the kind of food options that Chicago has. That's probably the understatement of the year. But when it comes to Italian Beefs, Johnnie's beats Al's and everything else. There are only 13 or so items on the menu, but that's part of the charm; do a few things and do them well. And they don't take cash. That's also part of the charm. And they aren't the friendliest people you've ever met. Did I mention this place is loaded with charm? On the plus side, your food will be ready before you've gotten your change back, and in the summer the patio is beautiful and shaded. It IS the image of summertime to me. I almost can't drive by it without stopping in, at least for a lemon ice. But my recommended dishes here are the beef - extra juicy with hot peppers - and a tamale. They also have quite serviceable Chicago-style hot dogs and fries, however. I'm not sure why the Italian Beef has to be such a contentious affair in Chicago and the surrounding area, but I'll gladly go out on my shield defending Johnnie's.
(5)Amanda L.
My husband and I really like Johnnie's (he grew up going to Johnnie's). You know a place has good food when the line is out the door, there's no parking, and all the tables are taken even with such a simple menu. There are a TON of hot dog joints on Arlington Heights Rd., but none of them are like Johnnie's. Yes, like everyone else said, we do long for cheese on our beef sandwiches, but it has never stopped us from getting one and enjoying the heck out of it. Also, you can't leave without getting their OUTSTANDING Italian ice. Sometimes they have seasonal flavors (watermelon last summer), but the lemon is always a winner. And you get so much of it! It's the best Italian ice hands down.
(4)Melanie S.
The food here is exactly the same as the one the Elmwood Park location, and that's a good thing. The interior is a little nicer, but I suspect that's because it's in Arlington Heights, a more upscale suburb. Personally, I prefer the Elmwood Park outpost. There were no seats inside so we were forced to eat outside. There was one table open outside, but as soon as I saw it, I shuddered in horror. It was smack dab in the middle of tables of shreiking, unruly 9 year-olds, probably just fresh off a little league game. I swear, there must have been at least 30 of them. It was exactly like being in a fenced-in dog park. Some of the dogs, er kids, were calm, but most were running around off leash while the owners were busy chatting amongst themselves completely oblivious to the chaos while their dogs got their ya yas out. The only difference is that the kids didn't sniff each other's assh*les. Oh wait, they did that too. I do love that this location has watermelon Italian ice while the EP location does not, and the Italian beef is still some of the best around, but I'll happily stick to their other location just for my own sanity. Visiting Johnnie's Beef is the best form of birth control EVER!
(4)Nancy L.
they have the best beef and the best fries and the best italian ice I'll ever eat
(5)Jennifer S.
We grabbed a quick dinner at Johnnie's Beef tonight and when I say quick, I mean QUICK! We ordered, paid and had our food in less than two minutes. I didn't even think that the bag on the counter was ours because it appeared so quickly. Here's what I figured out: Da' Beef - It's definitely homemade, but I didn't love it. There was a lot of fat bits running through it and I felt like I had to pick that out before I started to eat. Da' Bread - It's fresh and delicious. Da' Hot Peppers - They had the perfect amount of zing and zip without setting my mouth on fire. Da' Fries - Skip them. They are shoestring, frozen, not really tasty bits of potato. It wasn't worth it at all and was more of a filler than anything. Da' Tamale - You get a lotta tamale for less than $2.00. We shared and barely finished it. Overall, it's a fun little place with a great crowd that runs in and runs out. Nothing fancy. But the hubby likes it, so we will probably be back.
(3)Matt P.
My reason to live. Enough said
(5)Cathy G.
After reading an article in the local paper about how people literally line up around the building in the summer to get Johnnie's beef, not to mention the 4.5 star average rating by 100+ Yelp users, I couldn't wait to try it. I went quite a bit out of my way, but didn't mind because of the rave reviews and because of my LOVE of Italian beef sandwiches. Sorry, Johnnie's but I couldn't have been more disappointed. I got a beef sandwich with hot peppers, fries and a drink. While reasonably priced, that was the only high point. The fries were just okay and the beef was....I really hate to say it......not good. To me, the gravy tasted like lipton onion soup mix, all salt and no italian spices. Maybe they were having a bad day, I don't know, but I was stunned since I had such high anticipation going in. Portillo's, you have nothing to worry about from me at least.
(2)Anna K.
Poor costumer service! I initially requested 1/2 lemon and 1/2 watermelon Italian ice and the cashier kept mumbling "wedonemix." I needed to ask him several times to repeat himself. ENUNCIATE and SPEAK UP ASSHOLE! We then ordered 2 Lemonades and a second later I changed my mind and asked for a watermelon. The cashier and a gentlemen behind him kept exchanging looks and smirks as if my request was out of line. Poor communication between him and his employee caused confusion and I had to step in and explain to the girl that I only want 1 lemon and 1 watermelon. NOT that difficult. The italian ice was AMAZING! I've had much better Hot dogs and beef sandwich elsewhere.. I don't plan on returning to this place for food.
(1)Sherwin C.
Great place for an Italian Beef, fries, and Italian ice. It's debatable whether this or Portillos is better so I won't make a definitive judgment. The menu is small but all the items are done well at a good price and very quick service.
(5)Matthew A.
This place is great! PROs Very affordable! A hotdog, fries, two lemon ices and a beef/sausage combo cost less than $10. Lightning FAST! Food is in your hands the second you give them payment. Delicious! The sausage and beef by itself is on the spicy side, so if you're sensitive to that you may want to stick with a hotdog. Also, the Italian ices were phenomenal. CONs CASH ONLY. Probably has to do with keeping their prices down. There is an ATM inside that has a $2.50 fee. Staff seems kind of bitter. Limited selection. They have beefs, sausages, and hotdogs. Pretty much it. Food is a tad in the greasy side. All in all, glad I went here. My new destination for a quick bite!
(4)Richard C.
this place beats al's beef for their italian beef sandwich any day. i personally like their combo, which is italian beef and sauage, and i also add sweet peppers and hot peppers. be aware their 'combo' does not include fries and drink. fries are good, italian ice is good, price is good, only not good is cash-only. $6~8 highly recommended!!
(4)Felix V.
Great place. I love there hot dogs and fires. The combo beef and sausage is great to. To finish a nice italian lemonade. Super quick service!
(4)Joe M.
The food here is delicious. The fries are always cooked perfectly and the beefs and combos are always up to standard. If you want a beef, you come to Johnnie's. The Italian ice is also huge and comes in lemon or watermelon, both are awesome.
(5)Daniel P.
Small portions per price point leave me a bit wanting. The pics show sandwiches stuffed with beef. Perhaps my prep person was having an off day but my sandwiches were not stuffed like the pics show and my GFs sandwich was barely dipped. Dipping something should be pretty simple process. The beef was just "ok" which was a bit of a let down given the high reviews. Fries were nothing spectacular either. The only thing i can say is it was very fast from order to food but perhaps take a few more seconds to prepare the food better. I would not visit again.
(1)Kat L.
Thank God! Appropriate proportions and appropriate prices. Italian beef is good. Little bit of juice and not too soggy. The beef can get a little gritty and dry though in some areas. Otherwise, pretty soft throughout and not chewy. Fries not super salty or greasy. Another big plus. Watermelon italian ice is yummy but with seeds. Good for hot days. Decor is blech but liveable, as long as the place isn't crowded. Another blech: cash only. Super quick. Really no wait for the food to finish. Definitely a preferred choice when looking for cheap but good fast food
(4)Jeffrey B.
The Italian beef here is amazing. Soaked to perfection! Nice juices coming out of the bread and the meat is nice and soaked in all of its goodness. I asked for hot and sweet peppers on the side though just so I can put as much on as I want. The sweet peppers here are really delicious. They gave me enough to stuff 2 Italian beefs with. The hot peppers here are also delicious. Not too hot and not too oily either. I liked the fries here too, they're not too greasy and not too soggy either. They are kind of like McDonald's fries minus the ultra fattiness. Next time I come here with an appetite I do want to try the Combo its the Italian beef with sausage. Just thinking about the aroma of the sausage and Italian beef makes me salivate as i type. I would give this place 5 stars only if their Italian beefs were a bit bigger. Maybe my appetite was above average but I am sure a bigger beef would have kept me smiling on my drive home to the city. (pause)
(4)Keith E.
