If you can’t wait until Monday to begin your Memorial Day weekend festivities, you’re in luck. Today—Friday, May 27—is National Italian Beef Day.
A Chicago classic, Italian beef sandwiches are said to have originated from Chicago in the early 1900s, created by Italian immigrants working in the city. According to chicagobeef.us, the sandwich is made of “made of thin slices of seasoned roast beef, simmered in au jus (known by Chicago locals as ‘gravy’) on an Italian-style roll.” Topped off with diced peppers and veggies, this sandwich rapidly grew in popularity.
For those looking to enjoy some local Italian beef sandwiches in light of this holiday-filled weekend, you’re in luck! There are plenty of Chicago eateries you can be sure to check out, including Al’s Italian Beef, which has four locations across the city, Johnny’s Beef & Gyros, which has two locations in Joliet and Lincoln Park, and of course Portillo’s.
Buona Beef, a Chicago Italian beef chain restaurant, is also giving away free, slow-roasted Italian beef sandwiches beginning Friday, May 27 and through Monday, May 30.
Those interested in grabbing a free seven-inch sandwich with up to two toppings can download the MyBuona app to place their order. Be sure to download the app by Sunday and the free sandwich reward will appear within 24 hours.
There is a limit of one free sandwich per customer while supplies last.
Buona Beef will also be at Goose Island Brewery and Taproom at 1800 W. Fulton Street from 4-6 p.m. on Friday giving out free three-inch beef sandwiches.
Alongside its beef sandwiches, Buona’s menu also features burgers, hotdogs, chicken sandwiches, pizza, salads and bowls, and pasta dishes.
Buona is also offering other exclusive discounts this weekend, including double points on Sandwich Kit orders and $5 off the eatery’s 2LB Beef using the code 5OFFBEEF.
