If you are looking for a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich, you have probably heard of Buona Beef. Getting a clear picture of the Buona Beef Menu with Prices before you visit can save you time and help you budget your meal. Italian beef sandwiches at Buona Beef come with specific pricing differences between regular, large, and combo options.
Buona Beef has been a local favorite since 1981. They focus on high-quality ingredients and generous portions. Knowing what you want to order makes the line move faster and ensures you get exactly what you are hungry for.
This guide breaks down the current menu items and their costs. We will look at the beef sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, and sides. We will also cover the difference between a regular and a large, and what you get when you order a combo.
Buona Beef Menu With Prices
The menu is straightforward, but the options can feel overwhelming if it is your first time. You have to decide on your meat, your bread, and your toppings. The most popular choice is the classic Italian beef, but there are also burgers, chicken sandwiches, and salads.
Prices can vary slightly depending on the specific location you visit. The figures below reflect the standard pricing at most corporate and franchise locations. It is always a good idea to check the local store for daily specials or regional differences.
Classic Italian Beef Sandwiches
The Italian beef is the star of the show here. The beef is slow-roasted and sliced thin. It is then soaked in a seasoned gravy, or “au jus,” before being piled high on a fresh Italian roll.
You have a choice of bread styles. You can get it on plain bread, or you can ask for it “baked” which means the bread is toasted with the gravy. You also have the option of adding cheese, typically provolone, or giardiniera for a spicy kick.
- Regular Beef: This comes with a standard portion of meat. It is filling enough for most appetites.
- Large Beef: This option offers a significantly larger portion of meat. It is a hefty meal that might be too much for light eaters.
- Combo: This is a regular or large beef with the addition of an Italian sausage patty or link.
Here is a breakdown of the base prices for the beef sandwiches:
- Regular Italian Beef: $8.99
- Large Italian Beef: $11.49
- Regular Combo (Beef & Sausage): $10.99
- Large Combo (Beef & Sausage): $13.49
Adding cheese will usually cost an extra $1.00 to $1.50. Getting the bread baked does not usually change the price. You can also add peppers or extra giardiniera at no charge.
Specialty Beef Sandwiches
If you want to change things up, Buona offers several specialty sandwiches. These come with specific toppings already included. These are popular for those who want a specific flavor profile without having to customize too much.
The “Big Buona” is a fan favorite. It features double the meat on a larger roll. It is a massive sandwich that is perfect for sharing or for a very hungry person.
- The Big Buona: This comes with extra beef and is served on a larger bun. It is priced around $13.99.
- BBQ Beef: This sandwich includes beef topped with sweet BBQ sauce and crispy onions. It is priced around $10.49.
- Turkey Avocado: A lighter option with oven-roasted turkey, avocado spread, and lettuce. This is usually around $9.99.
These specialty items often come with a side of au jus for dipping. The BBQ Beef is a messy but tasty alternative to the traditional version.
Hot Dogs And Sausages
Beyond the beef, Buona serves a classic Chicago-style hot dog. It is loaded with all the traditional toppings. You will find yellow mustard, chopped onions, tomato slices, a pickle spear, and sport peppers.
The sausage sandwich is also a solid choice. It features a juicy Italian sausage link served on the same fresh bread. You can get it with sweet peppers or hot giardiniera.
- Chicago Style Hot Dog: $4.79
- Italian Sausage Sandwich: $8.49
- Combo Sausage & Beef: (See pricing above)
- Polish Sausage Sandwich: $8.99
These items are great if you are not in the mood for the shredded beef. The hot dog is a classic taste of Chicago street food. It is a good value for the price.
Burgers And Chicken Sandwiches
For those who want a break from Italian cuisine, there are burger options. They offer a classic cheeseburger and a BBQ bacon burger. These are cooked to order and come with standard burger toppings.
There is also a grilled chicken sandwich available. It can be served plain or with BBQ sauce. These options ensure that there is something for everyone in your group.
- Classic Cheeseburger: $8.99
- BBQ Bacon Burger: $10.49
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: $9.49
- Crispy Chicken Sandwich: $9.49
These burgers are decent, but they are not the main reason people visit Buona. They are good fallback options if you have picky eaters with you.
Salads And Wraps
If you are looking for a lighter meal, Buona has a few salad choices. The Chopped Salad is very popular. It comes with a mix of greens, meats, and cheeses, chopped finely and tossed in a house vinaigrette.
You can also get a Chicken Caesar Salad or a Greek Salad. These are fresh and generous in size. They are a good option for a low-carb meal.
- Chopped Salad: $10.99
- Chicken Caesar Salad: $9.99
- Greek Salad: $9.49
- Chicken Wrap: $8.99
These salads are large enough to be a full meal. The Chopped Salad is a great choice if you want to sample the Italian meats without the bread.
Kids Menu
Buona offers a menu for the little ones. The portions are smaller and the prices are lower. This makes it easy to bring the whole family without breaking the bank.
Kids can choose from a small beef sandwich, chicken fingers, or a hot dog. Each kids meal comes with a small side and a drink.
