Verona and Amato Bros. Reign Supreme in March Cheesesteak Madness
Philadelphia, PA - Double the Cheesesteak Glory: The 2024 March Cheesesteak Madness competition delivered a double dose of deliciousness, with two deserving champions emerging victorious.
Judge's Cup Surprise: Verona Pizza
Verona Pizza, a humble pizza shop next to a Giant Supermarket, claimed the coveted Judge's Cup in a significant upset. This win marks the second time a restaurant from the "Other Counties" region (comprising Montgomery, Bucks, Berks, and Chester counties) has secured the title.
Verona Pizza faced stiff competition in the championship match against Scalessa's My Way Old School Italian Kitchen, a beloved Wilmington, DE institution. Despite being their first year participating in March Cheesesteak Madness, Verona Pizza impressed the judges, who were intrigued by the potential of this unassuming strip mall contender.
The final decision was a nail-biter, but Verona Pizza's dedication to quality ingredients, including the highly regarded Carangi roll, ultimately clinched the win. This victory proves that cheesesteak greatness can be found anywhere—even near your neighborhood grocery store.
People's Choice Champion: Amato Bros.
Across the river, Amato Bros. in Oaklyn, New Jersey, captured hearts (and tastebuds) to secure the People's Cup. This beloved hoagie shop, defying odds as the 14th seed in the New Jersey/Delaware region, bested the fierce competition, even besting Delco's favorite Lorenzo's Steaks & Hoagies to claim the win.
Amato's story began in 1982 when Mike Amato purchased his first deli in South Philly. Their dedication to quality ingredients and family-style service fueled their success, propelling Amato Bros. into a regional favorite.
Cheers to the Champs!
Congratulations to both Verona Pizza and Amato Bros. on their well-deserved wins! PhillyBite Magazine and the Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure thank all participating shops and the legions of passionate fans who made this year's March Cheesesteak Madness unforgettable.
Ready to taste the winners? Visit Verona Pizza, Next to Giant, 1941 Norristown Rd, Maple Glen, PA 19002, and Amato Bros at 612 White Horse Pike, Oaklyn, NJ, and let us know if you agree with the voters!