Philadelphia, PA - Philly boasts numerous neighborhood cheesesteak shops that may not be the most acclaimed spots yet still draw a faithful local following. Expect long lines as people swap Eagles t-shirts and discuss ticket prices; once inside, sit at tables or balance your sandwich on an old trash can while watching pickup soccer or basketball games nearby.
At one of Philadelphia's many steak shops, you can indulge in classic cheesesteaks, pizza steaks, mushrooms, pepperonis, and roast pork sandwiches topped off with either American provolone cheese or the legendary Cheez Whiz! Philly is unique due to the atmosphere: people discuss Eagles games and political scandals while reveling in our delicious cheesesteak tradition. That's precisely why cheesesteaks have become an essential part of Philadelphian life - they reflect who we are as individuals: not afraid to get messy!
Philly residents or cheesesteak fans tend to have their favorite spot. They will defend to the grave, which makes sense since Philly cheesesteaks are delicious! A classic Philly cheesesteak typically features thinly sliced beef (often frozen chip steak) layered with provolone cheese, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz before being finished off with fried onions, mushrooms, or pepperoni for extra flair - though who has the best cheesesteak depends entirely on who you ask!
Philadelphia offers numerous ways of crafting cheesesteaks - each shop has its fan base - with different preparation styles dominating daily operations. Thousands of steak shops compete with one another for consideration as the best; traditional joints vie with gourmet takes on this timeless dish for supremacy.
Jim's on South Street has long been a beloved South Street landmark, beloved by both residents and visitors. First opened in 1976, its art deco beauty still looks fantastic today - perfect for stopping off after a night of drinking in Philadelphia for something to eat before heading back home!
Geno's has long been associated with Philly and is widely recognized as originating modern cheesesteak sandwiches. Geno's founder, Frank Olivieri, claims he invented it back in 1933 by frying meat and adding cheese, after which his son Frank took over operations to offer quality sandwiches with various toppings.
Tony and Nick's Steaks is another fantastic option for cheesesteaks. They offer 100% ribeye steak with Southern New Jersey vegetables on fresh-baked bread, along with their special seasoning that makes every bite genuinely excellent. Their finely chopped meat adds flavorful layers beyond the typical cheesesteak experience; their crunchy fried onions add extra crunch!
Sonny's is an underrated yet delicious Philadelphia cheesesteak spot near the Liberty Bell in Old City. Offering classic fifties-style tables with friendly service, Sonny's provides delicious cheesesteaks in a casual environment near Independence National Historical Park.
Philadelphia's cheesesteak is at the city's heart, an iconic part of our civic identity. It sends out the message that we take great care and pride in our eating - not afraid to break from tradition and love a great cheesesteak!
