What is a Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich?
The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich (BPT) is an iconic Midwest comfort food featuring a pounded, breaded, and deep-fried pork cutlet served on a bun. Often much larger than the bread itself, these sandwiches are beloved for their crispy golden exterior and tender, juicy meat inside.
Originating in Indiana, the BPT has become a regional treasure enjoyed throughout the Midwest and beyond. Our directory helps you find the best examples of this classic American sandwich.
Latest Reviews
Stopped in for a late breakfast at XXX Family Restaurant in West Lafayette, IN. By far, hands down, the absolute BEST, sausage gravy in the country (and I've tried enough to make that statement) poured over their breaded tenderloin with one egg over light on top. Fried potatoes on the side. Very good -- kind of expensive to order it this way as it's not a regular menu item, (it should become one) but my wife likes to spoil me. 🙂
Sad day for Indiana! Had 1 last great tenderloin from Jonesy's today, 10/10 as always. The line wrapped around the back of the building before they had even opened.
Rory G. reviewed
Oasis Diner
- 2 out of 5 stars
August 24, 2026
This was a repeat visit from about 2 years ago, when I had a terrible experience. On my first visit I had a tenderloin that was full of gristle that it was practically inedible. Today’s visit was bad also, but for different reasons. I was seated under the air conditioner. By the time I had ordered my meal, the A/C had kicked on and it was FREEZING. You could literally see my napkin blowing from the force of the A/C. I ordered a PLAIN breaded pork tenderloin, with some mustard and hot sauce (they bring bottles to the table). My tenderloin arrived with lettuce, onions, and tomatoes in it. That was not a big deal, because I can take those off but the amount of mayonnaise they put on one bun was incredible. Apparently the kitchen did not know how to make a plain breaded pork tenderloin. The waitress stopped back by as I used my knife to scrape the unwanted mayonnaise off my bun and asked how things were. I pointed out that I had ordered a plain breaded pork tenderloin and had not received the mustard and hot sauce I asked for. Rather than offering a fresh sandwich or bun that wasn’t covered in mayonnaise, she just walked away and returned with the mustard and hot sauce I had originally asked for. The top of the hot sauce bottle was filthy. The tenderloin itself was ok, but the breading seemed greasy and fell apart easily. The flavor was just average. There was enough grease on the tenderloin that it made the wax paper under it wet. The onion rings I got for a side were chewy and cold. I don’t think I’ve ever had a chewy onion ring before. There were only 5 onion rings in my order. I also had to ask twice for sweetener for my iced tea. I ultimately ate only ½ of the tenderloin, and didn’t bother with a to-go box. This is very rare, because I don’t like to waste food. In my opinion, the Oasis has failed me twice. There will be no third chance.
It was perfect!
Might not look like much but this is what it's all about. Driving back to South Bend from Ft Wayne. Pulled into Magic Wand and was transported instantly back to the 80s. Pencil-written ticket. Older machines, older decor, industrious service, and all adorned with gems of humanity. Families of all types. Setting sun, no pressing work. Alone in a beautiful moment, a tourist becoming a "first-time regular". I almost wished someone would light up a cigarette just for the bit. At 10.99, the Tenderloin was the most expensive thing on the menu. A treat, in its rightful place in the hierarchy. I got the German Chocolate blizzard because I'm a grown man, free American, off the clock and my wife had already eaten at home. A well constructed mouthful, doing the best it can with the quality of raw material it had. But knowing what you want, letting that lead you to endearing spots, grounded Midwestern serendipity, timeless moments of Zen, this was a 10/10 decision. This place is awesome.
It's about the Pursuit, after all. And when you Pursue Tenderloin, you get all this thrown in along the way.
Was thrilled to find a legit tenderloin in Florida, and it was definitely on the better side. It had the right thickness, could have used a little more seasoning in the breading, but it was served with a horseradish sauce that worked really well. Recommended!