The city of Philadelphia is revered worldwide for its iconic sandwich, the Philly cheesesteak. This humble yet indulgent meal has become a symbol of the city's culture and culinary scene. With so many places claiming to serve the best Philly cheesesteak, it can be overwhelming to choose where to satisfy your craving. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the best Philly cheesesteak places in Philadelphia.
Before delving into the list, let's understand what makes a Philly cheesesteak authentic. A traditional Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced, sautéed ribeye steak, melted cheese (Provolone or Cheez Whiz are local favorites), and caramelized onions on a hoagie roll. While some places might experiment with ingredients, the best places stick to these tried-and-true components.
The Originals: Where It All Began
The first cheesesteak was reportedly served in 1930 by Pat Olivieri at his hot dog stand, now known as Pat's King of Steaks. Since then, several iconic places have kept the legacy alive.
The debate between Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks is as legendary as the cheesesteak itself. Both are South Philly institutions, and both grubhub food delivery services list them in their top places for Philly cheesesteaks. Pat's serves their cheesesteaks on an Italian roll, while Geno's uses a seeded hoagie roll. The cheese options are also slightly different, with Pat's offering American and Provolone, while Geno's sticks to Cheez Whiz and American.
Pat's King of Steaks
Address: 1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Pat's is the OG, providing an authentic experience with a balanced ratio of steak to cheese and onions. Their use of an Italian roll gives their cheesesteak a unique texture and flavor. Don't forget to get a side of their famous steak soup.
Geno's Steaks
Address: 1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Geno's offers a classic Philly experience. Their cheesesteaks are sliced thickly, allowing for a hearty, fill-the-mouth satisfaction. The atmosphere is equally engaging, being a hub for locals and tourists alike.
Hidden Gems: Worth the Search
While Pat's and Geno's are must-visit spots, there are several hidden gems that offer something a little different.
Jim's Steaks
Address: 400 S St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
This BYOB spot serves up some of the best cheesesteaks in the area. Jim's offers a variety of cheese options, including Swiss and mozzarella, making it a great spot for those who prefer alternatives to the standard Provolone and Cheez Whiz.
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar & Restaurant
Address: 1500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
For a twist on the classic, head to Max Brenner. Their "Philly Cheesesteak" features grilled steak, caramelized onions, and melted provolone cheese rolled inside a thin, crispy flatbread. It's a lighter, healthier take on the traditional sandwich.
After exploring these fantastic Philly cheesesteak places, you'll understand why this sandwich is more than just a meal; it's a Philadelphia institution. Each place offers a unique experience, from the debate between Pat's and Geno's to the creative interpretations at Jim's and Max Brenner. So, go forth, indulge, and discover your favorite Philly cheesesteak. Just remember, no matter where you go, it's always a good idea to come hungry!