I grew up living near a Ricobene's on either Pulaski or Harlem. I never found it as fantastic as the many who bragged about it as if it were the greatest thing since sliced bread, but I would occasionally pop in for either a breaded steak or Chicken Vesuvio sandwich. When they closed, I never really realized I missed them. Flash forward 38 years later. Went to Rush Hospital to visit an uncle. Leaving at about lunch time, I opened my Yelp app to see what was nearby. The top spouses ad (2.7 miles away) was Ricobene's. I really wasn't aware they were even around anymore. So, for nostalgic purposes, I decided to go there. Had my mother and aunt in tow, and we were all very pleased. The breaded steak, while still maybe not the greatest thing since sliced bread, was a nice blast from the past that I really enjoyed. Would I go there again? Surely. If I were 2.7 miles away (though uncle's been released and is back home doing fine). Do wanna try their Chicken Vesuvio again one day. But 22 miles each way just for that, not. Quick friendly service, and way cleaner than most hot dog joints and beef stands out my way. Few things make me miss Chicago, but this is one of them. read more

We needed a late night snack because we had an early dinner. I did not realize how late it was until I looked at the pictures on my phone; it was around 10:45, which might be early for the young whippersnappers, but this old lady usually doesn't like to eat past 9. My hubby has been talking about Ricobene's since we met 20+ years ago. He finally got me there after showing me pictures of the famous breaded steak sandwich, which we ordered, of course. We also ordered a beef sandwich and a hot dog and fries (there were four of us). The beef was great; the steak sandwich... I can't even. We have been back in the area a few times since my first visit and I am always pressuring my husband to take me back there. I am drooling a little thinking about how good it was. The place was packed at 10:45... clean and the employees looked like they were having fun. A lot of youngsters were ordering pizza... I need to try the pizza. read more

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Well, another review here we go this time for the very first time I tried the Chicago deep dish pizza, which I never had in my life and I must say it's different. They have an amazing dough cooked to perfection making it a deep dish pizza plenty of cheese plenty of sausage and their sauce is really outstanding and I think that's which featured on a deep dish pizza I could be wrong. I'm not Italian, but I enjoy their sauce. And naturally, I had to get a slice of pepperoni pizza, which I absolutely love. It's done to perfection. Again, plenty of open seating and tables and they are always crowded so that speaks volumes for this business Service at the counter has always been on a money, very friendly, very welcoming and they answer any questions that you may have Well, it's time to fly back home to Pennsylvania until next time. We'll see you again at my favorite spot in Chicago. read more

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I was in town for a conference and decided to head down here after hearing about how the beef sandwich was titled the "world's greatest sandwich" by USA Today in 2015. However, I went with the Chicken Vesuvio which is breaded chicken, mayo, lettuce, and tomatoes. The bread was great and lettuce and tomatoes were crisp and fresh. Overall, it was a phenomenal sandwich. This is an iconic Chicago restaurant well worth trying when visiting Chicago. read more

This is a staple in Chicago! Been MANY times and it hits every time. Get the breaded steak sandwich on garlic bread! read more

Ricobene's - 2 Liter Beverage - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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The parking is across the street. I must start with that. The facility is large and that place was busy. The food must be amazing! The line was long but moved relatively quickly. We went for the steak sandwiches but got sold on the slice of the steak pizza and we took those to go. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable hence why I ordered the pizza slices. There is plenty of seats for dining in and it is spacious. There are plenty of items to choose from. The items we purchased did not disappoint. They were delicious. read more

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Rarely do I give less than five stars, but had to be honest. Slab of ribs was a bit over done, causing edges to taste like bits of wood, unfortunately. Huge yummy meatballs and spaghetti always a five star though. Fresh salad a bonus. They were super busy for a Wednesday night, which is good, but they forgot my baked potato. When I called to report it, they graciously offered me credit on my next order. read more

