Bite into a Philadelphia culinary classic with the iconic Palmer Philly cheesesteak. This renowned sandwich, crafted with thinly sliced ribeye, melted cheese, and garnished with sautéed onions and peppers, is a local institution that's earned global fame.
At the heart of this delicious storm lies the Palmer name, a family-owned business that's been serving lovers of Philly's finest since 1947. Located in South Philly, Palmer Snack Bar is the original birthplace of the now-famous cheesesteak. Here's a closer look at what makes the Palmer Philly cheesesteak a must-try for food enthusiasts worldwide.
The Palmer Legacy: A Brief History
The story of the Palmer Philly cheesesteak dates back to the mid-20th century. Pat and Carmen Oliveri, immigrants from Naples, Italy, opened the snack bar in 1947. Initially serving classic Italian-American fare, they introduced the cheesesteak in response to customer requests for a " Aristocrat"-style sandwich – a hot, meat and cheese-filled delight popular at that time.
As the tale goes, the Oliverei's daughter, teenaged Dolly, improvised by adding sliced onions to the new sandwich, creating the classic Philly cheesesteak we know today. The Oliverei's son, Joe, eventually took the reins and changed the name to Palmer in the 1950s, a nod to the couple's beloved dog. It's been a beloved Philadelphia staple ever since.
The Original Recipe: Secrets Revealed
The Palmer Philly cheesesteak's foundation lies in its quality ingredients. Professional chefs and amateurs alike have tried to replicate the recipe, but it's the care and love that goes into each sandwich that sets it apart. The ribeye, seasoned with a secret blend of spices, is sliced thin and cooked in small batches on the grill. Every bite is a testament to the Oliverei's commitment to excellence.
The cheese might seem simple, but it's the key to unlocking the sandwich's flavor. The original Palmer Philly uses Provolone, melted to a perfect gooeyness that binds the ribeye and sautéed onions together. Some swear by the addition of Cheez Whiz, but the Palmer family stands by their Provolone roots.
A Step-by-step Guide: Crafting Your Own Palmer Philly
Craving a taste of South Philly at home? Here's a step-by-step guide to crafting your own Palmer-inspired cheesesteak:
- Start with a lb of ribeye steak, freeze it briefly to make slicing easier. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of Palmer-style seasonings.
- Grill the steak in small batches until cooked to your liking, then slice thinly. Onions and peppers should be sautéed until soft and caramelized.
- Assemble your sandwich on a soft Italian roll, layering meat, cheese, and vegetables. Fold the roll over, cut in half, and serve hot!
The Palmer Snack Bar Experience
Visiting the Palmer Snack Bar is more than just a meal; it's a Philadelphia rite of passage. The humble exterior belies the culinary magic happening within. Order at the counter, grab a seat, and watch as your cheesesteak is grilled to perfection. Locals and tourists alike share the communal tables, swapping stories and projecting their picks for the next Super Bowl.
Beyond the Cheesesteak
While the Palmer Philly cheesesteak might reign supreme, the snack bar's menu is far from one-note. Italian influences shine in dishes like the sausage and peppers, eggplant parmesan, and homemade desserts. But don't miss the opportunity to try a Roast Pork sandwich – a lesser-known Philadelphia classic that's just as delicious.
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a Philadelphia food icon, the Palmer Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich. It's a testament to the power of good food, family, and community. So, the next time you're in Philly, visit Palmer Snack Bar. Order a cheesesteak. Chat with the regulars. And understand why this slice of South Philly is worth shouting about.