This might be my first 5 star but I think they deserve it. Pooh-pooh for the service nay- sayers. It's fast, good. Hot dogs are great, too. The italian ice is REAL italian ice. It was so good, I asked if I could buy some for my kid's birthday party but no go! The beef is just so tasty - as far opposite from dry, imaginable. Fries are decent considering they are frozen. Enjoy.
(5)J D.
Great beef sandwich, very juicy and well seasoned, could of used a bit more beef. Fries are crispy and come well salted. Next time I will try the combo. Fast and efficient service. Would recommend to my friends.
(4)Jeff K.
The best beef sammiches in the northwest suburbs, maybe the best beef sammiches in Chicagoland. Try the combo with beef and sausage, make sure to get it dipped.
(5)Heather L.
Italian beef and tamales are pretty much all they do. And maybe that's what makes them Best In Class. Excellent! Quick grab on the way home from work.
(5)D G.
Blows portillos out of the water!!! Best beef, I usually get the combo tho yum!! And its cheap!! I am a local and its my fav!
(5)Frank A.
This place is awesome. The best combo sandwiches! The sausage has great kick. The beef is perfect, never dry, even when ordered dry! Yeah, so the menu is limited to combo sandwiches and hot dogs. They're the best at it! The fries are just ehh.. but the Combo Sandwich and Italian ice is soooo good. This place gets packed at times, but they work real fast and you'll be in and out of there before you know it. Speaking of the Italian Ice, they serve lemon and watermelon. My wife likes the watermelon for it's sweetness, but I'm in love with classic lemon. Sweet and tangy. It's so good... the best ice outside of the city.
(5)B L.
Wow!! Wow!! Wow!! If you know me, you know how much I love Italian Beef sandwiches. If Italian Beef were a religion, I would be high priestess. Of course I have my favorites: Portillo's (of course), Beggars Pizza in Oak Lawn, Irving's in Wilmette. I venture to say (and this is big for me, Queen of all Beefs) that Johnnie's Beef is above and beyond them all. Even Portillo's! Making Italian Beefs just right is an art form if you're from Chicago, have been to as many hot dog stands as I have and understand the importance of a good beef-bread ratio. Not only that but for spicy beef lovers such as myself, Johnnie's does not disappoint. Make sure you get some of those good fries to go with your beef here, you are gonna need them as a buffer. The grape Italian Ice is really good too for helping put out the fire in your mouth. Sometimes I think about the time I was really broke and went to Johnnie's to meet a friend and all I could afford was a small grape ice. It saddens me. If you go here, you GOTTA GET THE BEEF! They named the place after it for Chrissakes! Go here, go here, go here! I can't recommend this place enough.
(5)Pascal M.
Johnnie's has a not so serious "Soup Nazi" type line going on. My experience: Man steps forward, "1 beef, hot, dipped, please." He pays, and takes one large side step to his left. The beef is in his hands in less than 45 seconds. I rode my bike here from Naperville to enjoy this highly raved about beef. I thought the price was generously low, the beef hot dipped was full of flavor. Lot's of heat in the girdinara. For me, that's a must. It wasn't painful heat by the way, the heat is pleasing and keeps you taking bite after bite after bite. My only quarrels were that they don't offer cheese. Is that a sin? I don't want pump cheese or anything. However I do like a nice slice of Provolone or Mozzarella. Mind you, the beef was very good without the cheese. Johnnie's is a great beef. This location is out of the way (for me), but I wouldn't mind checking out their location on Elmwood Park. This location would be easy to get to during a commute to or from the city.
(4)john r.
Q&D: very good prices, quick service, clean place, average tasting food Italian beef - a true Chicago treat - no other city has come close to mastering this fabulous and simple sandwich. I often make it a point that when I am visiting an area of Chicagoland that I do not normally visit, I either look for a beef, or thin crust pizza. Tonight I was in Arlington Heights (Denis Savard was signing at the new Binny's) - and based on the high marks, Johnnies was the place to visit. A buddy and I rolled in just around 7:30p - I order a beef with hot peppers, and a side of fries. I ordered, the cashier leaned his head toward the beef guy, and in his monotone voice said "beef, hot peppers" or was it "beef, hot". The beef guy, forked some beef into a sliced bread, added peppers, and wrapped. I paid $5.98, and not even 30 seconds later I was sitting at table munching on hot fries and a rolled beef (no drink). The hot fries were salted to my liking, and were awesome. They are the frozen type...nothing special...perhaps I was hungry...but I finished them off before I started on the beef. I unrolled the beef, the outside bun was not soggy, that was good. I took a bite, the beef was moist, and the peppers added some needed flavor. The beef seemed bland, do have to say that imo this beef was very average. Perhaps the beef had been sitting in its juices all day long, and an earlier visit would result in a better experience, but since I live about 30 miles away, I doubt I will find out.
(3)Norah D.
After growing up by the original Johnny's, I was super excited to find this one close to me! Boy was I disappointed!!!! The service was HORRIBLE and the cashier had the nerve to call me a bitch in spanish!!!! I may be white, but I speak it fluently!!! Horrible business ethics!!!!
(1)Kim M.
I lived on Johnnie's Lemon Italian Ice while pregnant with my first child. I love this place! The sausage is spicy, the beef has a kick. The hot dogs have snap. The fries are always fresh. What I don't like about it is that they don't take debit cards. But if that's the worst thing about it, you really can't do wrong by going there.
(5)Jim F.
The best beef in all of Chicagoland. I once knew a guy who said his only complaint was the sandwich wasn't big enough, I said so get 2! Case closed, I've never heard another complaint from anyone about Johnnie's.
(5)Christopher G.
Im from Columbus, Ohio, but my Daughter (who lives in Chicago) said I must go. I did, and WOW! Got mine dipped and with sweet peppers, and it was awesome! It was the best beef sandwich Ive ever had. I cant wait to return.
(5)Bart H.
Ahhh Johnnie's. The best beef in the burbs! I live right near here and go way to often but I cannot say enough good things about this place. Great food, fast, good sides. Love the tamale. Beef's are a little small but I like that I don't need a nap after eating one. The combo is a great choice if you need a little extra. And there fries are good, but I would advise you to try the tamale. The two together just work. Only complaint is that it is cash only and who carries cash these days. At least they have an ATM for people like me.
(5)Tom L.
Summary: Amazing Italian Beef that is one of the best in Chicago. The hotdogs were on the standard to any other place. The Italian Ice is something you come craving at 10pm. The store owner talks like super mario. What more can you ask for? Oh yeah..its super cheap!!! I start off with a summary because it is needed in this case. Nothing fancy about this place. If you like italian beef, look no further. This place is usually one of the places I like to go to when I come back to visit my family in Chicago. Surprising how good it is and the fact that its in the suburbs does shock me. The italian beef with the peppers, dipped is just a treat to have. The broth is so juicy and the meat is so tender it just makes you feel like you are in heaven. I always get a hotdog with my italian beef and i can't argue if you just want a classic chicago style hotdog. (nothing special but its hard to differentiate hotdogs). To top it off, this place makes some of the best italian ice. It's really something else to have that strawberry italian ice especially late at night when you are craving for a refreshing desert. It's good in the Winter and that horrible summer. I encourage everyone to try Johnnie's Beef, it should be a landmark and most importantly, it should the standard in italian beef.
(5)Chuck S.
The Italian beef is very good BUT stay away from the sausage unless you like yours cooked to death! The place seems to be on auto pilot and the non-English speaking staff overcooks the sausage to the consistancy of an old cigar butt! No amount of juice can help revive it. It ruins what could be a great beef and sausage combo.
(3)Jude M.
Everything I have had here has been great. I drive past it once in a while, but never stopped, I decided one day that I needed to stop in and try it. It was great! I am happy I decided to come here and can't wait to come back.
(5)Milton B.
