Buona, the family-owned restaurant chain from Chicago, renowned for its Italian beef sandwich, is preparing to bring its signature flavors to St. Louis. The company plans to have a storefront in development in the next 18 months and is currently in discussions with multi-unit operators as it ramps up franchise expansion.

Founded in 1981 in Chicago, Buona built its reputation on slow-roasted, Italian seasoned top sirloin beef—a recipe derived from a family uncle who started an Italian beef stand in the early 1950s. Today, the menu features burgers, chicken sandwiches, pasta dishes, tossed salads, and milk shakes, in addition to the iconic sandwich.