Philadelphia, PA - Jim Pappas was busy this year, trying out over 500 different cheesesteaks in the last 21 months. On May 16, 2018, Jim started his Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure to find the Ultimate Cheesesteak in and around the Philadelphia region. His search has taken as far west as Reading, North to Princeton, and South to Bear, DE.
The quest for the perfect cheesesteak is a journey without end, a delicious adventure through the heart of Philadelphia and its surrounding areas. While I'm still on my mission to eat every cheesesteak in the region, I've compiled a list of some of the absolute must-try spots. This isn't just about the big names; it's about the hidden gems, the unique creations, and the places that pour their heart and soul into this iconic sandwich. Here is an updated list of some of the best cheesesteaks you should try now.
1. Best Overall Cheesesteak
Charlie’s Roast Pork (1301 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA)
This remains a natural choice for the best overall cheesesteak. It all starts with a beautiful, seeded roll that has the perfect crust and light, edible bread inside. The meat is chopped, juicy, and incredibly tender. To pay proper respect to their roast pork heritage, I always get my cheesesteak here with sharp provolone and their phenomenal broccoli rabe. They get the cheese melt and the ingredient balance right every single time. With plenty of seating and a staff that’s a joy to be around, it's a top-tier experience. Plus, you can enjoy your steak in the adjacent Pennsport Beer Boutique, which is a fantastic bonus.
2. Historic Cheesesteak
McGillin’s Olde Ale House (1310 Drury St, Philadelphia, PA)
I call this the ‘learn their story, and you’ll love them more’ cheesesteak because every visit to McGillin's reveals a new reason to love it. They poured their first beer in 1860—let that sink in. Abraham Lincoln was president! The history is palpable, with original signs still on the wall. They offer a fantastic selection of local beers for great prices and have employees who have worked there for over 20 years. The cheesesteak itself is fantastic, a perfect pub-style steak that you can enjoy while soaking in the incredible history. Go for the history, stay for the food, and discover your own reason to love McGillin’s.
3. Special Occasion Cheesesteak
Barclay Prime (237 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA)
The infamous $140 cheesesteak! Yes, it's a splurge, but if you're celebrating a special occasion, this is the only way to do it. Made with Japanese A5 Wagyu beef, a house-made truffle whiz, and foie gras, this is the most fantastic and decadent thing you will ever put in your mouth. It comes served with a half bottle of champagne. This cheesesteak is so rich and luxurious you’ll want to share it, making it the perfect start or end to a special day in the city.
4. Best Cheesesteak in Reading Terminal
By George! (Reading Terminal Market, 1200 Filbert St, Philadelphia, PA)
By George! is the clear winner of numerous Reading Terminal Cheesesteak smackdowns. You can feel the quality when you pick it up; their cheesesteaks have a satisfying heft that others in the market lack. Made with fresh ingredients right in front of you, it’s a consistently delicious choice. For suburbanites, I’ll give you the gift that is Reading Terminal Market: find a parking deal with a validation and make a mandatory field trip here. It's as essential as visiting the Liberty Bell.
5. 'Peanuts on a Cheesesteak' Cheesesteak
Ugly Oyster Drafthaus (21 S 5th St, Reading, PA)
Reading, PA, peanuts, an ugly oyster, and a cheesesteak. It sounds like a strange combination, but I swear it’s one of the most fun food experiences I've had. When I saw peanuts listed as a topping option for a cheesesteak, I had to try it. After some banter with the bartender, she convinced me, and I'm glad she did. The salty crunch of the peanuts adds a surprising and delicious texture to the sandwich.
6. Best Cheesesteak in Delco
Johnny Paisano’s (226 Baltimore Pike, Springfield, PA)
Okay, this is a very, very good cheesesteak. If Johnny weren’t such a fantastic caterer, everyone would be talking about his cheesesteak. It starts with an excellent seeded roll and only gets better from there. Johnny knows good ingredients and how to make them work together, and you can taste his love of cooking in every single bite.
7. Best 'Down the Shore' Cheesesteak
A & LP Foods (101 E 15th Ave, North Wildwood, NJ)
Even in the off-season, A & LP is in peak form. I recommend ‘The Bomb,’ a cheesesteak loaded with salami, provolone, and a long hot. Everything is in perfect balance and blends together magnificently on a fantastic seeded roll. This is the kind of shore cheesesteak you can grab and enjoy on its own or take to one of the nearby breweries or distilleries.
8. Best Vegan Cheesesteak
Triangle Tavern (1338 S 10th St, Philadelphia, PA)
While my original vegan pick has since closed, the Triangle Tavern offers one of the best vegan cheesesteaks in the city. It captures the essence of a classic steak while being entirely plant-based. They use seasoned seitan, vegan cheese, and serve it on a great roll. Crucially, it's a spot where you can enjoy a fantastic vegan version right alongside a traditional one, making it perfect for any group.