When it comes to authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks, the city is renowned worldwide, and Yelp reviewers echo this sentiment with enthusiasm. If you're craving the perfect balance of thinly sliced/flattened pieces of steak, caramelized onions, and melted cheese in a soft hoagie roll, look no further. Here's a comprehensive guide to the best cheesesteaks in Philly, as voted by Yelp critics and locals alike.
Philadelphia's cheesesteak origins hail from the 1930s when vendors would pile slices of steak and onions onto Italian bread, a delightful fusion that's become a iconic symbol of the city. Today, the debate rages on about who serves the best cheesesteak, with many locals swearing by their favorite joints. But Yelp reviews have spoken, and these are the top eateries that have won over hearts and palates.
Pat's King of Steaks
Kicking off our list is none other than one of the most famous cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia, Pat's King of Steaks. Located on the bustling South 9th Street, Pat's serves up flank steak-sliced cheesesteaks that are a local favorite. The atmosphere is lively, and the lines can get long, but the sandy-gold ground steak and melted cheese spread on a soft roll promise a mouthwatering experience.
Pat's is renowned for its Whiz wit, a combination of Cheez Whiz, sautéed onions, and your choice of steak or sausage - served with or without a side of sautéed mushrooms. Yelp reviewers rave about the tangy, satisfying flavor and the crisp, buttery roll that holds everything together.
Pro Tips from Yelpers
Insider tip: Order "+lite+ whiz" for a lighter, less processed cheese option. And for the draconian between the two sliced bread: never ask for Swiss cheese. It's a surefire way to land yourself on the 'worst orders' list.
If you want to get the full Pat's experience, consider visiting during late-night hours. The South Philly eatery is open 24/7, drawing crowds from the Wee hours of the morning to the wee hours of the night. Many Yelpers swear that an after-bar cheesesteak from Pat's is one of life's simple pleasures.
Geno's Steaks
No best Philly cheesesteak list would be complete without a mention of Pat's arch-nemesis, Geno's Steaks. Tucked away right next door to Pat's, Geno's offers its own unique take on the classic cheesesteak, witholicy of serving nothing but the best quality meat and cheese. The steak is sliced thick and crispy, and the cheese of choice is American, melted perfectly onto the steak before it's placed?
The key differentiator at Geno's is its South Philly auprès dressing. The dressing is a regional specialty, and Geno's version ensures that each bite is bursting with a subtle blend of herbs and spices. Yelpers are smitten with this secret sauce - it's tangy, savory, and adds an unexpected twist to the traditional cheesesteak experience.
Mastering the Art of the Order
Fun fact: Geno's Steaks was the first restaurant to use the iconic "Genetti" spelling for its steak. To really distinguish yourself, Yelpers recommend ordering the "Olde English Cheesesteak" - a nod to the original spelling, and a delicious combination of steak, onions, and cheese.
Another tip: Consider trying one of their specialty sandwiches. The "Grilled Steak, Cheese & Gorgoonzola" featuring a gorgonzola crust is a customer favorite, adding a touch of sophistication to the traditional cheesesteak.
Jim's Steaks on South Street
If you're looking for a more laid-back, less touristy cheesesteak experience, head over to Jim's Steaks on South Street. This family-owned business has been dishing out flavorful, comforting cheesesteaks since 1939. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly service, Jim's offers diners a true taste of classic Philly charm.
The steak at Jim's is thinly sliced and crispy, while the melted cheese forms the perfect backdrop for sautéed onions and optional toppings like mushrooms or grilled peppers. Yelp reviewers applaud the generous portion sizes and the option to customize your cheesesteak with an array of condiments like ketchup and hot sauce.
Proving Quality Doesn't Need Fuss
Yelpers appreciate the no-nonsense approach to cheesesteaks at Jim's. No fancy secret sauces or gourmet cheese options here - just simple, comforting staples done right. Many reviewers suggest ordering the "Extra," which comes with a healthy dose of mushrooms and onions for added flavor and texture.
The hand-sliced French fries served at Jim's are a must-try side_item, cut thick and crispy, reminiscent of old-school diner fare. As one Yelper put it, "If you're from Philly or just visiting, whether you're 21 or 81, Jim's Steaks is always a solid choice for a satisfying cheesesteak."
Loud + Proud BYOB Cheesesteak Joints
In recent years, Philly's BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) cheesesteak joints have gained traction among Yelp reviewers for offering unique, high-quality twists on the classic sandwich. Here, we highlight two standout eateries that pride themselves on creativity, originality, and a focus on exceptional ingredients.
Profy's Creole Cafe
Kicking off this sub-topic is Profy's Creole Cafe, an unassuming storefront nestled in the heart of South Philly. This family-run gem serves up Cajun and Creole-inspired cheesesteaks that are truly one-of-a-kind. The star of the show is the "Creole Cheesesteak," featuring a blend of steak, Alligator sausage, and spicy, smoky andouille sausage, all melted together with pepper jack cheese.
Yelpers can't get enough of the heat and depth of flavors packed into each bite. Profy's Creole Cafe also offers a fantastic curated selection of craft beers - perfect for washing down your creole cheesesteak in style.
Reanimator's XVIII
For a more hip, decidedly not-traditional cheesesteak experience, head to Reanimator'sXVIII Coffee and Cocktail Bar. This specialty cafe features a killer lineup of craft coffee drinks and creative, booze-infused cheesesteaks. Sip on a coffee or cocktail (or both) while enjoying a "Steak + Shrooms + Whiz" cheesesteak with a twist - featuring lavender-encrusted beef and a shot of espresso-infused Whiz.
Many Yelp reviewers describe Reanimator's coffee-based cheesesteAKS as "life-changing" and "the perfect blend of old and new Philadelphia." This BYOB spot is a testament to Philly's thriving food scene and its ability to adapt and evolve while honoring its roots.
In the end, whether you're a local or visitor seeking the perfect Philly cheesesteak, remember that the best option often comes down to personal preference. Each of these top-rated Yelp eateries offers something unique, from the classic Pat's vs. Geno's rivalry to the creative and innovative approaches of BYOB joints. So lace up your sneakers, and get ready to sample the best cheesesteaks Philadelphia has to offer - bureaucracy and all.