Penn's native cheesesteak might be an icon, but the debate over where to get the best isn't just confined to the City of Brotherly Love. Across the Delaware River, in Hudson County, New Jersey, a new crop of eateries has emerged, each one claiming to serve the best Philly cheesesteak outside of Philly. But which one truly reigns supreme?
To answer that question, you've got to know what you're looking for in a cheesesteak. It's not just about the steak and cheese combo. The best in Philly, and arguably anywhere, is about the bread, the seasoning, the way the cheese inevitably oozes out with every bite. It's a symphony of flavors, crunch, and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Let's explore some of the top contenders in Hudson County.
Harrigan's Café & Pub
Kickstarting our culinary journey is Harrison, home to Harrigan's Café & Pub. Their Philly cheesesteak is no ordinary dish. Picture this: thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed with onions and peppers until they're caramelized, then stuffed into a Liscio's roll and blanketed with melted Provolone. Each bite is a testament to the power of using top-quality ingredients.
But what truly sets Harrigan's apart is the proposition of their "Philly Melt." Modeled after the iconic Philly+'s pizza, the 'Steak Other Cheese' version introduces marinara sauce and mozzarella into the cheesesteak equation. It's a bold move, but trust us, it's a winner.
multiple locations
For a city as diverse and sprawling as Jersey City, having multiple locations to satisfy your cheesesteak craving is a godsend. Which is exactly what you get with Philly's Best – they've even got an outpost in Hoboken. Their classic Philly Cheesesteak is a delight, but the real standout is the ' sour' cheesesteak – a zesty twist that'll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about cheesesteaks.
And here's a fun fact: Philly's Best was founded by a former Philly cop. You can't get more authentic than that!
Laura's Gourmet Bakery
Now, let's venture to North Bergen and visit Laura's Gourmet Bakery. This little bakery packs a big punch when it comes to their cheesesteak game. Their Amish roll, baked fresh daily, is the perfect canvas for the symphony of flavors that unfold with every bite. The ribeye is sliced thin and cooked with caramelized onions and peppers, then topped with melted Provolone. Simple, yet devastatingly effective.
What really sets Laura's apart is their commitment to quality, both in terms of ingredients and love for the craft. Each cheesesteak is made to order, ensuring you get the freshest, tastiest experience possible.
Peace A Pizza
In case you thought we were limiting ourselves to just traditional cheesesteaks, allow us to introduce you to Peace A Pizza. Nestled in the heart of Union City, this pizzeria serves up a unique twist on the classic: deep-fried. Yes, you read that right. Their cheesesteak sandwich is deep-fried until it's golden brown and crispy, with a molten cheese center. It's a heart attack waiting to happen, but isn't that what cheat meals are for?
And if you're feeling extra indulgent, why not give their buffalo chicken cheesesteak a try? It might just blow your mind.
So there you have it – a smorgasbord of the best of Philly cheesesteaks on offer in Hudson County. Whether you're craving a tried-and-true classic, a unique twist, or a mega-indulgent feast, there's something on this list to satisfy every craving. Now get out there and start squeezing in those cheesesteaks – your taste buds will thank you!
