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Philly's Best: Unveiling Chicago, Illinois' Hidden Gems

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Unveiling the gem hidden in plain sight, Philly's Best is an iconic eatery nestled in the heart of Chicago, Illinois. This isn't just another restaurant; it's an institution that has been serving up love, warmth, and above all, mouthwatering sandwiches since the 1970s.

As you step into Philly's Best, you're greeted by a familiar, comforting atmosphere that's as inviting as the aroma of their signature cheesesteaks. It's like walking into someone's home, a home that just happens to serve up the best Philly-style cheesesteaks this side of the Mississippi. But Philly's Best isn't merely a replication of East Coast grandeur; it's a Chicago original, infusing Windy City charm into every bite.

The Legendary Cheesesteaks

At the core of Philly's Best lies the legendary cheesesteak. This isn't your average sandwich; it's considered a Chicago institution that rivals even the most heralded joints in Philadelphia. The secret? A perfect blend of thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and melted cheese - all tucked into a soft, warm roll.

an aerial view of the chicago skyline at night with lights and skyscrapers in the foreground
an aerial view of the chicago skyline at night with lights and skyscrapers in the foreground
25 Best Things to Do in Chicago, Illinois: The Ultimate 2026 Guide
25 Best Things to Do in Chicago, Illinois: The Ultimate 2026 Guide
a close up of a sandwich with meat and cheeses on the side in front of a restaurant sign
a close up of a sandwich with meat and cheeses on the side in front of a restaurant sign

What sets Philly's Best apart, however, is their customization. From the cheese (provolone, American, or mozzarella) to the additions (whiz, peppers, mushrooms, the works), it's your cheesesteak, your way. It's not just about the quality; it's about the experience, the illusion of being in Philly, if only for a moment.

The Original Cheesesteak

The Original Cheesesteak is where it all begins. Ribeye steak, grilled onions, and provolone cheese - simplicity at its finest. It's a taste bud symphony, a perfect blend of savory, salty, and oh-so-satisfying.

a city street filled with lots of traffic next to tall buildings and water in the background
a city street filled with lots of traffic next to tall buildings and water in the background
the city skyline is lit up at night with light streaks on the street and buildings in the background
the city skyline is lit up at night with light streaks on the street and buildings in the background
the city skyline is lit up in green and white
the city skyline is lit up in green and white

For the purist, this is the one. It's Philly in a bun, a testament to the power of a simple, well-executed classic. But if you're feeling experimental, then you're in luck.

The Philly Οιester

The Philly Über is their take on the over-the-top sandwich, a challenge to those with the appetite to match. A cheesesteak with a duo of additional cheeses (whiz and mozzarella), cooked onions, and sautéed mushrooms. It's a cheesy, meaty masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of what a sandwich can be.

A word of caution: the Philly Über isn't just a sandwich, it's an event. It's a meal that demands your full attention, a feat that's no small task in the bustling city of Chicago. But don't worry, it's worth it. Every bite is a revelation, a testament to the culinary creativity that thrives in this city.

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an aerial view of the chicago river at night with a red balloon floating over it
Where to Find the Best Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia
Where to Find the Best Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia
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the city skyline is reflected in the water
Beautiful Sunset In Chicago, Chicago Skyline Drone Sunset, Chicago Sunset Photography, Chicago City 4k, Illinois
Beautiful Sunset In Chicago, Chicago Skyline Drone Sunset, Chicago Sunset Photography, Chicago City 4k, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, Illinois
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an aerial view of a city at night

Beyond the Cheesesteak

While Philly's Best is synonymous with cheesesteaks, their menu is a testament to their adaptability. They've taken the spirit of Philly andtranslated it into a variety of dishes, catering to a a multitude of tastes.

From their loaded fries,íshed in cheese, chili, jalapeños, and sour cream, to their crispy, tender chicken wings, there's a lot more to explore beyond the cheesesteak. But don't worry, no matter what you choose, you're still getting a taste of Philly, in the heart of Chicago.

The Philly Burger

The Philly Burger is a testament to their adaptability. A juicy, char-grilled patty, topped with grilled onions, mushrooms, and melted mozzarella - it's a cheesesteak in burger form. It's a revelation, a bridge between two culinary powerhouses.

Chicago, ill
Chicago, ill
BEST CHICAGO FOOD TOURS: 6 FABULOUS FOODIE ADVENTURES
BEST CHICAGO FOOD TOURS: 6 FABULOUS FOODIE ADVENTURES
Philly
Philly
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people crossing the street at night in front of a theater sign and cars on a rainy day
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the entrance to riverwalk in chicago, illinois
Chicago, Illinois USA 🇺🇸
Chicago, Illinois USA 🇺🇸
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CHICAGO
CHICAGO
Iconic Philadelphia, Sin City Philadelphia, Philadelphia Neon Sign, Neon Sign Philadelphia, Philadelphia Landmark Photography, Philadelphia Neon, South Street Philly At Night, Colors Of Philadelphia, Genos Steaks Philadelphia
Iconic Philadelphia, Sin City Philadelphia, Philadelphia Neon Sign, Neon Sign Philadelphia, Philadelphia Landmark Photography, Philadelphia Neon, South Street Philly At Night, Colors Of Philadelphia, Genos Steaks Philadelphia
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a ferris wheel in front of a city skyline
the words i love phily are in front of some tall buildings and skyscrapers
the words i love phily are in front of some tall buildings and skyscrapers
the city is lit up at night with lights reflecting on the water and buildings in the background
the city is lit up at night with lights reflecting on the water and buildings in the background
a city street filled with lots of traffic and tall buildings next to eachother
a city street filled with lots of traffic and tall buildings next to eachother
the city skyline is lit up at night with lights and fountains in the foreground
the city skyline is lit up at night with lights and fountains in the foreground

It's not just about the flavors; it's about the experience. It's about relishing in the familiarity of a cheesesteak, while exploring new territory. It's about how Philly's Best manages to capture the spirit of its namesake, while still felt Chicago through and through.

The Philly Dog

Lastly, we have the Philly Dog, their take on the classic hot dog. A juicy all-beef frank, smothered in sautéed onions, peppers, and melted cheese - it's a cheesesteak's partner in crime.

It's not just a hot dog; it's a declaration of their love for all things Philly - and their commitment to serving it up in their own unique way. It's a testament to their versatility, their willingness to explore new frontiers, while never losing sight of their iconic cheesesteaks.

In the bustling city of Chicago, Philly's Best stands as a beacon of culinary creativity and adaptability. It's more than just a restaurant; it's a testament to the power of food to bring people together, to create a sense of community. So, if you're in Chicago, looking for a taste of Philly, look no further than Philly's Best. It's not just a sandwich; it's an experience, a memory waiting to be made. Step inside, and let the journey begin.