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Other than the brief 3 month window after graduation in 2002 when me and my bestie were primed to move to Chicago and be labor organizers and live off $22,000/yr, I am a New York City girlie thru and thru. Still there is always that moment when you're in a different city and have the pleasure of stopping in somewhere that really gives you the vibes and flavor of what makes a place special. For me this was Ricobene's. I've been trying to get my hands on their famous breaded steak sandwich for years but I'm either too far north and out of delivery range or too stuffed from all of the other Chicago culinary delights. Both of these things were true Christmas Eve but since Xmas is my brother's fave holiday he was in a giving mood and didn't balk at the 9 mile drive - which in a city might as well be to another dimension. It was everything I imagined and more. The place is like a cross section of urban life - blue collar workers, families, frat bros, dads out for a lunch run. Legit looked like the pages of a Richard Scarry book - a comfort to me in my childhood and a balm for the times we're in. For someone who has been dreaming of this sandwich for years I was remarkably unprepared when it came time to order. The extensive menu caught me off guard and I was a blubbering mess at the counter. The older woman taking our order had the patience of a saint though and worked to make sure she got it all right even when I changed my mind 3 times. Here's what we got: 2 breaded steaks cheese and sweet 1 no cheese Fried perch sandwich Zucchini sticks Cheese fries We took it to go since we also had to stop by the liquor store - Binny's review incoming. It was still amazing by the time we got it home an hour later. Def worth the years-long wait. Will absolutely be here again. Thanks for a memorable experience that lived up to the hype! read more

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Great prices & flavor! It was my husband & myself we dined in. This is a definite must go to & we will be back! There's parking across the street & please don't let yourself get discouraged by the line. We saw a family walk to the door & turn right around but it goes quickly. They have lots of friendly staff that keep the restaurant clean. read more

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Ricobene's does not disappoint. The breaded chicken sandwiches are amazing--huge, generously portioned cutlets that are perfectly seasoned and still juicy. The lettuce-to-mayo-to-bread ratio is spot on, and the sandwich is big enough to share or save half for later. Very filling! We also tried a few pizza slices. The thin-slice pepperoni was just okay, but the sausage slice was the clear standout--full of flavor. The deep-dish mushroom and spinach slice was solid and satisfying as well. Service was friendly, there's plenty of seating, and parking is conveniently located across the street. Definitely worth a stop. read more

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I went to Ricobene's with my parents and of course we had to try the famous breaded steak sandwich. I ordered mine with hot giardiniera and mozzarella cheese, which definitely added great flavor and a nice kick. The service was good -- friendly and efficient, no complaints there. However, I was a bit disappointed with the temperature and texture of the sandwich. It was served more lukewarm than hot, and the bread ended up pretty soggy. For a sandwich that's known as a Chicago staple, I expected it to come out hot with a bit more structure to the bread. We also ordered a chicken salad, and the chicken was served cold, which surprised me. It wasn't bad, just not what I was expecting. Overall, the flavors were solid and portions were generous, but temperature and texture really affect the experience -- especially for a sandwich like this. I'd consider giving it another try, hoping it comes out hotter next time. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich Chicken Salad - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This establishment is freaking awesome. I remember as a kid living in Bridgeport I'd go here every Saturday for the steak sandwich extra sauce and cheese. Food is great, service is great and the Ambience is great. I drive up north from Skokie every other week just to get my fix. Highly recommend this place. read more

Not to bad! Took the wife and 5 grandkids while visiting Chicago. Had the famous steak sandwich. Tasty. My wife loved the deep dish pizza and the grandkids loves there strips. 2 sandwiches, 2 personal deep dish, and 3 strips with drinks for them and a couple each beers for the wife and I. A little over $100.00. Not bad for Chicago food. read more

This was my first visit to a Chicago classic! You order at the counter, then receive a ticket for your order. We waited about 10 mins for our food. Plenty of seating was available. The breaded steak sandwich was great! It comes with the red sauce that is similar to an Italian spaghetti sauce. The steak was flavorful and juicy, but too chewy. You can add mozzarella, giardiniera, and/or sweet peppers to the sandwich. It is quite messy to eat though. The free parking across the street from the restaurant is a huge perk! read more

Ricobene's - Outside Ricobene's - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Classic Chicago institution. Quick service. Busy on a Tuesday lunch hour. King breaded steak sandwich is gargantuan. Ate half and took the other home. A mass of a sandwich. Delicious. Also, I found a free street spot out front to park then realized they have a parking lot across the street. Look forward to my return. read more

