As a local Philadelphian, years has been spent sampling the city’s iconic cheesesteaks, and this article will settle the debate once and for all. But before the reveal of the top pick, let’s take a journey through the rich history of Philly’s cheesesteak scene.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has its roots in the 1930s, when South Philadelphia hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll. A taxi cab driver, who Olivieri claims asked him to add some cheese to the sandwich, inadvertently created the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
Over the years, the cheesesteak has evolved, with various establishments putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Some have added unique ingredients, like Whiz Wit (Cheez Whiz and onions) or hot peppers, while others have perfected the art of grilling the steak to perfection.
The Contenders
Now, onto the main event! Here are the top contenders for the best cheesesteak in Philly:
1. Pat’s King of Steaks: The original and still one of the best. Pat’s has been serving cheesesteaks since 1930, and their classic recipe remains unchanged.
2. Geno’s Steaks: Right across the street from Pat’s, Geno’s has been a rival since 1966. Their cheesesteaks are made with thinly sliced ribeye and melted cheese.
3. Jim’s Steaks: A South Street institution since 1939, Jim’s is known for their tender steak and gooey cheese.
4. Steve’s Prince of Steaks: This family-owned joint has been serving cheesesteaks since 1980. Their steak is cooked to perfection, and their cheese is always melted to a golden brown.
5. Dalessandro’s Steaks: This Roxborough neighborhood spot has been a local favorite since 1962. Their cheesesteaks are made with tender steak and a generous helping of cheese.
The Champion
After careful consideration and countless cheesesteak tastings, we are proud to declare Steve’s Prince of Steaks the winner. Their cheesesteaks are consistently cooked to perfection, with tender steak, gooey cheese, and a crusty roll that holds everything together.
Steve’s has been a family-owned business for over 40 years, and their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every cheesesteak they serve. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Philly, Steve’s is a must-visit destination for any cheesesteak enthusiast.
The debate may rage on, but for this local, Steve’s Prince of Steaks is the undisputed champion of Philly cheesesteaks. Whether you agree or disagree, one thing is certain – Philly’s cheesesteak scene is a culinary treasure that deserves to be explored and enjoyed. So, go ahead, grab a cheesesteak, and taste the magic for yourself!