Best sausage beef combo in the city all day long. Don't forget to get a large lemon or watermelon Italian ice.
(5)Patsy D.
I would have said that Mr. Beef ruled, until I came to this place. Absolutely fantastic and so quick. Having to have cash makes me grouchy, but I can't fault them for not wanting to deal with all the bookkeeping just because I can be lazy. Order the beef, double dipped with sweet peppers Can't be beat.
(5)Erik H.
This is what everyone rants and raves about? This place was terrible! Ha no I'm kidding, it was great. I got an Italian Beef with a side order of hot dog (so what?) and it was all delicious. The Beef was, obviously, the star. I always get mine dipped ("juicy") with sweet peppers and whatever is in their beef juice here was pretty magical. The hot dog was also very good. Not particularly special, but everything was fresh and high quality. The fries were surprisingly average; you would think a place like Johnnie's would have something greasy or interesting, but they reminded me of McDonald's fries if anything. And the lemon ice had kind of a weird taste, although it wasn't bad. Do you want an Italian Beef? If you're near Arlington Heights or Elmwood Park, I would say don't go anywhere but Johnnie's.
(4)Kensey W.
yum! this place was delicious. tried the italian beef and it was juicy and tasty and everything a sandwich should be. the bread is chewy and perfectly soaks up the juiciness. the hot peppers are so great too! also got to try the hot dog but i don't think i like hot dogs with tomato or onions or pickles. so i don't think i can judge it. anyway the fries are mcdonald's-cut and hot and delicious. i also had to get the tamale because i don't think i've ever turned down a tamale when it's on the menu. i had mixed feelings about it though - it was nice and wet like i like it but the filling was kind of weirdly seasoned. i can't completely say i didn't like it though. just not what i would have expected. anyway, i'm really glad i got to eat here! wish they had a little more room to sit in here, but i guess it's just that popular. haha
(4)Justine R.
"Beef, hot and juicy with a large ice please!" Now, I don't mean to start any arguments here (because it's happened with many of my friends already, but hands down: Johnnies beef is WAY better than Portillos.. and I believe that's saying a lot considering the line at the drive-thru at EVERY portillos I see during lunch / dinner hour. But back to Johnnies.. their beef is different because they keep some of the trimmings on - which definitely adds to the flavor. It retains a lot of the juice and of course having them dip it in the juice helps too ;) Their menu is very short, which I also appreciate because they know that people are there for the beef. Their tamales are good but not the best I've had.. but that italian ice! I don't care how cold it is, I could have their Italian ice everyday of the year.. Ah, but definitely bring cash like others have warned.. that ATM in there is terrible.. it takes so long and you have to pay a fee.. booo.. dig up all your loose change on the way! ;) Their beef is less than $4 anyway! (How much is it at Portillos again? lol)
(5)Sara M.
You cannot get good Italian beef outside of the Chicago area, I swear. At least not in the NE, where they have never even heard of it! This place does it right and even if my stomach get a little growly at me afterwards, it is totally worth it. The beef is hot, running with juices, tons of hot peppers, and that bread sops up everything. It's smells good, looks good, tastes good, and feels good. You can get an Italian ice if you can't take the heat! Thumbs up for this greasy treat!
(4)Colin S.
I stayed out in Schaumburg and relied on Yelp to find a good cheap place to eat nearby. Johnnie's Beef was just what I wanted. The beef and the au jus were the best parts as many reviews have noted. The fries were typical and the prices fair. If you need a quick fix then this is the place. Note: NO CREDIT CARD, DEBIT CARDS, BANK CARDS, ETC.
(4)Richard T.
I have Italian Beef at many different places and this is by far my wife's and my favorite place. As others have said, it is cash only, and the service is not the friendliest, but the beef is so flavorful. Your bun is "wet" as in they put plenty Aus Jus on it, but the roll holds up. They put just enough beef on it. We live in Virginia, so on our last day in town, we ended up eating twice here. My wife prefers the hot peppers over the sweet peppers. I prefer mine plain. The fries are really good as well. We didn't try the Italian ice as we were too full. Maybe next time. Those of you who live in Illinois, I hope you realize how lucky you are to have Italian beef so readily available.
(5)Jessica S.
Visited this place for the first time yesterday. Actually, it was my first meal back in the Chicagoland area after living in Madison for 4 years (where they don't eat beef, apparently). I've been to so many places where the beef has no taste & it's an awful thing. Johnnies beef is the tastiest beef I've ever had, even without peppers and cheese. Sandwiches are cheap, too. I definitely plan on eating at this place more now that I'm back in the area.
(5)Salima B.
best beef you can get in the subs! Love the spicy giardiniera, could eat it with a spoon thats how good it is!
(5)Peter Q.
Johnnie's comes well rated and it's not hard to see why. Quick service and a heaping Italian beef sandwich will get you that. But...to me the sandwich was a bit bland. Yeah, you can throw a bunch of stuff on it, but to me the beef shouldn't need all that extra help. Above average, but nothing special.
(3)Sean F.
Oh my freaking god that is a good beef sandwich. Throw in the wonderful lemon ice and you're set. The fries are totally average, but who cares. Get a beef. Get a lemon ice. Get happy.
(5)scott k.
service fast. beef is good not great. fries ok. itailian ice makes it worth the trip.
(3)Shannon S.
Johnnie's Beef - Thumbs Up! I had a window of time to drive out, grab lunch, and sit down and Johnnie's Beef ended up being my 25-minute destination. I am a big fan of simplicity and Johnnie's does not make it complicated. I ordered the beef (soaked) with hot peppers, fries, and a soda. All this for under $10. It really is possible to have dreams about food, especially Johnnie's Beef. It's CASH ONLY so you better bring your spare change, Washingtons, Lincolns, or Hamiltons.
(5)Colie L.
RUDE. I have celiac disease which means I am allergic to wheat, flour, etc. which includes bread. When I went to this location and asked for an italian beef without bread I was told no. I asked for the bread on the side and they said no. I asked if I could still pay for the bread just not get it andI was told no. When I explained I am allergic to the bread they still said no. I said fine, no beef I'll take fries and the rest of my party ordered. When we got our order they still charged me for a the beef I said no to! When I took the beef back they turned around and gave it to someone else (gross). The whole time my party and I sat there to eat I was getting stares, they talked about me in Spanish (which I understand) and were rude. I don't see why the beef HAS to go on the bread when the beef just sits there alone already. SO many people have celiac disease today, and they will lose a lot of potential customers for this silly 'rule' and they lost a loyal costumer today.
(1)Dave P.
Ever crave some salty, hearty, delicious beef? Stop by Johnnie's. In my opinion, this place beats Portillo's beef. Now, you're probably howling at me and going to say that Portillo's has some of the best beef in Chicago. But let me give my reasons why. Ever have a dry beef at Portillo's? Not enough flavor? Too much beef? Johnnie's is just the opposite. The beef and bread are perfectly moist. The beef to bread ratio is perfect every time. Johnnie's may not have the variety of a Portillo's. You can't have mozzarella on the beef. The menu is not as large. But I think the taste is a good trade. And where else can you get a heaping italian ice around the area for under 2 bucks?
(4)Frank B.
I've lived in Chicagoland my whole life and go out to eat all the time. I only have a tiny handful of truly amazing places to eat at and this is one. Beef with sweet peppers and lemonade are amazing. I mean best I ever had. Prices reasonable, consistent, and good service. Does not get much better than this.
(5)Michele B.
Nothing is better than a nice hot Italian Beef with hot peppers after digging out of the blizzard. Rolled into Johnnies and ordered a beef dry (otherwise the bread just falls apart) with hot peppers and I didn't even have to wait in line! Where is everyone, still buried???? Well my answer came when I opened my beef--where is it? The beef I mean?? I know the economy is bad, but not desperate. I now understand where the line went--probably to Mr. Beefy down the street. I usually stop in here when I need my beef fix and don't want to do the drive to LuLu's in the City (see Hot Diggity Dog list), but it will be a while before I make Johnnies my go to.
(2)Ruoyu S.
