Little Joes

Fast Food Restaurant Fast Food Italian Fast Food

Bestie Business Card

For faster service call ahead for a pick-up order, (708) 352-9696.

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Business Hours

Mon: 10:30am - 8:00pm
Tue: 10:30am - 8:00pm
Wed: 10:30am - 8:00pm
Thu: 10:30am - 8:00pm
Fri: 10:30am - 8:00pm
Sat: 10:30am - 6:00pm
Sun: Closed

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About Countryside, Illinois, USA

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Nominated for BestAround

A+
Overall Grade
Rating Scale:
A: 80-100% B: 60-79% C: 40-59% D: 20-39%

Little Joe's, a Chicago institution since 1969, has earned its place among the "BestAround" nominees through a potent blend of culinary excellence and community engagement. The restaurant's dedication to fresh, homemade ingredients, particularly its Italian beef sandwiches and signature giardiniera, resonates strongly with diners craving authenticity in a fast-food setting. Testimonials consistently highlight the quality of the food, the welcoming atmosphere, and the generous portions - all hallmarks of a beloved family-run establishment.

However, the "BestAround" accolade shouldn't solely rest on its culinary prowess. Little Joe's distinguishes itself through its genuine community spirit. The lemonade stand run by Gia and Emily during summer months, donating to Concerns of Police Survivors, exemplifies this commitment. This initiative, spotlighted by local media, paints a picture of a restaurant that transcends mere dining, actively contributing to the well-being of its community.

While customer feedback acknowledges the restaurant's strengths, it also reveals areas for improvement. Inconsistencies in food quality and pricing, coupled with occasional service hiccups, suggest room for refinement. Yet, the positive aspects - cleanliness, welcoming staff, and the undeniable charm of a Chicago institution - outweigh these minor drawbacks. Little Joe's, despite its flaws, undoubtedly possesses the potential to qualify for "BestAround" recognition, solidifying its position as a cherished local favorite with a future brimming with possibilities.

About Little Joes

Little Joe's, a beloved Chicago-based fast food restaurant established in 1969, has carved out a niche for itself with its commitment to fresh, homemade Italian beef and hot dogs, alongside a delightful giardiniera. The establishment quickly gained recognition, notably featured on Chicago's Best TV in 2012 and Destination Chicago in 2022, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for both locals and tourists alike. Listed among the top 20 restaurants in Chicago for Italian beef, Little Joe's has become a staple for various occasions, from casual pick-ups to family gatherings, thanks to its generous portions and consistently high-quality offerings.

The restaurant's customer testimonials underscore its appeal, with patrons praising the exceptional service, the freshness of the ingredients, and the unique flavors that set Little Joe's apart from competitors. Nick T., a regular customer, highlights the convenience and quality of their "to-go" service, while Lora W. emphasizes the authenticity and family-friendly atmosphere that make it a favorite among locals. The story of Angela and her fellow employees extending a gesture to bring Little Joe's to her father in St. Louis adds a touching human element to the brand's narrative, showcasing its community-oriented spirit.

Beyond its culinary excellence, Little Joe's has also made a significant impact through its charitable efforts. During the summer, Gia and Emily run a lemonade stand outside their restaurant, donating proceeds to Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), supporting families of fallen officers in the Chicago area. This initiative, covered by the Chicago Tribune, highlights the restaurant's commitment to giving back to the community. The site's adherence to Google's privacy policies and terms of service ensures a safe and secure environment for both customers and patrons. With a menu that includes freshly sliced Italian beef, homemade meatballs, and a signature giardiniera, Little Joe's continues to thrive as a family-owned, community-focused dining destination in La Grange, Illinois.

Category Tags
Fast Food Restaurant Fast Food Italian Fast Food Quick Service Restaurant Family Restaurant

What Customers Say

4.5
Rating Based On
694
Official Google Reviews
5
494
4
114
3
35
2
17
1
34

Customer experiences at Little Joes have been generally positive, with many praising the quality of the Italian beef sandwiches and the friendly atmosphere. Several reviews highlight the authentic taste and flavor of the dishes, particularly noting the excellent service from the staff. The establishments are often described as family-owned, which adds to their charm and authenticity.

However, there are also several complaints regarding inconsistencies in food quality, pricing, and service, particularly with issues like incorrect orders, lack of condiments, and slow service. Some customers have expressed disappointment with the price-to-quality ratio, especially when compared to other fast-food options.

Despite these issues, many customers appreciate the cleanliness of the dining areas and the welcoming nature of the staff. The restaurant's location in a strip mall area can sometimes affect parking availability and convenience, but overall, it seems to be a well-regarded spot for those seeking a casual dining experience with a focus on traditional Chicago fare.