In a move as bold and flavorful as the city itself, Portillo’s is celebrating Chicago’s latest brush with history—the appointment of Pope Leo XIII, a proud son of the Windy City—with a mouthwatering tribute worthy of the occasion. Introducing The Leo: a limited-time menu item crafted to honor both Chicago’s culinary roots and its newfound papal pride.
A Sandwich Worthy of Sainthood
“The Leo” is no ordinary Italian beef. This sacred spin on a Chicago classic features Portillo’s legendary Italian beef, generously seasoned and fully dipped—baptized—in rich, savory gravy. But the true blessing comes in the form of your choice of the Holy Trinity of peppers: sweet, hot, or a mix of both. The result? A sandwich that’s bold, unapologetically flavorful, and dripping with hometown pride.
This heavenly creation will be available throughout the month of May—fittingly, Italian Beef Month. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a love letter to the traditions, flavors, and spirit of Chicago, where food and identity go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re a lifelong local or simply a devotee of Portillo’s signature fare, “The Leo” invites you to take part in a truly historic moment, one bite at a time.
With “The Leo,” Portillo’s isn’t just serving a sandwich—it’s paying tribute to the city’s rich heritage and its global moment in the spotlight. This special release channels the flavor, passion, and pride that define Chicago, and wraps it all up in a warm, gravy-soaked bun.
So, whether you’re celebrating the papal appointment or simply craving something sacredly satisfying, head to Portillo’s this May and honor the city’s newest legacy with “The Leo.” It’s a spiritual experience—Chicago-style.
