[Photographs: Daniel Zemans]

See that picture above? Think it shows an enticing Italian sub? Unless you have actually tasted the sensational Mr. G from J.P. Graziano Grocery, then you have no idea. Allow me to help. It starts with a 9-inch piece of Italian bread that 4th generation owner Jim Graziano picks up multiple times a day from D'Amato's (whose pizza was reviewed here), a Chicago institution with an oven that's been making coal-fired leavened goodness since 1880.

Graziano's, which has a much more substantial history as an importer and grocery than a sandwich shop, has learned a thing or two about selecting quality ingredients over the last seven decades. Stuffed inside the sandwich are hot sopressata, Prosciutto di Parma, Volpi Genova salami, sharp provolone, Roman style artichokes, fresh basil, lettuce, a truffle mustard balsamic vinaigrette, hot oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano. There's a ton going on in this $7.25 sandwich and all of it works exceptionally well.

J.P. Graziano Grocery

901 W Randolph St Chicago, IL 60607 (map)
312-666-4587
www.jpgraziano.com