Perched in the heart of California's OC, far from the bustling streets of Philly, lies a haven for cheesesteak enthusiasts - Irvine. The city has embraced the East Coast's iconic sandwich, and to help you navigate the local scene, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to Irvine's best Philly cheesesteaks.
But first, a quick primer. A true Philly cheesesteak is a symphony of flavors: thinly sliced ribeye or top round, sautéed with onions and peppers, then melted cheese, all nestled in a standard hoagie roll. The cheese is critical -most traditionalists prefer Cheez Whiz, but provolfetti (a mix of provolone and mozzarella) and American cheese are also common. Now, let's dive into Irvine's finest interpretations of this East Coast classic.
Steven's Steak & Seaside Market
First on our list is Steven's Steak, a local gem tucked inside Seaside Market. This isn't just your average grocery shop deli counter - it's a seriously delicious cheesesteak destination. Their steak is sliced fresh daily, and the cheese of choice is a gooey, melted provolfetti that perfectly complements the tender meat.
What sets Steven's apart is their roll. Instead of a standard hoagie, they use a locally baked Italian roll that adds a pleasant crunch and enhances the overall dining experience.
Topping Tweak
Steven's offers an intriguing topping option - grilled onions and green peppers, or a combo of both. Sautéed till soft and sweet, they provide a beautiful flavor balance that elevates the classic cheesesteak profile.
To fully enjoy this cheesesteak, we suggest pairing it with their signature Steak Sauce, a house-made, sweet and tangy concoction that's as Irvine as it gets.
Size Matters
Steven's caters to both the hungry and the moderately peckish, offering their cheesesteak in three sizes - six, eight, and ten inches. The ten-inch is a hearty meal, fit for a true Philly cheesesteak lover looking to conquer the challenge head-on.
Phillipe the Original French Dip
Now, you might wonder why a French dip specialist made our list. Well, tucked away within their extensive menu is a Philly cheesesteak that's surprisingly on point - the 'Original Philly Cheesesteak'.
Opt for the 'Wit' to experience an authentic touch of Philly in Irvine - grilled onions and Cheez Whiz (or American, if you prefer) on a soft Hoagie roll. The steak's thinly sliced, and the overall execution is commendable, earning them a spot in our local cheesesteak hall of fame.
Phillipe's offers a unique atmosphere with its French-inspired decor and rich history. This place is perfect for grabbing a cheesesteak and feeling like you've stepped into another time, another place.
zlatip>To complement your cheesesteak, consider their classic fries or even their signature onion soup - it's the perfect combo to complete your Philly-meets-French experience.
Customization Station
While they may not be native to Philly, Phillipe the Original knows how to cater to individual tastes. From cheese to topings, and even roll choices, their menu offers plenty of flexibility to recreate your perfect Philly cheesesteak.
Finally, if you're planning a visit to either of these fantastic spots, be sure to check their operating hours. Some may have limited hours or restricted services due to ongoing public health guidelines. Happy eating, Irvine cheesesteak lovers!
