Philadelphia, PA - South Philly is renowned for its cheesesteaks, and if you're looking for the ultimate cheesesteak experience, it's time for you to embark on The South Philly Cheesesteak Crawl. This crawl will take you to seven of the best and most famous cheesesteak joints in South Philadelphia.
1. John's Roast Pork
First up is John's Roast Pork, a hidden gem that consistently ranks among the city's top cheesesteak spots despite not having "cheesesteak" in its name. What sets them apart is their secret weapon - the crusty seeded roll. This unique roll adds a delightful crunch to each bite, complementing the flavorful steak and melted cheese.
2. Gooey Looie's
Next on the list is Gooey Looie's, a cozy deli in the Pennsport neighborhood. This local favorite is known for its generously filled sandwiches; its steak and cheese combination is no exception. The sandwich is so ooey-gooey and packed with flavorful goodness that you'll need plenty of napkins and sometimes even utensils to tackle it.
3. Tony and Nick's Steaks
Tony and Nick's is another must-visit spot for any cheesesteak enthusiast. This well-established Philadelphia institution is conveniently located near an I-95 underpass. Tony Luke's offers a unique experience with street-side windows for ordering and picnic-style tables for dining. Their cheesesteaks are made with love and skill, resulting in a mouth-watering creation that will bring you back for more.
4. Philip's Steaks
Philip's Steaks, situated on the corner of West Passyunk Avenue, is a local legend for serving up rib-eye slabs of meat with hot peppers for decades. Their secret sauce adds an extra kick to the already flavorful steak, creating a taste that captivates every taste bud. It's no wonder Philip's Steaks has satisfied generations of loyal customers.
5. Pat's The Original Cheesesteak
No cheesesteak crawl would be complete without a visit to the iconic Pat's The Original Cheesesteak, where the steak sandwich was invented in 1930. As one of the most famous cheesesteak shops globally, Pat's has remained in the exact location and continues to draw crowds. Their classic cheesesteak, served with or without onions, represents the authentic South Philly taste that has captivated the world.
6. Geno's Steaks
Across the street from Pat's, you'll find Geno's Steaks, a legendary establishment that has been a formidable competitor to Pat's for over 50 years. Geno's is famous for their thinly sliced rib-eye steak, the perfect ratio of fresh onions, and their homemade bread that holds it all together. One bite into their cheesesteak, and you'll be transported into a world of flavors that will leave you craving more.
So, wear your eating pants and prepare for a mouth-watering adventure through South Philly's cheesesteak scene. Each of these seven cheesesteak joints offers its unique twist on the classic dish, ensuring an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether a longtime cheesesteak enthusiast or a first-time visitor, The South Philly Cheesesteak Crawl promises to delight your taste buds and leave you with lasting memories of this iconic Philadelphia culinary tradition.