Ricobene's - King Size Breaded Steak Sandwich Value Pack - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Review by: Avila.Eats on TikTok, insta, and YouTube Service: staff is unbothered and just doing their job but seem like kind people in their own circle. Ambiance/Atmosphere: inside is an old spacious dining room. Old pictures plaster the walls with memorabilia. Open kitchen and fairly spacious. Food: 1. Chicken sandwich has crispy really nicely seasoned chicken but very thin cutlet. Lettuce, tomato, and onion are fresh with a nice crunch. The bread is soft and brushed with their delicious garlic butter. I'd recommend. 2. Breaded steak sandwich has tender soft steak. The bread was again a nice soft well flavored roll. The marinara had a slightly sweet but very subtle citrus. The cheese was stringy and gooey. I'd recommend. read more

Ricobene's was the real deal. A neighborhood joint with friendly staff and filling home cooked food. Ample seating, clean and happening.

Had to check out the Chicago classic! My husband ordered the Breaded Steak Sandwich and I got the Vesuvio Chicken Sandwich. The steak sandwich was absolutely amazing. It was messy to eat but totally worth the hype. The Vesuvio was milder in terms of flavor but still pretty good! I would pass on the mozzarella sticks and come back for their pizza next time. The service was pretty fast! The restaurant has old school diner vibes, offers plenty of seating, and also has a parking lot right across the street. read more

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This place is legendary in Chicago. Known for its breaded steak which you can get on a sandwich or pizza. One slice of pizza was more than enough to fill me up and delicious. The dining hall was full of people from the neighborhood that knew each other and it seemed to be a popular spot for local law enforcement to grab lunch. I didn't realize till after I ate there that this place was owned by my friend Rosario's cousin. read more

A Chicago staple. You're guaranteed an affordable, greasy, family vibes meal with the menu variety. You can't go wrong with the pizza. That is a separate pizza line toward the back of the building. Everything else can be ordered closer to the front register. - Ask for the fries to be well done, this gives it the perfect crispness - I usually order their hamburgers and it's such a comfort eat - My friends who grew up in Chicago recommend the breaded steak sandwiches - hot wings: this can be a hit or miss. When they give you good meaty pieces of chicken, it's the perfect flavor and doesn't have the overpowering spiciness. I have received orders where the chicken is mainly fattier pieces. There is plenty of seating but it can fill up quick depending on time of the day. There is a free parking lot across the street. read more

Let's start with no flipping the tablet for Tips - that alone gets 5 stars!!! Also free parking !!! Really at this point I'm good. Now this is supposed to be a south side institution - so how does it stack up? Holly Molly - that steak sandwich lives up to its reputation - juicy, tasty, savory tomato sauce slathered generously on that breaded steak seasoned to perfection and brought over the top with all that cheese. What's not to like? We also had the mushroom, onion rings and chicken wings all fine. Ricobene's is a south side hidden gem to the rest of the city of Chicago- make it a point to check this place out. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded Steak Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Yelp Review #600! I stopped at Ricobene's prior to a White Sox game. I'm beyond happy that I did. I took an uber from my downtown hotel and it dropped me off right outside. I arrived around 4:15 PM. There was no line and I was able to promptly place my order. I ordered a regular breaded steak sandwich (no cheese) with fresh cut fries. My bill was around $18.00 for both and came out within minutes. The fries were great and the sandwich was spectacular. I'm happy I only ordered the regular and not the king size. Between the meat, bun, and sauce my sandwich felt like it was three pounds. I'm also glad I ate my sandwich at the restaurant as it was a little messy. These are not complaints! Ricobenes is a place you don't want to miss. There is a reason they have been open for almost 80 years on the Southside. I'd return in a second! Five stars almost doesn't seem to be enough. read more

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It's a popular staple for a reason! I was in town for work and my coworker, who is a local, took me here! I got their famous steak sandwich and mozzarella sticks. It was busy but service was quick. The food was great and they have something for everyone! I did hear their sandwiches feel a little smaller than they have in the past but I didn't notice. Plenty of places to sit or take it to go. It's a casual quick service joint and I like that they had dedicated off street parking! read more

