El Paso, get ready to beef up your cravings- literally. The legendary Chicago-born eatery Portillo’s is officially expanding to the Sun City in 2026, and with it comes a mouthwatering menu of iconic eats: think Italian beef sandwiches dripping in au jus, char-grilled hot dogs loaded Chicago-style, and that famously rich chocolate cake that somehow ends up in a milkshake.

Known for its no-frills charm and cult following, Portillo’s isn’t just another fast-casual chain - it’s a full-blown food experience. And soon, El Pasoans will be able to skip the road trip and dig into the Midwest classic without ever leaving Texas.

Oh, and if the buzz around its latest menu item is any hint- yes, it involves a certain Pope-  this expansion is about more than food. It’s about flavor, flair, and a little bit of history.

What is Portillo’s?

Picture a place where Chicago-style hot dogs come fully dressed- mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt, all cradled in a poppy seed bun. Add in juicy Italian beef sandwiches you can get dipped, double-dipped, or absolutely swimming in gravy. Toss in Polish sausages, golden crinkle-cut fries, and- the real showstopper- a towering slice of chocolate cake so rich, moist, and decadent it’s practically legendary. (Pro tip: they blend that same cake into a milkshake. Yes, really.) Born in 1963 as a tiny hot dog stand in Villa Park, Illinois, Portillo’s has grown into a fast-casual icon with a cult following- and now, it’s El Paso's turn.

And just when you thought the hype couldn’t get any juicier- Portillo’s went viral recently for naming a meal after none other than the new Pope. Yes, that Pope. It started as a playful social media moment and quickly turned into a buzzworthy combo deal that had fans lining up for a taste of holiness with their hot dogs.

El Paso, the wait is almost over. Whether you’re craving a classic Italian beef sandwich, a fully loaded Chicago-style hot dog, or that famously decadent chocolate cake, Portillo’s is about to bring a whole new flavor experience to our city. Keep an eye out for the grand opening in 2026 and get ready to welcome a true Midwest legend to Texas. This isn’t just a new restaurant- it’s a chance for El Pasoans to dive into a slice of Chicago’s rich food culture, with a little unexpected Papal flair on the side. Stay tuned- your taste buds will thank you.