Italian beef sandwich of Johnnies's is good. Best beef one can expect in a fastfood restaurant! Definitely recommend it! I ordered one Italian beef, one Italian sausage, only 7 bucks.
(4)Fendi F.
Ok here we go this place is ok but thay are the cheap on the meat and look at you like your a jag bag if you ask for more I rather pay more then get treated like a jag off so keep your shit jonnies I'm going to mr beef on Harlem try asking for more beef and judge for your self
(1)Helen W.
When in Chitown, ya gotta try the Italian Beef sandwiches. No other city makes them as good as this! Went to Johnnies for our 1st sampling. The order was placed and a minute later we were looking for a table with our food. The beef was hot and juicy, and with both sweet and hot peppers, it had just enough spice. Beef was flavorful and tender. Fries were just so so, the italian sausage in the combo was good, but just typical and order the drinks with ez ice, otherwise you get ice with some drink. Pretty reasonable price compared to SD, but then there is alot of competition here.
(4)James K.
Best Italian Beef in Chicago hands down. To top it off, you get your meal quicker than you get it at the "Freaky Fast" sandwich shop down the street. Watermelon Italian ice is great, and when you order a tamale, you actually get two.
(5)Cheryl F.
If it's not Johnnie's Italian Beef, why eat it? Seriously, that's where Johnnie's has gotten me in my beef-eating life. If they are closed, I go home. I won't settle for Buona or Portillos when I know there could be Johnnie's. The beef is always tender, bread soaked just enough, and the sweet peppers, oh man, just talking about it makes me crave. I swear they put some kind of addictive drug in the meat to make me want to eat more. All I can say is go here and you will not be disappointed. Service is FAST and they only take cash, NO CREDIT CARDS! Open 11-11 every day.
(5)shaun M.
OK seriously this place is not as good as people make it sound. The service is the fastest you will get anywhere, probably because the menu is about 2 items long. The guy behind the counter was a little rude. The sandwich was good but seriously soggy. The only options you get are hot peppers or sweet peppers. The Italian ice is where it's at, next time I come here I think I would just get this. I've had better, hey I think a Portillo's is even right down the block from this place. In conclusion, come here if you want some really fast cheap food that is kinda good.
(3)Alexandra R.
One of the best places to get italian beef and the watermelon italian ice is AMAZING. I come here all the time and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for good, affordable food
(5)Shamoon E.
Don't accept credit/debit which is wack but the beef sandwiches are solid
(4)Paul K.
My favorite beef in Chicago. Reliable, delicious, and a great value. If you like Chicago-style beef, you'll want to try Johnnie's. I love the fries. It gets crowded around lunch time. They have outdoor seating for when the weather is nice. Yes, they only accept cash, and yes, the man who runs it tends to be a little stiff, but I can't really fault him for that - he makes a hell of a beef sandwich.
(5)Mark B.
Johnnie's is a regular haunt for us. Excellent italian beef, wet, with hot peppers and cheese.. fries are a solid performer and the italian ices are perfect. I have yet to try the italian sausage.. but it looks amazing hanging over the grill. The tamales are average, bulk buy, pre-made. Go for the beef and ices..
(5)Jane T.
After extensive research in an attempt to find the best beef in Chicago, the conclusion was Johnnie's beef. And then I realized I had been here months prior to my research. Johnnie's is the best - peppers with a kick, tender juicy beef, and bread dipped liberally. I'm also glad to have found out that the food here is comparable to their original location so I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything. They're very generous with the Italian ice too, piled as high as the cup can hold. I just wish they gave a tad more beef in their sandwiches. Johnnie's is worth the drive out. Their beef is an addiction!
(5)david s.
1) I ordered a beef to take home, and they wouldn't give me any au jus on the side, even tho I offered to pay extra. I don't like to eat the beef dry. So what am I to do? If I have them dunk it, the bun will be soggy and falling apart by the time I get home. I have been to many other italian beef places, and all have given me a container of juice. This is a deal-breaker for me. 2) The beef to bun ratio is off. Others have complained that the sandwich is too small, but it's probably fair for the low price they charge. If they would give a smaller bun with the same amount of beef, it would have a better mouthfeel in each bite. They should do that, plus offer a larger size option for, say, $1.50 more. 3)The beef itself is just fine, but I have no idea why it gets all the hoopla for being one of the very best. I drove over 30 minutes to try it, and my reaction was, "Why the fuss?". There are 3 places much closer to my house where the beef is just as good, IMO.
(1)Elizabeth T.
Pros - super quick service, straight forward menu Cons - cash only, no substitutions allowed, food was "eh". Boring. Fries was disgustingly soggy. I've had better. Skip...skip...skip to Portillo's
(1)Dan M.
Awesome beef. Still my favorite. I usually go to the on North since it's closer to me but I came by here the other day since I was in the area. Just as tasty as the other location and the patio is better at this location. Seriously, I'm moving close to double digits in terms of the number former Al's lovers that I have converted after having them visit Johnnie's. Give it a shot, it's a solid beef and a good value. ($7 for beef/fries/drink)
(5)Pari S.
OMG!! This is a YUM Place!! Best Italian beef sandwiches ever. They don't have a huge menu, (Italian beef sandwiches, hotdogs, french fries, italian ice, soda.) but surprisingly the business they get here is RIDICULOUS. (I've seen the line out the door, several times before.) I usually order the combo... (beef with sausage) I like my sandwich extra wet, meaning really really soaked that the bread is almost soggy. (they'll make it whichever way you want.) There beef is very thin sliced and juicy. The sausage... smoked and spicy. I like sweet and hot peppers and always ask for it on the side... However you can have it on your sandwich if you prefer. The portion is just right... the fries are good. My favorite is the Italian ice. Only 2 flavors though, lemon & watermelon. The service is FAST FAST FAST. You walk In, order, get your food, eat and out you go. My only complaint about this place is its a "cash only" place... (with an atm by the door.) However the prices here are descent and well worth it. Would I go again? Yes!! It is located close to the laundromat, so I always feel tempted to grab a sandwich and Italian ice, before laundry time.
(5)Paul G.
Cash only. This is 2013............ Atm was broken. Not giving this a second chance since its clear they dont want my money
(1)J L.
Excellent Beef Sandwich (better than Portillos). Peppers are amazing and plentiful!
(5)Jean C.
For the longest time growing up, I would never get Italian beef. Ever. And I don't know why. So, I guess I am making up for it now since when I go to Portillo's or Johnnie's, I'm getting it every time. I came here about two weeks ago with my dad. Their beef is so tasty. And the giardinera just makes it better. I like it juicy and have to get extra on the side so I can just pour it over my sandwich. I do like their italian ice as well. Lemon is my favorite but sometimes I will get watermelon or strawberry. This place is always hopping and am happy to have it so close to my parents house!
(5)A B.
Keep driving... Wish we had. Portillos is down the street. The beef was okay, hot dog was run of the mill. Inquired about the "italian tuna salad" but couldnt understand what the guy said. Little english. If we weren't so hungry we would have walked out. Place is dark, limited menu, cash only and no pop refills.
(1)Peter K.
best Italian beef EVER! they don't take credit cards which is a bummer, but its by FAR the best beef in Chicago!
(5)Erick P.
Best Italian beef in the worlddd. I love mine with hot peppers and fries. This stuff is the fucking bombbbb
(5)Les O.
Best beef in the NW Suburbs. They need to work on their fries though. Not crispy enough.
(4)Bobbi S.
I just feel sorry for the people that didn't like the beef sandwith at johnnys,I go out of my way to eat at Johnny's whenever I can. Try the hot tamale, they are very good. I no longer order a beef when I'm at portello's since I found Johnny's. I do agree that the beef is on the skimpy side, but oh so good. I have mine forked. Yummy!
(5)Kevin B.
I've been to Johnnie's twice but it is easily one of my favorite Italian Beefs in Chicago. Rarely do I get peppers on my beef, but I did there and it was perfect. The sweet peppers were cut small so it was distributed throughout evenly. Like many places, you can get the bread wet. That is how it is default here and it is well done. Not very soggy (that is okay) but it is certainly wet and adds flavor. On a different point, the fries were pretty good too. Pricing isn't too bad either. The price escapes me, but it seemed very reasonable for the quality and quantity. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. During the winter I could see seating getting a bit cramped. In any decent weather, there should be enough seating for most situations with the outdoor area opened up. To summarize, if you're looking for a good beef, Johnnie's is a great option.
