Signature Dish

[Pudge714]

I will third Schwartz. Steak combo is so good.
Duff's is also really good, but it's a chain.

[Hoi Polloi]

I know beef on weck, but what is garbage plates?

[JJNJustin]

There is this place in Gary Indiana right by the riverboat casinos called Schmidts and they are famous for all you can eat "Boned and Buttered Perch," for $19.95. I didnt get the perch, but instead I ordered catfish, which was $15.95, but it was easily the most delicious fish I have ever eaten. They brought me 3 large catfish, boned and fileted, lightly dusted with flour and fried crisp but not greasy.

It is sort of an old fashioned 50's ish decor, and they bring you relish tray, cottage cheese, pickled beets, rolls, and salad with dinner.

I really enjoyed it. Schmidts in Hammond, IN (Gary, IN)

-J

[matt2500]

[ QUOTE ]
Salumi in Seattle for the Oxtail sandwich.

Salumi is a salumeria that is owned by Mario Batali's father. Not everyone agrees on the one menu item that gets them in the door but is 100% full at all times during weekday lunches. I am sure the proprietor can tell you what sammie is the most popular.

Extra points for the Batali factor I am sure.


[/ QUOTE ]

I second Salumi, especially for the Batali factor. Just got a profile on Anthony Bourdain's show on the Travel Channel, though.

Batali's aunt makes hand-made gnocchi once a week only, and once it's gone, it's gone for the week. This could be a good signature dish.

[zenfurni]

In Chicago, there's a place called Hot Doug's that definitely fits the bill.

It's only open from 11-4 (I think) Mon-Sat, so all the people who can't get out of work for lunch stand outside around the block waiting to get in on Saturdays.

The hot dogs are sublime, available in many different styles -- Polish, Kasewurst, Bratwurst, so on. There are specials every month, including some really exotic game (Kangaroo, Snake, etc.) but the standard fare is excellent as well. They also offer fries cooked in duck fat, in case your arteries aren't clogged enough.

The decor is great, the attitude is offbeat, and there's a definite neighborhood atmosphere. It is THE place for hot dogs. Check it out:
http://www.hotdougs.com/menu.htm

[bboy_]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Sticking to Chicago, Portillo's is the best known for Italian Beef sandwiches, but my vote would go to Mr. Beef.



Sometimes I really miss Chicago...

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I was gonna post on Italian Beef. I think the winner is Johnnie's in Elmwood Park, IL (West of Chicago just a little) They have lines outside the place all day long, and it rocks over the ones mentioned above.

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If I'm correct, there is a second Johnnie's Beef in Arlington Heights. I used to go there nearly every day but their line wasn't nearly out the door but good beef's nonetheless.