Always a hit and lives up to the hype. Ricobene's is one of Chicago's classics - I always recommend this place to friends visiting from out of town. This old school pizza parlor is not just known for its variety of pizzas; it's most famous for its breaded steak sandwich. I can attest it is very good, but haven't tried many breaded steak sandwiches to know if it's the world's best. My go-to order for years has been a double order of hot wings (served on a bed of fries), and a separate order of hot fries.. just because I can't get enough. Their cheese fries are also bomb. Btw their fries are soft/soggy, that can either be a hit or miss for some. They are always so consistent with their food and their service. It's been a 5/5 everytime I go. As busy as this place CAN get, you'll most likely find a place to sit. Super chill place to eat with your friends, doesn't get too loud & rowdy here. And even when busy you get your food at a reasonable time. Ps. They do not take reservations. and freee parking right across the street just for Rico's customers. read more

Ricobene's - Double hot wings Hot fries - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I had a slice with breaded steak as the topping. The crust is thin and doesn't have much flavor, but there was plenty of sauce. I didn't try the cheese-only pizza and wonder if the sauce they put on with the breaded steak is different, because it tasted more like a pasta sauce. It worked well on my slice, though. Nice amount of cheese with good flavor. Ricobene's is a walk-up counter service restaurant, with plenty of seating. One side for pizza, another side for sandwiches and other entrees. Free parking in their own lot, literally under the Dan Ryan overpasses across the street. read more

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The breaded steak sandwich here is really good. The staff was friendly and quick with getting food out. I recommend getting the regular size sandwich, it's plenty filling without needing to go for the king size. Be sure to grab extra napkins, though because it's smothered in sauce and can get pretty messy (but totally worth it). There's also plenty of seating which is a nice bonus. I definitely recommend checking this spot out! read more

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Besides Gene and Jude's, Ricobene's has been on my "Chicago list" for the longest. I finally got to try it out last week while in Chicago, before a White Sox Game. I went with a regular Breaded Steak sandwich with cheese and hot peppers, and a regular Chicken Vesuvio sandwich, no mayo. How were they? Breaded Steak Sandwich- Bomb! Flat out messy and delicious. Super thin steak, perfectly fried/breaded, tons of sauce and cheese and hot peppers. The bun held up incredibly well and was nice and soft and the perfect vehicle for this sandwich! It was everything I had expected and hoped for. Chicken Vesuvio Sandwich- I heard this was the "sleeper" sandwich to get from Ricobene's. I'm always down with a proper chicken cutlet! This sandwich had one of those, perfectly fried, super thin. Came with some lettuce, tomato and onion, and then the garlic butter/spread on the bread. Such a good combination of flavors. Can't go wrong with either sandwich! I did like the breaded steak just a tad more (Hey, that's what they are famous for, right?), but this Chicken Vesuvio is not to be missed! They have a huge parking lot right across the street which is nice. Service was friendly at the register. Lots of tables to sit at. Really cool spot and I would frequent here often if I lived in Chicago. Those sandwiches were bomb! read more

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Ricobene's breaded steak sandwich is a Chicago staple for good reason! It was bustling on a weekday during lunch. There's ample parking and seating inside. The famous breaded steak sandwich is like a chicken parmesan in a sandwich format, with steak instead of chicken. A pro tip is to use a fork and knife to eat it, as it is pretty messy. Pickup was super easy, we called in advance so it would be ready when we arrived. The wings are good too, and they come with some fries and veg sticks. For being located next to the freeway, the ambiance inside is surprisingly nice and spacious inside. The tables were generally clean and spaced out so it feels comfortable. read more

Ricobene's - Breaded steak regular size - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I've lived in Chicago all my life but had never been to this iconic establishment. My first visit did not disappoint. We split the famous breaded steak and the chicken parm sandwiches. Yum! Kinda messy, but so delicious. Accompanied with fresh cut fries. This was a cheat meal worth tanking a diet for. I knew it had to be good when I saw so many city workers stopping in. Service was quick and friendly, lots of seating and easy on street parking (though they have a lot directly across the street) I will definitely keep this in mind for a future binge meal. read more

