Portillo's Algonquin

This is one of the better ones. Food and service is good. Store is always very clean. Staff very friendly. And helpful. This place is very large. Also has our door seating area. Parking is good and the drive through is not to bad.

- Mike Gell -

I didn’t come to Chicago for the skyline or the deep-dish debate. I flew in from Georgia for one reasons: Portillo’s and let me tell you, it was absolutely worth the miles... one bite and I got why locals swear by it. Portillo’s is everything I imagined Chicago comfort food would be: messy, loud, and absolutely delicious. The décor leans into nostalgia with a playful, almost theme-park vibe. Prices are fair for the portions, which are big enough to split but good enough you probably won’t. The Italian beef stole the show. Perfectly seasoned & unreal. Just one bite and I got why locals swear by it. It’s not just a sandwich—it’s a full-contact sport. The bread is hanging on for dear life under all that juicy, flavorful beef, and the hot giardiniera turns it into a glorious, messy masterpiece. I looked like I’d lost a fight with my lunch, and I didn’t care one bit. The Chicago dog was textbook perfection, fully loaded, snappy, fresh, piled with toppings and what's a Chicago dog without the neon green relish, and proudly ketchup-free. I respect a city that draws a hard line like that. And the chocolate cake shake? That’s not dessert, that’s a life choice. It’s so rich it should probably pay taxes. I regret nothing. It’s not fine dining, and it doesn’t try to be. Portillo’s is about flavor, speed, and a little bit of fun wrapped in butcher paper. Tourist go for the experience, and locals keep coming back because the food holds up. The food comes fast, the portions are huge, and the prices don’t make you cry. Honestly, Portillo’s alone made my trip to Chicago worth it. For someone who drove up just for the food, it did not disappoint.

- Chree King -

No idea why this place is getting less than 4 stars. Made my first visit to Portillo's last Monday evening and left very satisfied. Ordered the Italian beef with a side of onion rings. Food came out within 10 minutes and was tasty and hot. Restaurant has a great vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating available. If I lived in the area, I'd be frequenting this place. Loved it!

- Brian Merzbach -

We came here for lunch completely by chance before Christmas. The atmosphere was very pleasant, and the place was clean and cozy. The staff was well-organized and polite. I also really liked the Christmas decorations. We received our order within about 5–7 minutes, which was great. However, my patty was overcooked — it tasted bitter and slightly burnt. If it had been cooked a bit less, the dish would have been perfect. The potatoes were tasty and the vegetables were fresh, but unfortunately the burnt patty really spoiled the overall impression of the meal

- Natalia Y -

It's the same great taste, just no vibe. They brought in the design team from restaurant depot and built a tired neon sign grave yard. I like the old school feel better. I guess that's what happens when Berkshire owns you now.

- Jeff -

If you’re a fan of hearty, loaded salads that feel more like a full meal than a side dish, Portillo’s Chopped Salad is an absolute standout. This iconic offering from the Chicago-based chain has been a menu staple for decades, and for good reason—it’s packed with bold flavors, satisfying textures, and just the right balance of fresh and indulgent elements. Highly recommended if you’re near a Portillo’s—it’s a flavorful, textured masterpiece that proves salads don’t have to be boring.

- Jerrick Simbol -

Absolutely loved this visit. Portillos once again delivers the quality and friendliness I always look forward to. I have been excited for this location since the announcement, and it did not disappoint. The space is a little more compact than some other spots, yet the food tastes just as amazing. Having a self serve drink area is a great touch and makes the experience even better. Definitely worth coming back again.

- Logan Green -