Jimmy’s Food Store — Restaurant Review | Condé Nast Traveler

Start us off with an overview.
This grocery store is located on an unassuming corner, but you can tell from the steady flow of people that it houses something special. This East Dallas eatery opened its doors in 1966 and has been serving up fine Italian food ever since. But in order to secure one of their sensational sandwiches, you have to know what to look for. Upon entering, you’ll see a simple mom-and-pop grocery store, not a sandwich to be seen. Don’t give up—head to the back. That’s where the magic happens.
Who else is there?
The crowd that enters Jimmy’s is united by one thing: They’re ready to chow down on some serious subs. Although it advertises as takeout-only, you may notice some customers making their way to the back of the store. If you follow them, you will find a room with a few tables where you can sit down and eat. Usually, you’ll see loads of men in suits crowded around a table scarfing down subs. They’re not doing a lot of talking.
What, if anything, should we be drinking?
This grocery store does great Italian beer and wine, but most people would not consider this a great place to grab a drink. If you are picking up a sandwich or a lasagna for the family and are in the market for a good bottle to split, ask one of the employees up front for their suggestions.
Okay, tell us more about these sandwiches.
These sandwiches are divine. They might ruin you for every sub chain, forever. The crowd-favorite Italian Stallion comes with mortadella, capricola, soppressata, pepperoni, provolone, porchetta, coppa, mozzarella, and prosciutto. All subs are dressed with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cherry peppers, Romano cheese, mayo, and mustard. Are you hungry yet?
What’s the service like?
This is a family operation through and through. If you go more than a couple of times a month, you will get to be on a first name basis with the folks who man the registers. And unlike many other “locals-only” spots, even strangers get warm smiles from staff here.
So what’s the ideal situation for a trip to Jimmy’s?
This is a great place to take people who like hole-in-the-wall joints with superlative food. Do you have a new coworker who needs to be initiated into the Dallas lunch bunch? Jimmy’s Food Store will make them feel like they’re officially part of the pack.