Philadelphia, PA - Cheesesteaks are a Philadelphia staple; tourists flock to the city to experience the iconic sandwich. But with so many cheesesteak shops in Philly, knowing where to find the best one can be challenging.
Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love. The birthplace of American democracy. And, perhaps most importantly, the home of the cheesesteak.
For visitors, sinking your teeth into an authentic Philly cheesesteak is a rite of passage. But with countless cheesesteak shops scattered across the city, each claiming to have the "best," finding your perfect bite can be overwhelming.
Fear not, hungry traveler! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to navigate Philly's cheesesteak scene and discover your ideal cheesy, meaty masterpiece.
Know Your Cheesesteak Anatomy
Before you embark on your quest, familiarize yourself with the key elements of a cheesesteak:
- The Roll: A soft, Amoroso roll is the classic choice, providing the perfect vessel for the fillings.
- The Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye beef is the gold standard, chopped and grilled to perfection.
- The Cheese: The great debate! Choose from Cheez Whiz (the classic Philly choice), provolone, or American cheese.
- The Toppings: Keep it simple with fried onions, or add peppers, mushrooms, and even pizza sauce for a twist.
Cheesesteak Capitals
While cheesesteaks can be found throughout the city, these areas are cheesesteak central:
- 9th Street: Home to the legendary rivals, Geno's Steaks and Pat's King of Steaks, this bustling street is a must-visit for any cheesesteak enthusiast.
- Reading Terminal Market: This historic market houses several cheesesteak vendors, offering a variety of styles and flavors.
- Roxborough/Manayunk: Venture off the beaten path to explore these neighborhoods, known for their local favorite cheesesteak joints.
Legendary Landmarks
No cheesesteak pilgrimage is complete without a visit to these iconic spots:
- Geno's Steaks & Pat's King of Steaks: Located across from each other, these 24/7 institutions have been serving up cheesesteaks (and fueling friendly rivalry) for decades.
- Jim's Steaks: A South Street staple since 1939, Jim's is known for its classic cheesesteaks and old-school atmosphere.
- Tony Luke's: With multiple locations, Tony Luke's has earned a loyal following for its juicy cheesesteaks and roast pork sandwiches.
Beyond the Big Names
While the famous spots are a must-try, don't overlook these hidden gems:
- John's Roast Pork: This South Philly institution is known for its roast pork sandwiches, but their cheesesteaks are equally crave-worthy.
- Dalessandro's Steaks: A Roxborough favorite, Dalessandro's serves up classic cheesesteaks with a focus on quality ingredients.
- Steve's Prince of Steaks: With locations throughout the city and suburbs, Steve's offers a variety of cheesesteaks, including chicken and pizza steak options.
Tips for the Cheesesteak Tourist
- Order like a local: Know your "Whiz wit" (Cheez Whiz with onions) from your "provolone witout" (provolone without onions).
- Bring cash: Many cheesesteak shops are cash-only.
- Prepare to wait: Popular spots often have lines, but the deliciousness is worth it.
- Pace yourself: Cheesesteaks are hearty! Consider sharing one if you're not feeling famished.
- Explore beyond the classics: Don't be afraid to try different cheeses, toppings, and variations.
The cheesesteak experience in Philadelphia is more than just a meal; it's a cultural immersion. So, embrace the journey, explore the city, and discover your perfect cheesesteak. Happy eating!
