Our History 100 Years In The Making

The History of Pork Chop John’s:

A Montana Legend

Humble Beginnings: A Wagon, a Dream, and a Pork Chop

In 1924, a Swedish immigrant named John Burklund arrived in Butte, Montana, with a vision and a taste for something new. Amidst the bustling streets of Butte, fueled by the mining industry, John saw an opportunity to serve hardworking miners and locals a hearty, delicious meal—something fast, filling, and satisfying.

Armed with his ingenuity and a simple wagon, John set up shop at the corner of Mercury and Main Streets, frying up what would soon become one of Montana’s most iconic sandwiches—the Pork Chop Sandwich. Miners and passersby would gather around his cart, eager to get their hands on the crispy, golden-battered pork chop, served between a soft bun with onions, mustard, and pickles. The sandwich quickly became a local favorite, providing a perfect balance of flavor, affordability, and heartiness.

From a Wagon to a Butte Institution

As word spread, John's pork chop sandwiches gained a devoted following, and by 1932, he transitioned from his wagon to a brick-and-mortar restaurant at 8 W. Mercury Street, just a short distance from where he first started. The new location offered a 10-stool counter and a walk-up window, making it easy for hungry customers to grab their favorite sandwich on the go.

The original Uptown Butte location still stands today, serving the same mouthwatering pork chop sandwiches that made it famous nearly a century ago. Over the years, Pork Chop John's became more than just a restaurant—it became a tradition, woven into the fabric of Butte’s culinary and cultural history.

Keeping the Legacy Alive

In 1969, the Orizotti family took ownership of Pork Chop John’s, ensuring that the legacy of John Burklund’s original recipe would live on. Decades later, the restaurant remains a must-visit stop for both locals and tourists, keeping its roots firmly planted in tradition while welcoming new generations to experience the authentic taste of Butte.

The secret to their continued success? Quality ingredients, a commitment to tradition, and a deep respect for the history of Butte. Every sandwich served today is made with the same hand-battered, deep-fried boneless pork chop that started it all—offering a bite of history in every order.

A Taste of Montana’s History

Pork Chop John’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a piece of Montana’s culinary history. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor passing through Butte, stopping in for a pork chop sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a rite of passage.

So, next time you take a bite of that crispy, golden pork chop, remember that you’re tasting a 100-year-old tradition, started by a Swedish immigrant with a wagon, a dream, and a recipe that stood the test of time.

Visit Us & Experience the Tradition

📍 Uptown Butte Location: 8 W. Mercury St. – The Original!
📍 Downtown Butte Location: 2400 Harrison Ave.