Hunting Down the Best Cheesesteak in Philly
Welcome to a delectable journey through the City of Brotherly Love, where we embark on a quest to uncover the undisputed champions of cheesesteaks. In a city that takes immense pride in its culinary heritage, finding the best cheesesteak in Philly is akin to an art form.
Join us as we explore the hidden gems and iconic haunts that have tantalized taste buds for generations. From the sizzle of thinly sliced ribeye to the ooze of melted cheese, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of the best cheesesteaks in Philly.
Whether you’re a local in search of a new favorite or a visitor eager to indulge in a true Philly tradition, let’s dive into our hunt for authentic Philly cheesesteaks.
1. Cosmi’s Deli
Address: 1501 S 8th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Website: www.cosmisdeli.com
Nestled in the heart of South Philly, Cosmi’s Deli stands as a timeless testament to the city’s love affair with cheesesteaks. Since 1932, this family-owned deli has been serving up iconic sandwiches.
Cosmi’s signature cheesesteak is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor. Thinly sliced ribeye, cooked to juicy perfection, is nestled inside a fresh seeded roll, making each bite a delightful encounter. Whether you opt for the classic “Whiz wit” or explore their offerings with sharp provolone, the generous portions and melt-in-your-mouth goodness will leave you craving for more.
2. Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop
Address: 6300 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135
Website: www.woodrowssandwichshop.com
Nestled in Tacony, Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop has been a beloved local haunt since 1946. Their cheesesteaks come packed with tender, thinly sliced beef that’s griddled to perfection.
What makes Woodrow’s truly special is their attention to detail when it comes to the toppings. Opt for the classic with grilled onions and hot peppers or try their unique twist: a cheesesteak with long hots. Their kaiser roll embraces the fillings while adding just the right amount of chewiness to the experience.
3. John’s Roast Pork
Address: 14 E Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Website: www.johnsroastpork.com
While John’s Roast Pork is renowned for its namesake—the oft-slept on roast pork sandwich—their cheesesteaks are equally deserving of accolades. This South Philly institution serves up cheesesteaks that define the term “juicy” with perfectly cooked, tender beef and a generous slathering of gooey cheese whiz.
The magic lies in the fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including the Amoroso rolls that hold it all together. Be prepared for a line, but rest assured, the wait is worth every delicious moment.
4. Angelo’s
Address: 736 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Website: www.angelospizzeria.com
A historic spot in Bella Vista, Angelo’s is celebrated for its pizza, but their cheesesteaks shine just as bright. Their secret? The heavenly combination of melted sharp provolone and thinly sliced beef served on a seeded roll. The result is a rich and robust flavor profile that leads many to declare that Angelo’s is home to the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their “Pizza Steak” – a delightful fusion of Philly’s finest and the classic Italian pie.
5. Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies
Address: 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Website: www.dalessandros.com
Nestled in the heart of Roxborough, Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies is a hidden gem that has been winning hearts and taste buds since 1960. A favorite among locals and visitors alike, this family-owned joint embodies the true spirit of Philly’s iconic cheesesteak.
Be prepared for a line, especially during peak hours, but don’t be discouraged; the wait is a testament to the unwavering popularity of Dalessandro’s. Locals know that the reward—some proclaim its the hands-down best cheesesteak in Philly—is worth it, and visitors quickly become converts after their first bite.
6. Donkey’s Place
Address: 1223 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ 08103
Website: www.donkeysplace.com
Crossing over to South Jersey, Donkey’s Place stands tall as a beloved joint that knows its cheesesteaks. The magic here lies in the unique kaiser roll, crafted exclusively for them by a local bakery. This roll embraces the juicy fillings, making each bite a delightful experience.
Their signature creation, the “Donkey’s Cheesesteak,” boasts a perfect blend of sliced beef, finely chopped onions, and melted American cheese. A trip to Donkey’s is a must for any cheesesteak enthusiast.
7. Steve’s Prince of Steaks
Address: 7200 Bustleton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19149
Website: www.stevesprinceofsteaks.com
No list of Philly’s best cheesesteaks would be complete without mentioning Steve’s Prince of Steaks. With multiple locations across the city, this Philly icon has been serving up excellence since 1980.
Known for their thinly sliced beef, expertly cooked to maintain maximum tenderness, Steve’s offers an array of toppings, including their signature cherry pepper relish. Opt for their “Whiz wit” – a classic choice that promises an authentic Philadelphia experience.
