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Buona

Buona Buona is a renowned family-owned quick casual restaurant chain that proudly serves Chicago's Original Italian Beef. Founded in 1981 by Joe Buonavolanto, Sr. in Berwyn, Illinois, the establishment pays homage to the culinary contributions of Italian Americans who refined the beloved Italian beef dish. The menu showcases a variety of classic Chicago favorites alongside modern options, including pizza, burgers, hot dogs, salads, soups, sides, and desserts—all made from scratch using fresh ingredients. Buona emphasizes its commitment to quality with an unwavering adherence to its original beef recipe, upheld by three generations of the Buonavolanto family.

Recent social media posts

From toss to topping to takeout. Any one-topping tavern-style pizza is $7.99 every Thursday for Buona Rewards Members.
06/25/2026

From toss to topping to takeout. Any one-topping tavern-style pizza is $7.99 every Thursday for Buona Rewards Members.

06/23/2026

Current mood: better, because Buona Beef.
Grab yours and turn the day around.

Step away from the grill.Buona Rewards members get a Burger & Fries for $7.99 every Monday.
06/22/2026

Step away from the grill.

Buona Rewards members get a Burger & Fries for $7.99 every Monday.

A lot has changed since this photo was taken. Pictured is Joe Buonavolanto Sr. with his grandchildren, Carlo Jr. and Joe...
06/21/2026

A lot has changed since this photo was taken.

Pictured is Joe Buonavolanto Sr. with his grandchildren, Carlo Jr. and Joe Buona III. They’re grown now, and still part of the family business Joe and his wife Peggy started in 1981.

What hasn’t changed is the dream: generations of family working together to share our food traditions with communities across the Chicago area and beyond.

Happy Father’s Day from the Buonavolanto family and everyone at Buona.

It’s National Vanilla Milkshake Day, but we believe in options.Buona’s hand-spun milkshakes come in vanilla, chocolate, ...
06/20/2026

It’s National Vanilla Milkshake Day, but we believe in options.

Buona’s hand-spun milkshakes come in vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, Cookies & Cream, and Peanut Butter Cup, made fresh, blended to perfection, and perfect with any meal.

Dad knows his order. Dipped, dry, baptized, giardiniera on top, however he likes it, Father’s Day is better with Buona.S...
06/18/2026

Dad knows his order. Dipped, dry, baptized, giardiniera on top, however he likes it, Father’s Day is better with Buona.

Stop by on 6/21 for a $9.99 Combo & Fries. Limit 3. Toppings extra.

06/16/2026

POV: You're Jimmy Buona making your perfect Italian Beef. He starts with it Dry (don't freak out just yet), then adds 2 ladles of gravy on top and finishes it off with a nice scoop of Giardiniera. Then he wraps it to-go so the juice and the flavor marinate into the bread 🤌.

How do you order your Italian Beef?

This Father’s Day, we’re dipping into the good stuff.Treat Dad to a $9.99 Combo & Fries at Buona Beef on 6/21. Limit 3. ...
06/15/2026

This Father’s Day, we’re dipping into the good stuff.

Treat Dad to a $9.99 Combo & Fries at Buona Beef on 6/21. Limit 3. Toppings extra.

Repeat after us: burger, fries, $7.99.That’s the only Monday mantra you need. Buona Rewards members get the deal every M...
06/13/2026

Repeat after us: burger, fries, $7.99.

That’s the only Monday mantra you need. Buona Rewards members get the deal every Monday. Join here: https://buona.com/sign-up/

😋 😋 😋 😋 😋 "The best Italian Beef in Chicago" Reviews like this are best enjoyed dipped.
06/12/2026

😋 😋 😋 😋 😋

"The best Italian Beef in Chicago"

Reviews like this are best enjoyed dipped.

Our Chicken Caesar Cutlet Sandwich stacks thin breaded chicken cutlets, crisp Caesar salad, and shaved parm on toasted b...
06/10/2026

Our Chicken Caesar Cutlet Sandwich stacks thin breaded chicken cutlets, crisp Caesar salad, and shaved parm on toasted buttered Italian bread.

No fork. No bowl. No notes.

And every Wednesday, Rewards members can make it a meal with any cutlet sandwich and a regular fry for just $9.99.

Order yours: https://bit.ly/4dvtNMU

Address

Chicago, IL

**Travel Directions to the Location in Chicago**

**Public Transport:**
1. **Train:** Take the CTA Blue Line or Pink Line to the Damen station. From there, it's about a 10-minute walk east on 18th Street.
2. **Bus:** You can also take the #18 bus (18th Street) and get off at Damen Avenue. The destination is just a short walk from the bus stop.

**Driving/Parking:**
1. If you're driving, head towards 18th Street and Damen Avenue.
2. There are several street parking options available nearby, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions.
3. Alternatively, you may find nearby paid parking lots if street parking is full.

Safe travels!

Opening Hours

Monday 10:30am - 11pm
Tuesday 10:30am - 11pm
Wednesday 10:30am - 10pm
Thursday 10:30am - 11pm
Friday 10:30am - 11pm
Saturday 10:30am - 11pm
Sunday 10:30am - 11pm

Alerts

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What people say

Buona stands out as a delightful gem in Chicago's culinary scene, celebrated for its authentic Italian beef and a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. This family-owned restaurant chain has been serving up deliciousness since 1981, when Joe Buonavolanto, Sr. opened the first location in Berwyn. His dedication to quality and tradition is evident in every bite.

The heart of Buona's menu lies in its Original Italian Beef, a dish perfected by generations of the Buonavolanto family. Each sandwich is crafted with care, ensuring that the rich flavors and textures remain true to their roots while also appealing to modern palates. Alongside this iconic offering, guests can indulge in an array of other mouthwatering options including pizzas, burgers, hot dogs, fresh salads, hearty soups, and delectable desserts.

What sets Buona apart is their commitment to using only fresh ingredients and making everything from scratch. This dedication ensures that each meal not only satisfies but also delights diners with vibrant flavors and quality that you can taste. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a leisurely dinner with family and friends, Buona promises an experience filled with warmth and genuine hospitality.

With its blend of classic Chicago fare and innovative choices, Buona continues to be a beloved destination for both locals and visitors alike. It's more than just a meal; it's a celebration of family traditions and culinary excellence that keeps patrons coming back for more.

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