Philadelphia, PA -
John’s Roast Pork may not have “cheesesteak” in its name, but this small shack among shopping plazas is frequently named one of the city’s top steak spots. Its secret weapon? A crusty seeded roll. 14 E. Snyder Avenue, (215) 463-1951, johnsroastpork.com
Don't let the name fool you. John's Roast Pork, a seemingly unassuming sandwich shop nestled among the shopping plazas of South Philadelphia at 14 E. Snyder Avenue, consistently earns a place among the city's most revered cheesesteak destinations. While "cheesesteak" may be absent from its name, this local institution has repeatedly proven that it can compete with – and often surpass – the biggest names in the game. What's their secret weapon? It starts with a crusty, seeded roll that provides the perfect textural counterpoint to the juicy, flavorful filling.
John's Roast Pork was a cherished secret among South Philadelphia's dock workers, contractors, and those in the know for years. A true neighborhood gem, it quietly served up exceptional sandwiches without the fanfare of some of its more famous counterparts. However, the secret couldn't stay contained forever. In 2002, Philadelphia Inquirer restaurant critic Craig LaBan embarked on his now-legendary "Cheesesteak Project," a meticulous quest to identify the region's ultimate cheesesteak. The results were undeniable. John's Roast Pork swept the competition, emerging as the champion in all three categories – a testament to the quality and craftsmanship that its loyal following had long appreciated. This put the purveyor on the map.
Since then, John's has gained mainstream recognition, attracting cheesesteak pilgrims across the city and beyond. Despite the increased attention, the shop has remained true to its roots, continuing to serve its award-winning sandwiches with the same dedication and care that earned it its devoted fanbase. So, a trip to John's Roast Pork is an absolute must if you're looking for an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak experience backed by local love and critical acclaim. You can reach them at (215) 463-1951 or visit their website at johnsroastpork.com.