(5)Aloysius T.
Johnnie's is the best! Order a beef and some cheap homemade italian ice, and you are good to go. The beef - velvety ribbons of razon thin beef. nowhere for the flavor to hide. Seasoned well, but not bland or overpowering The bread - crusty and chewy. strong enough to withstand being dipped without falling apart, not too tough to where it's hard to tear the bread The giardiniera - fresh, spicey and crunchy. not too overpowering If it weren't for this place. I dont' think I'd be able to live in the burbs.
(5)Tina B.
Because I am a newly practising vegetarian, I feel like it is my duty to warn you that the pepper and egg sandwich is contaminated with beef grease and au jus...deliciously contaminated. It is an amazing freaking sandwich - an egg scramble with green bell peppers on deliciously chewy french bread and dripping with the beef gravy from their very good namesake Italian beef sandwiches. And true to its religious origins, it's only available on Fridays - so go then. And because I am a newly practicing vegetarian with a really loose definition of what all of that means still, I only ate half of an Italian beef/Italian sausage combo(That's okay, right?) instead of a whole one. The do a very nice beef, but their gravy is clearly the star, bringing pretty average beef up a notch. Their sweet peppers are weak - chunky and a bit too hard, not really drowning in beefy juice enough. And they don't put cheese on their Italian beefs - I've been shamed in asking for it so you won't have to. All of that makes their beef good, maybe even really good, but hardly the best all of Chicagoland has to offer, but great if you're in the area. The prices are noteworthy in their cheapness - you can get a combo for just over $3 - in a city where they regularly cost over $5...or $6...sometimes $7....And they have Italian ice year round - the watermelon was amazing and huge for just over a dollar. But cash only. The sausage is amazing - dry and flavorful. And they offer the egg sandwich with the sausage, which has to be the best thing available here by far. I will totally get that one the next time I go, depending on how vegetarian I am that day (I might have to try to specifically NOT be vegetarian on the (Fri)day I go back...).
(4)Dan Y.
This place gives new meaning to 'Woohoo! As good as it gets!" Whether I'm in Arlington Heights for two weeks or two minutes, I make it a point to stop at Johnnie's for a beef and a lemonade. The sandwich is simply the best. The giardinara is the perfect compliment to this little slice of heaven that falls from the sky. The bread doesn't fall apart and the sandwich is the perfect size. Order a lemonade to wash it down. I don't know what more I can add that hasn't been said, except that Johnnie's is the best around...I guess that has been said. Oh well.
(5)Jenny J.
I have tried the one in Elmwood Park, IL and this location. Both locations are great. The service is fast, even with long lunch lines. They only take cash. They put your ketchup in paper, I guess it is a way to keep cost down, but it works. I love the italian ice and they serve it all year. Great idea to put one in the burbs.
(4)Brandon E.
People "in the know" order the juicy beef. They'll dip the entire sandwich in the au jus, taking the taste to a whole different level. I personally prefer the juicy combo (beef and Italian sausage). The Italian ice is also incredible. They have a choice between lemon and watermelon. They're both great, but the watermelon is absolutely to die for. They don't accept credit or debit cards, so BRING CASH! There's an ATM on site if you forget your cash, but why pay the service charge? Around lunchtime this place gets crazy-busy, so don't come at that time and expect to get in and out. During the warmer months they have outdoor seating, which is nice. Don't ask for extra gravy on the side, they won't do it. They even have signs up to remind you.
(5)Michael W.
The perfect combo at Johnnie's: Italian ice & my mouth. Soo cold yet soo good. The Italian beef & sausage is pretty satisfying too, especially given the high prices found at better known chains throughout the suburbs. Nice tight menu and quick service make this place a standout on Arlington Heights Road.
(5)Virgil M.
There is no better Italian Beef on Earth. Its ultra fast and ultra tasty. I'm actually eating it right now. When ever we go I hope that when I open the door we am greeted with a sea of people. This can only mean one thing: Happy people with good taste just out packin the good beef. Utah! Gimme two.
(5)Raj P.
great beef in less than 20 SECONDS! no joke, top 3 beefs in chicagoland!!!!!
(5)Eric P.
4.5 stars Johnnie's beef is amazing. I would pick this place above portillos any day. I mean where else can you get lightning fast service for the quality of the food which by the way is amazing. The beef is tender and juicy with the fresh hot peppers that give it a kick. But seriously where else can you get two sausages on one bun or two hot dogs on one bun for a very cheap reasonable price? Tell me??!! To have the meat and carb (bun) ratio being equal made me shed tears of joy. And to top it off, their italian ice (especially the watermelon) is thick and sweet. It might even beat Mario's in chicago. Either way check this gem out and ditch portillos.
(4)Darren F.
they make the best Italian beef combo! i always order that plus a large fry and sometimes even with a hot dog too if I'm that hungry.. but they did went cheap on the quantity of the meat in the sandwiches now and that made me stop coming up there so much.. i used to make an extra trip up here on the weekends and now i just go there whenever I'm around the area.
(3)Liliana V.
Great Italian beef. Great Italian ice. Great Fries. Great combo's. Not so good tamales but that's OK... Why would you want those anyways?! We ordered one hot beef, combo , hot dog with fries, large drink, Italian ice and two tamales all under $20. If it were Portillos we would have spent close to $40. Only thing I didn't like is that it was cash only.
(4)Charlie R.
Take note; they don't take credit cards. Everytime I go in, someone manages to get past the giant "Credit Cards Not Accepted" sign on the door, ignore the ones on and around the registers, and puts up a big stink about it. The Italian beef is probably the best I've had in the NW suburbs. The only comparable one I can think of is Tommys, but this one just edges it out in terms of consistency and taste. Plus I believe its a bit cheaper. And thank God somewhere does Italian ice this good. At just over 2 bucks for a large, heaping Italian ice, you get exactly what it should be. Not syrupy, or fake tasting. Perfectly done. Let it melt, and you've got really good lemonade, too.
(5)Nicole M.
I've had Johnnie's Beef a number of times, but I always got a hot dog and fries. Finally tired the Beef! The Beef was good but the bun was way to soggy for my liking... It was way to messy. Guess I should have asked for it dry. Little sad I can't get cheese on it. Fries good, nothing special. Italian ice is yummy... BUT you can only get 2 sizes Small (like Dixie cup small) Or Large (like a large coke) Where's the in between!? Oh PS. It's cheap and CASH ONLY!
(3)Jay C.
Amazingly good. First I had their beef, it was good. Then I learned they will put some juice on it to keep it moist, better. Then I learned they will put hot peppers on it, really good. Then I learned they will be more than happy to jam an Italian sausage in the middle, amazing. I have had this "combo" ordered the same way at other places and it is never even half as good. Their sausage makes it! Cap the meal off with a tamale and I am in heaven. My mouth is watering writing this!
(5)Katelyn C.
Be aware: the staff is rude and they do not take credit cards! I believe I met the owner once when I was here because he was the only white Guy and yelled a whole lot. The food is great, the outdoor seating is awesome, but for the life of me I do not understand the mural inside. Is that supposed to make it kid friendly?! The Italian ices are to die for on a hot summer night. If you are from the area you have heard about it, so go!
(4)Sam Y.
Hands down the best Italian beef I've every tried. The combo was fantastic as well.
(5)Josh O.
Hate on it because they don't have cheese? Please. One of my favorite places for a delicious beef. Simple menu and fast service. There's always a line in the morning before they open but they move so quick you won't have to wait long. The combo is delicious as well. Don't forget the italian ice!
(5)Sandra R.
