When it comes to cheese steaks, Philly is the undisputed capital of the sandwich world. Two iconic spots rise above the rest in the City of Brotherly Love, drawing hordes of hungry patrons with their mouthwatering creations. Let's dive into the juicy details of Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, the two biggest cheese steak places in Philly.
Philadelphia's romance with the cheese steak dates back to the 1930s, with tales of its invention varying as much as the toppings that adorn these succulent sandwiches. But two names have stood the test of time, becoming synonymous with the city's most famous export: Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks. These renowned eateries have been serving up classic cheese steaks for generations, each boasting a loyal following that swears by their unique recipes.
Pat's King of Steaks
A South Philly institution since 1930, Pat's King of Steaks has been crowned the "King of Steaks" for a reason. It was here that the cheese steak was born, with Pat Olivieri's simple beef and onions creation evolving into the sandwich we know and love today. Pat's secret? A blend of thinly sliced ribeye and top round steak, cooked to perfection on a hot grill and artfully arranged on a lengthy roll.
The star of the show at Pat's is undeniably the cheese steak itself. Ordering is an art form here, with customers lining up to place their requests: "Whiz with," "Whiz wit," "Provolone wit," each option packing a delicious punch. The "Whiz" refers to Cheez Whiz, patented by Philly native Godfrey Baker in 1952. Beware, though: Pat's purists shun ketchup, so if you're a tomato sauce lover, you might want to sit this one out.
Pat's Unique Toppings
Once you've decided on your cheese, it's time to tackle the onion question. "Wit" means with onions, "without" means no onions. It's a divisive issue in Philly, and Pat's takes no prisoners. They cook their onions down to a sweet, caramelized oblivion, a delightful compulsory addition that even the most diehard onion haters find themselves warming to.
But it's not just about the cheese and the onions. Pat's offers an array of topping options, from mushrooms and peppers to sausage and steak. And if you're feeling particularly adventurous, the "Special" will see your cheese steak topped with everything the kitchen has to offer. It's a symphony of flavors that's as comforting as it is confusing.
Pat's Atmosphere and Legacy
Pat's humble exterior belies the dining experience within. Whether you're standing in line on the steamy sidewalk or squeezed into one of the cramped booths, there's a tangible energy that permeates the air. This is more than just a restaurant; it's a rite of passage, a pilgrimage to the birthplace of an American icon.
The walls are adorned with photos of celebrities and sports stars who've paid their respects, a testament to Pat's enduring appeal. And while the lines might be long and the service a little gruff, there's a certain charm to the no-frills approach. Ordering, waiting, and finally sinking your teeth into that tender, melty heaven - it's a process that only serves to enhance the final payoff.
Geno's Steaks
Just a stone's throw from Pat's, Geno's Steaks has been giving its neighbor a run for its money since 1966. Founded by Joseph Vendetti, or "Geno" as he's known to his customers, Geno's has built a reputation on itsIterator-sized portions and its founder's larger-than-life personality. If Pat's is the grandmaster of cheese steak tradition, then Geno's is the maverick pushing its boundaries.
At Geno's, there's an emphasis on size and customization. While Pat's serves up long, slender sandwiches, Geno's offerings are famously robust, hefty slabs that challenge even the hungriest of appetites. Order a "Deal" and you'll receive a cheese steak so outsize it's practically a meal for two. For those seeking a unique twist on the classic, Geno's offers a astonishing list of optional toppings, from unexpectedly delicious ()sauerkraut and pickle relish to more outre options like pepperoni and American cheese.
Geno's Signature Toppings
Geno's signature topping is the Cheez Wiz, but here it's sliced through with a generous helping of mayonnaise, a secret weapon that sets Geno's apart from its rivals. It's a divisive decision, but one that many customers find adds a certain creamy, indulgent quality to each bite. The onions here are chopped rather than sliced, their sharp, slightly crunchier texture providing a pleasing contrast to the soft, yielding beef.
But perhaps the most striking aspect of Geno's is its atmosphere. While Pat's interior is utilitarian, Geno's is a riot of color and kitsch, the walls papered with amusing, often tongue-in-cheek slogans. "This is America," reads one sign, "We speak English." Another advises, "If you can't speak English, order in Italian." It's a playful, inclusive approach that extends to the ordering process, with servers encouraged to engage with customers, asking after their day and offering recommendations.
Geno's Community Spirit
Despite its size and success, Geno's remains a stalwart of the local community. It's often by ambulance drivers, police officers, and other hardworking Philadelphians, who prize Geno's hearty portions and prompt service. In fact, it was here that the famous "Geno's Hero" campaign started, offering free meals to emergency services personnel. It's a testament to Geno's commitment to its neighbors, enhancing its reputation as more than just a cheese steak joint - it's a local institution.
As you leave Geno's, crumpled napkins and streaks of Cheez Wiz clinging to the corners of your mouth, you'll likely find yourself already planning your next visit. And that, perhaps, is the most convincing accolade of all. The cheese steak may be Philly's most celebrated export, but it's the love, tradition, and passion poured into these two iconic establishments that truly sets them apart.