Philadelphia, PA - 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.
South Philadelphia Cheesesteak Guide:
Cosmi’s Deli - Although Cosmi’s Deli is a relative newcomer among the cheesesteak contenders, this corner store has won plenty of praise for its rendition of the famous Philly delicacy. It’s even a two-time winner of Philadelphia magazine’s coveted “Best of Philly” award. 1501 S. 8th Street, (215) 468-6093, cosmideli.com 
Genos Steaks - 
It may be across the street from the oldest cheesesteak joint in town,but Geno’s Steaks is a formidable competitor going roll-for-roll with Pat’s for more than 50 years. The key to success for the 24/7 spot? Quality thinly sliced rib-eye steak for maximum juiciness, the freshest of onions and house-made bread.After Joey Vento's death in 2011, restaurant ownership was passed to his son Geno Vento 1219 S. 9th Street, (215) 389-0659, genosteaks.com
Gooey Looie’s - With a name like Gooey Looie’s, the kitchen isn’t going to skimp on meat. The Pennsport deli plumps up its sandwiches with a beyond-generous helping of steak and cheese that demands many napkins—and sometimes utensils. 231 McClellan Street, (215) 334-7668, gooeylooies.com
John’s Roast Pork - May not have “cheesesteak” in its name, but this small shack among shopping plazas is frequently named one of the city’s top steak spots. Its secret weapon? A crusty seeded roll. 14 E. Snyder Avenue, (215) 463-1951, johnsroastpork.com
Pat’s King of Steaks - The original home of the cheesesteak, Pat’s King of Steaks has been owned and operated by the Olivieri family for 87 years and counting. A 24-hour shop, Pat’s shuts down for only 48 hours each year: Thanksgiving and Christmas. 1237 E. Passyunk Avenue, (215) 468-1546, patskingofsteaks.com
Shank’s Original - The Delaware River Waterfront’s Shank’s Original serves a highly reputed cheesesteak—and an old-school South Philly experience. Wise patrons know to save room for a bite or two of Shank’s famed chicken cutlet sandwich too.901 S. Columbus Boulevard, Pier 40, (215) 218-4000, shanksoriginal.com
Tony and Nick's Steaks - Every sandwich at the award-winning —Tony Luke's now with multiple locations in multiple states—But this is the original. And although the cheesesteak, made with 100% USDA-inspected rib-eye steak, was not on the restaurant’s original menu, it’s been a top seller ever since it was added six months after opening in 1992. Original location, 39 E. Oregon Avenue, (215) 892-1010
