Anthony Bourdain, the acclaimed chef and travel enthusiast, had a profound appreciation for various cuisines around the world. Among the cities in the United States, Chicago particularly stood out to him. Bourdain visited the city on three occasions for his travel shows, with one significant trip documented in Season 7 of “Parts Unknown.”
Anthony Bourdain’s Chicago Favorites
During an interview with Thrillist in 2016, Bourdain shared his top culinary destinations in Chicago. Notably, his favorite was Johnnie’s Beef, located just outside the city limits in Elmwood Park. This iconic restaurant has been serving Italian beef since 1961 and is favored by many locals.
Johnnie’s Beef: A Culinary Staple
Bourdain’s enthusiasm for Johnnie’s Beef was clear. He often claimed, “Either on my way into town or out of town, I’m going Italian beef at Johnnie’s.” Its location near Chicago O’Hare National Airport makes it an ideal stop for travelers.
A Memorable Visit
Although Bourdain did not feature Johnnie’s Beef in the “Parts Unknown” episode focused on Chicago, he did highlight it in the inaugural episode of Season 2 of “The Layover.” During a tight 43-hour visit, he described his experience at the restaurant: “On my way back to the dreaded O’Hare, I stopped for an important Station of the Cross.”
Classic Italian Beef Order
Bourdain’s order demonstrated his love for traditional Chicago fare. He opted for the quintessential Italian beef sandwich, complete with sweet peppers, hot peppers, and au jus. He highlighted the uniqueness of the dish, stating it was “a big, soggy load of awesomeness.”
- Location: Elmwood Park, Illinois
- Established: 1961
- Bourdain’s Favorite Dish: Italian beef
- Typical Additions: Sweet peppers, hot peppers, au jus
In conclusion, Anthony Bourdain’s fondness for Johnnie’s Beef reflects his deep connection to Chicago’s culinary scene. This iconic restaurant continues to embody the rich flavors of Italian beef, welcomed by both locals and visitors alike.
