NEW JERSEY - When you think of cheesesteaks, Philadelphia naturally comes to mind. But just across the river, New Jersey has quietly built a cheesesteak culture that rivals—and some locals argue, surpasses—its famous neighbor. From the poppyseed kaiser rolls of Camden to the hefty, loaded subs of North Jersey, the Garden State does not mess around when it comes to chopped ribeye and melted cheese.
NEW JERSEY - When you think of cheesesteaks, Philadelphia naturally comes to mind. But just across the river, New Jersey has quietly built a cheesesteak culture that rivals—and some locals argue, surpasses—its famous neighbor. From the poppyseed kaiser rolls of Camden to the hefty, loaded subs of North Jersey, the Garden State does not mess around when it comes to chopped ribeye and melted cheese.Here are 10 of the best spots to grab a cheesesteak in New Jersey:
1. Donkey's Place (Camden, Medford, Mt. Holly)
Anthony Bourdain famously declared that Donkey's Place had a cheesesteak that could beat anything in Philly, and he wasn't wrong. What makes Donkey's unique is its vessel: instead of a traditional long hoagie roll, they serve their incredibly flavorful, onion-heavy steaks on a round, poppyseed kaiser roll.
2. Meatheadz Cheesesteaks (Lawrence Township)
If you are looking for the best in Central Jersey, Meatheadz is the undisputed king. They are famous for their massive, over-stuffed portions and perfectly seasoned ribeye. You can get it classic or try one of their signature creations, but you will absolutely not leave hungry.
3. Chick's Deli (Cherry Hill)
Tucked away in a small alley, Chick's Deli is a South Jersey institution that has been serving up no-nonsense, classic cheesesteaks since the 1950s. They keep it simple with high-quality meat, great rolls, and the perfect meat-to-cheese ratio.
4. Lillo's Tomato Pies (Hainesport)
While they made their name on Trenton-style tomato pies, Lillo's has recently taken the New Jersey cheesesteak scene by storm. Served on fresh, seeded rolls with a heavy hand of Cooper Sharp cheese, these steaks regularly draw lines out the door and sell out fast.
5. White House Sub Shop (Atlantic City)
White House is globally recognized for its massive Italian subs, but their cheesesteak is a sleeper hit that has been fueling beachgoers for decades. Their signature soft, fresh-baked bread perfectly absorbs the juices of the chopped steak and melted provolone.
6. Peter & Sons Sandwiches (Glassboro)
A favorite among Rowan University students and Gloucester County locals, Peter & Sons is known for taking the traditional cheesesteak and turning it up to eleven. Their garlic bread cheesesteak is a legendary, messy, and unforgettable dining experience.
7. Cockadoodle Dan's (Palmyra)
Though the name suggests a focus on chicken, Cockadoodle Dan's slings an incredibly authentic, hefty ribeye cheesesteak. They use premium cuts of meat, chop it finely on the griddle, and serve it on top-tier local bread that holds up to the heavy fillings.
8. Bob-O's Cheesesteaks (Ridgefield Park)
Proving that North Jersey can hold its own in the cheesesteak game, Bob-O's is a staple in Bergen County. They focus purely on the art of the cheesesteak, offering a perfect, classic chopped ribeye with traditional whiz, provolone, or American cheese.
9. Gaetano's (Multiple Locations)
With several spots peppered throughout South Jersey, Gaetano's is famous for its sheer size and variety. If you want a cheesesteak the size of your forearm loaded with everything from pepperoni to mozzarella sticks, this is the place to go.
10. Cheesesteak Louie's (Seaside Heights)
If you are down the shore, Cheesesteak Louie's is the place to be. Known for fresh, thinly sliced ribeye and a perfectly casual boardwalk vibe, they deliver a highly-rated, classic steak that hits the spot after a long day in the sun and surf.
