Philadelphia, PA - Planning a visit to Philadelphia, then a visit to one of the city's many cheesesteak joints is in order. The Philly cheesesteak may perhaps be a just sandwich, yet it has plenty of variations that could be overwhelming on how to order one. This article will explain just what to do.
Mastering the Order: How to Get a True Philadelphia Cheesesteak
In Philadelphia, the cheesesteak isn't just a sandwich; it's a cultural icon, a point of civic pride, and a delicious rite of passage. With eateries serving this beloved delicacy on nearly every corner, knowing how to order one is crucial. Yes, there's a correct way to do it, and a few missteps that will immediately mark you as an out-of-towner. Fret not, carb lover! This guide will ensure your first (or hundredth) cheesesteak experience is authentically Philly.
First Rule: It's Not a Hoagie!
Across America, long sandwiches are known by many names: subs, grinders, heroes, and wedges. But in Philadelphia, a cheesesteak is a cheesesteak. Period.
One of the biggest blunders an outsider can make is asking for a "cheesesteak hoagie." In Philly, a hoagie is an entirely different sandwich—a cold cut creation piled with lunch meats, lettuce, tomatoes, and other fresh vegetables on a long roll. If you ask for a "cheesesteak hoagie," you might end up with a confusing (and perhaps disappointing) hybrid. Unless you specifically desire a cheesesteak topped with cold sandwich veggies, stick to a regular cheesesteak.
"Wit" or "Witout": The Onion Conundrum
Fried onions are a quintessential topping for many cheesesteak aficionados. This is where Philly's unique lingo shines.
If you do want fried onions, simply say "wit'" (pronounced "wit"). If you don't want fried onions, say "witout" (pronounced "wit-out").
There's no need to use the word "onion" – the person behind the counter knows exactly what you mean.
Cheese, Please! (And the "Whiz" Debate)
The cheese is the heart of the "cheesesteak." While highly processed Cheez Whiz is often the warm, gooey default at many classic joints, most cheesesteak vendors offer other alternatives. Don't be shy about your preference!
Standard cheese options include:
- Whiz: The classic, gooey, often fluorescent yellow cheese sauce.
- American: A milder, meltier choice.
- Provolone: A sharper, more traditional Italian deli cheese.
- Mozzarella: Sometimes available for a milder, stretchier melt.
If you're offered a choice, speak up! For instance, "One Provolone, wit'."
The "Don'ts" of Ordering a Cheesesteak:
To avoid any side-eye or polite correction, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Don't ask for Swiss cheese. (Famously, John Kerry made this gaffe once.)
- Don't ask for your meat rare, medium-rare, or medium. Cheesesteak meat is always cooked well-done and chopped on the grill.
- Don't complicate the order. Keep it brief and to the point.
The Simple, Correct Way to Order:
Ready to order like a true Philadelphian? It's a quick, three-part formula:
[Quantity] + [Cheese Type] + [Wit' or Witout]
Examples:
- "One Whiz, wit'" (One cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions)
- "Two American, witout'" (Two cheesesteaks with American cheese and no onions)
- "One Provolone, wit'" (One cheesesteak with Provolone cheese and onions)
What if you don't want cheese? If cheese isn't your thing, you're simply ordering a "steak." Example: "One steak, wit'" (One steak sandwich with onions, no cheese)
Just remember this straightforward flow, and you'll be enjoying your authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak in no time, with the full respect of the sandwich shop owner. Enjoy!
