J.P. Graziano
J.P. Graziano earns its rank because the sandwich here is an argument about what imported Italian ingredients in the right hands, on the right bread, can accomplish.
At 901 W. Randolph in the Fulton Market District, J.P. Graziano has been assembling Italian sub sandwiches since 1937, when the grocery opened under the original family. The current fourth generation still runs the counter Tuesday through Saturday, and the Mr. G — hot sopressata, prosciutto, Genoa salami, sharp imported provolone, Roman artichokes, basil, hot olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano on Gonnella French bread — is still the standard by which every Italian sub in Chicago is measured.
The operation is simple: walk in, order, wait two minutes, eat at a standing counter or take it back to the car. The giardiniera is also for sale by the jar. The hours are limited and the space is small, which preserves its character as a working lunch counter rather than a tourist attraction. Go on a Tuesday; the line is shorter.
- The Mr. G Italian sub
- Classic Italian sandwich with provolone
- House giardiniera to go
