Portillo’s is a beloved Chicago-based fast casual chain known for their hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches and chocolate cake shakes. With over 60 locations across several states they’ve developed a cult following for their classic Windy City fare. But is their famous beef actually gluten-free? Let’s take a closer look.
For those avoiding gluten, the good news is that Portillo’s seasoned beef is gluten-free! The beef is simply seasoned with a proprietary spice blend before being slow-cooked for hours until tender and juicy No binders or fillers containing gluten like wheat, barley, or rye are added during this process
However, while the beef itself is gluten-free, cross-contamination is possible during prep and serving. Portillo’s kitchens also handle buns, pasta, and other items with gluten. So some exposure could occur when slicing beef, assembling sandwiches, etc. Those highly sensitive should exercise caution.
Below are some tips on how to order gluten-free at Portillo’s:
Ordering Italian Beef Sandwiches
- Request gluten-free rolls or bread. Portillo’s has Udi’s gluten-free buns available.
- Opt for Italian Beef “light.” This means less gravy ladled over the beef, reducing contamination risk.
- Verify staff change gloves and use new prep tools to avoid cross-contact.
- Avoid add-ons like giardiniera as they’re prepped in shared space.
- For maximum safety, get beef only in a bowl or lettuce wrap.
Substituting Side Items
Portillo’s hot dogs, fries, pasta salads, and breaded items aren’t gluten-free. Safest sides are:
- Fresh fruit cup
- Kettle chips
- Coleslaw (verify dressing is GF)
- Baked potatoes or mashed potatoes
- Veggies like roasted broccoli
Skipping Risky Menu Items
Avoid higher-risk selections like:
- Hot dogs and sausages
- Pasta entrees
- Chopped and garden salads
- Chocolate cake and most shakes
- Chicken products breaded on-site
Asking About Preparation
Don’t hesitate to ask staff:
- If they take any precautions for GF orders
- If items share prep/cooking equipment
- If food utensils and gloves are changed
- About ingredients in sauces, dressings, etc.
Being informed on menu items and transparent with staff about your needs is key to a safe gluten-free experience.
Dining at Portillo’s Gluten-Free
Those avoiding gluten have a few options for enjoying Portillo’s signature Italian beef while minimizing risk:
Pick Up To-Go
Getting your meal for take-out avoids the self-serve complimentary condiments in the dining room which may cause cross-contamination at beverage stations, etc.
Mobile Ordering
Ordering online for pick-up also prevents contact with the ordering counter/bread warmer area.
Off-Peak Dining Times
Opting for off-peak hours makes it easier for staff to thoroughly clean prep areas and utensils before preparing your GF order.
Speak to The Manager
Ask to speak to a manager ahead of time about preparations for gluten-free orders if you have severe allergies or celiac disease. They can walk you through the process.
While Portillo’s kitchen practices aren’t 100% gluten-free, being mindful in your ordering can help you enjoy their signature beef sandwich worry-free. Just know the basics before you go.
What Makes Portillo’s Beef So Iconic
There are a few secrets that give Portillo’s Italian beef its distinctive fame across Chicagoland and beyond:
Proprietary Seasoning
A special spice blend flavors each batch of beef to perfection. The recipe remains closely guarded after 50+ years.
Slow Cooked
Large roasts are cooked low and slow for hours, allowing the beef to become fall-apart tender.
Thinly Sliced
The beef is sliced paper-thin on-site for each order. This showcases its texture.
Classic Gravy
Peppers and spices amp up the gravy drizzled over sandwiches upon request.
Fresh Bread
Soft, freshly baked French rolls add that perfect crunch and absorb the beef juices.
When these elements combine, the result is a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich like no other. Portillo’s has even won acclaimed food critic Phil Vettel over, no small feat!
Get That Real Chicago Taste
As they expand nationally, Portillo’s stays committed to each location embodying the true Chicago atmosphere from decor to menu. Here’s how they replicate that authentic Windy City experience:
Signature Items Stay on the Menu
Classics like italian beef, Chicago dogs, and chocolate cake don’t change across locations. This maintains consistency.
