Chicago's original Italian beef chain restaurant, Buona, has introduced a new plant-based menu item—a Vegan Italian Beefless Sandwich made with Upton’s Naturals seitan. The sandwich is entirely plant-based, from the bread to the seitan to the veggie-based gravy and giardiniera, catering to vegetarian and vegan customers. It provides 43g of protein and features an exclusive vegan gravy made with Buona's Italian spices, vegetable-based broth, and olive oil.

Buona collaborated with Upton’s Naturals, a Chicago-based seitan maker, to create the perfect plant-based beef for the sandwich. This partnership aims to provide vegan customers with savory meal options that mimic traditional Italian flavors. The Plant-Based Italian Beefless Sandwich will be available at all 24 Buona locations in Chicago and Indiana for $7.99 for a limited time starting April 26, catering to the growing demand for plant-based dining options among customers.