NEW JERSEY - The Jersey Shore is famous for its culinary staples, and The Wildwoods take their sandwich game very seriously. With the 7th annual PhillyBite Cheesesteak Madness competition heating up, the search for the perfect combination of meat, cheese, and bread is on everyone's mind. Whether you are strolling the boardwalk or exploring the quieter corners of the island, here is a guide to the top spots for a classic, mouth-watering cheesesteak.
A & LP Foods (North Wildwood)
A true island institution, A & LP has been serving up exceptional food since 1953. Located at the corner of 15th and New Jersey Avenue, this family-run Italian deli and restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients over frozen products. Their cheesesteaks are generously portioned and built on traditional family recipes that have kept generations of vacationers coming back year after year.
Johnny Longhots (Wildwood)
Bringing a massive dose of "Philly Vibe" straight to the shore, Johnny Longhots on Pacific Avenue is a multi-time "Best of Jersey Shore" winner. They are famous for their perfectly griddled steaks, and, as the name implies, adding their signature stuffed Italian long hots to your sandwich elevates the flavor profile. It is a must-visit destination for anyone serious about their sandwich toppings.
Steve's Prince of Steaks (Wildwood)
For those who want an authentic taste of Philadelphia without leaving the island, Steve's Prince of Steaks on New Jersey Avenue delivers. Expanding from their storied history in Philly, Steve's brings their signature sliced (not chopped) steak and perfectly melted cheese to the beach. They are known for moving fast and serving up a sandwich that stays true to its big-city roots.
Skinny Joey's Cheesesteaks (Wildwood)
The newest headline-grabbing addition to the boardwalk for the 2026 season is Skinny Joey's Cheesesteaks. Located at Magnolia and the Boardwalk, this spot is run by former Philadelphia mob boss Joey Merlino. Following the massive success of his South Broad Street location in Philly, Merlino's expansion to the Wildwoods brings serious crowds and a highly anticipated sandwich to the summer scene.
Steak Bros (Wildwood)
Originally making their mark in Stone Harbor, Steak Bros expanded into Wildwood to bring their legendary cheesesteaks to a wider beach crowd. Built on the same commitment to quality that made Berardi Brothers Pizzeria famous, they offer high-end steaks with a consistent, savory bite, making them a standout option off the boardwalk.
Crest Tavern (Wildwood Crest)
If you prefer to sit down with a cold beer while you enjoy your sandwich, the Crest Tavern is a local favorite. Tucked away in Wildwood Crest, this establishment serves up a classic, no-nonsense cheesesteak loaded with onions. It is the perfect laid-back environment to escape the boardwalk crowds and enjoy a great meal in a comfortable pub setting.