New Menu Additions are Tested Rigorously
Before a new menu item rolls out system-wide, it’s tested thoroughly with consumers to ensure broad appeal.
Restaurant Design Evokes Nostalgia
The neon signs, checkerboard floors, and 1920s aesthetic triggers nostalgia for Chicago natives while introducing newcomers to the city’s charm.
Ingredients Sourced Locally When Possible
Locations will partner with local bread bakeries, farms, and suppliers to bring diners the freshest ingredients.
Employees Trained to “The Portillo’s Way”
From hospitality to prep methods, employees learn how to represent the Portillo’s brand experience.
Thanks to these practices, dining at Portillo’s feels like a taste of authentic Chicago no matter where you live.
Tips for Handling Leftover Portillo’s Beef
Portillo’s servings are so generous, you’ll often have leftovers. Here are some storage tips:
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Let beef cool completely before refrigerating in a sealed container. Moisture speeds spoilage.
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Use refrigerated beef within 4 days. The juices can cause it to spoil quickly.
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For longer storage, freeze beef up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
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Chop and add leftover beef to pasta, salads, pizza and more for a flavor boost.
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Pile beef with cheese, peppers, and onions on buns for easy homemade sandwiches.
With proper handling, Portillo’s beef will be delicious for days after your meal. Get creative with it!
Go-To Ways to Customize Your Portillo’s Order
While their classic menu items are great, don’t miss these ways to customize your order:
Cheesy Beef
Add mozzarella cheese to make any sandwich extra indulgent.
Combo Beef and Sausage
Why choose? Get both juicy Italian sausage and sliced beef.
Peppers and Onions
Take your sandwich to the next level with delicious giardiniera and sautéed veggies.
Chocolate Cake Shake
Their famous cake blended into a thick, creamy milkshake is divine.
Baked Potato
Load it up with butter, sour cream, cheese, bacon, and chives for a hearty side.
With these easy add-ons, you can tailor your meal to your tastes. Don’t be afraid to ask!
Is a Portillo’s Visit Worth It?
Considering its devoted fans across state lines, absolutely! Here’s a quick recap of why Portillo’s is a worthwhile stop:
- Authentic Chicago-style menu since 1963
- Their famous slow-cooked Italian beef is gluten-free
- Family recipes and proprietary seasoning perfectioned over decades
- Retro decor and hospitality provide an iconic Windy City vibe
- Convenient locations across several states makes access easier
- Generous portions ensure you’ll have leftovers
- Customization allows you to make any order your own
For a dependably delicious and comforting fast casual meal with serious Chicago flair, Portillo’s delivers. When that Italian beef craving hits, make them your first stop.
So next time you’re looking for a reliably tasty bite of the Windy City, head to Portillo’s. Their gluten-free beef and classic creations will transport your tastebuds straight to Chicago. Just be mindful of cross-contamination risk, ask questions, and customize your order. With a few precautions, you can indulge in this iconic Midwest chain worry-free and leave satisfied.
Portillo’s Account / Birthday Club
You have to join at least seven (7) days before your birthday to get your first birthday offer. A message with the offer will be sent to your email, and you can use it on your birthday. The birthday offer expires 7 days after your birthdate. Remember to opt in for marketing emails to receive the offer in your inbox.
You will need to set up your spouse as the “child” to receive both birthday emails. This can be done by going to “Settings,” then “Birthday Club,” and adding up to three “child” birthdays. You cannot edit a childs birthday, but you can remove the child and then re-add.
Please do contact Guest Services here to deactivate your account: www.portillos.com/contactus
Please do contact Guest Services here to deactivate your account: www.portillos.com/contactus
You will need to make sure you are logged into your Portillos account first. Inbox will appear in the upper right corner of the screen after you’ve done that. This is where all your offers will be located.
The code for your Birthday cake is located in your email.
Please try searching for “Portillos” in your email inbox and make sure to check your spam/junk folder. To look for this, you can also log in to your account on our website and look in the “Inbox” section. This can be found in the Inbox section of the app as well. Even so, if you’re still not seeing this reward and your birthday is correct in your account, please get help from Guest Services here: www. portillos. com/contactus.
You will be able to use the birthday reward for seven days before and after your birthday. This can be redeemed at any of our locations.
