The search for the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia is a journey that reveals the city's unique culinary heritage and the passionate locals who keep the tradition alive. With its distinctive combination of thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll, the Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it's an iconic experience that every visitor should indulge in.
In Philadelphia, there's no shortage of places claiming to serve the city's best cheesesteak. From the famous corner shops to hidden gem delis, each establishment adds its unique touch to this classic comfort food. To help you navigate this mouthwatering landscape, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia restaurants.
Authentic Corner Shops
No discussion about the best Philly cheesesteak would be complete without mentioning the city's iconic corner shops. These establishments have been serving up signature sandwiches for decades, and their unapologetic authenticity is what keeps locals and tourists coming back.
One standout among these corner shops is Pat's King of Steaks. A South Philly institution since 1930, Pat's claims to have invented the cheesesteak. Theirs is a classic variation, featuring thinly sliced ribeye cooked on a griddle, topped with grilled onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. The secret to their popularity lies in the Source.
Pat's King of Steaks
Pat's might be the most famous cheesesteak spot, but their secret to success lies in their signature Primo cheese sauce, a unique blend that sticks to the meat like no other. The unique flavor profile is enhanced by the griddled meat, which is cut for you on a large butcher block to ensure uniformity. Pat's also offers a variety of toppings, making it easier for customers to create a rendition that suits their tastes.
Another iconic corner shop is Geno's Steaks, Pat's next-door neighbor and sworn rival. Known for their scalloped potatoes and purée, Geno's offers a slightly different take on the Philly cheesesteak, using a unique seasoning blend that gives their meat a distinctive flavor. They too use an electric knife to cut their meat.
Geno's Steaks
Geno's is famous for its "Whiz Wit" – a combination of Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions, a classic Philly cheesesteak interpretation. Their meat is perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender, making each bite a heavenly experience. Ordering at Geno's is a unique experience – memorize the glossary on the side of their ordering window to avoid any embarrassment!
Diverse and Delicious Options
While Pat's and Geno's grab headlines, there are numerous other options in Philadelphia that deserve equal attention. These spots provide a diverse range of cheesesteaks, each with its unique twist on the classic dish.
Among these, Jim's Steaks stands out. Located on South Street, Jim's is known for its old-school charm and generously stuffed sandwiches. They also offer an unusual menu item – the "Jim's Special," which piles grilled mushrooms, peppers, and onions onto the classic cheesesteak.
Jim's Steaks
Jim's uses a knitting process to slice their meat, resulting in incredibly thin slices that allow for optimal absorbency. The result is a cheesesteak where every bite offers an explosion of flavors, cushioned by the cheese. Additionally, the roll here is soft, fresh, and resilient, capable of holding together even when loaded down with copious amounts of cheese and meat.
If you're craving a bit of spice, Spaco's Restaurant is a can't-miss. Their "Spaco's Special" features jalapeños, hot peppers, and onions, adding a kick to the classic sandwich. Spaco's Spicy Cheesesteak is considered one of the best in the city, combining the traditional flavor with a nice heat level.
Spaco's Restaurant
At Spaco's, you'll find that their meat is cooked to perfection, seasoned with garlic and salt, and combined with sautéed onions to create a symphony of savory flavors. The heat level of their spicy cheesesteak can be adjusted per your preference, making it an approachable option for both spice lovers and novices alike.
No matter where you go in Philadelphia, you'll find a cheesesteak that's uniquely Philadelphia. From the classic corner shops to the innovative eateries, each dish tells a story about the city and its inhabitants. Next time you're in town, don't hesitate to embark on this delicious culinary adventure. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you!