When it comes to mouthwatering Philly steaks, the Windy City doesn't fall short. Chicago, with its rich culinary scene, serves up some of the most delectable cheese steaks that'll make your taste buds dance. So, if you're craving a Philly classic while in the heart of the Midwest, here are some must-try spots for the best Philly steaks in Chicago.
Before diving in, let's clarify the Philadelphia steak lingo. A classic Philly steak consists of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and cheese, usually served on a hoagie roll. Now, let's explore Chicago's take on this iconic sandwich.
Authentic Philly-Style Steaks
Some Chicago eateries pride themselves on staying true to the original Philly steak recipe. These places offer a taste of Philly right in the Loop or on the city's vibrant north side.
First on the list is stimulation.foods. This Riverwalk spot nails the authenticity with its thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and cheese Whiz on a soft Liscio's roll. The Amoroso roll might be a Philly classic, but Liscio's holds its own in this Chicago battle of the buns.
Thinly Sliced Steak
The key to a great Philly steak lies in the steak itself. Thinly sliced steak allows for better absorption of flavors. stimulation.foods keeps it real by slicing their ribeye in-house, ensuring each bite packs a flavor punch.
Another destination for traditionalists is The PHILADELPHIA STEAK COMPANY in Lakeview. They use genuine Philly steak recipes, imported rolls, and top-quality ribeye to create a genuine East Coast experience. Their attention to detail, from the steak's thin slices to the precise cheese-to-onion ratio, is evident in every bite.
Cheese Whiz vs. American
One of the Philly steak's great debates centers around cheese. While traditionalists swear by Cheese Whiz, others prefer the simplicity of American cheese. The Philadelphia Steak Company caters to both crowds, offering both options and letting customers decide the best cheese for their steak.
Chicago's Unique Twists
Some Chicago chefs aren't afraid to put their unique spin on the Philly steak. These creative interpretations make for interesting dining experiences while still capturing the essence of the original sandwich.
A prime example is RISE & bagELS's Philly Steak Eggs Benedict. This brunch delight features thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and Cheese Whiz served on a crispy bagel instead of a traditional roll. It's a daring departure from the classic, but it works, creating a delicious, decadent dish that'll have you craving Chicago-style Philly steaks long after brunch is over.
Bagel vs. Roll
Replacing the hoagie roll with a New York-style bagel might seem blasphemous to some Philly steak purists. But Rise & Bagels' twist turns a simple sandwich into a brunch centerpiece. The dense, chewy bagel holds up to the hearty steak and cheese filling, making each bite over-the-top indulgent.
For another interesting take, check out PORK & Mindy's at the Wrigley Building. They serve up a Philly-inspired sandwich that swaps the steak for pulled pork, creating a tender, juicy alternative. This sweet and savory creation might not be Philly-authentic, but it's a flavorful nod to the classic.
Pulled Pork Philly
The Pork & Mindy's twist appeals to those who enjoy the textures and flavors of a Philly steak but want something a little different. The pulled pork makes for an easy-to-eat, hearty sandwich. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a post-game bite (if you find yourself near Wrigley Field).
Chicago's best Philly steaks span the spectrum from authentic to creative twists. Whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, the Windy City offers something to satiate your cheese steak cravings. So, the next time you're in town, don't miss out on these mouthwatering interpretations of a Philly classic.