Philadelphia, PA
- A few of your favorite Philly restaurants posses a few secret menu items, We've picked out a few must-have items you will want to try from some of Philadelphia's well-known eateries. Remember, although off-the-menu food might be unbelievably fun to order, these may not be readily available at every location and might hold up the line considering these dishes aren't usually prepared.
Philly's Secret Eats
In a city as food-obsessed as Philadelphia, some of the most delicious and legendary dishes aren't even on the menu. These "secret menu" items are the stuff of local lore, passed between regulars and in-the-know foodies. Ordering one is a rite of passage that signals you're a true insider. From legendary donut creations to a hidden burger masterpiece, here is a guide to some of the best and most talked-about secret menu items in Philadelphia.
1. The "Wholesale" Sandwich at Federal Donuts
- The Secret: While Federal Donuts is famous for its incredible fried chicken and unique donuts, they have a legendary off-menu creation for breakfast. The "Wholesale" is a breakfast sandwich made with a fried chicken thigh, American cheese, and a spicy Rooster-sauce-style aioli, all served on a potato roll.
- How to Order: Simply ask for the "Wholesale" at the counter. It's an insider's breakfast of champions.
- Location: Multiple locations across the city.
2. The In-N-Out-Style Burger at Shake Shack
- The Secret: Craving the taste of the West Coast's most famous burger? You can get a surprisingly close approximation at Shake Shack. Order a ShackBurger and ask for it "Animal Style". While they may not use that exact name, you can request extra ShackSauce, grilled onions, and pickles to create a similar flavor profile to an In-N-Out Animal Style burger.
- How to Order: Order a ShackBurger and ask to add grilled onions.
- Location: Multiple locations, including University City and Center City.
3. The "Godfather" Hoagie at Fink's Hoagies
- The Secret: This Northeast Philly institution is home to one of the city's most legendary off-menu sandwiches. "The Godfather" is a massive and delicious creation packed with prosciutto, soppressata, dry-cured capicola, mortadella, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and sharp provolone, all drizzled with olive oil on a seeded roll.
- How to Order: You have to be in the know and ask for "The Godfather" by name.
- Location: 4633 Princeton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135
4. The "Secret" Burger at a.bar
- The Secret: The sophisticated cocktail bar bar, next to AKA Rittenhouse Square, is known for its incredible drinks and raw bar. However, they also offer a fantastic off-menu burger. It's typically a perfectly cooked patty with high-quality cheese on a simple bun, a delicious and satisfying secret for those in the know.
- How to Order: Ask your bartender if the off-menu burger is available.
- Location: 1737 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
5. The "Cheesesteak" at Paesano's Philly Style
- The Secret: The legendary sandwich shop Paesano's is famous for its inventive creations like the Arista and the Paesano. While they don't list a traditional "cheesesteak," they have their own incredible version. Ask for the "Bolognese," which features a classic cheesesteak topped with a hearty, slow-cooked bolognese sauce.
- How to Order: Ask for the "Bolognese" sandwich.
- Location: 1017 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Italian Market)
Discovering a secret menu item is one of the great joys of exploring a city's food scene. It makes you feel like an insider and often rewards you with a uniquely delicious dish. From the legendary "Wholesale" at Federal Donuts to the secret burger at a.bar, Philadelphia's off-menu offerings provide a fun and flavorful adventure for any food lover willing to ask.
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