The Mr. G is J.P. Graziano's flagship sandwich and one of Chicago's most iconic. Named on Chicago Magazine's list in 2013, it layers sharp imported provolone, hot sopresatta, prosciutto di parma, Volpi Genoa salami, house truffle mustard, balsamic vinaigrette, and hot oil with marinated roman-style artichokes and fresh basil. Built on a fresh 9-inch French roll from D'Amato's Bakery, it balances salty cured meats, rich cheese, and bright acidic elements.
Tips from diners
Start with the Mr. G—it's the signature that made the place famous and shows the quality of every ingredient.
Come between 11am-12pm before the rush—you'll be in and out in 10 minutes. Lunch crowds are thick 12-1pm.
The Mr. G is already built—don't modify it. If you want customization, try one of the other sandwiches.
The caprese sandwich is the vegetarian option and deserves equal attention. Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomato, fresh basil, and a good balsamic vinegar on the house French roll create a light, summery sandwich.
Tips from diners
The caprese is well-made and fresh—it's not an afterthought option at J.P. Graziano.
This is simplicity done well. Prosciutto di parma and aged provolone on fresh French roll from D'Amato's is a study in ingredient quality. No sauce needed—the salt from the prosciutto and the sharpness of the cheese do the talking.
Tips from diners
Skip add-ons with this sandwich—the prosciutto and provolone quality is enough. Simple is better.
The Italian Sub is a classic that lets you taste how J.P. Graziano sources their cured meats. Hot capicola, Genoa and hard salami, mortadella, and sharp provolone are layered on a fresh French roll with tomato, lettuce, red wine vinegar, giardiniera, and oregano. It's built to order and feels substantial.
Tips from diners
Request hot giardiniera instead of mild if you like heat—it cuts through the rich meats perfectly.
The roast beef sandwich showcases hot beef with aged cheddar, roasted red peppers, and a red wine vinaigrette that adds brightness. It's one of the few non-Italian options but maintains the same quality standard.
Tips from diners
The roast beef is a nice change from the Italian options—it's flavorful and feels lighter.
J.P. Graziano Grocery opened in 1937 and remains a fourth-generation family operation in Chicago's West Loop. The shop is an Italian specialty store stocked with imported cheeses, olives, oils, spices, and made-to-order sandwiches built on fresh bread from D'Amato's Bakery, one of Chicago's oldest and most respected bakeries. The signature Mr. G sandwich features sharp imported provolone, hot sopresatta, prosciutto di parma, Volpi Genoa salami, truffle mustard, balsamic vinaigrette, hot oil, marinated artichokes, fresh basil, and oregano. It was named one of Chicago Magazine's Most Iconic Sandwiches in 2013.
Arrive between 11am-12pm or after 2pm to avoid the peak lunch rush. 12-1pm is packed with office workers from nearby Fulton Market.
This is counter service only—order at the counter, pay, and eat at a simple table or standing. It's old-school and cramped, part of the charm.
J.P. Graziano is perfect for takeaway—the sandwiches travel well and hold up for a few hours in a bag.
Thursday-Saturday nights the shop stays open until 8pm—perfect for after-work sandwich runs in Fulton Market.
The shop is also a full Italian grocery store. Stock up on imported cheeses, olives, oils, and spices while you're there.
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