The birthday reward is only valid for a slice of our famous chocolate cake.
There is a 7-day window of time to take the survey after your visit.
If you are taking the survey within 7 days of purchase please check your code was entered correctly. Thank you for taking the survey. If you are taking it after 7 days, the code is no longer valid.
Starting 7/19, we began only offering the free large fry survey incentive every 30 days. You are still able to complete the survey as many times as youd like. The survey keeps track of how many times you fill it out, and after 30 days, if you fill it out again, you’ll get a free Big Mac coupon code. “.
It’s best to get prices right now this way because items and prices can change at any time. Click here, you will be directed to our ordering platform. Enter the city of the closest Portillo’s to your event. Check the menu for current prices or add items to the basket or cart. This will give you a running total and a rough idea of how much your event will cost.
If you need additional assistance, please contact the Catering Department at 866-YUM-BEEF (866-986-2333).
Click here for the catering menu.
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. central time, and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. central time.
Visit Portillos. com or call 866-YUM-BEEF at least 24 hours before delivery or pickup time. Because of stock
Take and Make beef, bread, and peppers can always be picked up at any of our restaurants with no advance notice needed. For other orders we ask for 3-4 days notice. Orders can be placed after this time but may be subject to limited availability.
Yes, you can order a Fast Pack of Garden Dogs. You can also customize any catering salad to be vegan by removing the protein and dairy options.
One pound of Portillos Italian beef yields (8) 4-inch sandwiches.
There are two ways to order Portillo’s Italian beef. If you’re looking for ready-to-serve buffet-style catering, order under the “Party Packages” category here. These Party Packages are full meals, including prepared Italian beef, hot gravy and warmers. They are quick to setup and serve your group easily, even if a kitchen is unavailable.
You can buy our cold Take if you want to make the Italian Beef at home. The beef is packaged in 1lb. and 2. 5lb bags. Gravy (a. k. a. “au jus”) is cold, ready to “heat and serve. ” Note: Gravy is NOT sold separately from the beef.
Check out our heating instructions here.
We don’t put the beef and hot gravy in the same tray because the beef will get tough.
The Party Packages are full meals, including pre-fluffed beef and hot gravy. They are quick to setup and serve your group easily, even if a kitchen is unavailable.
Dont need the full meal? Check out our warm Italian Beef Catering Tray in the Entrees category. Note: Hot gravy is NOT sold separately from the beef.
Our catering bread is a type of French bread and is sold separately. Each loaf yields (8) 4-inch pieces of bread.
No, it is not possible to pick up a catering order through the drive-thru. Much of the packaging we use is too large to pass through the window. We invite you to pick up inside at the catering counter.
So that we can serve you better and faster, Portillos now has pickup areas set up in all of our restaurants. This counter/shelf is usually located near the bar and dessert counter.
Payment is taken when you place the order in the app, online, over the phone. We accept Visa, Master Card, American Express, Discover Network and Portillos Gift cards.
No personal checks are accepted.
Same-day walk-in orders can be paid for with cash, but items may not be available, and the length of time you have to wait while your order is being prepared will depend on what you order.
We currently do not have any promotions at this time.
There are no minimum item or dollar ordering restrictions on our catering menu.
All of our product is fully cooked and ready to serve. Even our items that come cold are precooked and just need warming.
Our delivery spots do fill up quickly and we suggest you order as early as possible.
Deliveries are based upon distance and driver availability.
Order setup is subject to driver availability and may incur additional fees.
If we can’t deliver, we do have easy-to-pick-up options, such as our Buffet Packages.
Each of our restaurants serves hot, ready-to-eat regular or baked mostaccioli with your choice of meat sauce or marinara. You can also get vodka pastas.
Our Barnellis restaurants also carry hot, ready to serve, specialty pastas.
Note: Barnellis restaurants are located in Glendale Heights, Schaumburg, Naperville (Rt. 59), Vernon Hills, Niles, Summit, Crystal Lake, Willowbrook and Downtown Chicago on Clark and Ontario.
While we do not offer bone-in fried chicken on our menu, all Portillos restaurants offer chicken tenders.
