What do you order at Portillo’s? 🥤

Okay, so if you're like me, a trip to Portillo's isn't just a meal, it's an experience! Every single time, I leave with a full belly and a happy heart, which is why I consistently give it a 10/10 rating. I see a lot of people asking what to order, especially if it's their first time or they want to try something new, so I wanted to share my personal must-try list for anyone looking to dive into their popular menu items. Trust me, you won't be disappointed! First up, and probably the most iconic, is the Italian beef sandwich. This is an absolute non-negotiable for me. The thinly sliced, tender beef is slow-roasted and soaked in flavorful gravy, making every bite incredibly juicy. You can get it "dry" (less gravy), "wet" (more gravy), or "dipped" (completely submerged) – I always go for "dipped" for maximum flavor! Don't forget to add some sweet green peppers or, if you're brave like me, the hot giardiniera for an extra kick. And here’s a pro tip: for an even richer experience, ask for a side of their famous cheese sauce to dip your sandwich or even your french fries in. It comes with a small cup of au jus, which is perfect for dipping. Seriously, this sandwich alone makes the trip worth it. Next, you can't go to Portillo's without considering their hot dogs. While my heart belongs to the beef, their Chicago-style hot dog is a masterpiece in itself. It's an all-beef frank served on a poppy seed bun with yellow mustard, chopped white onions, bright green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices or wedges, and pickled sport peppers, all topped with a dash of celery salt. It's a flavor explosion! If you're feeling less adventurous, a classic plain hot dog is always a solid choice too. For something a bit heartier, their char-broiled burgers are surprisingly good. They have that distinct grilled flavor, and you can customize them with all your favorite toppings. While not as famous as the beef or dogs, they're a great alternative if you're in the mood for a juicy burger. And speaking of sides, those crinkle-cut french fries are perfect – especially when paired with that glorious cheese sauce I mentioned earlier. Now, for those who might be looking for something a bit lighter (or perhaps just want to save room for dessert!), Portillo's actually offers some pretty decent salads. They've got a variety, from chopped salads to garden salads, which can be a refreshing contrast to the heavier main dishes. But let's be real, you save room for the Chocolate Cake Shake. If you've never had it, you are truly missing out. It's a thick, creamy chocolate shake blended with an actual slice of their famous chocolate cake. It sounds crazy, but it's pure heaven and the perfect way to end any Portillo's feast. Whether you're hitting the drive-thru or dining in, Portillo's delivers a consistent, delicious experience every time. My advice? Go hungry, be ready to make some tough decisions (or just order everything!), and savor every bite of those iconic Chicago flavors. It’s truly a 10/10 culinary adventure!