The Sandwich That Runs The Shore

Ah, the legendary “pork roll, egg, and cheese”—a true New Jersey icon, and not just a breakfast, but a rite of passage.

Despite the name, “pork roll” isn’t a roll at all. It’s a salty, smoky, slightly spiced processed pork product invented in Trenton, NJ, in the 1850s by John Taylor (hence the alternate name “Taylor ham”—a debate that still divides the Garden State). It’s sliced, scored to prevent curling, and pan-fried until the edges crisp up.

The classic sandwich stacks that pork roll with a fried egg (yolk broken or runny, your call) and a slice of melty American cheese, all nestled inside a toasted Kaiser roll. Add ketchup, salt, and pepper—often abbreviated as “SPK”—and you’ve got yourself a Jersey diner staple.

It’s greasy, gooey, and glorious. And if you’re not from New Jersey, it might sound like a curiosity—but once you try it, you’ll understand the hype.

Last month I asked you all one seemingly controversial question; who has the best Pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwich in Asbury Park (and its surrounding towns)?

Your answers led me to 3 gems:

• Johnny’s Pork Roll food truck on the Asbury Park beach
• Bagel Talk outside of Ocean Grove
• and the renowned “Frank’s Deli,” on Main Street, Asbury Park

While they were equally delicious, only one reigned supreme in my humble opinion-Frank’s Deli!

Frank’s Deli & Restaurant is a beloved Asbury Park institution that’s been serving up classic Jersey comfort food since May 1st, 1960. Located at 1406 Main Street, it’s a no-frills, cash-only spot known for its “legendary pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwiches”, hearty subs, and nostalgic diner vibes.

Let’s dive into what makes this sandwich rise above the rest. Whether I’m in my own kitchen or grabbing a bite out, I’m all about fresh, simple, high-quality ingredients—and it’s clear Joe Maggio, the owner of Frank’s, lives by the same creed. He builds his signature masterpiece with soft, house-baked bread that locals can’t stop raving about, hand-cut slabs of pork roll, and alternating layers of meat and molten American cheese. The pork roll hits the skillet and crisps to perfection, bringing that salty, smoky fire. The cheese? Melted into submission. A fried egg crowns it all with golden, silky richness.

Then it’s all loaded onto a warm, toasted Kaiser roll—sturdy enough to hold the glory without falling apart. Top it with “S.P.K. (salt, pepper, ketchup),” and you’ve got a sandwich that’s not just breakfast—it’s a bold declaration of love.

And I’d be doing you a disservice if I didn’t shout out the crew at Frank’s: warm, welcoming, and every bit as unforgettable as the food on your plate.

The menu is stacked with breakfast staples like omelets, pancakes, and french toast, plus deli classics like pastrami on rye, and overstuffed clubs. Locals rave about the **soft, fresh-baked bread**, generous portions, and the kind of warm, old-school service that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit.

It’s the kind of place where the smell of sizzling pork roll and fresh coffee hits you the second you walk in—and where the decor hasn’t changed much in decades, in the best possible way.

If you’re thinking of stopping by, just remember: **bring cash**, come hungry, and be ready to wait a bit during peak hours—it’s worth it.