8. Chubby’s
Address: 5826 Henry Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Website: www.chubbysphillysteaks.com
Nestled in Roxborough, Chubby’s is a neighborhood spot that delivers big flavors. Their secret weapon is the perfect blend of spices used to season the meat, elevating the taste to heavenly levels.
The cheesesteaks come loaded with grilled onions and long hots, adding a spicy kick to the mix. The result is a mouthwatering experience that showcases the heart and soul of West Philly’s culinary delights.
9. Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop
Address: 6030 Torresdale Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19135
Website: www.joessteaks.com
Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop has a storied history and has stood the test of time. Their commitment to using only top-quality ribeye steak sets them apart.
The cheesesteaks are served on a kaiser roll, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Be sure to try their famous “Whiz wit” or explore their creative options like the “Crispy Bacon Ranch Cheesesteak” for a delightful twist.
10. Jaxx Steaks Taproom
Address: 100 Springdale Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Website: www.jaxxsteakstaproom.com
Heading back to South Jersey, Jaxx Steaks Taproom in Cherry Hill delivers a wide variety of cheesesteak creations to satisfy every palate. The star of the show is their “South Philly” cheesesteak, featuring top-notch sliced beef, cooked to perfection.
The kicker? You get to choose between sharp provolone or cheez whiz to take it to the next level. With their cozy taproom setting, Jaxx offers the ideal spot to enjoy your mouthwatering journey.
11. Ishkabibble’s
Address: 337 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Website: www.ishkabibbles.com
When it comes to the ultimate late-night cheesesteak fix, Ishkabibble’s on South Street is the place to be. This legendary spot has been satisfying hungry locals and adventurous foodies alike since 1979. While they offer classic cheesesteaks cooked to perfection, their claim to fame is the “Chicken Cheesesteak.” Juicy, marinated chicken strips are expertly grilled and topped with melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering alternative to the traditional beef option.
Complete your experience with a side of their famous “Gremlin”—a blend of crispy fries, sautéed onions, and gooey whiz—and you’ll understand why Ishkabibble’s is an iconic Philly establishment.
12. Gojjo
Address: 4540 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Website: www.gojjorestaurant.com
For a cheesesteak experience with an Ethiopian twist, look no further than Gojjo Restaurant in West Philly. This hidden gem combines the flavors of Ethiopia with the essence of Philadelphia’s most iconic sandwich. Their “Ethiopian Cheesesteak” features tender, seasoned beef topped with a savory blend of Ethiopian spices, creating a tantalizing fusion of tastes.
Served on a classic Amoroso roll, this unique creation pays homage to Philly’s culinary heritage while offering a fresh perspective. If you’re seeking a delightful departure from the ordinary, Gojjo is the place to be.
13. Tony Luke’s
Address: 39 E Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Website: www.tonylukes.com
Tony Luke’s is a household name in Philly, and for a good reason. This family-owned joint has been serving up mouthwatering cheesesteaks since 1992. What sets them apart is their dedication to using the freshest ingredients, from the thinly sliced ribeye to the crusty seeded roll.
Opt for the classic “Whiz wit” or explore their “Chicken Cheesesteak Italiano” – a delightful blend of flavors featuring broccoli rabe and sharp provolone. With their iconic neon lights beckoning passersby, Tony Luke’s promises a true taste of Philadelphia’s culinary heritage.
14. Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks
Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Website: www.carmensitalianhoagies.com
Located in the heart of the bustling Reading Terminal Market in Center City, Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks offers an unbeatable combo of rich history and delectable flavors. Their cheesesteaks are a must-try, featuring thinly sliced ribeye cooked to perfection.
But what truly makes Carmen’s special is their commitment to preserving the essence of traditional Italian flavors. Opt for the “Sharp Prov Cheesesteak” – a heavenly combination of sharp provolone, grilled onions, and your choice of sweet or hot peppers. A visit to Carmen’s is a journey through both Philly’s iconic culinary delights and the cherished Italian heritage.
15. Shank’s Original Pier 40
Address: 936 Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Website: www.shanksoriginal.com
Nestled near the Delaware River, Shank’s Original Pier 40 is a beloved waterfront spot that has been serving up unforgettable cheesesteaks since 1962. Their commitment to using high-quality ingredients is evident in every bite.
The “Pizza Steak” is a standout choice, embracing the classic Philly flavors while adding a twist of zesty pizza sauce. Whether you choose the classic beef or the chicken cheesesteak, Shank’s delivers a delightful experience that combines history, flavor, and a serene riverside setting.
Map of the Best Cheesesteaks in Philly