Yes, we do sell our Fast Pack Sandwiches here in groups of eight, each individually wrapped for easy grab-and-go.
You can order catering here or give us a call at 866-YUM-BEEF.
Our portions can be found on our menu. We are happy to help you with portioning for your event. Give us a call at 866-YUM-BEEF for your quote today.
Most of our items do come with serving utensils. We do offer them ala carte if you would like to purchase additional. They can be found under our service items category here.
Our skilled staff will make your Chocolate Eclair Cake or Italian Strawberry Shortcake from scratch, just like our famous chocolate cakes.
Our secret recipe needs time to be made and set up for your event, so please place your order 24 hours ahead of time to make sure it’s available.
Yes, you can request items to be removed or left on the side for our salads.
Yes, you can add protein to any catering pasta dish.
Our delivery spots do fill up quickly and we suggest you order as early as possible.
Deliveries are based upon distance and driver availability. Order setup is subject to driver availability and may incur additional fees.
If delivery is not available, we do offer easy pickup options like our Party Packages
No, the catering salads do not come with bread.
We do offer fast packs which are pre-made sandwiches.
We do not offer cookies or dessert bar trays at this time.
They have an app called Portillos that lets you track your package. You should have also gotten a text message with a link to track your package.
A text message will let you know when your food is on its way and when the driver is getting close to drop it off.
As a delivery partner, we do use Door Dash, and some stores have Portillos delivery drivers for bigger orders.
If you placed your order directly with Portillos, please do contact the location you ordered from. If you are unable to receive assistance, please do contact our Guest Services team here : www. portillos. com/contactus.
Please get in touch with the third party (Door Dash, Postmates, Uber Eats, or Grubhub) you used to place your order if you need help.
For delivery, there is a $15 order minimum.
The delivery range varies by location. Check out our app or click here to enter your address to see if we deliver to your area.
If you place your order directly with Portillos, our delivery is serviced by Door Dash.
Please reach out to Door Dash driver support.
Portillos will donate 10% of all sales that year to your organization! The money will be donated when someone comes in with your flyer (smartphones count, too) or mentions your organization at checkout. Feel free to dine in, carry out, or go through the drive thru. You can also order ahead for pickup using the unique code on your flyer. If you order through the drive-thru, let the first person who takes your order know that you are taking part in the fundraiser. Requirement: $200 minimum total sales from your supporters in order to receive a donation.
Yes, takeout and catering orders placed for PICKUP only on the designated fundraiser date, at Portillos. com and on the Portillos app can be added to fundraisers. When you check out online, you MUST enter the unique location code found on your fundraiser flyer in the “Apply Offer” section. This will allow the fundraiser to use your order. Unfortunately we cannot add codes after the order has been placed. If you forget, you must cancel your order and reorder with the code. You may not use any other offers or codes with online fundraiser orders.
Donation requests can be made by visiting https://www.portillos.com/good/.
Any changes/modifications require us to create a new order. You will need to re-enter the fundraiser code if making online modifications. Please note the codes are NOT automatically transferred over to the new order.
Fundraisers are typically hosted Monday-Thursday evenings from 5-8pm.
Promote! Create a Facebook event, post on your website or send an email to your friends and family. Print the flyer that we send you and post them at relevant locations: Schools, Coffee Shops, Gyms.
We will send you a check within 30 – 45 days.
We get a lot of requests for donations, so they are all looked at in the order they are received and based on how much money is available for each area. All requests must be submitted two weeks in advance at www. portillos. com/good/.
On the request form, use the drop-down menu to choose the location you want. Then, click on the date picker. If the date is unavailable it will be marked out with a red “X”.
Yes you can. You must, however, send a request for each location on the date you want, and each location must make $200 in sales for you to get a check from that location.
No, we do not. Promoting the fundraiser is up to the organizer.
We only accept requests made at www.portillos.com/good/. Requests made any other way will not be answered or accepted.
Fundraiser night requests REQUIRE a Form-W9; we cant issue you your giveback check without it. We will not be able to approve your request if you do not have one or can not get one for your group at least 14 days before the night you want.
Donation Requests do not require a Form-W9, but do require proof of non-profit status. Uploading a copy of your 501-c3 status or tax exemption will satisfy this requirement.
