South Philly - While the Philadelphia food scene is much more than just cheesesteaks, it seems to be what we're known for. Pat's and Geno's are the most talked-about cheesesteak establishments– this post isn't about which is better. Honestly, it all depends on how you like your meat cooked, what kind of cheese you want, and how you like the texture of your roll. The list goes on and on. Every cheesesteak shop in Philadelphia has loyal customers who have returned for years and swear by their allegiance.
As I said, this post isn't about comparing Pat's and Geno's (seriously, go down to South Philly and try for yourself- make a day out of it). Instead, this post is about how I won a date at Geno's, complete with a private VIP booth, chocolate, champagne, and a meeting with Geno himself.
One cold February night, I was browsing Instagram on my couch when I came across a contest: Valentine's Day Plans at Geno's.
I mean... I'm pretty cheesy. I have been known to tell a pretty good joke every once in a while. For example, A man walks into the zoo. The only animal in the entire zoo is a dog. It's a Shih Tzu. (I seriously crack myself up).
Anyway, I thought deep down and tried to figure out the cheesiest thing I've ever done for love. Finally, it came to me: Back in college, my then-boyfriend was supposed to go on a cruise for spring break. Unfortunately, he had to work and was unable to go. Seeing that he was pretty upset, I snuck into his room while he was in class and decorated his apartment like a cruise ship, bringing the cruise to him. (Sorry, Ryan, I have lost my cheesiness as I've gotten older, but I won you a free cheesesteak. Is it a loss?) I entered the contest (on Instagram, Twitter, and their website... I'm relentless) and crossed my fingers.
Fast-forward a week, and I received a phone call from a South Jersey number I didn't have on my phone. Upon answering, I was told I had won! (I was actually pretty shocked. The last thing I've ever won was a free cake in 5th grade at the elementary school carnival.) I was all set after confirming a date and time for my date night.
At noon on March 5, 2016, Ryan and I headed to Geno's for our date. Upon arrival, we texted our contact for the day (hi Yinka!) and were greeted outside. I wondered where this VIP booth would be for those who don't know; Geno's seating is entirely outside, with tables lining the sidewalk. Were they going to rope off one of the tables? We dressed warmly, just in case.
Once Yinka came outside to meet us, she brought us around the side of the restaurant, through the back door, and into the glorious cheesesteak establishment. We first noticed how immaculately clean it was – not something you expect from a cheesesteak joint turning out hundreds of cheesesteaks a day. If you dropped Geno's steak on the floor, you could most likely defeat it ( tell anyone).
After we got the grand tour, they led us to our VIP booth. This is where all the celebrities eat when they come to town. It's inside, cozy, and unexpected. We were surrounded by photos of great Philly sports stars (and non-Philly sports stars), comedians, and actors. Still, I was most impressed by Justin Timberlake circa 2000 (probably taken right around his denim suit fiasco).
Geno came over to us, introduced himself, and we took a photo in front of the VIP wall. We were asked how we liked oulikedeaks, and once we both indicated we liked thlikedwhiz wit," the order was placed (along with some cheese fries).
We spoke with Geno for about 20 minutes, learning about him, his shop, and which celebrities he's enjoyed meeting the most. We also asked about the "rivalry" between him and Pat, and as it turns out, they're pretty good friends and eat each other's cheesesteaks.
They brought over our meals, and Geno offered us his favorite champagne imported from France. Afterward, we were left alone for about 10 minutes to finish eating and enjoy our romantic date.
I opted to use Geno's hot sauce on my cheesesteak—but BEWARE—it is SUPER spicy. It was almost too spicy for me (Geno even said he wouldn't eat it because it's too spicy). Nevertheless, the cheesesteak was delicious; the whiz dripped down our fingers, the onions added that extra crunch, and the meat was cooked perfectly (did you know Geno's imports its meat from Australia?).
After successfully stuffing our faces, Geno returned and told us he would take us to his favorite chocolate dessert cafe- Rim Cafe, right around the corner in the Italian Market.
Our experience at Rim was one that is deserving of its post. The owner is a character, and the chocolate was so delicious that we went back after dinner for dessert later that night.
Center City Philadelphia's Cheesesteak Guide—Cheesesteaks are a civic icon, a tourist draw, and a cultural obsession in Philadelphia. Although they are often imitated worldwide, they are rarely duplicated successfully outside of Philadelphia. Here is PhillyBite's and Visit Philly's List of top center-city cheesesteak locations.
The Philly Taco, South Street Sushi, The Lorenzo's, and Jim's Challenge - Are you searching for the ultimate Philadelphia frankenfood? Look no further; it's The Philly Taco—a combination of a Philly cheesesteak and a slice of pizza. The combo begins on South Street, where foodies of all kinds head over to both Jim's Steaks and Lorenzo's Pizza for their steaks and pizza. So wrap your Jim's steak in your Lorenzo slice, and you make The Philly Taco or South Street Sushi.
The Best of Philadelphia's Ginormous Foods - Are you searching for enormous foods in Philly? How about The Whale, a 14-pound bagel leviathan brimming with smoked salmon and whitefish salad at Spread Bagelry, or the 9-pound superhero sandwich, a pile-up of bacon, pork, and cheese at Jake's Sandwich Board? Finish things off with the Car 23, a trolley-shaped loaf of French toast stuffed with berries and cream cheese at the Trolley Car Diner.
