Doesn’t the aroma of perfectly spiced beef make your mouth water? We are standing before Vienna Beef, a Chicago institution. Vienna Beef is more than just a food manufacturer. It is a culinary landmark. It represents Chicago’s rich history and delicious flavors.
Vienna Beef’s story starts in 1893. Emil Reichel and Sam Ladany came from Vienna, Austria-Hungary. They introduced their hot dogs at the World’s Columbian Exposition. Over 27 million visitors were amazed.
After their initial success, Reichel and Ladany opened a storefront in 1894. It was on Halsted Avenue. In 1900, Vienna Beef started delivering to other Chicago stores.
During the Great Depression, vendors advertised “salad on top”. This gave rise to the Chicago-style hot dog. Vienna Beef played a vital role. In 1950, distribution expanded to other Midwestern states. By the 1960s, Vienna Beef hit supermarket shelves.
Vienna Beef’s impact goes beyond sales. Henry Davis, a former VP of sales, helped create Chicago’s hot dog scene. His contributions are honored in the Chicago Historical Society Archives. It is called the “Henry Davis Collection”.
Today, Vienna Beef makes about 700,000 hot dogs daily. These supply over 1,800 local vendors. Chicagoans take their hot dogs seriously.
Vienna Beef is known for its Chicago-style hot dogs. These all-beef franks are made with premium meat. They have mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and sport peppers. Celery salt is sprinkled on top. It is always served on a poppy seed bun. Ketchup is a definite no-no.
But Vienna Beef offers more than just hot dogs. Their Italian beef sandwiches are another Chicago staple. Thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef is marinated in savory juices. It is served on fresh Italian bread. You can have it “wet” or “dry”. Add sweet peppers or hot giardiniera.
Vienna Beef also offers gifts and variety packs. They include Garrett Popcorn and Lou Malnati’s Pizza. These packs let you share Chicago’s finest flavors with friends.
Vienna Beef’s revenue was about $130 million in 2015. The company is at Elston, Damen, and Fullerton Avenues. This is in the North Center area. The factory moved to 1000 W. Pershing Road in 2016.
Vienna Beef remains a cornerstone of Chicago’s food culture. It has been around for over a century. It is the go-to choice for authentic Chicago flavors. Every bite offers a true taste of Chicago.