Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog

Tribute to Joey Vento Owner of Geno's Steaks

2011-09-26T11:16:00.004-04:00

This post is dedicated to Joey Vento, owner and founder of Geno's Steaks. Joey Vento, a legend in the cheese steak world, has recently passed away. Please post any comments or stories that you may have of this very generous man, one who has given so much to Philadelphia. Also, please be respectful within your posts.

Ishkabibble's Eatery Philadelphia Cheese Steak

2010-04-16T19:17:00.004-04:00

The following email came from a fan of the blog about Ishkabibble's Eatery on South Street:

"I've been reading your blog for a while now and I've never noticed a review of
Ishkabibble's Eatery on South Street.

Yet, I've read several recommendations elsewhere, such as Yelp, Urbanspoon, and other places. Have you no opinion on Ishkabibble's?

Also, could you clear up something for an out-of-towner? Is there a location of Ishkabibble's Eatery at 9th & Federal, down the block from the tourist traps?

Thanks!

Ciao for now!
Mike"

Hey Mike, my review of Ishkabibble's Eatery is not current so I will have to wait until my next visit to post a true review. I have heard many good things about them recently though so I will have to look into it. Until then, I have set this post up so that fellow readers can post their reviews of Ishkabibble's Eatery for you. Also, they use to have a place on Federal Street but they have closed it and now they only have the spot at 337 South Street in South Philly (from my knowledge). Thanks for being a good fan of our cheese steak blog.

Philly Cheese Steaks and Tourists

2010-04-10T16:59:00.002-04:00

I had some friends from New York visit Philly recently and they begged me to go to Pat’s or Geno’s Steaks for a cheese steak. Why do Philly tourists attract to these places like magnets when the real cheese steaks are so close to them for half the price. I took them to one of my favorite places on my Best Philly Cheese Steaks list and they were just blown away.

After reviewing my monster Philly cheese steak list that I have compiled for you (which took plenty of effort and months to burn off) what do you think? Is there a cheese steak joint that is missing? If so let us know and why. Don’t forget to vote for your top cheese steak place for 2010 (on the poll to the side). 2009’s best cheese steak award went to Rick’s Steaks. This is a people’s vote so the most votes wins. Vote for the Best Philly Cheese Steak today!

2009 Best Philly Cheese Steak Award Winner

2010-01-04T18:46:00.004-05:00

Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog 2009 Best Philly Cheese Steak Award Winner

We are proud to announce the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog 2009 Best Philly Cheese Steak Award Winner (as selected by the people). Congrats to Rick Steaks! This award is derived from a combination of methods that tally the public’s votes including: various emails, comments, and votes from our poll. This award is NOT a reflection of the opinion of the owners of this blog. Please visit our best cheese steak reviews section for info on what we recommend as the best Philly cheese steaks.

If you have a cheese steak place that you would like to see listed for the 2010 Best Philly Cheese Steak Award then please vote on our blog. If the company’s name is not on the poll then please use the comment section below to cast your vote for 2010. All of these comments will be taken into consideration for next year’s winners.

Thanks again and congrats to Rick‘s Steaks, the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog 2009 Best Philly Cheese Steak Award Winner!

George’s Famous Roast Beef | