Embarking on a culinary journey to Philadelphia often means one thing: it's time to indulge in a classic Philly cheesesteak. But with so many eateries claiming to serve the best, how do you find the true culinary gem? TripAdvisor, with its wealth of user reviews and ratings, is an excellent starting point. Here, we'll delve into the best cheesesteaks in Philly according to TripAdvisor, exploring what makes these iconic sandwiches stand out and where to find them.
Before we dive in, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a genuine Philly cheesesteak. It should feature thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, sautéed onions, and a generous helping of melted cheese, all nestled within a long roll. The cheese is usually a combination of Provolone and Cheez Whiz, but American, Cooper, and even Swiss can be used. Now, let's explore the top contenders for the best cheesesteak in Philly, as voted by TripAdvisor users.
The Philly Mainstays
Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, located across the street from each other in South Philly, are iconic rivals that frequently top TripAdvisor's lists. Their cheesesteaks are beloved for their savory, slightly charred steak, perfectly melted cheese, and renowned local flavor.
Pat's is famous for its "Wit" (onions) and "Wit'out" (no onions) orders, while Geno's offers a wide range of toppings, including mushrooms, peppers, and cherry peppers. Both serve their sandwiches on a soft roll, ensuring each bite delivers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures.
Pat's King of Steaks
Pat's was founded in 1930 and is renowned for its hometown charm and fast service. Their cheesesteak is prepared on a griddle, allowing the steak to develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside. Pat's also offers a range of other sandwiches, but their cheesesteak remains the star of the show.
Pro tip: Be prepared to order like a local. Pat's uses an intricate ordering system etched into the sidewalk, so study up on "Get it wit' or wit'out" before you go!
Geno's Steaks
Geno's opened in 1966 and has since become an institution, earning praise fromPresidents, celebrities, and locals alike. Their secret is a well-seasoned, quickly cooked steak that pairs beautifully with their gooey cheese blend. Geno's also stands out for its welcoming, lively atmosphere and late-night hours.
Tip: Like Pat's, Geno's has its own ordering system. Memorize the shorthand for your preferred toppings to avoid confused stares from the servers!
Off the Beaten Path
While Pat's and Geno's are must-visits, TripAdvisor users also rave about lesser-known spots offering unique twists on the classic Philly cheesesteak.
John's Roast Pork
Tucked away in South Philly, John's Roast Pork delivers a moist, flavorful cheesesteak with an impressive vegetable-to-meat ratio. Their sandwiches feature freshly caramelized onions, thinly sliced beef, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a pillowy roll. Be sure to try their namesake roast pork sandwich, too!
Insider tip: John's is cash-only, so plan accordingly. Plus, they close early, so don't dilly-dally!
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar
For a swankier cheesesteak experience, head to Max Brenner's location in the Rittenhouse neighborhood. Their "Philly Cheesesteak Sliders" transform the classic sandwich into three bite-sized morsels, perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Max Brenner's version features thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and a blend of Cooper and Swiss cheeses.
Fun fact: Max Brenner's Philly-inspired menu is just one aspect of their chocolate-centric empire. Prepare to be tempted by their dessert menu, too!
Embarking on a cheesesteak tour of Philadelphia is an adventure filled with sumptuous flavors, lively locals, and a dash of friendly competition. So, download TripAdvisor, consult the reviews, and get ready to dive headfirst into the best cheesesteaks Philly has to offer. Each sandwich presents a unique blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring your culinary journey leaves you both satisfied and inspired.