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*This rating is based on a delivery order of their Chicken parmesan sandwich. * The sandwich was so delicious and filling. At one point, I didn't think I could finish it. It was soo good.... It was hard to stop eating. I didn't eat the fries because by the time the food arrived; they were cold. I didn't have room for them anyways. read more

Ricobene's - Chicken Parmesan Sandwich - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I used to live within walking distance of Ricobenes. Me and my dad used to go to the walk up window and order a breaded steak, extra sauce with green peppers. The flavor permeated through me back then and I just had a rush of memories when I went back recently. The sandwich is still huge, but I can't eat a whole one anymore. So I split into two and had some fries. I brought home the rest and my family devoured it and was all smiles. The dining room looks very Chicago Italian style with old "family" photos on the walls. It's an order sit down place and I thought would be kind of slow on a weekday, but it was buzzing. I think they tried to hold the line and keep pricing affordable. And the clientele is such a melting pot that is Chicago. All good Chicago folk having a decent lunch and enjoying each other's company. I think I'll definitely have to drop by again - it's classic Chicago Bridgeport joint and my family loves the food. read more

Ricobene's - Fries - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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First off, we were there because we had a taste for their famous steak sandwich, breaded and dipped. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was bustling during the height of lunch rush and holiday cheer. I have to include this one concern - everyone we dealt with, from the phone order taker to the hostess and the cashier, were borderline rude. This kind of ruined the vibe for us, although we enjoyed the sandwich. read more

We came here for a few times already!! First off, plenty of free parking across the street and plenty of seatings inside! It does get busy during lunch time!!! The chicken vesuvio Italian sandwich is my favorite!! I always get it with extra onions! The breaded steak is their signature item, it does get messy!! So be prepared with plenty of napkins, wipes and perhaps a bib!! Also make sure you add spicy peppers/ sweet peppers to it. We also get the pizza to try which is just okay. Price is very reasonable!!!! You can probably get the large size of sandwich and share among 2 people!! Highly recommend it if you want to try one of the Chicago iconic places!! read more

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Prices have gone up, quality have gone down. My last two visits have been a shitshow. On my most recent visit, we picked up 3 sandwiches and a pizza puff. The pizza puff was unappetizing, both overcooked and exceptionally greasy and the chicken parm sandwich had no parmesan. On my previous visit, the breaded steak sandwich was tough and chewy. Such a disappointment from a neighborhood institution. read more

Definitely order the fried steak sandwich. It is now on my top 10 list of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten! It's huge so I shared it with another person. Get a ton of napkins because it is messy! Order at the counter and they will call you when your food is ready. Free parking lot across the street. I will definitely be back during my next trip to Chicago. read more

Ricobene's - Outside - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The meatball sandwich was phenomena! Most of their sandwiches are tasty tbh. the pizza was too greasy. Good service and affordable.

Breaded steak sandwich & Vesuvio Italian breaded chicken sandwich are totally worth the stop! The Vesuvio is my favorite! Came twice within a week. Cheese fries are good. I probably won't get the pasta again, good for kids. Separate pizza line by the slice, also good but not a must-have like the sandwiches! Free parking across the street! read more

Ricobene's - Store front - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

The breaded steak sandwich lived up to the hype! Hand cut fries are outstanding. I'll be back... read more

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If you're looking to put on ten pounds over night, and I guarantee you will... get the biggest sandwich they got here. The food was ok, I didn't find it bad at all but probably wouldn't go out of my way to get it, like I did this time loll. Called in, walked inside ten min later and got my food. Could only finish half the wich but def what you'd expect Tony Soprano to whip up at 2am in the kitchen while the whole house can hear him breathe. Give them a try, I don't have anything bad to say. read more

Ricobene's - Double steak - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pretty good food and service here. I tried their famous breaded steak sandwich and BBQ wings--both of which were delicious. They have big servings for the price you pay. I'm glad I tried it but may not be coming back as a regular customer. The inside can seat many people and they have a parking lot which is wonderful. Seems like a classic family-owned Italian spot to go if you're craving pizza and meatballs. read more

Ricobene's - BBQ wings - Italian Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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