“The Bear” Takes Inspiration from This Iconic Chicago Restaurant.

The incredible success of FX’s “The Bear” continues to captivate audiences, with viewers eagerly watching the show’s third season that premiered on June 27. This scripted series provides an insightful look into the restaurant industry, following two aspiring chefs, Carmy and Sydney, as they strive to transform an old family sandwich shop into a high-end dining establishment, all while facing the pressure of potentially earning a Michelin star.

The fictional eatery, initially called The Beef (which eventually evolves into The Bear), plays as significant a role in the series as Carmy, Sydney, or their culinary team. However, what gives it a palpable sense of authenticity is the fact that it draws inspiration from a real location.

The series is inspired by Mr. Beef, a beloved Chicago institution known for its Italian beef sandwiches and classic fare such as hot dogs and cannolis. Fans of the show may recognize it since many dining room scenes in the pilot were filmed on-site, with additional exterior shots captured during the second season.

Mr. Beef has been an integral part of Chicago’s dining scene since its inception in 1963 by locals Carl Bonovolanto and Tony Ozzauto. In 1979, Joe Zucchero acquired the shop and turned it into a cherished local icon. Now, it is managed by Zucchero’s son, Chris, and remains true to its roots from the late 70s. It was this unwavering commitment to tradition that inspired “The Bear” creator Christopher Storer to envision the series.

Storer and Chris Zucchero were childhood friends in Chicago, their families closely intertwined. The Zuccheros were surprised when their friend, who was headed to LA, decided to portray their family restaurant on television, showing up one day with a full crew in tow. In addition to shooting at the actual restaurant, recreating it authentically on a soundstage, Storer invited Chris Zucchero to cameo as Carmy’s meat supplier in the show’s pilot.

While Mr. Beef has maintained its popularity within Chicago’s River North area and beyond (notably serving famous patrons like Jay Leno), the surge in attention following “The Bear’s” debut has been unexpectedly overwhelming for the Zucchero family. Joe Zucchero, who passed away in 2023, expressed admiration for Chris Storer and the team behind “The Bear” before he passed. Nevertheless, his family, including Chris Zucchero and his sister, is committed to preserving the legacy of the small business.

Now, as The Beef becomes a Michelin-caliber restaurant in “The Bear’s” third season, embracing the delightful chaos of fine dining, Mr. Beef — which continues its regular operations — has no intention of mirroring this shift. In fact, Zucchero has declined numerous promotional offers from the show and reportedly hasn’t even viewed it himself. He is dedicated to maintaining the establishment’s traditional charm — the very essence that makes Mr. Beef a beloved culinary landmark today.