My boyfriend and i just moved to the Arlington heights area and each Friday is fast food Friday at our house. we drove past the Johnie's beef one day and we decided we needed to try it to see if that would be our place to go for beefs. instead of portillos. on our way there i was expecting to see bigger menu, but instead i was surprised to see that there wasn't much to choose from. so i was stuck just getting the beef with hot peppers and soaked. i asked if i cud add cheese to my beef and the man said they didn't have cheese. we ordered fries and a drink. the fries were not the best fries. and while =eating the beef it just felt very messy and greasy. didn't even want to touch my 8 month old baby cuz my hands felt dirty. the service was super fast. so I'd say we were eating there for less then 15 minutes. nothing fancy very casual. don't think i wud go back there for a beef again. think i just wanna stick to portillos next time. at least they make my beef just the way i like it. probably a good place to go if u want fast o-k beefs.
(2)Max P.
This is premier beef. The service is excellent... totally excellent. The fastest food of all time, coupled with easily the best beef in the northwest suburbs. Some people are bewildered that they don't have cheese, but dude.... come on. Just do yourself a favor, don't look at the menu... as soon as its your turn just say "sweet juicy beef with a small lemon italian ice" your day will be made.
(5)James L.
Easily the best Italian beef sandwich I've ever had. That's probably all I need to say. Didn't try the fries or hot dogs... but OMG... that beef sandwich is to die for. Portillo's is good, but Johnnie's is GREAT.
(5)Gen T.
Kudos and Thank you. We don't live super close but had signed up for baby classes at Northwest Community Hospital nearby. Since they were baby classes you have probably guessed it but I was pregnant at the time. My greatest craving during my pregnancy was watermelon and although the fresh stuff satisfied me, the watermelon ice at Johnnie's Beef was so much better. I'm smiling just thinking about it now. By the time you're done ordering your food it's ready to go but that doesn't mean it's all pre-made sitting in a warming oven getting old and cold, it comes out piping hot and tasting amazing. They only take cash but it's ok because their prices are beyond reasonable, cheap actually. So, anyways, so I don't go into a overly gracious rant, just want to say kudos and thank you to Johnnie's Beef for making my pregnancy much more tolerable!
(5)Fiona F.
We lucked into finding Johnnie's as we were headed to our hotel. What good luck it was! My first Italian Beef sandwich and a truly scrumptious, delectable version! That was two weeks ago and I am already ready to be back there for another.
(5)Linda H.
Yes, Johnnie's Beef has the best flavor around. But ever since the economic downturn, you can clearly see how Johnnie's is cutting back. Less and less meat..it's ridiculous. Raise the prices, don't cut back on the beef impact you dopes. I had to open up the bun just to see "where's the beef?" I'm going down the block to Buono Beef...You at least get what you pay for.
(2)Angela P.
**This review is based on their catering sized beef take out only** I have still not physically been here but the friend of mine who recommended it to me had some leftover from a party that she had gotten it for and invited me over for a beef sandwich. The take out beef comes like Portillo's does with the beef in a vacuum sealed bag and the seasoned gravy in a tub and you heat them up together in batches so you don't overcook the beef. She also had gotten a side of sweet peppers which to my surprise were chopped up and not in strips, but it didn't matter because they were very good! Everything in fact was very good! The beef was seasoned nicely, the bread was soft and the peppers, again were yummy! I have to say that this place comes in second to my number one favorite...you all know who that is! I will definitely be going back to have another beef sandwich and also to take my husband so he can see what I was raving about!
(4)Roy A.
I fancy myself an Italian beef aficionado and this is the place. In the city that invented this sandwich, this is the place to go if you only have one choice. Get up, go wait in line which is generally not crazy long and sit down and have some beef. Hot peppers, sweet, fries, italian ice, sausages, whatever. If you want the best Italian beef in the Chicagoland, you've come to the right place. Al's and Mr Beef and Portillo's are all fine, but this is clearly the best one. The beef just tastes better here and the bread is so fresh and soft with all the juices flowing everywhere, it can't be beat. This is their other location for the suburbanites and it if fairly large inside, especially compared to their other locale. Just wonderfrul food.
(5)David K.
Combo Sandwich every day except friday when I order the pepper and egg combo. small Italian ice(lemon)
(5)Taylor M.
My brother and his girlfriend came in from Florida and of course wanted to try out THE BEST Italian beef in Chicago. My brother who was from here wanted Johnnie's and his girlfriend wanted Al's Beef on Taylor St. since she had seen it on Man vs. Food. So we decided to go on a journey to find the best Italian beef in Chicago. Johnnies was our first stop.. but hands down the best beef. It is so juicy and messy that you want to wash up after eating (this is a good thing when it comes to beef sandwiches! The beef is seasoned perfectly and moist... Al's beef seemed dry and the seasoning was just off. We all came to the same conclusion Johnnie's has the best beef in Chicago! (and bathrooms- unlike Al's- which are necessary for clean up!) The Italian ice was also to die for here. I got watermelon which was sweet and fluffy. But I am sorry Johnnie's you have nothing on Mario's (Taylor St. across from Al's) when it comes to Italian ice... maybe if you added some fruit chunks!
(5)Stanley S.
johnnie's is just as good as i remembered it! had to go to an appt. in the area and i arrived to the area early enough to have a bite first! i used to work and live in the area, however now back in the city! perfect, perfect, perfect sandwich! plus their prices are very very low or i am just used to the city life pricing where every sandwich starts at 10 bucks! out the door w/ fries for just over 6! beat the lunch crowd. beef,, sweet peppers, dipped (wet) and sliced in 1/2 w/ fries! i'm ready for another. i remember this place as the old mr. beef and the food is just as good! pleasant staff and nice little patio...5 star rating all the way. i shall return even though my waste line doesn't need it!
(5)Tony C.
I don't do reviews, however I had the Beef with Peppers; OMG is was awesome. I wish I bought two. Visiting from California, I may go here every night.
(5)Tim F.
Absolutely the best beef I've ever had in the northwest suburbs.
(5)Mark S.
I've been really studying up on my beefs over the last year or so. Johnnie's out in Elmwood Park has pretty much become my favorite on weekends, it's not too far from my house. I've been to this one only for weekday lunches, probably a half dozen times in the last 6 months. So this Johnnie's beef serves beef almost exactly like the original- on the small side (but enough for God's sake), juice is more beefy/gravy-y than most, and cooked perfectly (not dried out or boiled to death). If anything, my hot and juicy is made even more juicy here than out in EP; I actually like this place better when that happens!
(5)Nikki C.
what to get. what to get, what to get..... combo. combo...COMBO! ...ooh yes! ;-) tasty spiced beef and encased meat oozing wet and juicy meat juice on the perfect french roll....please don't forget the peppers...spicy ...not so hot, but tasty just the same. Fries are doable. not big or extra crispy, still a must just like the frozen lemonade. Small and overflowing, BRain Freeze! ....ooooh becareful of that....yes eat it slowly...how?...share it with a friend and take turns...yes;-) good times, good food...definitely worth a trip if you're in the hood.
(4)Eric W.
There are already enough detailed reviews on this place, I don't need to make this long. Five star worthy, both price and quality are top notch. I've never had anything bad from this place. The only negative is that I wish they took credit cards...but I guess they can keep the price low by being cash only.
(5)Mandy S.
Great food, great price! We went to Johnnie's Beef for the first time today - have the Chicago-style hot dog w/ frieds ($2.49) and the Italian beef with sweet peppers (around $3.50). Also picked up an Italian lemonade (lemon ice, $1.60) that was fresh and huge! All 4 of us were extremely pleased with the food - and it was a great value! We'll definitely be going back! Things to note: they only accept cash.
(5)Carlito B.
What else can you say about this place - its awesome
(5)Rich W.
Hearkening back to my youth, I used to frequent Johnnies in Elmwood Park. It was only about 6 blocks from where I lived and was great if you wanted to grab a good beef sandwich on the run. It wasn't my favorite. At the time there was a place in River Grove on River Rd. [just south of Gene & Jude's] which was my long standing fave, but alas, is long gone. Anyway, I didn't even know about Johnnies in A.H., until I ran across the reviews here in yelp*. Well, my old Elmwood Park pals and I went there for lunch recently, and all agreed that it was a great nostalgic experience. I had the combo beef & sausage sandwich which was great. Of course, just like old times, I had to have a tamale with it. I think the tamales today are better than the ones from the old days in E.P. Great place! Good, Cheap, Fast! What more could you ask for? I've been back around 3 more times since we first ate there. I would like it better than the Portillo's on Dundee in A. H. , but you can get a beer at Portillo's!
