CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The breaded steak sandwich at Ricobene’s in the Bridgeport neighborhood has won its fair share of praise. In 2022, South Side Weekly included it in its “Best of Bridgeport and Canaryville” coverage, and a writer for USA Today called it the “best sandwich in the world” in 2015.
For owner Sam Ricobene, though, praise for the breaded steak sandwich is a bit more tangible.
“It’s what keeps the doors open,” he said. “That’s what people come here for.”
Ricobene’s grandparents opened the restaurant in 1946, and ever since it’s been an institution for Italian fast food and pizza. But the breaded steak sandwich stands apart.
It starts with thin, breaded steak, which is then deep fried and smothered in red sauce. The sandwich is served on french bread, and patrons have the option to add mozzarella cheese and peppers.
The sandwich is huge, both figuratively and literally, and it's the best-selling item by far.
Ricobene’s, located at 252 W. 26th Street, Made in Chicago.
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