Every good sandwich has a story behind it.
The Guava Cutlet Royale is no different, as South Philly’s new creation from three favorite local chefs even has a little holiday flair to it.
Kiki Aranita, acclaimed chef and founder of Poi Dog Sauces, along with Chef-Husband Ari Miller, teamed up with Jason Okdeh, Chef and Co-Owner of Farina Di Vita in Queen Village for the new offering. Poi Dog previously operated a brick-and-mortar location on South Street but closed in 2020. The brand has been kept alive through local pop-ups.
“We met Chef Okdeh at a holiday party, where he was dressed as South Philly Santa, of course,” said Aranita. “After trying some of our sauces that night, he proceeded to drink one right from the bottle. We all immediately knew we needed to team up to create something delicious together.”
The sandwich is available at Farina Di Vita (250 Catharine St.) through March 2. It consists of a Farina Di Vita signature chicken cutlet described as “nestled inside a Cacia’s Bakery seeded roll, hit with a stream of Poi Dog Guava Katsu Sauce, layered with Japanese A5 Wagyu Fat sautéed onions (with Wagyu Fat provided by The Wagyu Sommelier) and finished with a helping of Farina Di Vita’s signature Mac Salad.”
In the past, Farina Di Vita has been known for its over-the-top sandwiches that often showcase Italian flavors and ingredients. But Okdeh has been open to collaborating with other chefs and makers.
“As soon as I tried Kiki’s Poi Dog Sauces I knew we could do something great,” said Okdeh. “As much as I love my own menu, I also love to work with other chefs to shake things up and create something one-of-a-kind. The Guava Cutlet Royale has so much going on – you don’t want to miss it.”
