Chicago Chain Restaurants Ends Breakfast Pilot Program

A beloved Chicago chain restaurant has announced that it will be ending its breakfast pilot program after merely a few months.

You don't need to tell a Chicagoan how good Portillo's is. For decades, the chain has been renowned for their Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and crinkle-cut fries. Oh, and you can't forget the chocolate cake shake. However, for the first time in their 62-year history, Portillo's incorporated breakfast into their menu.

Portillo's Breakfast is No More:

Portillo's announced this week that they would be ending their breakfast menu in order to be "in a better economic position," per ABC 7 Chicago. Here is a look at the menu offered by several different Portillo's locations:

All breakfast items sourced from NBC 5 Chicago.

Signature Breakfast Sandwiches:

Polish Sausage, Egg & Cheese: A flavorful wake-up call featuring Portillo’s signature char-grilled Polish sausage layered with fluffy scrambled eggs, melted American cheese and a bold Giardiniera sauce, all nestled in freshly baked French bread.
Pepper, Egg & Cheese: A vegetarian-friendly option with scrambled eggs, roasted sweet peppers, American cheese and zesty Giardiniera sauce, served on classic French bread.
Bacon, Egg & Cheese: A breakfast staple, with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs and gooey American cheese, all served on a warm, buttery croissant.
Stan’s Donuts Collaboration:
- Portillo’s Chocolate Cake Donut: Inspired by Portillo’s famous chocolate cake, this decadent donut is an old fashioned-style chocolate base dipped in glossy chocolate glaze and finished with a generous swirl of rich chocolate cake frosting.

Morning Sides:
- Loaded Scramble: A hearty combination of scrambled eggs, golden hash browns and crispy bacon, all smothered in Portillo’s creamy cheese sauce for a forkable morning feast.
- Hash Brown Bites: Crispy, poppable and perfectly seasoned, these golden-brown bites are an easy side or snack on the go.
- Fresh Fruit Cup: A refreshing option featuring a medley of fresh-cut fruit for a lighter start to the day.
Metropolis Coffee: Locally roasted in Chicago, Metropolis coffee is available hot or iced, offering a rich, smooth complement to any breakfast combo.
- Chocolate Cake Iced Coffee: Inspired by Portillo’s famous chocolate cake, this decadent drink is crafted with Metropolis’ Skyway blend, rich chocolate cake flavor, and cream.
- Vanilla Iced Coffee: A smooth and creamy option made with Metropolis’ Skyway blend, vanilla flavor, and cream.
Italian Beef for Breakfast: Portillo’s signature Italian Beef sandwich—slow-roasted, thin-sliced and served on fresh French bread—is now available bright and early for those craving a meatier morning bite.
Breakfast Meal Deals: Value-conscious guests can enjoy a sandwich, small coffee and Hash Brown Bites for just $7.99.

Where Portillo's breakfast was served for a short time. Photo Credit: ABC 7 Chicago, YouTube

Why is Portillo's Ending its Breakfast Menu?:

Portillo's President and CEO Michael Osanloo released a statement regarding the sunsetting of the company's breakfast menu:

As we advance Portillo's growth strategy, two priorities stand out. First, driving sustainable traffic through consistent service and value. And second, disciplined development with restaurants designed for strong unit economics, attractive four-wall returns, and efficient capital deployment that will fuel long-term growth - Portillo's President and CEO Michael Osanloo, per ABC 7 Chicago

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Presently, there are roughly 95 Portillo's locations around the country. While most exist in Illinois, some are located in Wisconsin, Michigan, California, Florida, Arizona, and Texas. Read more about Portillo's sunsetting their breakfast menu on ABC 7 Chicago's website.