You ever walk into a place and just know it hasn't changed since the mid-eighties? That's the vibe at Harrison's. It’s not fancy. Honestly, it’s the kind of spot where the walls probably have stories they’re legally not allowed to tell. But if you’re looking for a roast beef sandwich that actually tastes like the North Shore, Harrison's Roast Beef in North Andover is basically the holy grail.
People were devastated when it closed back in 2023. Like, genuinely mourning. You’d see threads on Reddit where locals talked about it like they’d lost a limb. But then, early in 2025, the news broke: Harrison's was back. It didn’t just reopen; it reclaimed its soul. After a brief stint as Patrick’s North Shore Eatery—which, let’s be real, didn’t have the same ring to it—the name and the original recipes returned to 80 Chickering Road.
The Sandwich That Defined a Region
If you aren't from around here, you might think a roast beef sandwich is just meat between bread. You’d be wrong. Dead wrong. North Shore roast beef is a specific architecture. It’s a culture. At Harrison's, they do it "the right way."
They use choice top round. It’s slow-cooked, sliced so thin it’s basically translucent, and piled high while it's still rare and warm.
What is a "Three-Way"?
If you order a "three-way" and you're not from Massachusetts, you might get a weird look. In the context of Harrison's, it’s the standard of excellence. It consists of:
- James River BBQ Sauce: A tangy, sweet, slightly spicy crimson nectar that defines the genre.
- Mayonnaise: A thick smear to add that fatty richness.
- American Cheese: Usually a thin slice that melts into the beef and sauce.
It sounds messy. It is. You’ll definitely need about six napkins, maybe a wet nap, and a quiet place to sit and reflect on your life choices afterward.
The Weird History of Harrison's
Harrison's didn't start in North Andover. It actually began its life as Riley’s Roast Beef over in Lawrence. In 1984, they moved to the current spot on Chickering Road and rebranded. For decades, it was run by Michael “Ace” McMains, a guy who kept the rock 'n' roll vibe alive with posters on the walls and a "no-nonsense" attitude behind the counter.
There’s something ballsy about a menu that only has a handful of items. It says, "We do this one thing, and we do it better than you." They aren't trying to sell you avocado toast or craft cocktails. You go there for the beef. Maybe some crinkle-cut fries. Maybe a Harrison’s brand soda. That’s it.
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The Reopening Drama
When the shop closed in September 2023, the community felt a void. Dean Chongris eventually took over the space. Initially, it opened as Patrick’s, but the demand for the "Original Harrison’s" was so loud that they eventually just leaned back into the brand everyone loved. By early 2025, the Harrison's name was back on the sign. It’s a rare win for local nostalgia in a world where everything is turning into a bank or a luxury condo.
What to Actually Order
Don't overthink the menu. Seriously.
The Junior is fine if you're just snacking, but the Super Beef on an onion roll is the heavy hitter. The onion roll is critical. It’s soft, toasted, and the little bits of dried onion on top add a savory crunch that a plain seeded roll just can't match.
The crinkle-cut fries are exactly what you expect: golden, salty, and nostalgic. They also serve fried clams and shrimp, which are surprisingly solid for a "beef joint." But honestly? Stick to the roast beef.
Pro Tip: If you're feeling adventurous, ask for the spicy sauce or a side of horseradish. It cuts through the richness of the mayo and cheese like a hot knife through butter.
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Is it worth the hype?
Look, Harrison's has a wall full of awards. They’ve won "Best of the North Shore" more times than most people have had hot meals. But is it perfect?
Reviews are always a mix. Some people complain about the service being "abrupt" or the dining room looking a bit dated. Those people are missing the point. You don't go to a legendary roast beef shop for the interior design or a waiter who asks about your weekend. You go there to watch them pull a fresh roast out of the oven, slap it on the slicer, and hand you a warm, foil-wrapped parcel of joy.
Why It Still Matters
In 2026, finding a place that hasn't been "sanitized" by corporate branding is getting harder. Harrison's feels like North Andover. It feels like Friday nights after a high school football game. It feels like a Saturday lunch where you don't have to dress up.
The fact that it survived a closure and a name change just proves how much the local community cares about this specific flavor profile. It’s a landmark.
How to Get Your Fix
If you’re planning a visit, here’s the ground truth:
- Location: 80 Chickering Rd, North Andover, MA 01845.
- Phone: 978-687-9158 (Yes, you can call ahead. It’s usually faster).
- Timing: They typically open around 10:30 AM. If you go during the Saturday lunch rush, expect a line. It moves, but people take their beef seriously here.
- Delivery: They are on apps like Grubhub and Seamless now, but nothing beats getting it fresh over the counter.
If you’ve never had a North Shore three-way, make this your first stop. It’s a rite of passage for anyone living in or visiting the Merrimack Valley. Just remember to grab extra napkins before you sit down.
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Next Steps:
Check their Facebook page for the most current daily specials or holiday hours before you make the drive. Once you're there, grab a Super 3-Way on an onion roll and a side of crinkle fries to get the full, authentic experience.