Why Locals Believe This Philadelphia Cheesesteak Shop Is Pennsylvania’s Best
Philadelphia may be packed with cheesesteak shops, but locals insist there’s something extra special about John’s Roast Pork.
Tucked away from the tourist crowds, this spot has earned a loyal following not just for its legendary roast pork sandwiches but for cheesesteaks that many argue outshine the competition.
With perfectly seared beef, gooey cheese, and bread that holds it all together, it’s no wonder people call it Pennsylvania’s best bite worth waiting in line for.
1. Family Legacy Since 1930
Three generations of Bucci family magic flow through every sandwich at John’s. What started as a simple lunch counter during the Great Depression has evolved into a culinary landmark without losing its soul.
Current owner John Bucci Jr. maintains the exacting standards his grandfather established, refusing to cut corners even as the shop’s fame has grown. The family recipes remain closely guarded secrets.
2. James Beard Award-Winning Excellence
Culinary royalty status was officially bestowed upon this humble shack in 2006.
The James Beard Foundation’s “America’s Classics” award recognized what locals already knew. This wasn’t just another sandwich shop.
Unlike flashier establishments with celebrity chefs, John’s earned this prestigious honor through decades of consistent quality and unwavering dedication to craft.
The award simply confirmed what Philadelphians had been saying through mouthfuls of cheesesteak for years.
3. Secret Weapon: Sesame Seeded Rolls
Bread makes or breaks a cheesesteak, and John’s partnership with South Philly’s legendary Carangi Bakery gives them an unbeatable edge.
Those sesame-studded rolls arrive fresh daily, creating the perfect foundation, sturdy enough to hold melting cheese and meat juices without disintegrating.
The subtle nuttiness from toasted sesame seeds complements the savory filling in ways plain rolls simply can’t match. Many competitors use mass-produced bread that might as well be cardboard.
4. Tiny Shop, Massive Reputation
Lines snake around the block at this cramped South Philly shack that barely has room for its grill.
The unassuming cinderblock building on Snyder Avenue looks nothing like a tourist attraction, yet people make pilgrimages from across the country just for one sandwich.
Regulars chat with strangers while waiting, sharing tips on ordering and swapping stories. The small space creates a communal experience rarely found at larger establishments.
5. People’s Champion in Cheesesteak Battles
Forget official food critics; the people have spoken! John’s crushed the competition in a 2021 citywide vote for “Best Cheesesteak,” proving that authentic flavor trumps tourist trap hype.
What makes this victory sweeter? They weren’t even primarily known for cheesesteaks originally!
Their roast pork sandwich (hence the name) was their claim to fame until locals couldn’t stop raving about their perfectly seasoned ribeye creations.
6. The Comeback Story That Touched Philadelphia
John Bucci Jr.’s battle with leukemia nearly closed this beloved institution forever. When diagnosed in 2008, the owner-chef faced his mortality while locals feared losing a culinary treasure.
After a successful bone marrow transplant and grueling recovery, Bucci triumphantly returned to his grill. His personal struggle became Philadelphia’s shared victory.
Regular customers still get emotional recalling the day the shop reopened with Bucci back behind the counter.
7. Television Spotlight Sealed National Fame
National recognition came knocking when the Travel Channel featured John’s in the finale of “Best Sandwich in America.”
The spotlight didn’t change them one bit… same quality, same no-nonsense service, just more out-of-towners in line.
Host Adam Richman’s visible delight while biting into their cheesesteak converted viewers across America into would-be customers.
Yet despite television fame, they’ve maintained their authentic character, refusing to expand or franchise.