Bari Foods — Restaurant in West Chicago Township

Look. Let’s cut to the chase. If you go to Chicago for ANYTHING, go for the Italian beef. I was first introduced to this holy grail of meat on a bun at Portillo’s and it’s been a rollercoaster of a ride ever since. Now, if Italian beef is even mentioned in conversation, I eavesdrop like the KGB. I need the meats (sorry Arby’s).

Bari’s was introduced to me by a person who I hold near and dear to my heart. And no, no spoilers (Sorry River). The fact that this Ark of the Meat-anent™️ is located inside an actual Italian deli is just another special layer, like an onion (Sorry Shrek). Entering the deli, you’re met with your classic deli acutremant (sorry spelling). It looks exactly what you would picture a deli looking like. You don’t even need your imagination. Walk your way to the back, shipping as you go, and BOOM, deli counter. This is where the magic happens. Service is your normal deli style service. Guy asks what you want, patron tells them. I ordered the 9” Italian beef. Hot. Dipped. If you don’t order your Italian beef dipped, you don’t even actually like Italian beef.

Buddy. My guy. Pal. Did you see those pictures? I’ll be honest with you, this is my second time there. I just forgot to review it. And unwrapping that sandwich was still better than any Christmas morning (sorry mom and dad). It was heavy, it was wet. The bun falls apart it’s so wet. You know how weird it is to say I love a wet sandwhich? The only ONLY sadness I had in me heart was I feel there were not enough giaderna? gierderna? gardienna? The spicy relish stuff on it. But, the flavor alone makes up for it.

If I had the Midas touch, I would want everything I touched to turn into Bari’s Italian Beef. I’d call it the meat touch. Well. Maybe not that, but something catchy.

Sandwhich wetness 12/10 Chicago staple 10/10 Parking 3/10 (parking was rough. Traveled probably 30 miles...

I had the 12 inch chicken cutlet. The portion size was massive. I didn't like the chicken cutlet since it was overly fried and overly breaded giving it a KFC like texture. But the lir "super hot" giardiniera was incredible and suprisingly spicy. Next time i'm in the area I am definitely buying a bottle of that. I could see myself getting sandwiches from other places and putting the giard from here for a homerun sandwich. Honestly if it wasn't for the delicious giardiniera I would have taken one bite and thrown out the rest, instead I ate half thr sandwich and threw out the rest since it wasn't worth putting these extra calories into my body on something that was sub-par. I did think the bread was above average. D'amato's chicken cutlet is definitely better and more authentic NY style chicken cutlet.

Update: I came back and tried the italian sandwich. It's the best Italian in Chicago (tied with Freddy's) in large part because I love the super hot Giard. If they did not have the super spicy Giard I dont think i would rank...

If you’re in Chicago and think you’ve had every version of Italian beef out there, Bari’s will prove you wrong. This place serves up a truly unique take on the classic sandwich, and what sets it apart is the gravy—not just a thin juice like most spots, but an actual, rich, flavorful gravy that takes the beef to another level. Every bite is packed with deep, savory goodness that you won’t find anywhere else.

But Bari’s isn’t just about the beef—it’s also a great little Italian grocery store, stocked with imported goods that any Italian food lover will appreciate. Behind the deli counter, you’ll find a fantastic selection of homemade items, from fresh sausages to cheeses and everything in between.

It’s the kind of place that feels like a true Chicago institution—no frills, just amazing food and an old-school charm that makes it a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Bari’s is a one-of-a-kind spot that absolutely...