Your results will be sent automatically to the person who set up the fundraiser in the afternoon after the event.
Please respond to your fundraiser approval email and your contact will work with you to investigate. Cant find your original email? Email fundraiser@portillos. com.
Please respond to your fundraiser approval email and your contact will work with you to investigate. Cant find your original email? Email fundraiser@portillos. com.
If you do not have an EIN number, you can use your Social Security Number instead. Donations under $600 will not be taxed. However, we do not recommend this as the applicant is personally responsible for any funds earned/received.
No more than once a month.
First, check the calendar to make sure your new desired date is available. To do this, go to the application form, scroll down and choose the location. Then, click the date selector and look for the date you want. You don’t have to send a new request! Next: If you’ve already been approved, please reply to your approval email and let us know the new date you want. We’ll make the changes and send you a new approval email and flyer if it’s possible. If you haven’t been approved yet, please reply to the automated email that confirmed your submission with the new date you’d like to use.
Unfortunately, no. We cannot host fundraiser nights with the Beef Bus.
You must submit all requests online if you want to book another fundraiser or make a request. This ensures the appropriate person receives your request. We are no-longer rebooking or accepting requests via individual email communications.
If you are following up on a request, please answer the confirmation email you got when you sent the request.
Please respond to the email our team sent requesting the correct form and attach the necessary documentation. This will help us connect it to the correct account and team member. If you didn’t get an email asking for different paperwork, please reply to either the submission receipt or approval email with your updated paperwork. Both inboxes are monitored by our Portillos for Good team.
Please send an email to fundraisers@portillos. com and include the previous contacts name and email if available, along with the Portillos location/City and date.
You can check your balance here or by calling 844-447-7251. You will need the PIN number, which is written on the back of the gift card under the gray scratch-off box.
You can use a Portillos gift card at any of our locations or online to buy food or shop. Gift cards can not be used to purchase more gift cards.
Yes! You can use your gift card for your shipping order.
If we receive an order by 1pm we will ship it out the next day.
Yes! When in check out you can add a message.
The payment options are MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover cards.
A gift card may be purchased online here at portillos. com or you can also purchase gift cards at any Portillos or Barnellis restaurant location.
No, cards are not reloadable, you would need to purchase another one.
No, there is no cash back on gift cards
Online gift cards can be purchased for the following amounts: $10,$25, $50, $75 & $100.
You can buy them at any of our locations for any amount of money between $5 and $100 if you want to.
You can call 855-472-1875 if you need assistance purchasing a gift card.
Only for expedited shipping orders do you receive a tracking number.
Please contact Customer Support: 1-855-472-1875 or [email protected]
Orders must be placed by 1pm.
If the card has a full value, we can reship a new one with standard post. If the card is partially used, we are unable to issue a new card.
You will get a $10 Promo card for every $50 gift card you buy from October 31, 2023, to December 26, 2023.
We are sorry they are not replaceable, please treat them like cash.
Please do a balance inquiry on your card and that should activate the card for use. If you still need help please email guestservices@portillos. com with your card number.
Yes, they expire on 3/31/2023
The promo card can be used like a gift card.
Salted Caramel Spice Cake
The Salted Caramel Spice Cake is a tasty holiday treat with two layers of moist spice cake topped with salted caramel frosting. This cake is available for a limited time only.
The Salted Caramel Spice Cake is available from August 27th through December 1st, or while supplies last. Be sure to get yours before it is gone!.
This treat comes in three different forms: a whole cake, a slice, or a Salted Caramel Spice Cake Shake. Each gives you a different way to enjoy this fall flavor.
You can order the Salted Caramel Spice Cake in-store, online, or in person. Make sure to specify if you would like a slice or the Salted Caramel Spice Cake Shake.
Whole cakes are available for dine in and drive through only.
The whole Salted Caramel Spice Cake is enough for 10 people, so it’s great for parties, get-togethers, or just eating at home.
How do I eat gluten free at Portillos?
FAQ
Does Portillos have any gluten-free items?
What beef is gluten-free?
What cut of beef does Portillo’s use?
Is lean beef gluten-free?