McAlister’s Deli Menu vs Portillo’s Menu Prices Comparison

Here is a comparison table to quickly help you see the differences between McAlister’s Deli and Portillo’s, including popular menu items and prices. McAlister’s Deli offers sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked potatoes, while Portillo’s is known for its hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and Chicago-style dishes.

McAlister’s Deli Menu Overview

McAlister’s Deli offers a variety of delicious deli-style sandwiches, soups, salads, and baked potatoes (called “Spuds”). One of the most popular items is the McAlister’s Club ($9), which includes turkey, ham, bacon, cheese, and fresh veggies on toasted bread. Another favorite is the French Dip ($9), made with thinly sliced roast beef and melted cheese on a baguette, served with au jus for dipping. McAlister’s also has its famous Spuds (loaded baked potatoes), with options like the Spud Ole ($8) filled with chili, cheese, sour cream, and more.

For those who prefer lighter meals, McAlister’s has plenty of wraps (such as the Southwest Chicken Wrap for $9) and salads (like the Crispy Chicken Caesar Salad for $9). Their Ultimate Nachos ($8) are perfect for sharing with friends or family, and they include tortilla chips, cheese, and toppings like chicken or beef.

When it comes to sides, McAlister’s serves chips ($2), a pickle ($1), potato salad ($3), or a side salad ($3). McAlister’s is also famous for its delicious drinks, such as tea ($2), lemonade ($2), and iced tea ($2).

For dessert, you can choose from sweet treats like their cookies ($2), chocolate cake ($4), or a lemon pie ($3). McAlister’s also offers a kids’ menu with smaller portions like mac and cheese ($5), grilled cheese ($5), and chicken fingers ($6).

Portillo’s Menu Overview

Portillo’s is famous for its Chicago-style food, especially hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. One of their most popular items is the Chicago-Style Hot Dog ($6), which is a classic beef hot dog topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, and sport peppers, all in a poppy seed bun. Another fan favorite is the Italian Beef Sandwich ($9), filled with tender, thinly sliced beef soaked in Italian seasoning, served with hot peppers and on an Italian roll.

Portillo’s also has a variety of other sandwiches, including the Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich ($8) and the Cheesy Beef & Sausage Combo ($10), which combines Italian beef and sausage with melted cheese. For a lighter option, you can try their Side Salad ($4), or opt for a Fries with Cheese ($4) for a cheesy side dish.

If you’re in the mood for a more indulgent meal, Portillo’s offers onion rings ($4), French fries ($3), or even a chocolate cake ($5) for dessert. Their chocolate cake is especially famous for its rich and moist texture, and you can also try their strawberry shortcake ($5) for a fresh, sweet dessert.

Portillo’s also serves milkshakes ($5) in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, which are perfect for pairing with a meal. Their kids’ menu includes options like chicken tenders ($6), a hot dog ($5), or a grilled cheese sandwich ($5), making it easy for younger diners to find something they like.

Sandwiches at McAlister’s vs Sandwiches at Portillo’s

McAlister’s Deli offers a wide range of deli sandwiches that are served with fresh ingredients. Some of their most popular sandwiches are the McAlister’s Club ($9), Turkey and Swiss Sandwich ($8), and Grilled Chicken Sandwich ($8). These sandwiches are hearty and satisfying, and you can even pair them with a soup or side salad for a complete meal.

Portillo’s, on the other hand, is more famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. The Chicago-Style Hot Dog ($6) is a true classic, with a flavorful combination of toppings like relish, mustard, onions, and tomatoes. If you’re in the mood for something even more indulgent, you can try the Cheesy Beef & Sausage Combo ($10), which combines two types of meat with melted cheese.

While McAlister’s focuses on deli sandwiches, Portillo’s is all about Chicago-style specialties, so if you want a classic hot dog or a beefy sandwich, Portillo’s is the place to go.

Soups and Sides at McAlister’s vs Fries and Sides at Portillo’s

McAlister’s Deli is known for its warm and comforting soups. Popular options include Broccoli Cheddar Soup ($5) and Baked Potato Soup ($5), which are perfect for pairing with a sandwich or enjoyed on their own. McAlister’s also serves side dishes like chips ($2), a pickle ($1), potato salad ($3), and side salads ($3), so there’s something for everyone.

Portillo’s, meanwhile, serves up some of the best fries and sides. Their French fries ($3) and onion rings ($4) are crispy and delicious, perfect for dipping in ketchup or other sauces. They also offer fries with cheese ($4), which is a great way to enjoy an extra cheesy treat. If you want something lighter, you can opt for their side salad ($4).

If you’re in the mood for something extra savory, Portillo’s onion rings are a must-try.

Desserts at McAlister’s vs Desserts at Portillo’s

Both McAlister’s and Portillo’s have great dessert options. McAlister’s is known for its cookies ($2), chocolate cake ($4), and lemon pie ($3). These desserts are perfect for those who enjoy a simple, sweet treat after a meal.

Portillo’s also serves up delicious desserts, including their famous chocolate cake ($5), strawberry shortcake ($5), and sundaes ($5). Portillo’s chocolate cake is especially popular and is a great way to end a meal with something rich and moist.

Kids’ Menu: McAlister’s vs Portillo’s

Both restaurants have kid-friendly menus. McAlister’s offers items like mac and cheese ($5), grilled cheese ($5), and chicken fingers ($6) for younger diners. The portions are smaller and perfect for kids who don’t need a full-sized meal.

Portillo’s also has a kids’ menu with options like chicken tenders ($6), hot dogs ($5), and grilled cheese sandwiches ($5), so kids can enjoy a tasty meal while dining out.

FAQs

1. What is McAlister’s Deli best known for?
McAlister’s Deli is best known for its deli sandwiches, especially the McAlister’s Club and its Spuds (loaded baked potatoes).

2. Does Portillo’s serve breakfast?
No, Portillo’s does not serve breakfast. Their menu focuses on lunch and dinner items like hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and fries.

3. What is Portillo’s famous for?
Portillo’s is famous for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake.

4. Does McAlister’s have a kids’ menu?
Yes, McAlister’s has a kids’ menu with options like mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and chicken fingers.

5. What kind of food can I get at Portillo’s?
Portillo’s offers hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, cheesy fries, and other Chicago-style specialties, as well as desserts like chocolate cake.