Deep in the mining town of Butte, Montana, where copper once ruled the hillsides and hardworking folks needed hearty meals, a Swedish firefighter named John Burklund started something magical back in 1924.
His simple idea of serving crispy pork chop sandwiches from the back of a wagon quickly became the talk of the town.
This little operation, Pork Chop John’s on the corner of Mercury and Main Streets would transform into one of Montana’s most beloved food institutions! 🍖
How Pork Chop John’s Won Local’s Hearts
Burklund’s genius wasn’t just in the sandwich itself—it was understanding what Butte’s copper miners craved after long, grueling shifts underground.
He created an affordable, satisfying meal that delivered maximum flavor and comfort in every bite.
The combination of a tender, breaded pork chop served on a soft bun with tangy mustard, crisp onions, and pickles proved irresistible to locals who were tired of the same old fare.
By 1932, demand had grown so dramatically that Burklund opened his first brick-and-mortar location at 8 W. Mercury Street.
The original restaurant featured just a counter, 10 stools, and a walk-up window, but word spread like wildfire throughout Montana.
What started as wagon-side service had evolved into a Butte institution that locals couldn’t imagine living without.
The Orizotti family, who purchased the business in 1969, has maintained this beloved tradition for over 50 years, ensuring each sandwich maintains the authentic flavor that made miners line up decades ago! 🥪
Food Highlights
- Pork Chop Sandwich: The legendary original—a boneless pork chop that’s breaded and fried to golden perfection, served on a soft bun with mustard, pickles, and onions
- Double Pork Chop Sandwich: For the truly hungry, this hefty creation features two crispy pork chops stacked high for maximum satisfaction
- Loaded Pork Chop Sandwich: A customer favorite topped with mustard, pickles, onions, and all the fixings that make each bite memorable
- Pork Nuggets: Bite-sized pieces of breaded and fried pork that deliver the same incredible flavor in a shareable format
- Deluxe Pork Chop Sandwich: Enhanced with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for those who want the full experience
Atmosphere
Step inside Pork Chop John’s and you’re transported to authentic small-town Montana.
The interior maintains its original no-frills charm with simple seating, clean surfaces, and that unmistakable aroma of fresh-fried pork filling the air.
Staff members provide personalized, friendly service that makes every customer feel like family.
The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming—exactly what you’d expect from a place that’s been serving the same community for nearly a century.
Outdoor seating adds to the casual vibe, perfect for soaking up Montana’s beautiful weather while enjoying this iconic meal! 🌟
Bottom Line
Visit for the legendary pork chop sandwich that launched a Montana tradition, experience genuine small-town hospitality from friendly staff, savor affordable comfort food that satisfies any appetite, discover the historic original location where it all began, and taste an authentic piece of Montana history that continues to win hearts daily.
Address: 8 W Mercury St, Butte, MT 59701
📞 (406) 782-0812
🕔 Open Mon-Fri, 10:30 AM–10:30 PM; Sat 10:30 AM–10:30 PM; Sun 10:30 AM–10:30 PM