The renowned cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia, a city where it is more than just a meal—it is a symbol of culture. Every component of a Philly cheesesteak, from the melty embrace of provolone or cheese whiz to the sizzle of thinly sliced beef on the flat top, is the subject of intense discussion among foodies and residents alike.
The search for the best cheesesteak takes you through the core of Philadelphia’s culinary culture, whether it’s a traditional recipe from the original inventors or a contemporary tweak that adds gourmet flair.
Here, we explore the top 5 places that have perfected the cheesesteak, each of which offers a sense of the vibrant present and rich history of Philadelphia. So let’s go out on a delectable adventure to find the best places in the city to tuck into cheesesteaks.
Steve’s Prince of Steaks
Steve Iliescu is one of the few cheesesteak gurus with several locations, and his namesake stores are beloved by the community, particularly those with ties to Northeast Philadelphia.
This regal mini-chain has three other sites, including Center City, in addition to its Bustleton Avenue mothership. Every one of them stays open late on Friday and Saturday evenings, which means that cheddar fries and piled-high ribeyes are a post-last-call need.
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John’s Roast Pork
When someone from South Philadelphia asks you where to get a good steak and says anything like “near Ikea,” “line out the door,” or “anthropomorphized pig in a bib,” they’re attempting to bring you to John’s.
Wait times are a little bit longer than at some of John Bucci Jr.’s turn-and-burn competitors since the restaurant has been a Delaware riverfront tradition since 1930 and prepares each of its steaks—12 substantial ounces of beef filled within chewy Carangi rolls—to order.
It is worthwhile. Make the most of your time and acquaint yourself with the roast pork, which is the local specialty after which John’s is named. It’s a succulent, garlicky success paired with bitter spinach and luscious provolone. So, should I get a steak or one of these? Always. Acquire both.
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Dalessandro’s Steaks
Favored by both Roxborough locals and the wider cheesesteak enthusiasts, Dalessandro’s Steaks is a mainstay in Philadelphia’s northwest neighborhoods.
Outside of the well-stocked fridge full of craft beer, the only difference here is that these grill jockeys—in a rather controversial move—chop their ribeye considerably more finely than most shops—and the results are terrific.
This may not seem like much to an outsider, but it’s the kind of thing that can make or destroy a lifetime of culinary allegiance.
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Barry’s Steaks
Though Barry’s is a bit of a deeper cut, self-styled cheesesteak sherpas might boldly name-drop Delly’s and Chubby’s as the greatest steak in the Manayunk/East Falls/Roxborough area.
Having been in business since 1989, this welcoming neighborhood restaurant serves up crowd-pleasing burgers, wings, dogs, and steaks along a lengthy luncheonette-style counter.
Additionally, there is a refrigerated case stocked with Barry’s own line of soft drinks, which comes in varieties including raspberry lime rickey and root beer.
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Wiz Kid
Although there are other vegan cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, Rich Landau’s at his vegan fast food restaurant Wiz Kid may be the greatest.
The chef and co-owner of vegan hotspots Vedge and V Street creates a crisp and substantial filling of marinated maitake and trumpet mushrooms with shredded seitan, which is then cooked on a flat-top grill with onions to order.
This alternative steak’s “Wiz,” a flavorful, tart fondue made with rutabaga and tofu that eerily replicates the taste and consistency of traditional cheese sauce, may be its most alluring component.
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Final Words
Philadelphia’s cheesesteak scene provides a broad gastronomic excursion, whether you’re looking for history, innovation, or a plant-based option.
Every site, from the well-known brands like John’s Roast Pork to the obscure finds like Barry’s Steaks, guarantees a distinctive experience and a taste of the dynamic culinary scene in the city. Thus, gather your appetite and set out on a cheesesteak pilgrimage through the center of Philadelphia.
