On a recent trip to Philadelphia, I wandered into one of my favorite markets… the Reading Terminal Market. There is so much to love about this place… gooey sticky buns from Beiler’s Bakery, a steamy hot cup of coffee from Old City Coffee or a delicious pastrami sandwich from Hershels East Side Deli. But on this blustery Saturday, I was intrigued by a line 40+ deep, so I jumped in it, not quite sure what Philly treat I had awaiting me. Thanks to my Google app, I was able to uncover that the line I was in was leading me to America’s Best Sandwich. I couldn’t believe what I had stumbled upon. I don’t just love sandwiches, I’m obsessed with them. There is nothing finer than a Grade A, primo sandwich, and apparently I was 20+ minutes away from sinking my teeth into America’s finest.
So how does Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork with Broccoli Rabe find national recognition? A few months back, Adam Richman from Travel Channel’s “Man vs. Food” went in pursuit of America’s best sandwich, and the ultimate winner was DiNic’s Roast Pork masterpiece (note: I also added the Sharp Provolone per a fellow customer’s suggestion). The star of this sandwich is by far the pork. I’m not sure I’ve had a more flavorful serving of pork in my entire life. It was tender, juicy and the gravy they serve on top is out of this world. Now, put that on a bun that is the perfect texture with the bitterness of the broccoli rabe dotted with little chunks of garlic, and you have a pretty unbelievable sandwich.
But, my foodie friends, is it America’s Best Sandwich? I’m not sure. I don’t know if I’ve had enough sandwiches in my lifetime to name an overall winner (but it was really, really good). Plus, think of all the great sandwiches right here in Sacramento. I know I can’t get enough of the Banh Mi sandwich from Magpie Café. Or, pretty much any of the specialty sandwiches at Sampino’s Towne Foods.
So SacFoodies readers, what is the sandwich you can’t get enough of?
The Battle of the Authentic Philly Cheesesteak
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Philadelphia for the first time. Because it was a business trip, I didn’t have much free time, but I had just enough for the one thing I wanted to do, and it wasn’t a trip to see the Liberty Bell.
I tried not one, but two authentic Philly Cheesesteaks from the two biggest cheesesteak rivals in town: Pat’s and Geno’s (which just so happen to be directly across the street from each other). To see just how serious this rivalry is, take a look at this YouTube video.
Luckily, on my visit, I was with a group of fellow cheesesteak-tasting adventurers so we ordered (carefully, or you’re sent to the back of the line at Geno’s!) about a half dozen of the famed sandwiches, cut them up for sharing, and ate up while discussing the merits of Pat’s cheesesteak vs. Geno’s.
Could I pick a favorite? Not really. I’d probably go with whichever one had more of the gooey orange cheese on top. Hey, even the Los Angeles Times couldn’t pick a favorite! But I sure am glad I can say I’ve tried both.
Photos courtesy of Laurie at Tip Junkie.
Pat’s King of Steaks
Geno’s Steaks
Corner of 9th Street & Passyunk Avenue
South Philadelphia, PA