French dip sandwiches, with their tender, juicy meat and flavorful au jus for dipping, are a beloved classic. Streeterville, Chicago, a vibrant neighborhood known for its upscale dining and bustling atmosphere, offers a surprising array of places to find excellent French dips. This guide explores the top 10 spots to satisfy your French dip cravings in this exciting part of the city. Finding the best French dip in Streeterville might seem daunting, but this list simplifies your search.
Top Choices for French Dip Sandwiches in Streeterville
This list considers factors like quality of meat, au jus recipe, bread quality, overall taste and value, and customer reviews to bring you the cream of the crop.
1. RPM Italian
-
Why it's great: RPM Italian isn't solely known for its French dips, but their version is a hidden gem among their more celebrated Italian dishes. The high-quality beef is slow-roasted to perfection, resulting in an incredibly tender and flavorful sandwich. The au jus is rich and savory, complementing the meat beautifully. The bread is also top-notch, perfectly toasted to provide a satisfying crunch.
-
What to expect: Upscale ambiance, slightly higher price point, impeccable service.
2. Lou Mitchell's
-
Why it's great: A Chicago institution, Lou Mitchell's is famous for its classic diner fare. While not strictly a French dip specialist, their French dip is a solid contender. Expect generously portioned, perfectly cooked meat with a traditional, comforting au jus.
-
What to expect: Classic diner atmosphere, friendly service, reasonable prices.
3. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
-
Why it's great: Known for its premium steaks, Gibsons also serves a top-tier French dip. Expect a robust, flavorful sandwich with perfectly seasoned beef and a deeply savory au jus. The quality of ingredients is undeniable here.
-
What to expect: High-end steakhouse atmosphere, expect to pay a premium, excellent service.
4. Bavette's Bar & Boeuf
-
Why it's great: This stylish steakhouse offers a sophisticated take on the classic French dip. Their version often features unique flavor combinations or higher-end cuts of beef, elevating the experience beyond the typical.
-
What to expect: Chic and sophisticated atmosphere, attentive service, a higher price point.
5. Sunda
-
Why it's great: While known for its Asian-fusion cuisine, Sunda's French dip might surprise you. They may offer a unique twist on the classic, using perhaps different meats or a unique au jus. Check their menu for current offerings.
-
What to expect: Modern, stylish atmosphere, fusion flavors, higher price range.
6. The Purple Pig
-
Why it's great: The Purple Pig's Mediterranean-inspired menu features a unique take on the French dip, possibly incorporating flavors from the region into the au jus and meat selection. It's a great choice for adventurous eaters.
-
What to expect: Lively and bustling atmosphere, innovative dishes, a moderate to higher price point.
7. (Insert Local Deli/Restaurant Name Here - Research Needed)
-
Why it's great: [Insert details about this local place. Research is needed here to find a reliable 6th-7th option. Mention specifics about their French dip, e.g., type of meat, au jus, etc.].
-
What to expect: [Describe the atmosphere and price point]
8. (Insert Local Deli/Restaurant Name Here - Research Needed)
-
Why it's great: [Insert details about this local place. Research is needed here to find a reliable 7th-8th option. Mention specifics about their French dip, e.g., type of meat, au jus, etc.].
-
What to expect: [Describe the atmosphere and price point]
9. (Insert Local Deli/Restaurant Name Here - Research Needed)
-
Why it's great: [Insert details about this local place. Research is needed here to find a reliable 9th option. Mention specifics about their French dip, e.g., type of meat, au jus, etc.].
-
What to expect: [Describe the atmosphere and price point]
10. (Insert Local Deli/Restaurant Name Here - Research Needed)
-
Why it's great: [Insert details about this local place. Research is needed here to find a reliable 10th option. Mention specifics about their French dip, e.g., type of meat, au jus, etc.].
-
What to expect: [Describe the atmosphere and price point]
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your French Dip
When selecting your Streeterville French dip, keep these factors in mind:
- Meat Quality: Look for restaurants that use high-quality beef, ideally slow-roasted for maximum tenderness.
- Au Jus: The au jus is crucial. A good au jus should be rich, savory, and flavorful, enhancing the sandwich without overpowering it.
- Bread: The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the meat and au jus without becoming soggy.
- Portion Size: Consider your appetite. Some restaurants offer larger portions than others.
- Price: Streeterville has a range of dining options, from casual to upscale. Set a budget before you go.
This guide provides a starting point for your French dip adventure in Streeterville. Remember to check restaurant menus and reviews before you go to ensure the French dip still meets your expectations! Happy eating!
