Bursting with vibrant energy and a rich culinary tradition, Philadelphia's Center City is a haven for food enthusiasts, with one dish reigning supreme: the Philly cheesesteak. The city has been crowned the unofficial cheesesteak capital of the world, and with good reason. From South Street to Rittenhouse Square, the battle for the best Philly cheesesteak rages on. Let's dive into this mouthwatering debate and explore the must-try contenders in the heart of the City of Brotherly Love.
First, let's set the stage. The traditional Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich filled with thinly sliced, sautéed ribeye steak, melted cheese, and chopped onions, typically served on a hoagie roll. The cheese of choice is often Cheez Whiz, but Provolone and American are also popular picks. Now that we've established the basics, let's explore some of the best spots in Center City where you can sink your teeth into this iconic sandwich.
"The Originals": Established Favorites
No conversation about the best Philly cheesesteaks would be complete without mentioning the OG establishments that have been serving up these slices of heaven for decades.
Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, iconic rivals across the street from each other in South Philly, are the granddaddies of the cheesesteak scene. While Pat's is famous for its chopped onions and ground beef patties, Geno's offers a wider variety of cheeses and a commitment to crisp, thinly sliced steak. Both are worth the trip, but be prepared for long lines and a no-frills atmosphere.
Pat's King of Steaks
Pat's signature cheesesteak is a fan favorite, with its slightly charred meat and tangy Whiz. The key to their success? A well-seasoned griddle and the perfect distribution of heat.
Pro tip: Order "Whiz wit onions" for a true Philadelphia experience. The lines move fast, and the friendly staff will school you on the key aspects of ordering a proper cheesesteak.
Geno's Steaks
Geno's offers a unique take on the cheesesteak, with its slightly wider slices of steak and a focus on cheese options. Their Provolone cheesesteak is a welcomed change from the classic Whiz.
Ask for your cheesesteak "with" or "without" onions, and don't shy away from adding NBC (National Butter Crackers) to absorb the excess juices. It's a Geno's specialty!
"The Upscale Crowd Pleasers": Gourmet Cheesesteaks
While traditionalists may scoff, a handful of Center City eateries have reimagined the classic cheesesteak, elevating it with gourmet ingredients and creative twists.
Vernick Food & Drink
This Rittenhouse Square gem offers a sophisticated take on the cheesesteak, with their version featuring dry-aged ribeye, horseradish cheddar, and caramelized onions on a lauded house-made hoagie roll.
Pair your sandwich with a craft cocktail, and you've got yourself an upscale cheesesteak experience that's perfect for impressing out-of-town guests.
Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia
Don't knock it til you've tried it—Hard Rock Cafe's Philly cheesesteak has amassed a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. Their take features USDA choice steak, glorious melted fontina cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers on a soft, toasty roll.
Their secret? A signature steak seasoning blend that adds a tantalizing kick. Don't forget to save room for dessert— their milkshakes are legendary!
As you wander Philadelphia's Center City, each bite of these remarkable cheesesteaks offers a testament to the power of a simple sandwich. From classic joints to gourmet gems, the best Philly cheesesteaks serve up more than just a meal—they convey a story of love for this city and the iconic food that defines it. So grab a napkin and embrace the delicious journey, because in Philadelphia, every cheesesteak is a testament to our culinary heritage, and an invitation to savor what makes this city truly extraordinary.