(4)Suzanne C.
Rockin Great Beef sandwiches and extremely reasonable prices make Johnny's the BEST beef sandwich around! The sweet peppers are delicious. The Italian Ice is really good and you get a whopping helping. Go in on a Friday for their pepper and egg sandwich. TDF! Get it with sausage! I thought the sausage would be scrambled up into the egg, until I opened the massive sandwich and saw it was a whole sausage under the pepper and egg. OMG enough for two people. Beef sandwiches are only 3.45. They could charge more for the yumminess factor but they don't and that makes Johnny's ultra wonderful in my book.
(5)Chris J.
Best beef I have ever had end of story! I feel there is a very addictive ingredient used in the beef because I crave it only a week after I have eaten one.
(5)Justin D.
I'm a huge Al's Beef fan, but felt that it wouldn't be fair to keep promoting Al's without trying Johnnie's. I have to say I really wasn't too impressed. I ordered the beef, hot, and a large lemonade ice. The lemonade ice I would go back for especially on a hot summer day. The beef, I would rather face the traffic and head down to the city to get some Al's. There was just nothing special about it. Sorry Johnnie fan's, I was really craving a good beef and wanted Johnnie's to be my go-to in the burbs but sorry to say, it won't be.
(3)Craig L.
Better than Al's, better than Portillo's and both of those are good places. Johnnie's makes few things but makes them right. Wet sandwich is mouth watering, service is fast, and you eat for less than $6 a person. Best tasting beef in NW suburbs and would be 5 stars if took credit cards. Otherwise a great casual stop along Arl. Hts. Road.
(4)Eclectic E.
Our choice was to stay at the hotel and go to the nice steak place, or trek for 5 miles to Johnny's. We absolutely made the best decision. Great beef, just the right juiciness, and the "hot" was sublime. Nice service, very clean with plenty of seats (at 8:30pm).
(5)E A.
I decided to go because my son loves going there with his Dad. I went there 3 times, twice during lunch hour in the Summer and once at night in the Fall. I kept going back because I thought maybe I went on a bad day thus got blah food, but the food was consistently blah each time. I was first taken aback by the Cash only sign at the door. I almost never carry cash, so I was lucky I had some that day, especially because I had my son with me and he was looking forward to eating there. We got the Italian beef and the sausage and both were dry and ordinary. They don't give you much beef either. I found it an inconvenience to have to go to the front counter to get skimpy napkins out of the skimpy dispensers. The Italian ice was good. I would probably order that for myself and my kids if I go back. Parking structure is nutty, but we always find spots.
(2)Alex N.
Since I am working in the great city of Palatine these days, I am going to be trying out the hotdog-combo-italian beef scene in the area. Johnnie's beef was the first stop on my fantastic voyage of clogging my arteries. So I wanted to get a hotdog at lunch this day but I guess the place is called "Johnnie's BEEF" and my co-worker "Simpson Eh" recommended the beef as well. So I got a combo. However... WARNING! WARNING!! Cheeseheads or former cheeseheads (like myself, well I guess you never stop being a cheesehead) beware!!! They dont have any cheese in the whole place!!! The guy scoffed at me (light heartedly though so I wasnt offended) when I wanted cheese on my combo. And yet again when I wanted cheese sauce for fry dipping! At least the guy had an explanation for why there's no cheese for the beef. He said it takes away from the tasting of the beef! Well, as rediculous as that is to me, at least the guy cares enough about the beef there that he'd give me that line of reasoning! The combo itself was pretty decent though. I would say better than Portillo's, but not quite as good as Buona Beef or Dukes (see my previous reviews if you'd like). Good beef and better than average Italian sausage. Fry's were the thin type and also quite good. Place got pretty busy around the noon lunch hour that Friday. I also had the watermelon Italian Ice which was better than I expected. The size small came overflowing in a cup and it tasted very good. I didnt think I'd be able to it all but it tasted so good I actually did. I'd say the place was worth the trip, I'm going to get the hotdogs next time, and I'll update this piece.
(3)Sarah G.
food ok service needs better attitude fast , yes fast , and italian ice - great
(4)Michael S.
Good food. Better price. I return every so often.
(3)Jimmo X.
Juicy beef with hot peppers, and then an Italian ice lemonade to sweeten the bite. Wow, amazing -- melts in your mouth. Make sure you take lots of napkins -- it'll be messy!
(5)Rob U.
Cheap, fast, delicious. When I am stuck in Lincoln Park (I know, so few choices for good food here) I often find myself yearning for a Johnnie's Beef sandwich and an italian ice. I stopped in last week and was in a rush so I made the mistake of taking it to go. Now dont get me wrong, the food was still as great as always, but it was a mistake to take it to go because I spent 15 minutes on Arlington Heights Road lusting after my sandwich, suffering while the simply wonderful smells filled up my car. Then I got home, ran upstairs, wolfed down my beef sandwich and contemplated heading right back for another. I can only hope that I return sooner rather than later!
(5)Collin M.
Great Italian beef no matter how you like it dipped and the service is incredibly fast. The sandwich is inexpensive juicy, spicy, and flavorful I highly recommend it.
(4)Loreen O.
I was in there with my aunt last night and we were both disappointed. The guy at the counter was rude! Just throw in your face service! I thought Johnnies beef should care about there food, service and quality. The beefs were really spicy and asked for xtra juicy and wasn't given that either. I will have a beef in the city instead of this place any day.
(1)Patrick W.
Great beef sandwich, and the Italian sausage is great too. I can't tell you how many times I went in planning on getting a beef, and because they were cooking the sausage, it smelled so good that I either got the sausage or a combo. The beef sandwiches tend not to have as much meat on them as, say, a Portillos. Don't overlook the pepper and egg! It's only available on Fridays, but it's really good and worth the wait. The hot dog is a great deal- it comes with fries for around $1.50. The Italian ice's are great- they have the best lemon ice I've ever had, but the banana is great too. The service is really fast here. Sometime's seating is limited; the outdoor patio is a great thing in the right time of year and almost doubles the seating capacity.
(4)Joanne Z.
If you're ever driving by this place, even if you're not hungry, pop in for some Italian ice. It only comes in 2 flavors, lemon and watermelon, but it is the most delicious, refreshing thing on this planet! If that's not good enough for ya, it's under $2 for the biggest size!!!!!! The only negative thing is that they DO NOT take credit cards - only cash :(
(4)Jacqueline S.
Went here for a beef. I got it juicy with no peppers. I really like the flavor, it had just a bit of spice without any peppers. The size was smaller than what I am used to but it was still a good size (it's probably not very healthy for me to be scarfing down those big beefs from Portillo's). The beef seemed more shredded than sliced, which was interesting - I prefer sliced. Given the low price and the super fast service along with the good food, we will definitely be back. I want to try the watermelon Italian Ice.
(4)Mark S.
Probably the best (and cheapest) beef around! The italian and watermelon ice are both amazing as well! An all-around excellent place: great food, quick service, great prices!
(5)calvin y.
really great place. awesome beefs, good hot dogs, great italian ice. simple menu, simple food, and simple review
(4)Nick S.
I just love this place. This place has the best beef in the city and suburbs. I've tried them all. The service is extremely fast, also. I also love their Italian ice. This is a very limited menu, but who cares? What they got is just good!
(5)Andy C.
Everything i want and love in a good beef place. Yes the beefs are on the smaller side, but they sure make up for it in taste. The gravy is super tasty, the hot peppers are actually spicy, and the bread is really good. Plus it is fairly cheap. Oh and you have to get one of their lemon ices, with small chunks of lemon rind in there. Killer way to wash down the beef. I try to ignore it when i drive by, because if i make contact with it i usually have to stop in. Cash only and no cheese on the beefs, do not even ask. :)
(5)Cordell J.
