Travelers in and out of Midway can now sink their teeth into Chicago's classic Italian Beef sandwiches.
"From Orleans Street to Gate B14, please join me in giving a warm Midway welcome to Mr. Beef, " said Tracey Payne, First Deputy Commission, Chicago Department of Aviation.
Payne says this isn't just about feeding people, it's about giving people a true taste of Chicago when they arrive and depart the city.
"Last year alone, more than 18 million passengers traveled through Midway. That's 18 million people looking for a great meal, a quick bite or maybe just one last taste of Chicago before take off. Thanks to Mr. Beef, they don't have to leave home without it." she said.
The Original Mr. Beef on Orleans opened in Chicago nearly 50 years ago. It was established in 1979 by Joseph Zucchero. The Italian Beef stand has become a Chicago favorite for its casual atmosphere and tasty Italian beef sandwich. The restaurant was the inspiration for the hit-show "The Bear" starring Jeremy Allen White.
"Mr. Beef is a neighborhood legend known around the world. This isn't just about feeding people between flights, it's about welcoming them. It's about giving travelers a true sense of place, something that feels unmistakably Chicago. There are some flavors that are uniquely Chicago, Mr. Beef is one of them," said George Mboya, CEO, SSP America, which operates restaurants at the airport.
The official ribbon cutting and opening took place on Tuesday.
"We're celebrating another milestone in our southwest side airport's history. This airport is a very special place to all of us. As Chicago's first commercial airport, Midway helped put this city on the map as an aviation hub," said Mayor Brandon Johnson.
"It truly is a must-try on every traveler's itinerary and a staple for families all around the Chicagoland area. Mr. Beef's presence here at Midway means more than offering another meal option. In fact, it shows our commitment to empowering our local small businesses here. It will join the 23 other businesses on display here, reinforcing the airport's diverse business enterprise participating rate of more than 50 percent, the highest of any airport in the entire country," said Johnson.
The new Mr. Beef is in Concourse B near Gate B14 will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.