The eternal debate among food enthusiasts and locals alike: where can you find the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, PA? The classic sandwich, a harmonious blend of thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and gooey cheese, has been a Philadelphia staple since the 1930s. Today, we're going to embark on a mouthwatering journey to explore some of the top contenders for this coveted title.
One of the first names that comes to mind in the quest for the best Philly cheesesteak is Pat's King of Steaks. A South Philly institution, Pat's has been serving up its famous cheesesteaks since 1930. Their secret? A well-seasoned griddle that adds a unique, smoky flavor to the meat and onions. Pat's uses an Amoroso roll, a Philadelphia classic, and offers a variety of cheeses, but the traditional trio of ribeye, onions, and Cheez Whiz is the most popular choice.
Old-School Classics
The city is dotted with historic eateries that have perfected the art of the Philly cheesesteak. These spots have withstood the test of time and continue to draw crowds for their iconic sandwiches.
Steve's Prince of Steaks
Winner of numerous "best of" awards, Steve's Prince of Steaks has been serving hungry Philadelphia residents and visitors since 1941. This no-frills establishment keeps it simple with a formula that works: thinly sliced ribeye, caramelized onions, and your choice of Provolone, American, or Whiz. The roll is warm and soft, absorbing every ounce of flavor from the meat and cheese.
Steve's popularity can be attributed to its consistently delicious cheesesteaks and its deep connection to the local community. It's a spot where everyone knows your name and you can't leave without ordering an ice-cold birch beer to wash down that savory, cheesy goodness.
Geno's Steaks
Open since 1966, Geno's Steaks is another iconic South Philly establishment vying for the title of the best Philly cheesesteak. This well-known spot boasts a mouthwatering sandwich made with thinly sliced Certified Angus Beef ribeye, topped with sautéed onions, and your choice of cheese. The secret to Geno's success lies in its proprietary seasoning blend, which adds a unique touch to every cheesesteak.
Geno's offers a variety of topping options, from steak sauce and mushrooms to hot peppers and ricotta. But for first-timers, sticking with the classic combination of ribeye, onions, and Cheez Whiz is the way to go. The roll, a soft Amoroso bun, adds the perfect finishing touch to thisLocalized Favorite.
The New Guard
While Philly's classic cheesesteak institutions are hard to beat, there's always room for innovation. Here are a couple of spots shaking up the cheesesteak scene with creative riffs on the classic sandwich.
Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia
Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, Hard Rock Cafe offers a delicious take on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Their "Philly Cheesesteak" is packed with thinly sliced marinated steak, sautéed mushrooms, and crispy fried onions, all piled high on a toasted hoagie roll. The cheese sauce is their secret recipe, adding an extra layer of flavor to every bite.
The Hard Rock Cafe's cheesesteak is a nod to the sandwich's traditional roots while introducing a unique twist. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to satisfy cheesesteak lovers and first-timers alike. Plus, if you're a music fan, the cafe's inspiring atmosphere and impressive rock 'n'roll memorabilia collection make it a must-visit destination.
Continental Mid-town
The Continental Mid-town, a popular spot for late-night dining, serves up a unique cheesesteak experience. Their "Continental Cheesesteak" features thinly sliced ribeye, caramelized onions, and American cheese, all tucked into a warm, soft roll. But the star of the show is the server's dramatic cheese pour, which sends a generous stream of molten American cheese cascading over the meat and onions, creating a melty, gooey masterpiece.
Open until 3 a.m. on weekends, the Continental Mid-town is the perfect place to satisfy those late-night cheesesteak cravings. Their combination of classic cheesesteak ingredients and dramatic presentation makes for an unforgettable dining experience.
No matter which spot you choose, one thing is certain: Philadelphia's cheesesteak scene is filled with delicious options that showcase the city's culinary heritage. Whether you're a local looking for your favorite spot or a first-time visitor eager to try the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, PA, you're sure to find a delicious sandwich that'll make your taste buds dance. So what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, pull up a chair, and indulge in the best Philly has to offer.