Editing Philadelphia Roast Pork (section)

== Origins ==

The roast pork sandwich emerged from Italian-American South Philadelphia, where Italian immigrants brought traditions of slow-roasted meats. The specific Philadelphia configuration—pork shoulder roasted until tender, combined with sharp provolone and bitter greens—developed over generations. While Italian-American communities elsewhere produced similar sandwiches, Philadelphia's version achieved particular refinement.<ref name="pork"/>

DiNic's at Reading Terminal Market gained national attention when celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain praised the roast pork sandwich, calling it one of the best sandwiches in America. This exposure introduced audiences beyond Philadelphia to a sandwich locals had always considered superior to the more famous cheesesteak.<ref name="pork"/>