Whether you’re in Philadelphia for a sports game, the museums, a show or just soaking in the culture on South Street, naturally the best thing to eat for lunch or to cure yourself after a late night out is the often-imitated Philly cheesesteak. It doesn’t matter how you like it, “wit” or “witout” onions and covered in Cheez Whiz, provolone or American, nothing hits the spot like a cheesesteak from one of these iconic joints in Philly.
John’s Roast Pork
14 Snyder Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19148
(215) 463-1951
John’s Roast Pork is definitely a local favorite. I wouldn’t say it gets as much attention as Geno’s or Pat’s, but if you’re attending a concert or game at the sports complex, definitely take a cab for a few blocks to enjoy a Philly favorite. This 12-ounce cheesesteak on a sesame seed sub roll for $9.25 is a great option.
Steve’s Prince of Steaks
7200 Bustleton Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19149
(215) 338-0985
Steve’s Prince of Steaks is in northeast Philadelphia near the Roosevelt Mall. So if you find yourself doing some shopping outside Center City, grab a taste of Philly royalty from the Prince. This classic cheesesteak destination serves up a meaty steak at $8.79. Be sure to order “wit” or “witout” and specify what type of cheese you would like; I have a soft spot for Whiz.
Tony Luke’s
39 E. Oregon Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19148
(215) 551-5725
Tony Luke’s is a competitor of John’s Roast Pork, being that it’s a block closer to the sports complex and offers up another killer cheesesteak. Tony’s provides a variety of steaks, including an old-fashioned pizza steak. However you like it, this ribeye steak has been voted Best of Philly eight times and boasts a delicious steak ranging from $8.75 to $9.75, depending on which one you order. Unlike John’s, Tony’s is open on Sundays, so if you’re tailgating for an Eagles game, Tony’s is the spot to go to.
Sonny’s Famous Steaks
228 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 629-5760
Sonny’s Famous Steaks is in the heart of Old City, near the Liberty Bell and the Constitution Center. This stylish cheesesteak spot is open on weekends until 3 a.m. and has been featured in GQ Magazine as “the best cheesesteak in town” by Alan Richman. So whether you’re visiting the historic sights or leaving a bar on the weekend, Sonny’s offers comfort in cheesesteak form at $9. I highly recommend the bacon cheesesteak for $11!
Campo’s Deli
214 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 923-1000
Campo’s Deli, as featured on the Food Network, is also located in Old City near the Liberty Bell and is definitely more of a family location. This cheesesteak mecca offers a wide variety of cheesesteaks like the Flyers Ice Steak. It’s loaded with Philly cream cheese, hot cheddar, tomato and oregano for $10.50. Or you can stick with the classic “wit” or “witout” at $9 with your choice of cheese.
Jim’s Steaks
400 South St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 928-1911
Jim’s Steaks is by far one of the coolest places to eat a steak. Right in the middle of the iconic South Street, Jim’s offers a journey through time with wall-to-wall memorabilia of all of the celebrities that have visited over the years. Whether watching a show at The Theater of Living Arts (TLA) or just shopping around South Street, definitely stop in and enjoy a steak upstairs — who knows, you may run into someone famous! Jim’s offers “wit” or “witout” and your choice of cheese at around $7. I recommend ordering it “wit” and with Whiz. Your appetite, and wallet, won’t be disappointed.
Dalessandro’s Steaks
600 Wendover St.
Philadelphia, PA 19128
(215) 482-5407
Dalessandro’s is a great spot for a cheesesteak if you’re in the Manayunk or Germantown area. This deli offers ribeye cheesesteaks at $8.25. It’s a great place to get away from the rush of the city or when enjoying the nightlife that Manayunk offers. You can also get beer to wash down your steak. You can’t go wrong with that combo!
Cosmi’s Deli
1501 S. 8th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 468-6093
Cosmi’s Deli is located in the heart of South Philly. This spot offers a variety of steaks and even delivery. You can enjoy one on either a sub roll for $7.95 or on a seeded roll for $9.95. Cosmi’s is also a couple of blocks away from the sports complex, so be sure to give the two-time Best of Philly winner a visit after a game or concert!
Geno’s Steaks
1219 S. 9th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 389-0659
The iconic Geno’s Steaks is located in the heart of South Philadelphia. It is equidistant from the Kimmel Center, TLA, the Liberty Bell and sports stadiums. Geno’s is widely accessible from these destinations and is a must visit if you’ve never been there. It is one of the few late-night (meaning 24-hour) places to get a great steak for $10.
Pat’s King of Steaks
1237 E. Passyunk Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 468-1546
Pat‘s is another iconic Philly steak spot located directly across from rival Geno’s. Rightfully dubbed the King of Steaks, Pat’s offers a delicious sandwich for $10. Many locals will tell you the only way to order is “wit” and with Whiz. The combination goes great with an order of fries and a soda. Pat’s is also open 24/7.
Everyone is sure to argue where the best steak is, so that’s up to you to figure out! Whether you like the eclectic nature of Jim’s, the history of rivals Geno’s and Pat’s, or the historic location of Campo’s, if you stick to this list, you are guaranteed to have a genuine Philly experience. And be sure to check out listings in Philadephia for rentals near one of these must-have cheesesteak shops.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org