“The Bear” draws inspiration from a real Chicago restaurant.

The phenomenal success of FX’s “The Bear” continues to captivate audiences as the show’s third season premiered on June 27. This scripted series, which provides an insider’s look at the restaurant industry, follows two rising chefs, Carmy and Sydney, as they transform a family-owned sandwich shop into a fine dining establishment, all while the looming prospect of a Michelin star adds both excitement and stress.

The fictional eatery, initially named The Beef (later renamed The Bear), serves as a vital character within the series alongside Carmy, Sydney, and their kitchen team. The authenticity of the restaurant is palpable because it is inspired by a real place.

The show’s roots can be traced back to Mr. Beef, a beloved Chicago establishment renowned for its Italian beef sandwiches and other classics such as hot dogs and cannolis. Fans of the show might recognize it, as several dining room scenes were filmed on location, and many external shots from the second season were also captured outside the restaurant.

Since its inception in 1963, Mr. Beef has established itself as a staple of the Chicago food scene, founded by local residents Carl Bonovolanto and Tony Ozzauto. In 1979, ownership changed hands to Joe Zucchero, who cultivated its legendary status. Today, Chris Zucchero, Joe’s son, oversees Mr. Beef, maintaining the traditional charm that has endured since the late ’70s. This longstanding establishment served as the inspiration for Christopher Storer, the creator of “The Bear,” to develop the show.

Storer and Chris Zucchero were childhood friends in Chicago, growing up in families that were close-knit. It wasn’t until Storer arrived at the restaurant with a full TV crew that the Zuccheros realized their friend’s intent to feature their family business in a show. Along with filming location scenes, Storer also integrated Chris Zucchero into “The Bear” as a minor character in the pilot, portraying Carmy’s meat supplier.

Although Mr. Beef has long been a recognized establishment in Chicago’s River North area and beyond (with famous patrons like Jay Leno), the surge in attention following the release of “The Bear” has caught the Zuccheros off guard. Before his passing in 2023, Joe Zucchero voiced his pride for Chris Storer and the creative team behind “The Bear.” However, his family, including Chris Zucchero and his sister, are committed to preserving the small business legacy.

Now, as The Beef transforms into a Michelin-worthy restaurant in the storyline of “The Bear’s” third season, embracing a menu that embodies the delightful chaos of fine dining, Mr. Beef — still operational and serving its loyal customers — has no intention of making similar changes. In fact, Zucchero has declined various promotional opportunities the show has offered, stating that he hasn’t even watched it. Upholding traditional values is essential to him — this dedication is what keeps Mr. Beef firmly established as an iconic eatery to this day.