Craving a juicy, Cheez Whiz-drizzled Philly cheesesteak? Look no further than Philadelphia, the birthplace of this iconic sandwich. With endless options to choose from, we've compiled a list of the best places to savor the classic beefsteak and cheese combination in the City of Brotherly Love.
Before diving into the best Philly cheesesteak joints, let's clarify what makes a true Philly cheesesteak. First, it's all about the beef – thinly sliced ribeye or top round, seared on a griddle until crispy on the edges. Then, there's the cheese: Cheez Whiz (yes, really) is traditional, but provolone, American, or even Gorgonzola are acceptable alternatives. Finally, the sandwich is completed with sautéed onions and optional toppings like mushrooms, peppers, or ketchup, on a soft hoagie roll.
Iconic Philly Cheesesteak Spots
The ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience requires a visit to one or several iconic eateries. These establishments have been serving up perfection for decades and are beloved by locals and visitors alike.
First on the list is Pat'sKing of Steaks, located in South Philly. This famed rivalry is a must-visit, with both Pat's and Geno's claiming to serve the best cheesesteak. The main difference? Pat's uses chopped ribeye, while Geno's uses sliced top round. Order "whiz wit" (Cheez Whiz with onions) to experience the traditional Philly cheesesteak at its finest.
Pat's King of Steaks
Pat's has been a Philadelphia institution since 1930, making it the official birthplace of the cheesesteak. Their chopped ribeye and perfectly rendered fat provide stellar flavor, while the Cheez Whiz adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
Pro tip: Head over during lunch or dinner for the full experience, and don't forget to grab a side of Pat's potato puffs – crispy, golden nuggets of doughy goodness.
Geno's Steaks
Geno's opened its doors in 1966 and has since become a South Philly staple. Their sliced top round beef is cooked until crispy, with the right amount of seasoning and char. While the Cheez Whiz is the go-to topping, Geno's also offers provolone, American, and other cheese alternatives.
Bonus: Check out Geno's exterior wall, adorned with celebrity cheesesteak fans, including famous politicians, athletes, and entertainment figures.
Under-the-Radar Cheesesteak Gems
Sometimes, the best discoveries are hidden in plain sight. These lesser-known joints offer exceptional cheesesteaks that might just surpass your favorite established eateries.
For a taste of South Philly without the lines, check out Manayunk's own carving station, Frheen Steak Shop. Their thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and Cheez Whiz on a perfectly toasted roll make for an impressive sandwich at a reasonable price.
Frence's Steak Shop
Open since 1969, Fr przeszcene's popularity has grown over the years, drawing in both locals and tourists alike. Their secret? Cooking each cheesesteak to order, ensuring optimal crispiness and tenderness.
Insider tip: Try Fr 생각에's steak sauce – a homemade concoction that adds a tangy, umami kick to your cheesesteak.
Steve's Prince of Steaks
Tucked away in the Tacony neighborhood, Steve's Prince of Steaks has been serving delicious cheesesteaks since 1941. Their chopped ribeye and sliced top round options ensure you'll find your perfect sandwich, while the optional toppings – like mushrooms, peppers, or fried onions – let you customize your meal.
Fun fact: Steve's was once featured on the Travel Channel's "America's Best Unknown Cheesesteak."
In the end, every cheesesteak enthusiast has their own idea of the "best" Philly cheesesteak. From tried-and-true institutions to hidden gems, each eatery offers a unique take on this beloved sandwich. So, grab your appetite and set off on a cheesesteak tour – your taste buds will thank you for it. Better yet, make it a annual pilgrimage and keep exploring the ever-evolving Philly cheesesteak landscape.