by Shane Dilworth
Wasko’s Deli and Catering on 223 Gay St., Phoenixville, epitomizes the phrase “diamond in the rough.” It’s a little off the beaten path and might not be housed in the prettiest building, but the food that comes out of the location, especially the pork sandwich with sharp provolone, could be the best in town.
“I think great food comes from small places,” said Jim Wasko, the shop’s proprietor, while preparing a sandwich.
Wasko, a native of Monte Clare, doesn’t like to talk about himself much, but there’s a great story behind his shop.
He bought the location from the owners of D’Antonios, which was also a sandwich shop, in June 2007. Wasko had a history of working in the food industry and decided to open up his own location because he wanted to be his own boss. He didn’t have much experience when he first opened, but he certainly has learned the art of making a sandwich. Eight years later, his sandwiches have become some of the best kept secrets in town.
Upon entering the shop, there are two distinct sensations that are remarkable: the smell of the roasted pork and the sight of a dining area in need of a facelift. Although the food is a real treat, there’s not a lot of room to sit down and enjoy a sandwich. There’s a table with two chairs immediately upon entering the front door and some stools along a sidewall with a shelf.
What makes Wasko’s pork sandwich so amazing is that every component is special. The roll is fresh from the Conshohocken Bakery. Wasko himself roasts the pork loin with “a few spices” and uses sharp provolone from a local vendor. You can also get the sandwich with long hot peppers that are roasted in-house or Italian style with broccoli rabe.
Wasko slices the roll and lines the inside with provolone before dipping the sliced pork in au jus. The succulent slices are then piled into the roll before being topped with more provolone. The finishing touch occurs when Wasko puts the sandwich into the broiler until the provolone is bubbling.
In addition to the pork sandwich, Wasko makes great prime rib sandwiches, zeps and hoagies. On top of being delicious, the sandwiches at Wasko’s are reasonably priced. The small, which is more than enough for a meal, is $5.75.
Wakso also does catering for special events and regularly sells homemade pierogies and Polish kielbasa.
Find Wasko’s at 223 Gay St., Phoenixville; phone: (610) 933-6720. Hours of operation are as follows: Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Fridays, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Wasko’s is a cash-only establishment, so hit the ATM before heading over.
Pork sandwich and Jim Wasko photo credit: Shane Dilworth; exterior shots credited to Nina Lea Photography
7 Comments