Philadelphia, PA - What is a Philly Taco? It's a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia. It's also known as the Lorenzo's-Jim's Challenge, South Street Sushi, and Lorenzo's-Jim's Taco. This sandwich is essentially a cheesesteak wrapped in a giant jumbo slice of pizza.
The Philly Taco: A Culinary Mashup of Iconic Proportions
The Philly Taco, a legendary culinary creation, is not for the faint of heart. This monstrous mashup combines two iconic Philadelphia staples—a Jim's cheesesteak and a giant slice of Lorenzo's pizza—into one messy, delicious, and undeniably iconic experience.
Creating Your Own Philly Taco: To embark on this culinary adventure, head to South Street, the epicenter of Philly's street food scene. First, make a stop at Jim's Steaks, a renowned institution known for its mouthwatering cheesesteaks. Order your preferred cheesesteak, whether it's a classic "Whiz Wit" or a customized creation.
Next, head a block east to Lorenzo's Pizza, famous for its gargantuan slices that rival the size of your head. Grab a plain slice, the perfect vessel for your cheesesteak filling.
Now for the fun part: carefully roll your cheesesteak into the pizza slice, ensuring maximum cheese coverage and minimal spillage. Congratulations, you've just created a Philly Taco!
Mastering the Art of the Philly Taco: While the Philly Taco may seem like a simple concept, there are a few tricks to mastering this culinary feat. The proper way to wrap the pizza is lengthwise, not like a pig-in-a-blanket. This technique ensures a more balanced ratio of pizza and cheesesteak in each bite, with the final bite culminating in a satisfyingly crispy pizza crust.
Be prepared for a challenge, as the Philly Taco is not only massive but also incredibly messy. The key is to embrace the chaos, savoring each bite of cheesy, meaty goodness as you navigate the delicious mess.
A Nickname by Any Other Name: The Philly Taco has earned a variety of nicknames over the years, including South Street Sushi and the Lorenzo's-Jim's Challenge. But no matter what you call it, this iconic creation is a testament to Philadelphia's bold and creative culinary spirit.
Embracing the Experience: The Philly Taco is more than just a meal; it's an adventure, a culinary challenge, and a rite of passage for any true foodie visiting Philadelphia. So, gather your courage, head to South Street, and prepare for a taste of Philly that's truly unforgettable.
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Joy Franklin
Food and Event Writer
My joy is aimed at food and foodie lovers. I enjoy covering trends, issues, and all things Philly.