Really good italian beefs, fast service. Must pay with cash. Always busy. They have good italian lemonade too.
(4)David T.
I have been eating Italian Beef Sandwiches my whole life and Johnnie's is the best I've had. My only complaint is that the sandwiches are comparatively small.
(5)Kesey K.
I like to consider myself a fairly well versed beef eater and I just found the time to head out to Johnnie's in AH. I ordered the Beef/Sausage Combo with no peppers and my wife had a hot dog. The combo was tasty and had great spice. Since I go no peppers, I often find the beef at various places rather bland, but not here. The Italian sausage gave the beef the perfect kick. My wife was satisfied with the hot dog. Based on my first visit, the only thing keeping this place from 4.5/5 stars is the fries. Sure their good, but get some hand-cut fries in there and we have a champion beef stand. A total bonus of Johnnie's is their Italian ice. They appear to serve it year round. If you're a beef eater, you owe it to yourself to give Johnnie's a try. If you're thinking of going just to try another hot dog stand, the Menu is VERY limited (Beef, Sausage, Hot Dog, Pepper/Egg Sandwhich, Tuna) and they don't have cheese (for the fries).
(4)Abraham P.
Place is amazing. Theres nothing wrong with it. The food is great. Not expensive at all. Their Italian ice is amazing. Definitely no complaints!
(5)Mark S.
Beef is the best I've had. Hot dogs are not so good.
(4)Mark B.
Johnnie's is good, it's very good. But it's only the best because everyone says so. A little small and a little too salty. Portillo's is actually a little better. That said, I'm having Johnnie's for lunch today.
(4)Tommy A.
Not going to go on too much about this place. What else needs to be said. Unless you're doing something at home yourself with a beef slicer, you can't beat this. Also the place is called Johnnie's beef, so if you are on here complaining about the tamale, the cash only factor or the fact that they use too many paper products for your liking, then you're a fool. For the price and all things consider, this place is Earth shattering. I'm a lifelong southsider and the first time I went a couple of year ago I wanted to like Pop's better, in one bite I knew this was the best. Their green peppers are especially amazing, the hot giardinera is a tad weak (this is the one thing that Pop's does best them). Finally it needs to be mentioned that they may have the best sausage in the world too! Now if you go on Friday then brace yourself for the sausage, pepper and egg. In fact, eat it sitting down otherwise it will bring you to your knees. Long live Johnnie's. (this review applies to both locations, been to both a lot and they are both great)
(5)Steve M.
One of if not the best combo sandwiches I've had in my 34 years. You must have with hot giardinara. I was a fan of Portillo's until some buddies from work brought me here. Its cash only .
(4)oh y.
Love the Italian Ice! Lemon and watermelon flavors are both good! The hot dogs are pretty good too and they come with fries. it's open till midnight! and the patio is perfect for enjoying an italian ice in the summertime!
(4)ron k.
i'd definitely go here again.. the beef is awesome and i have a certain appreciation for places that only do a few things... my only complaint... make the beef a little bigger and charge more... don't make em smaller and keep the prices the same thats some McDonalds BS cuz i sweat the big mac was bigger when i was kind...
(3)nicole a.
In my opinion, this is the best beef around. It's the same juicy beef goodness that's had us standing in line outside the Elmwood Park location, just minus the line. Actually, the speed of the service at the Arlington Heights location is amazingly lightning quick and efficient. But back to the beef - it really is the best of the many I've tried. The beef isn't overly spiced up, they offer small bits of sweet pepper, not the giant monster pepper of some beef joints, the juice isn't pure grease, and the hot peppers have a nice spicy kick. The italian ices are a great treat and the fries, while not the highlight of the meal or the best I've had, are a nice compliment to the beefs. Definitely worth a try if you're looking for a great beef.
(5)J H.
Totally lived up to expectations! I was told that Johnnie's had the best beef in all of Chicagoland. When I was driving by, I decided to pull over and test that claim. In order to taste as much as I can, I ordered a beef with hot peppers, beef and sausage combo, hot dog chicago style and tamale. Everything was great as said. The hot beef sandwich was a killer as it came out juicy and flavorful. The beef was not sliced as thin as Al's and Portillo's but thicker and meatier. The bread didn't need to be dipped as it came out hot an juicy. The flavor was intense and beautifully balanced with the spices and the beef. The amount of beef was less than Portillo's but still it was fantastic. The italian sausage was good as it as meaty and had the authentic flavor of a true italian sausage. As I ate it in a combo, the bread came relatively dry and not as juicy as the beef alone. However, I say this is worth it. The hotdog came with fries and it was normal hotdog that you'd find on any Chicago street food joint. There wasn't much differentiation to mention about it. The tamale was good and for the price, a great value but I wasn't sold on it as the beef blew me away and made everything pale in comparison.
(5)Brad B.
good stuff. ordered juicy & hot with a small watermelon ice. definitely juicy -- but the roll was a little crunchier than I expected after the dip. Think the peppers would be better if they were cooked down a bit and warm -- but it was definitely good and a really good value for the price.
(4)Allen H.
being from San Diego, after a Chicago friend recommended Johnnie's, we recently ate there 2x in a week while visiting Chi-Town - I love their hot beef with pep!
(5)Jeff S.
Beef, Hot, Juicy, LG Raspberry ice tea, and fries..that's all you need to know and get.
(5)V B.
My husband and I live in San Francisco and we had never heard of Italian beef. Our local Chicago relatives recommended this place and it was the BEST meal we had during our entire stay in Chicago! We will definitely be coming back to Chicago and to Johnnie's!!!
(5)kb j.
The restaurant has a limited menu (Italian Beef, Italian Sausage, Hot Dogs and Italian Ice), but, the Italian Beef sandwich is very good. The Italian Beef, served wet and with hot peppers, is a memorable experience (though somewhat salty). Good french fries.
(4)Patty D.
depending on what time you go --- say perhaps around 9pm - this place really goes down hill. the bread is stale, the beef is scarce... too bad. Also - they will not go beyond their scope of duty - how complex is it to ask for hot peppers on the side - they won't do it. stooopid!
(2)John C.
The beef is dry and dull. The sausage is good. The original on North Ave is so much better it is hard to believe they are the same people.
(2)Peter F.
This is IT. The best dam Italian beef and sausage anywhere. And anyone that says the North Ave. Johnnie's tasts different the the Arlington Heights one is "stunod".
(5)dave p.
I was in the Arlington Heights area traveling for work and a local co-worker insisted we go to Johnie's Beef for lunch. What a great choice, their Italian Beef is simply tremendous! I got a beef only and then the combo next time, both are very good.Service was very fast for being during a busy lunch time crowd. I'd go back for sure the next time I'm in the neighborhood.
(5)Laura O.
The best italian beef!! The original place is on North Avenue in Elmwood Park.
(5)Barbara A.
This past Saturday my boyfriend & I decided to take a ride to Johnny's beef in Arlington Heights. Although the North Avenue location is much closer to us, we decided to drive to A.H. so we could sit down in the restaurant rather than get carryout at the North Ave. location. The beefs-GREAT as usual although our meal was ruined by the employee that was constantly washing the floor during our entire visit. I appreciate the fact that the management wants to keep the place spotlesss but the cleaning product being used overpowered the aroma of our food. Another customer mentioned this to the employee but unfortunatelty she did not understand the english language and continued to mop. The management must come up with a better plan before losing customers. I doubt I will be back anytime soon.
(2)Michael B.
Finally!!! A decent beef in the burbs!!! I was surprised the beefs were so large. I have been to the one on North Avenue and they always had tasty beefs just too small for the buck. And the Italian Lemonade is second to none. You can feed a family of 4 at this place for under 20 bucks!!!! Thank You Johnnie's for not making me drive into the city for a decent sammich!!!!
(4)Brian H.
what else can you say, the best beef and Italian ice around.
(5)Stacey D.
Great beef, ok lemonade/lemon ice. They have banana and lemon italian ice, I've only had the lemon. Great place to stop for lunch.
(4)