The “ultimate cheesesteak”

Named Philadelphia’s favorite, John’s Roast Pork was a location that reminded me of Johnnie’s Beef in Chicago — a stand on the outskirts of a big city with hungry, waiting crowds.  And like Johnnie’s Beef, I was very satisfied with my divey eats.
Cheesesteak with sharp provolone, onions and banana peppers
The publicity and James Beard Foundation Award did not lie.  I came to Philly for its cheesesteak (the Boyfriend, for its roast pork sandwiches but I obviously tried some anyway); I had quite a few in the past but none of them came close to this one sandwich.  There’s something comforting about gooey provolone over 12 ounces of thinly-sliced, grilled beef and onions, and John’s Roast Pork has got it right.
Roast pork sandwich with sharp provolone and spinach
I must admit I was disappointed that the namesake sandwich was not as expected.  Maybe it’s personal taste, but I didn’t like the funkiness of the pork, and the spinach could not reach the bar set by the garlicky broccoli rabe at DiNic’s.  If you want roast pork in Philly, go to Reading Terminal Market and head toward DiNic’s stand.

It’s pronounced “red-ding”

I’m a sucker for farmers’ markets, and when they’re indoors, I could spend hours browsing.  I believe the best foods are found there and Reading Terminal did not prove otherwise.
First stop: Delilah’s.  The best macaroni and cheese in the country, says Oprah Winfrey.  I’m not one for baked mac and cheese — different texture than the boil-and-mix kind I grew up with — but this was some lip-smackin’, Southern comfort.  It was soft and creamy with an unexpected, smoky tang, ultimately why I gave in.  So I stood nibbling on Delilah’s famous mac and cheese while waiting to order at DiNic’s.  Here is where I smile guiltily.
Next stop: DiNic’s, clearly the favorite at Reading Terminal because the line wrapped around and continued to form past neighboring stands — and for good reason!  The pulled pork sandwich must’ve been heaven sent.  Tender, savory pork wonderfully cut by sharp provolone and garlicky broccoli rabe.  I could not believe my tastebuds: a bit of everything (heavenly) in each bite.
(More photos).