I had high hopes for this place and their famous roast beast sandwich, but was sadly disappointed.
Have you ever really hoped that you came on the wrong day? That is how I felt...the first time. The Maple has such a strong reputation that I thought I must have had really bad timing.
Tried twice since, once to get the real deal, and today because I was in the area. Each time I tried their signature hot beef, each time disappointed. It's not awful, but pedestrian, and about equal to any run of the mill hot beef, though way more expensive.
If you want a hot beef that blows them away, go to the South Side, to a little dump of a place a couple of blocks south of Carson St. Sorry, but the name escapes me.