When it comes to Philadelphia, there's one culinary icon that stands out above all others: the Philly cheesesteak. This iconic sandwich has been delighting locals and visitors alike for generations, and with countless spots around the city serving up their unique take on the classic, it can be hard to know where to start. So, we've compiled a list of some of the Philly's best Philly steaks, from tried-and-true classics to innovative twists.
From the city's renowned concurrency to the lesser-known mom-and-pop shops, the best Philly cheesesteak spots aren't just about the sandwich – they're about the experience. Each joint has its own story, its own atmosphere, and its own secret to crafting the perfect cheesesteak. But no matter where you go, you can expect tender, savory beef, crispy onions, and gooey cheese melted onto a simple, sturdy roll. It's this simple combination, executed with love and care, that has made the Philly cheesesteak a beloved American staple.
Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks: The Iconic Face-off
No discussion of Philly cheesesteaks would be complete without mentioning Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, the two most famous competitors on South 9th Street. Since the 1940s, these neighboring delis have been serving up classic Philly Cheesesteaks, each with its own loyal following.
Pat's is the older of the two, founded in 1930 by Pat Olivieri. The original Pat's cheesesteak features thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a proprietary roll. Order your "wit" (with onions) or "without," and don't forget to specify your cheese: American, Provolone, or "Whiz" (Cheez Whiz, of course).
Geno's Steaks: The Rival with a Twist
Geno's, which opened in 1966, offers a slightly different take on the classic. Here, the beef is cut into larger chunks rather than thinly sliced, and the cheese is melted on the roll before the beef and onions are added. This method results in a cheesier, less greasy sandwich. Despite their differences, both Pat's and Geno's are must-visit spots for cheesesteak aficionados.
Pro tip: Both delis close early, so plan your visit accordingly. And don't worry about the lines – they move quickly, and the wait is worth it.
The Traveling Philly Cheesesteak: Jim's Steaks
If you're exploring beyond South 9th Street, head to Jim's Steaks in South Philadelphia. This neighborhood institution has been serving up delicious cheesesteaks since 1938, and its reputation has grown so much that it now has several locations around the city and even in other states.
Jim's Steaks offers a wide range of cheesesteak options, from classics like the "Wit" and "Without" to specialty sandwiches like the "Jim's Special" (with sausage, peppers, and mushrooms) and the "Pizza Steak" (with pepperoni and pizza toppings). Don't miss their famous house-made desserts, like the cheesecake or the cannoli, to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The Mushroom CAPital of the World: Falafel King
While many cheesesteak joints stick strictly to the classic combo of beef and cheese, some innovative spots Around Philadelphia are putting their unique spin on the iconic sandwich. One such place is the Falafel King in Reading Terminal Market.
The Falafel King's Nashville Hot Chicken Cheesesteak is a fiery twist on the classic, featuring crispy fried chicken, spicy "Combine" sauce, melted cheese, and pickles on a hoagie roll. It's a certified whirlwind of flavor that'll leave you craving more. And if you're a mushroom lover, you're in luck – Reading Terminal Market is also home to the nation's largestleshigh mushroom farm, so you can expect fresh, locally-sourced mushrooms in many of the market's offerings.
Mushroom Magic: Dalessandro's Steaks
Another mushroom lover's dream, Dalessandro's Steaks in the Roxborough neighborhood offers a variety of mushroom-centric cheesesteaks. Their fungi-laden 'Steak's' include the "Mushroom Madness" (with a half pound of mushrooms) and the "Double Dee" (with double the mushrooms of the 'Mushroom Madness'). If you're feeling particularly adventurous, try the "Veggie Delight," which substitutes the beef for a hearty mix of sauteed vegetables.
Dalessandro's also boasts a cozy atmosphere, with a lively bar and plenty of old-school Philly charm. It's the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends and family.
The Art of the Cheesesteak: Hard Rock Cafe Philadelphia
For a Philly cheesesteak experience with a side of star power, head to the Hard Rock Cafe in Philadelphia's Center City. Their " rendition of the classic cheesesteak features marinated, thinly sliced steak, grilled onions, and melted Monterey Jack cheese on a signature roll. It's a rewarding twist on the original that's sure to satisfy.
Plus, with live music performances, memorabilia from musical legends, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Hard Rock Cafe offers an entertainment experience that's perfect for visitors and locals alike.
As you explore Philadelphia's diverse culinary scene, you'll discover that every cheesesteak is a unique blend of history, personality, and tradition. So, whether you're craving a classic sandwich at an iconic deli or a creative variation at a trendy spot, one thing is for sure: in Philadelphia, you're never more than a few steps away from a delicious, mouthwatering cheesesteak. So, grab a napkin, prepare your taste buds, and dig in – because in Philly, every cheesesteak tells a story, and you deserve to hear them all.