Philadelphia, PA - Going to a Philadelphia Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park is an essential Philly experience, and no game is complete without indulging in the city's most iconic sandwich: the cheesesteak. The ballpark offers several fantastic options for fans to get their fix, from outposts of legendary local institutions to classic stadium fare. If you're heading to the game and craving a delicious cheesesteak, here's a guide to where you can find the best options.
Ashburn Alley: The Heavy Hitters
If you want an authentic Philly experience, head straight to Ashburn Alley, the concourse behind center field. This is the home of the "Big Two."
Tony Luke’s
- Location: Ashburn Alley (behind Section 147)
- The Vibe: A true South Philly institution. It’s consistent, reliable, and exactly what you expect from a high-end steak.
- Pro Tip: The lines here get notoriously long. If you want a Tony Luke’s steak, try to get to the park as soon as the gates open to beat the rush.
Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks
- Location: Ashburn Alley (near the Bullpen)
- The Vibe: A family-run favorite from Old City. They are the Official Cheesesteak of the Phillies.
- The Signature: Try "The Heater"—a spicy masterpiece featuring jalapeños, Buffalo sauce, and jalapeño cheddar.
- Dietary Note: Campo’s is the go-to for inclusive options, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free cheesesteaks.
The Fan Favorite: Uncle Charlie’s Steaks
Named after legendary manager Charlie Manuel, this spot has quickly become the insider's choice since its debut.
- Location: Section 109 (Right Field)
- Why it’s different: They use a seeded Liscio’s roll, which provides a sturdier, crunchier base than the softer rolls found elsewhere in the park.
- The Build: Expect a generous portion of chopped ribeye topped with Cooper Sharp American cheese—a favorite among locals for its extra-creamy melt.
The Wildcards and Alternatives
Sometimes you want the flavor of a steak without the traditional delivery.
Bull’s BBQ
- Location: Left Field Plaza
- The Pick: The Burnt Ends Cheesesteak. It swaps traditional ribeye for smoky BBQ brisket burnt ends and is often topped with a gooey Gouda cheese sauce.
Pass and Stow
- Location: Near the Third Base Gate
- The Pick: While primarily a sports pub and beer garden, they often feature elevated takes on Philly classics. Look for their "Disco Fries"—while not a steak, they hit those same savory notes with roast pork, sharp provolone, and broccoli rabe.
Tips for the Perfect Game Day Steak
- Timing is Everything: Concourse lines peak between the 2nd and 5th innings. Eating early is your best bet for a fresh, hot sandwich.
- Check the Upper Levels: If the Ashburn Alley lines are long, look for Uncle Charlie’s Express (usually behind Section 319) for a faster version of the fan favorite.
Getting a cheesesteak at Citizens Bank Park is a quintessential Philadelphia experience. Whether you opt for a classic, authentic version from a legendary local name like Campo's or Tony Luke's in Ashburn Alley, or grab a quick one from a nearby concession stand, it's the perfect way to fuel up while you cheer on the Phillies.
