The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of debate among locals and visitors alike for decades. The question on everyone’s mind is: who makes the best Philly cheesesteak? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of cheesesteak enthusiasts, exploring the top contenders, hidden gems, and what sets them apart from the rest.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before we dive into the best places to get a Philly cheesesteak, it’s essential to understand the origins of this beloved dish. The Philly cheesesteak was born in the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in South Philadelphia. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
So, what makes a perfect Philly cheesesteak? Here are the essential components:
- Thinly sliced steak ( ribeye or top round)
- Melted cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone, or white American)
- Soft, crusty hoagie roll
- Sauteed onions and bell peppers (optional)
- A dash of salt, pepper, and a pinch of attitude
Top Contenders: Iconic Philly Cheesesteak Joints
These iconic eateries have been serving up some of the city’s best cheesesteaks for decades.
Pat’s King of Steaks
Pat’s King of Steaks, the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak, has been a South Philly staple since 1930. This no-frills joint is a must-visit for any cheesesteak enthusiast. Order like a local: “Whiz wit” (with Cheez Whiz and onions) or “provolone without” (with provolone cheese and no onions).
Geno’s Steaks
Right across the street from Pat’s, Geno’s Steaks has been a rival cheesesteak joint since 1966. Geno’s is known for its bright lights, flashy signs, and a menu that’s almost identical to Pat’s. Try the “Whiz wit” or “hot pepper” for an added kick.
Jim’s Steaks
Jim’s Steaks, a South Street institution since 1939, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Jim’s is known for its tender steak, gooey cheese, and a more extensive menu than Pat’s or Geno’s. Try the “Steak Italian” with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites and Under-the-Radar Spots
These lesser-known spots may not have the same name recognition as Pat’s or Geno’s, but they’re definitely worth a visit.
Steve’s Prince of Steaks
Steve’s Prince of Steaks, a family-owned business since 1980, has multiple locations throughout the city. Steve’s is known for its tender steak, crispy rolls, and a more extensive menu than most cheesesteak joints. Try the “Whiz wit” or “mushroom Swiss” for a twist on the classic.
Dalessandro’s Steaks
Dalessandro’s Steaks, a Roxborough institution since 1960, is a favorite among locals. This no-frills joint is known for its tender steak, gooey cheese, and a more laid-back atmosphere than most cheesesteak joints. Try the “Whiz wit” or “hot pepper” for an added kick.
John’s Roast Pork
John’s Roast Pork, a South Philly staple since 1930, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. John’s is known for its tender roast pork sandwiches, but its cheesesteaks are not to be missed. Try the “Whiz wit” or “provolone without” for a classic cheesesteak experience.
The New Wave: Modern Twists on the Classic Philly Cheesesteak
These modern eateries are putting their own spin on the classic Philly cheesesteak.
Barclay Prime
Barclay Prime, a upscale steakhouse in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, offers a gourmet take on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Try the “Cheesesteak Spring Rolls” or “Cheesesteak Sliders” for a unique twist on the classic.
Pizzeria Vetri
Pizzeria Vetri, a popular pizzeria with multiple locations throughout the city, offers a cheesesteak pizza that’s not to be missed. Try the “Cheesesteak Pizza” with tender steak, gooey cheese, and a crispy crust.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak is a culinary icon that’s been debated among locals and visitors for decades. Whether you’re a fan of the classic joints like Pat’s or Geno’s, or prefer the modern twists of Barclay Prime or Pizzeria Vetri, there’s a Philly cheesesteak out there for everyone. So, who makes the best Philly cheesesteak? The answer is simple: it’s the one that you enjoy the most.
Getting the Most Out of Your Philly Cheesesteak Experience
- Order like a local: “Whiz wit” or “provolone without”
- Try different types of cheese: Cheez Whiz, provolone, or white American
- Add some spice: hot peppers or hot sauce
- Explore different neighborhoods: South Philly, Roxborough, or Rittenhouse Square
- Don’t be afraid to try new things: modern twists on the classic Philly cheesesteak
What makes a Philly cheesesteak authentic?
An authentic Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a crusty Amoroso roll. The steak is typically cooked on a griddle and served with melted cheese, such as Cheez Whiz or provolone. The key to an authentic Philly cheesesteak is the quality of the ingredients and the way they are prepared. The steak should be sliced thin and cooked to perfection, and the cheese should be melted to a creamy, gooey consistency.
