I honestly can't remember exactly how I stumbled upon this nice small business, but I'm glad I did!…read more I think I first saw it on Facebook. I know that this business has a FB account that keeps updates on open/closed hours and special or new offerings.
I had really wanted to try an Italian beef on a recent-ish trip to Chicago, but we wound up not having the time to dedicate to visiting a good spot. Therefore, I was thrilled to find a new spot in Huntsville that offered them! According to the FB page, this business is run by a couple, one of whom is from the Chicago area. One works full time and the other works part time, so hours can be a little variable due to that fact.
The business is located in the back of the old Westlawn school - for those less familiar with Huntsville, it's near the intersection of Bob Wallace and Jordan Lane. The school has become a coworking space, and the back side houses a number of small, mostly carryout restaurant concepts, currently including CJ's, another iteration of Cap's Philly Cheesesteaks, and Jamijo's.
For CJ's, you place your order online and then text to alert them you're there to pickup. The menu is small but focused and solid, offering Italian beef sandwiches with or without modifications, Chicago style hot dogs, and fries or chips with or without cheese sauce.
For me and my husband, I ordered two Italian beef sandwiches, both dry (au jus on the side) to avoid sogginess on the way home with spicy giardiniera, one with cheese, and one side of fries. Our sandwiches were absolutely massive and the fry portion was pretty generous too, especially for the price of a shade over $30 total. The woman who brought our food out was very courteous and gracious.
I took our food home to eat it. Overall, I was quite happy. I've never had an Italian beef before so I can't be sure if this is a great representation of a classic or traditional one, but I certainly enjoyed it.
The fries were crinkle cut and, as I said, a good serving size. They were hot and mostly crispy except for a few random soggy ones. The seasoning on them was okay; I mostly liked it, though some bites were a little too herbaceous for me.
The sandwiches were great. They were piled high with beef, which was tender and not overly fatty. The bread was soft and chewy, but stood up well to the very unctuous and savory au jus. The spicy giardiniera was legit a little spicy, which I liked. It was stacked mostly on the side of the sandwich, so a lot fell off and had to be re-stacked between bites, which was a little tiresome, especially when it fell in the au jus. Messy, haha. The veggies were still crisp, which added a great texture. For what it's worth, I personally don't think the cheese added that much and will probably skip it next time. Curiosity sated - these sandwiches are plenty tasty on their own.
Definitely give this family business a try! I don't think you will regret it. I'm glad we have opportunities to try regional specialties here at home. :)
