Philadelphia, PA - The Pat's vs. Geno's cheesesteak rivalry in South Philly has become legendary. It has managed to capture the hearts and taste buds of both locals and tourists alike. While there are undoubtedly other excellent cheesesteak spots in Philadelphia, the allure of this historic rivalry continues to draw droves of hungry visitors year after year.
The Pat's Vs. Geno's Cheesesteak Rivalry
Pat's King of Steaks holds the title of being the original cheesesteak joint, with a rich history dating back to 1930. It was here that Pat Olivieri first invented the iconic sandwich that would become a cultural sensation. On the other side of the street, we have Geno's Steaks. Established by Joey Vento in 1966 and later named after his son Geno, this establishment boasts bright lights that are said to be visible from space, adding an extra touch of flare to the rivalry.
Although this rivalry is essentially a marketing campaign to encourage visitors to try both locations and decide for themselves, the truth is, that there are only minimal differences between the two. Regarding ingredients, Pat's and Geno's use the same cheese and onions, resulting in a similar taste experience. The only noticeable variation lies in the preparation of the meat, offering a slight contrast in flavor and texture.
Interestingly, while the competition between the two establishments remains fierce, the owners of Pat's and Geno's have been seen socializing together. At one point, they even lived in the same building and collaborated on charitable projects. This collaboration adds a delightful twist to the rivalry, showcasing the underlying camaraderie between these iconic cheesesteak makers, all while maintaining the mystique that continues to draw legions of cheesesteak enthusiasts to South Philly.
