History of a

Legendary Sandwich Shop

When 2 friends got together to open a sub-sandwich shop, nobody dreamed it would become the legendary local icon it is today.

It was late 1974, heading into 1975 and people were racing motorcycles all around the open land in and around Palos Hills. The motorcyclists would have weekend races up and down the canal on the trails and into the fields in the now populated land of Palos Hills and the surrounding communities. As  keen observers Jim Peppo and his long time partner Pete kept open ears to what the masses in the area were saying. They also kept a watchful look as no other place of food was there in the area to speak of. So as racers, Jim Peppo and Pete Host raced away on long week days and long weekends with no food to get quick. So they got the idea to create something that was not only needed, but was vehemently asked for... A good sandwich shop that could serve the people fast and easy. These 2 fella's knew that the motorcycle racers did not want to sit down....but needed a quick food stop to eat and then get back out and ride!

PEPPOS IS BORN!

Seeing the need, and also the fact that there was Stagg High School down the street which would obviously have kids needing to be fed, they decided to take the plunge and begin a sandwich shop. The original location at 10626 S. Roberts Rd. started to look better and better every day. So, as it was to be, the long time friends of Jim and Pete opened at 106th and Roberts Rd. on July 1st, 1976. PEPPOS DILI-DELI WAS BORN! They opened the doors to a wildly unique sandwich shop that would change their lives and make an impact on the community.

THE SECRET RECIPE FOR "GUTS" IS DISCOVERED!

Hustle and bustle to the sounds of Jazz and laughs, the legendary recipe for "GUTS" was masterminded via hunger pains of the employees and the inquisitive palate and plain curiousity of Mr. Peppo himself. Now team up a secret combination of fresh vegetables and seasonings and oils with a 100 year old company in Gonnella, and you have a winning combination. Add a Chicago favorite in Vienna Beef, and you get 35 years of history!

MORE THAN JUST A SANDWICH

It is common knowledge of many of our long time customers that Jim's personality and customer care is front and center on a visit to Peppos. This is something very rare in the retail business, but it is expected here. Even after 35 years of business, Jim (Mr. Peppo himself!) always has time to engage in conversations with his patrons. You may find yourself so wrapped-up in conversation with Jim that you almost forget about the massive Super Sub you just ordered! But after the talk dwindles down, you realize that you have a mouth-watering feast of a sandwich waiting for you, and Joy erupts! This is a regular day at Peppos.

For the next 30 years literally millions of subs were pushed out of the old shop at 106th St. Jim and Pete would sometimes work full days alone, and on busy days have a crew of as many as 12 at one time. So much can be said about that little place in Palos Hills next to Southerlands Taxidermy and across the street from the fire station. It was good old fashioned hard work and perseverence that kept them going year after year. Then Pete and Jim Peppo parted ways after a partnership that lasted 25 years.

NEW LOCATION AND EXPANSION

The Catering business grew and then the Chicago Bears made it to the Super Bowl in 2006. It was a glory day for Peppo's on that fateful Sunday! Peppo's was now ready to spread it's wings and grow, but Jim Peppo didn't want to change anything, but keep the same care and customer service that had taken him this far. A location was available about 3 blocks north on 103rd street and Roberts Road. It was now time for Peppo's to better serve it's customers with a much larger parking lot. No more accidents in the 6 spot lot we had....no running across the street to get a sandwich....and no more wondering if this is really the BEST sandwich shop in Chicagoland, since a taste-test alone would prove that!
 

In ironic Peppo's way everything came together. The old of Peppo's at 106th stayed with the food remaining the same with adding some complimenting dishes to the menu. We brought the famous pictures of people that hung on our walls throughout the years, and kept the same unique trademarked logo. Jim Peppo stayed the same as he continues talking and interacting with the people, while sometimes forgetting to ring them up! With Jim, it's not only a job, but a passion where his customers are number 1. Peppo's is now over 4 years at the new location, and things seem brighter than ever for this Family-Owned and operated sandwich shop. An exclusive niche product, more visibility at the new location, and Peppo Jr. following in Jim Peppo's footsteps has Peppo's looking ahead with confidence. For 35 years our goal was to give customers the best service and food we can, and we're happy to say this is true today.
 

You've tried the rest
Now try the BEST!