7 Secrets Behind Fedoroff's Roast Pork: Why NYC Raves About This Authentic Philly Sandwich

The culinary battle for the best roast pork sandwich has a surprising new front: New York City. As of December 2025, the name on everyone's lips is Fedoroff's Roast Pork, an establishment that has successfully transplanted the hyper-specific, beloved flavors of a South Philly staple right into the heart of Brooklyn. This isn't just another sandwich shop; it's a mission by founder Dave Fedoroff to deliver an experience so authentic it makes native Philadelphians feel instantly at home, with a signature sandwich that is the result of a meticulous, 14-hour slow-roasting process. The success of Fedoroff's lies in its unwavering commitment to the traditional Philadelphia sandwich trinity: the roast pork, the cheesesteak, and the Italian hoagie. While the city is packed with imitators, Fedoroff's has earned a reputation—and recent high praise from reviewers in late 2024 and early 2025—for its dedication to quality ingredients and classic preparation, proving that you really can take the taste of Philly to NYC.

The Man Behind the Mission: Dave Fedoroff's Profile

Dave Fedoroff, the entrepreneur and founder of Fedoroff's Roast Pork, is the driving force behind the restaurant’s authentic Philadelphia experience. His biography is intrinsically linked to the food he serves:

• Name: Dave Fedoroff
• Role: Founder and Owner of Fedoroff's Roast Pork
• Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Current Base: Brooklyn, New York City (NYC)
• Mission: To create the most authentic Philadelphia sandwich experience possible in New York City, inspired by the sandwich shops he grew up with.
• Signature Dishes: The Roast Pork Sandwich, The Cheesesteak, and The Italian Hoagie.
• Preparation Philosophy: Slow-cooking pork and hand-trimming beef, adhering strictly to the methods used in his hometown of Philadelphia.
• Recognition: Praised by Zagat for his roast pork sandwiches, cheesesteaks, and Italian hoagies.

The Anatomy of the Perfect Roast Pork Sandwich

The Fedoroff's Roast Pork sandwich is not a simple assembly of ingredients; it is a carefully constructed culinary masterpiece that adheres to the strict standards of a true Philadelphia classic. Its complexity and flavor profile are what have cemented its reputation as one of the best outside of its birthplace.

1. The 14-Hour Slow-Roasted Pork

The cornerstone of the sandwich is the pork itself. Fedoroff's uses a pork shoulder that is slow-roasted for a staggering 14 hours. This extended cooking time is non-negotiable, ensuring the meat achieves a level of tenderness and succulence that simply cannot be rushed. The slow-roasting process also allows the natural flavors of the pork to deepen and caramelize, creating a rich, savory foundation for the entire sandwich.

2. The Garlic and Rosemary Gravy (Au Jus)

The pork is roasted with a blend of aromatics, most notably garlic and rosemary, which infuse the meat with a Mediterranean-inspired, herbaceous flavor. As the pork cooks, its natural juices combine with these seasonings to create a savory, rich gravy, or *au jus*. This gravy is absolutely essential; it is generously ladled over the sliced pork, ensuring every bite is moist and bursting with flavor. The *au jus* is the secret weapon that separates a dry, mediocre sandwich from a world-class experience.

3. The Sharp Provolone Cheese

A key differentiator from other sandwiches is the choice of cheese. Unlike the mild provolone often used elsewhere, a true Philly roast pork sandwich demands *sharp provolone*. This cheese has a distinct, pungent, and salty bite that cuts through the richness of the pork and the gravy, providing a necessary layer of complexity. The cheese is typically melted over the pork, creating a gooey, tangy counterpoint to the savory meat.

Why Fedoroff's is a Philadelphia Transplant Success Story

Fedoroff's has managed to thrive in the competitive New York food scene by focusing on authenticity and quality, earning a loyal following among both homesick Philadelphians and discerning New Yorkers.

4. The Essential Broccoli Rabe

The vegetable component is not lettuce or tomato, but *broccoli rabe* (or rapini). This slightly bitter green is sautéed with garlic and a touch of red pepper flake, adding an earthy bitterness that perfectly balances the fatty pork and the salty provolone. It provides a textural contrast and a final, crucial layer of flavor that completes the classic South Philly profile. Without the broccoli rabe, the sandwich is simply incomplete.

5. The Option for the "South Philly Experience"

For those who want the full, unadulterated experience, Fedoroff's offers the option to add a *long hot pepper*. These peppers are intensely flavored, often quite spicy, and are a beloved addition to many South Philly sandwiches. Adding a long hot pepper elevates the sandwich from a delicious meal to a fiery, authentic culinary adventure, a detail that shows the restaurant's commitment to regional tradition.

6. The Commitment to Other Philly Classics

While the roast pork is the star, Fedoroff's topical authority extends to other Philadelphia staples. Their menu features a highly-regarded *Cheesesteak*, made with 10 ounces of USDA prime steak, and their *Italian Hoagie*, both of which are prepared with the same dedication to authentic, hometown methods. This holistic approach to the Philly sandwich canon makes it a true destination for East Coast sandwich enthusiasts.

7. Consistently Fresh and Updated Reviews

Despite operating outside of Philadelphia, Fedoroff's maintains a high standard, as evidenced by its current customer feedback. Reviews from late 2024 and early 2025 frequently praise the authenticity and flavor of the sandwiches. While some reviewers note the higher price point (typical for NYC), the consensus remains that the quality and authentic taste—especially the perfectly seasoned, tender roast pork—are worth the cost for a true taste of Philadelphia in New York. This continuous positive buzz keeps the restaurant relevant and highly sought-after in the ever-evolving food landscape.

Beyond the Sandwich: Fedoroff's Menu Entities

Fedoroff's menu is a compact homage to the great Philadelphia sandwich shops, featuring a focused selection of high-quality items that reinforce their topical authority in the space.

• Roast Pork Sandwich: The signature item, featuring 14-hour slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, broccoli rabe, and garlic-rosemary gravy.
• Cheesesteak: Made with 10 ounces of USDA prime steak, cheese whiz (or choice of cheese), and onions.
• Italian Hoagie: A classic cold-cut sandwich featuring high-quality Italian meats, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and onion, dressed with oil and vinegar.
• Add-Ons: Long Hot Peppers, Extra Gravy, Extra Provolone.
• Sides: Large Fries, various beverages.

Fedoroff's Roast Pork has proven that the spirit and flavor of a regional classic can successfully travel and thrive. By meticulously adhering to the traditional preparation of a 14-hour slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, and garlicky broccoli rabe, Dave Fedoroff has created a culinary outpost that serves not just a sandwich, but a genuine piece of Philadelphia heritage in the middle of New York City.