- Kids Beef Sandwich: $6.49
- Kids Chicken Fingers: $5.99
- Kids Hot Dog: $4.99
- Kids Spaghetti: $5.99
These meals are perfect for children under 10. The portions are just right for a younger appetite.
Sides And Extras
No sandwich meal is complete without a side. The most popular side is the crinkle-cut french fries. They are crispy and salted just right.
You can also choose from onion rings, mozzarella sticks, or a cup of soup. Many people also order a side of giardiniera or extra dipping gravy.
- French Fries: $3.29
- Onion Rings: $4.29
- Mozzarella Sticks (4 pc): $5.99
- Side Salad: $3.99
- Cup of Soup: $3.49
If you are ordering for a group, consider the “Family Pack.” This usually includes a pound of meat, a loaf of bread, and a quart of gravy. It is a great deal for feeding a crowd at home.
Drinks And Desserts
Buona serves standard fountain drinks, bottled water, and iced tea. They also have a selection of desserts. The most famous is the chocolate cake, which is rich and moist.
You can also get a cannoli or a cookie. These are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth after a salty sandwich.
- Fountain Drink: $2.49
- Bottled Water: $2.29
- Chocolate Cake: $3.99
- Cannoli: $2.99
They also offer a selection of Italian sodas and specialty drinks. These add a fun twist to the meal.
How To Order Your Beef
Ordering your beef “the right way” is a local tradition. You need to know the terminology to get your sandwich exactly how you like it. Here is a simple guide to the terms you will hear.
First, you decide if you want it “dry” or “wet.” A dry sandwich has the meat placed on the bread with a slotted spoon, so most of the gravy stays off the bread. A wet sandwich has the bread dipped in the gravy before the meat is added.
Next, you choose your toppings. “Sweet” means sweet bell peppers. “Hot” means hot giardiniera. “Cheese” means melted provolone.
- Choose your size: Regular or Large.
- Choose your bread: Plain or Baked (toasted).
- Choose your wetness: Dry, Wet, or Double-Dipped.
- Choose your toppings: Sweet Peppers, Hot Peppers, or Cheese.
A “Double-Dipped” sandwich is for the true enthusiasts. The entire roll is submerged in the gravy. It is messy but incredibly flavorful.
If you are unsure, start with a “regular wet with sweet and hot.” This is a balanced choice that gives you a good mix of flavors and textures.
Tips For Saving Money
Eating out can get expensive. There are a few ways to save a couple of bucks at Buona Beef. Look out for their loyalty program, which offers rewards for frequent purchases.
They also run weekly specials. Signing up for their email list is a good way to stay informed about these deals. Sometimes they offer a free drink or a discount on a specific sandwich.
- Join the Buona Rewards program for points.
- Check the app for exclusive coupons.
- Order a regular instead of a large to save money.
- Split a Big Buona with a friend.
The regular size is usually enough for most people. The large is best for sharing or for those with a big appetite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a regular and a large beef?
The large has about 50% more meat than the regular. The large is a hefty meal, while the regular is a standard sandwich size.
Is the combo sandwich worth the extra money?
Yes, if you like sausage. The combo adds a full Italian sausage link to your beef sandwich. It is a hearty meal that combines two classic Chicago flavors.
Can I get gluten-free bread?
Most locations do not offer gluten-free bread options. You can order the beef in a bowl without the bread, or get a salad instead.
Do they offer catering for large groups?
Yes, Buona Beef has a catering menu. They offer party packs that include a variety of sandwiches, sides, and salads. You can order online or call ahead.
Are the prices the same at every location?
Prices can vary slightly by location. Franchise owners have some control over pricing to account for local costs. The prices listed here are a general guide.
Final Thoughts On The Menu
Buona Beef offers a solid menu with fair prices. The Italian beef is the reason to visit, and it does not disappoint. The portions are generous and the quality is consistent.
You can expect to spend around $12 to $15 per person for a sandwich, a side, and a drink. That is a reasonable price for the amount of food you receive. The flavors are bold and the service is usually fast.
Remember to try the giardiniera if you like spice. It adds a great crunch and heat to the sandwich. And do not forget to ask for extra napkins, especially if you order your beef “wet.” It is a messy experience, but it is a delicious one.
Whether you are a local or just visiting Chicago, this is a must-try food experience. Use this guide to order with confidence and enjoy your meal. The menu is simple, but the taste is complex and rewarding.
Check the official website or your local store for the most up-to-date prices. Menu items and costs can change based on the season or supply chain issues. It is always smart to verify before you go.
So next time you are near a Buona Beef, you know exactly what to expect. Walk up, order your beef “combo wet with hots,” and enjoy a true Chicago classic. You will not be dissapointed with the flavor or the value.
Take your time to look at the menu board when you arrive. There might be a local special that is not listed online. The staff are usually friendly and happy to explain the options if you have questions.
Enjoy your sandwich and the rich culinary history that comes with it. Buona Beef has been serving these sandwiches for decades, and they have perfected the recipe. It is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.