Philadelphia, PA - Philadelphia is a city synonymous with cheesesteaks, where nearly every corner boasts a shop serving this mouthwatering delicacy. But before you dive into the world of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions, it's crucial to master the art of ordering.
The Cheesesteak Lingo:
When ordering a cheesesteak, you'll be faced with two essential questions:
- "Whiz wit?" (Cheez Whiz with onions)
- "Provolone wit'out?" (Provolone without onions)
These are the two most common ways to order, but variations abound. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination.
Where to Find Cheesesteak Heaven:
While every Philadelphian has their favorite cheesesteak spot, here are a few notable establishments worth checking out:
- Cosmi's Deli: This South Philly newcomer has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional cheesesteaks, earning accolades from local food critics.
- Geno's Steaks: Located across the street from its rival, Pat's, Geno's has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1966, making it a true Philly institution.
- Jim's Steaks: With multiple locations throughout the city, Jim's is known for its long lines and the tantalizing aroma of fried onions wafting down South Street.
- John's Roast Pork: While technically known for its roast pork sandwiches, John's cheesesteaks are equally legendary, thanks in part to their crusty seeded rolls.
- Pat's King of Steaks: The self-proclaimed inventor of the cheesesteak, Pat's is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Philly history.
Beyond these iconic locations, numerous other cheesesteak joints dot the city, each with its unique twist on the classic recipe. From food carts to upscale restaurants, there's no shortage of options for indulging in this beloved sandwich.
So, whether you're a die-hard cheesesteak fanatic or a curious newcomer, Philadelphia's cheesesteak scene offers a flavorful adventure. Grab a napkin, prepare for a messy but delicious experience, and savor the iconic flavors that have made this sandwich a global phenomenon.
South Philadelphia Cheesesteak Guide
- Here in Philly, cheesesteaks are a civic icon, a tourist draw, and a cultural obsession. Often imitated around the world, the cheesesteak is rarely duplicated successfully outside of Philadelphia. Here are a few of the best South Philly cheesesteak locations.
Center City Philadelphia's Cheesesteak Guide - Here in Philly, cheesesteaks are a civic icon, a tourist draw, and a cultural obsession. Often imitated around the world, the cheesesteak is rarely duplicated successfully outside of Philadelphia. Here are 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 gets its origins on South Street, where foodies of all kinds head over to both Jim's Steaks and Lorenzo's Pizza for their steaks and pizza. Just wrap your Jim's steak in your Lorenzo slice, and you just made The Philly Taco or South Street Sushi.
