News

Buona expands hometown presence

November 9, 2017

Buona, The Original Italian Beef, opened its newest location last week to more than a thousand customers at 613 North McClurg Court in Chicago, according to a company press release.

Seating 75, the location's design features a mix archetypal Chicago materials and classic modern elements. The location will feature outdoor seating in warmer months, according to the release.

The family owned, fast casual chain serves a blend of old-school Chicago classics, including its signature Italian Beef, Italian Sausage, Beef & Sausage Combo, Meatball and Pepper & Egg sandwiches, alongside scratch-made fare including pizzas and salads. The menu also features Chicago-style hot dogs and seasonal shakes, sandwiches and more. 
 
The first Buona restaurant began with a secret recipe and a legacy that stems back to the beef stands that emanated from Chicago's famous Union Stockyards. Founder Joe Buonavolanto Sr. was among a group of Italian immigrants in 1981, who made the Italian beef sandwich a staple of Chicago's culinary scene, taking a second mortgage on his home in order to open the company's first restaurant in Berwyn, Illinois, said second-generation owner Joe Buonavolanto.

"We're proud of our father and the company that he founded," he said in the press release "He has instilled a sense of pride and tradition in his children — values that we have passed on to our children. He also taught us how to make one helluva beef sandwich."

Buona is the Official Italian Beef of the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox and is served at Wrigley and Guaranteed Rate Fields, as well as at all home Chicago Bears football games.