The streets of SF's Embarcadero Center are now infused with the aroma of East Coast flavors thanks to the opening of Jerry's Roast Pork. This new sandwich shop specializes in authentic Philly-style hoagies. Matthew Kosoy, the self-taught baker behind the acclaimed Rosalind Bakery in Pacifica, is the mastermind of this culinary venture, bringing a slice of Philadelphia to San Francisco foodies.
Jerry's Roast Pork swung open its doors at 2 Embarcadero Center, introducing locals to a taste of Kosoy's childhood spent near the sandwich havens of South Jersey and Philadelphia. “I grew up eating roast pork ‘hoagies’ in Philadelphia, and I’ve wanted to bring that experience to the Bay Area for years,” Kosoy said in a press release, per KRON4. His venture is not only a nod to tradition but also celebrates the abundant, quality ingredients of Northern California. After a wildly successful debut, where they sold out by noon, the shop announced their day-one triumph on Instagram, promising eager customers more of their coveted roast pork hoagies.
Amid the bustling heart of the downtown recovery effort, Kosoy's sandwich shop is indicative of a larger trend: reviving town centers with tastes that resonate with the community and culture. Kosoy explained his meticulous process to Eater SF, detailing a minimum three-day technique to perfect his garlic roast pork. From brining to roasting and a crucial overnight cure, the result is thinly sliced, deeply flavorful meat only enhanced through simmering in a house jus.
Beyond the star roast pork hoagie, complete with provolone and a broccoli raab concoction, Jerry’s is also dishing out a menu with seasonal vegetarian options and plans for Roman- and grandma-style pizzas. Drawing on the proximity to the Ferry Building farmers market, Kosoy is busy developing vegetarian-friendly offerings like a roasted carrot sandwich with an artisanal touch. “The sleeper part’s going to be the vegetarian sandwich,” Kosoy noted in an Eater SF interview, pointing to the broader inclusivity of his menu that conveniently overlooks the importance of flavorful salads and potentially vegan options.
Instilled with a sense of legacy and community revitalization, Jerry's Roast Pork stands as a bridge between Kosoy's East Coast heritage and his commitment to his adopted home of San Francisco. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 AM to 3 PM, it's clear that this sandwich shop is ready to make its mark as a vibrant hub for downtown's lunch crowd.
