Few things are more synonymous with Philadelphia than the Philly cheesesteak – a delicious blend of thinly sliced meat, sautéed onions, and a choice of cheese, all nestled between a soft roll. With its origins dating back to the 1930s, this iconic sandwich has become a symbol of Philadelphia's culinary scene and a must-try for both locals and visitors alike. Here, we explore some of the most famous Philly cheesesteak spots in the City of Brotherly Love.
The debate over the "best" Philly cheesesteak often revolves around the type of cheese – Provolone, American, or Whiz being the top contenders. Regardless of your preference, these renowned eateries have perfected their unique takes on this beloved sandwich.
The Originals: Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks
No discussion of Philly cheesesteak spots would be complete without mentioning the legendary rivalry between Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, both located on the bustling South 9th Street. Since 1930, Pat's has been serving up their signature "Pat-O" cheesesteak using thinly sliced ribeye steak and a slice of American cheese, while Geno's introduced the beloved Provolone option in the 1960s. Both establishments boast long lines of eager patrons, each swearing by their favorite's superiority.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit both, ordering your steak " wit" (with onions) or "wit-out" (without onions) to fully appreciate the subtle differences between these iconic sandwiches.
Pat's King of Steaks
Though both Pat's and Geno's have extensive menus, the stars of the show are undoubtedly their classic cheesesteaks. Order the Pat-O for an authentic taste of Philly history, or try the King's Roadstead – a hearty combination of steak, cheese, and lightly fried onions.
Tips: Arrive hungry – their portions are generous! And be prepared to wait during peak hours, as the lines can be quite long.
Geno's Steaks
Geno's Provolone cheesesteak is a must-try for any cheese-loving fan of the sandwich. For something completely different, consider the Ultimate Steak – a massive sandwich stuffed with Italian sausage, steak, chicken, ham, and cheese.
Tips: Bring cash, as Geno's is cash-only. And don't be afraid to ask for a sample – their friendly staff is known for their generosity with cheesesteak bites!
Local Favorites: Jim's Steaks andkáMoose's
While Pat's and Geno's may be the most famous, other Philly cheesesteak spots boast devoted followings and unique offerings. Two such eateries are Jim's Steaks and Moose's.
Both eateries offer faithful renditions of the classic Philly cheesesteak, along with creative twists on the traditional formula.
Jim's Steaks
Jim's Steaks has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1940, and their time-tested recipe results in a juicy, perfectly seasoned steak and a robust, flavorful gravy that sets them apart. Don't miss their half-steak, half-chicken interpretation of the classic sandwich – the perfect blend of two toppings!
Tips: Try visiting Jim's in the early morning hours – they're open 24/7, and their cheesesteaks can be a popular late-night snack for locals and bar-goers alike.
Moose's
Moose's cheesesteaks are known for their thinly sliced, sizzling meat and generous portion sizes. Their menu includes a wide variety of toppings, from roasted peppers to A.1. steak sauce. For a unique twist, try the Cajun cheesesteak – a spicy, New Orleans-inspired take on the classic.
Tips: Be mindful of the ordering process at Moose's – they use a combination of hand signals and shouted orders, which can be bewildering for first-timers. And be sure to ask about their daily specials, as they often feature creative combinations not listed on the regular menu.
From the original rivals to the local favorites, Philadelphia's numerous cheesesteak spots each offer a unique interpretation of this iconic sandwich. Whether you prefer a classic Provolone steak or a creative twist, the City of Brotherly Love has a Philly cheesesteak destination for every taste. So grab your appetite and explore – your taste buds will thank you!