Vienna Beef Factory

For our third week of beefery, we took our quest to the source of all the great beef stand staples in the Chicagoland area: The Vienna Beef Factory. Located at 2501 N. Damen, this factory has been home to the Vienna Beef Company since 1972. Nestled between the Damen, Fullerton, and Elston intersection (one of the worst in the city in terms of congestion and accidents) and the north branch of the Chicago River, the factory offers a cafeteria at the front of the building open from 6am til 4pm on the weekdays and 10am til 3pm on Saturday. A small but ample parking lot sits in front of the entrance with a red and yellow sign that reads "The Factory Store." Inside, a variety of meats can be purchased both at a deli counter to be taken home or at a typical beef stand counter to be consumed on the spot. After purchasing my Italian beef with sweet peppers and no mozzarella (the only cheese offered was nacho. weird) I got my helping of ketchup and sat down.

Before enjoying my sandwich, I noticed the setting was not typical. It appeared this was not only a restaurant open to the public, but also a cafeteria for the factory workers complete with lockers and vending machines. Many framed Vienna beef posters adorned the walls as well as signed sports jerseys representing each Chicago sports franchise. But enough about the room and into the sandwich. The beef itself was very fresh and tender with a nice flavor and was warm and consistent throughout. The sweet peppers were tasty and had a soft crunch to them. While I myself did not try the giardiniera, my fellow hot pepper beef eaters had nothing but good things to say. The bread was meant to be dipped and held up well. However, I had sorely forgotten to ask for a dipping at the counter, resulting in a slightly chewy bun not allowing me to maximize my beef experience. The fries accompanying the beef were tasty and plentiful. To wash down our I beefs, we were presented with the rare option between Coke and Pepsi products at two separate soda fountains. Fully satisfied after our meal, we perused the many delicacies available at the deli counter and in glass refrigerators against the wall. I contemplated purchasing that Vienna Beef t-shirt on my way out the door, but then thought it better to pick that up as a memento for when we come back to take the factory tour.

Beef- 6.7
Fries- 6.9
Location/Ambiance- 7.3

2501 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL
(773)278-7800

BeefMan