Acclaimed Hulu series The Bear continues to put spotlight on Chicago and its iconic Italian beef sandwich, catapulting our culinary scene to new heights and creating lots of copycats. But Chicagoans know there’s nothing better than the real deal — which is why we’re thankful for Windy City native Jeff Mauro, and his latest creation for Stefani's Bottega Italiana at Time Out Market Chicago.
The new Mauro Beef Sandwich layers slow-roasted, thin-sliced prime beef with hot peppers and tangy giardiniera relish, served with gravy. Find it at Stefani’s, which opened at Time Out Market in the West Loop back in February. The Italian icon typically slings Roman-style pizzas, pastas, and schiacciata sandwiches, but we have a feeling this big, beefy number might just outdo its predecessors.
Born and raised in Oak Park, chef Jeff Mauro is considered the Sandwich King on Food Network’s The Kitchen, and for good reason. For years, Mauro has been on a mission to make the best version of the beloved Chicago-style Italian beef. Only now has he finally achieved his goal with what he calls “the best Italian beef for purchase,” featuring Turano bread, gravy, and an original recipe for giardiniera. (Pro tip from chef: Don’t say the “a” at the end of giardiniera when you order.)
“It’s the greatest beef that you will ever taste,” Mauro told WBBM. “And I guarantee that. It’s USDA choice or prime whole muscle chuck roll. It’s not filled with anything, it’s like rubbed and roasted old school, sliced paper thin.”
The Food Network star’s collaboration with Stefani Restaurant Group includes a plan to ship this truly famous beef across the country, giving restaurants along the East Coast a taste of Chicago. Apparently, Mauro’s father grew up with Phil Stefani, making this partnership a “super special” personal and professional experience.
And if you’re looking for a high-quality beef sandwich outside the immediate area, Mauro recommends looking for high-turnover locales to guarantee fresh ingredients. “The secret key is you got to wrap that sandwich,” he said. “Throw it in a greasy paper bag.”