Tony & Pete's

As many of you all might know, I have often craved a classic Italian Beef sandwich like I used to get back home in Chicago at places like Al’s #1 Italian Beef  or Portillo’s Italian Beef.  Perfectly spiced roasted beef, slow-cooked to tender perfection served on a Turano orgnella French rolls, topped with giardiniera and  served with au jus for dipping.  For those not in the know, Chicago-Style Hot Giardiniera is an amazing condiment used to add an explosive burst of flavor to some of their famous dishes like Italian Beef Sandwiches and deep dish pizza.  Loaded with finely chopped veggies, spicy peppers, olives, oil, and oregano, this flavorful addition will quickly earn a spot on your condiment shelf.

Here’s where we’ve found Italian Beef sandwiches in the Miami Valley:

Giovanni’s in Fairborn makes a pretty good one,  Served warm on soft bread with lots of meat, and the dipping juice is on point!

Home Sweet Home in Englewood has their spin. Sliced Beef, with Giardiniera, Provolone Cheese. Served with Au Jus. and it comes with a side! Haven’t tried it, but it’s on the list.

Many people around town have recommend Chicago Gyros and Dogs Beavercreek.  According to their menu they serve up Chicago style beef in Au Jus with sauteed green peppers and onions on a Gonnella roll.  But when I went it was served on a hoagie roll, which just doesn’t hold up for the dipping. But they do get props for the hand cut fries.

Jasper Kitchen + Bar in Xenia has a sandwich they call “The RBF” on the menu, they describe as roast beef topped with melted provolone, giardiniera and dusted with parmesan on a hoagie roll, that is on my “to eat” list. 

I finally found one that lives up to my memories!

Had one at Tony & Pete’s in the Fireblocks downtown last week and all I can say is Wow! My fellow foodie Bryan Suddith went on my recommendation yesterday and here’s what he had to say: “This may have been the best sandwich I’ve ever had in Dayton. I said what I said. The Italian beef from Tony and Pete’s was as near a perfect sandwich as I’ve had in our fair city. And I’ve had a few. Don’t ask. I did drink the au jus like a fine soup after my sandwich was finished. Without shame.”