Chicago’s well-known Mr. Beef restaurant has opened a new location at Midway Airport, according to an announcement from the city on Tuesday. The new outpost is located near gate B14 and offers a menu that includes hot Italian beef, Italian sausage, combination sandwiches, grab-and-go subs, and breakfast items. The restaurant operates daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Mayor Brandon Johnson commented on the opening, stating, “Mr. Beef is a Chicago institution, and I’m proud to welcome that local flavor to our Southwest Side airport.”
The original Mr. Beef restaurant at 666 N. Orleans St. in River North has been in operation since 1979 and inspired the FX television series “The Bear.” Christopher Zucchero, who owns Mr. Beef and is a childhood friend of series creator Chris Storer, has made cameo appearances on the show.
The addition of Mr. Beef is part of ongoing improvements at Midway Airport aimed at expanding food options for travelers. In 2023, the airport completed its $400 million Midway Modernization Program with updates including a revamped Central Market featuring new shops, restaurants, and a lounge—the largest investment in the airport in two decades.
Other notable Chicago restaurants have also established locations at Midway Airport such as Arami, Billy Goat Tavern, Connie’s Pizza, Harry Caray’s, Hubbard Inn, R.J. Grunt’s, and Reilly’s Daughter.
Further developments at Midway include the introduction of The Club MDW in 2024—its first shared-use airport lounge—and last month’s launch of Gameway, which is described as Chicago’s first airport video gaming lounge.
