22 Postcards
Step into J.P. Graziano, the West Loop’s iconic Italian deli since 1937, where fresh-baked bread cradles top-notch subs that feel like family.
"Despite an abundance of ingredients—including two salamis—the classic italian sandwich from J.P. Graziano has great balance. The red wine vinegar makes this loaded sandwich just smooshy enough without getting soggy. And the peppery meat gives it just enough heat and flavor." - adrian kane, nick allen, john ringor, veda kilaru
"This is an iconic market and sub shop in the West Loop. J.P. has been around since 1937, and is a great option if you need a quick sandwich. The Italian is our favorite, but you can’t go wrong with anything (the muffaletta is also excellent). Order a cannoli, too, while you’re at it." - sam faye, adrian kane, veda kilaru, nick allen
"This iconic family-run Italian deli and sub shop in the West Loop has been around since 1937. J.P. Graziano’s industrial exterior hasn’t changed since the neighborhood was full of meatpacking warehouses, and inside they’re still making the most delicious Italian subs and sandwiches in the city. Specifically, the Mr. G, which has spicy soppressata, prosciutto, salami, hot oil, marinated artichokes, and a surprisingly delicate truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette. " - sam faye, adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru, nick allen
"The sandwiches at J.P. Graziano are so incredible, we had a friend fly across the country with a muffaletta in their carry-on, eat it the next day, and still declare it the one they’ve ever had. This iconic family-run Italian deli and sub shop in the West Loop has been around since 1937, long before the West Loop was the Disney World of restaurants. The industrial-looking exterior hasn’t changed since the neighborhood was full of meatpacking warehouses, and inside they’re making some of the most delicious Italian subs and sandwiches in the city. And now that J.P.’s takeout window is open until 1am on the weekends, it provides a way better late-night option than we deserve. " - adrian kane, john ringor, veda kilaru
"If you’re familiar with J.P. Graziano Grocery & Sub Shop, then read along and nod your head in agreement while we further emphasize all the praise you’ve already heard. If you’re unfamiliar, listen up, because this is an educational session to file under “important things you need to know.” Lose the geography knowledge because nobody cares Sacramento is the capital of California anyway. J.P.’s has thrived as a small Italian market in the West Loop for over 75 years. The majority of its business caters to importing and selling wholesale products, but there has always been a select number of spices, pastas, and other Italian specialties available to buy. But with the transformation of the West Loop from a meatpacking and manufacturing area to a hub of fancy restaurants and apartments, fourth-generation owner Jim Graziano decided it was the perfect time to set up a sandwich counter on site. And why not? The Graziano family was already importing high-end Italian meats and cheeses, plus a fresh daily supply of D’Amato's bread from down the street. Jim realized he could provide a sandwich supply to an increasingly inherent demand—Econ 101—we told you this would be educational. Today, J.P. Graziano makes some of the best old-school Italian subs in town, and you should pop into the no-frills store for a quick and fresh lunchtime bite. Dine in at one of the few small tables, or more often than not pick up a sandwich to go. The bread has a bit of crunch on the outside while maintaining an airy center, and the imported meats and cheeses are as good as they come. J.P. Graziano doesn’t serve gigantic and crazy concoctions, but few things are better than a simple Italian or turkey sandwich done well. Spice things up with some homemade mild or hot giardiniera, which you only need to ask for by ordering a sandwich with “mild” or “hot.” It’s the kind of place where we see all different kinds of people, including businessmen, mechanics, cops, and moms with babies in tow. That’s the sign of a good place to eat. Food Rundown Mr. G The house specialty named after current owner Jim’s father. A combo of provolone, hot sopresatta, prosciutto di parmi, genoa salami, hot oil, marinated artichokes, basil, lettuce, red wine vinegar & oregano, and a bit of house made truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette. The truffle vinaigrette is delicate enough that it doesn’t overpower everything else. Italian The classic, and a good one at that. Hot capicola, genoa salami, hard salami, mortadella, provolone, tomato, lettuce, and red wine vinegar with oregano. Despite the number of ingredients, it’s not overbearing, but rather artfully done. Tuna The tuna is made to order for every sandwich, which means it doesn’t sit around in a jar all day. Ingredients include your choice of mayo, roasted red peppers, celery, onion, artichoke lettuce, provolone, tomato, and hot or mild giardiniera. Turkey Despite the flare of some of the other sandwiches, this is our favorite and personal go-to. Turkey breast with provolone, roasted red peppers, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and don’t forget the giardiniera. Cannoli The good stuff capped with an Amerena cherry on both ends. Treat yo self." - Sam Faye