In addition to the ingredients, the atmosphere and service of the restaurant also play a role in creating an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience. A classic Philly cheesesteak joint should have a no-frills, casual atmosphere, with a counter or griddle where customers can watch their steaks being cooked. The staff should be friendly and knowledgeable, with a passion for serving up delicious cheesesteaks to locals and visitors alike.
What are some top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak?
Some top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, and Jim’s Steaks. These iconic restaurants have been serving up delicious cheesesteaks for decades and are often cited as among the best in the city. Pat’s King of Steaks, in particular, is often credited with inventing the Philly cheesesteak, and its classic recipe has remained unchanged since 1930. Geno’s Steaks, located right across the street from Pat’s, is another popular option, with a slightly sweeter and more indulgent take on the classic recipe.
Jim’s Steaks, located in South Philadelphia’s South Street neighborhood, is a local favorite that has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1939. Its steaks are cooked to perfection on a griddle and served on a crusty roll with melted cheese and sautéed onions. Other top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak include Steve’s Prince of Steaks, Dalessandro’s Steaks, and John’s Roast Pork, each with its own unique take on the classic recipe.
What are some hidden gems for Philly cheesesteaks?
Some hidden gems for Philly cheesesteaks include Shank’s Original, a South Philadelphia restaurant that has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1962. This no-frills eatery is a local favorite, with a classic recipe that features thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a crusty roll. Another hidden gem is Steve’s Prince of Steaks, a family-owned restaurant with multiple locations throughout the city. Its cheesesteaks are cooked to perfection on a griddle and served with a side of marinara sauce.
Other hidden gems for Philly cheesesteaks include John’s Roast Pork, a South Philadelphia restaurant that has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1930. Its steaks are cooked to perfection on a griddle and served on a crusty roll with melted cheese and sautéed onions. Dalessandro’s Steaks, located in the Roxborough neighborhood, is another local favorite, with a classic recipe that features thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a crusty roll.
What is the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, with a creamy, gooey texture that melts perfectly on the griddle. Provolone is another popular option, with a slightly sweeter and more indulgent flavor. Mozzarella is also a good choice, with a mild flavor and a smooth, creamy texture.
Some restaurants also offer other types of cheese, such as American or cheddar, but these are less traditional options. Ultimately, the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak is the one that you enjoy the most, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite. Whether you prefer a classic Cheez Whiz or a more adventurous option, the key is to find a cheese that complements the flavor of the steak and the other ingredients.
Can I customize my Philly cheesesteak with toppings?
Yes, many restaurants offer customizable Philly cheesesteaks with a variety of toppings. Some popular toppings include sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, as well as hot peppers and marinara sauce. You can also ask for no cheese or a different type of cheese, or request that your steak be cooked to a specific temperature. Some restaurants may also offer more adventurous toppings, such as bacon or egg, so don’t be afraid to ask.
However, it’s worth noting that some traditionalists may frown upon customizing a Philly cheesesteak with too many toppings. The classic recipe is simple and straightforward, with a focus on the quality of the ingredients rather than a lot of extra toppings. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you may want to stick with the classic recipe and avoid adding too many extra toppings.
Can I get a vegetarian or vegan version of a Philly cheesesteak?
Yes, many restaurants now offer vegetarian or vegan versions of the Philly cheesesteak. These options typically feature a meat substitute, such as seitan or tofu, or a portobello mushroom cap, which is marinated and grilled to perfection. Some restaurants may also offer a vegan cheese option, such as soy cheese or vegan mozzarella.
Some popular vegetarian and vegan options for Philly cheesesteaks include the “veggie steak” at Pat’s King of Steaks, which features a grilled portobello mushroom cap, and the “vegan cheesesteak” at Govinda’s, which features a marinated and grilled tofu steak. Other restaurants may offer their own unique takes on the vegetarian or vegan Philly cheesesteak, so be sure to ask your server for options.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak at home?
Yes, you can make a Philly cheesesteak at home with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills. You’ll need thinly sliced steak, a crusty roll, cheese, and some sautéed onions and bell peppers. You can also add some marinara sauce or hot peppers for extra flavor.
To make a Philly cheesesteak at home, start by slicing your steak thinly and sautéing it in a pan with some oil and butter. Add some sliced onions and bell peppers and cook until they’re softened, then add your cheese and cook until it’s melted and gooey. Serve the steak and cheese on a crusty roll, with some marinara sauce or hot peppers on the side. With a little practice, you can create a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak in the comfort of your own home.