Chicagoans may have hot dog snobbery (hold the ketchup or prepare to argue) and a long-running pizza rivalry with New York, but Italian beef tends not to have as much culinary baggage. When we talk about this greasy sandwich it tends to be in tones of pure affection. After all, this sandwich got its start here in Chicago, so who could possibly do it better than us?

The construction of an Italian beef is simple, if potentially sloppy. Thinly sliced pieces of beef are placed inside a generously sliced loaf of Italian (sometimes French) bread with your choice of peppers and possibly some cheese.

It all started with Al Ferreri in the 1930s; at least this is the most common origin tale. The thin slice of beef started as a way to serve more guests at weddings. The original Al’s shop still stands today.

Knowing the history is helpful, but what about ordering this Chicago dish? If you ask for an Italian beef, you are going to have to answer a few questions.

"Italian beef is about as unpretentious as food can get. Expect to do your ordering at neighborhood joints that mostly have unassuming storefronts, long counters, and maybe an outdoor patio."

First, how soggy do you want your sandwich? For classic Chicago-style, the answer is dipped. In this case, the entire sandwich takes a dive in the simmering beef gravy. Ordering a “wet” sandwich means the gravy from the dripping beef soaks into the sandwich bread. Finally, “dry” means the beef is pulled from the gravy and allowed to lose most of its moisture before it’s popped into the sandwich.

Second, whoever is taking your order will want to know if you’ll take sweet or hot peppers. Sweet peppers are typically green bell peppers, while hot peppers are actually a mix of veggies (usually sport peppers, carrots, celery, and red bell peppers) known as giardiniera. Giardiniera, “from the garden” in Italian, is a kind of spicy relish. Finally, some places may give you the option to add a layer of melted cheese (a somewhat controversial option).

After you have your sandwich in hand, there may be some question as to the best method of getting the majority of it to your mouth, as opposed to on your clothes. Enter the “Italian stance,” which essentially means propping yourself up on your elbows and leaning over the counter (or table) to allow the juice to fall safely, sparing your clothes.

Italian beef is about as unpretentious as food can get. Expect to do your ordering at neighborhood joints that mostly have unassuming storefronts, long counters, and maybe an outdoor patio. Most places do this sandwich justice, but if you’re looking for some of the best, these neighborhoods are home to classic Italian beef eateries.

Bridgeport

Soluri’s, located in the South Side neighborhood of Bridgeport, is an Italian deli. As you might expect, it has the classic deli counter and pretty big menu. You can add your choice of sweet peppers and mild or hot giardiniera. Cheese is also an option. If you live in the neighborhood but you don’t fancy a walk, Soluri’s is available for delivery.

Loop

The Loop is all about grabbing a quick bite to eat at lunch time, thanks to the throngs of office workers that are a permanent week-day fixture in this downtown neighborhood. On Jackson Boulevard, you’ll find Luke’s Italian Beef. This spot has plenty of tables and highboys to make eating your sandwich a bit easier. If you’re having a busy day at the office, Luke’s does takeout and delivery.

Portage Park

Up on the North Side, Roma’s Italian Beef & Sausage in Portage Park  has a classic look familiar to seasoned Chicagoans: a brightly colored awning and a sign boasting Vienna beef. An Italian beef staple open for decades, Roma’s has a classic recipe for this hot sandwich.

South Loop

Portillo’s is one of the undisputed kings of Chicago fast food: hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, crinkle-cut fries, ribs, pasta, and decadent chocolate cake for dessert. Italian beef is one of the restaurant’s menu staples. Step up to the counter and order the sandwich just how you like it.

The South Loop location offers easy access for anyone working or living in the downtown area, but you’ll also find Portillo’s in River North and in abundance in the city’s suburbs.

University Village/Little Italy

The original Al’s Beef is located on Taylor Street in University Village/Little Italy. Hungry UIC students quickly discover the joys of Al’s being just a few short blocks from campus. The sandwich shop is so beloved it even has an honorary street sign. For those who want to experience the history of the Italian beef, Al’s is the essential starting place. Of course, Al’s has since expanded several other Chicago neighborhoods and the suburbs.

While Al’s may be the original, it is not the only spot to get Italian beef in this area. Carm’s Beef and Italian Ice is in the same neighborhood. Hot sandwiches are Carm’s specialty, but you’ll find a pretty extensive menu that also covers subs and tacos. Italian ice adds a welcome touch in the hot summer months.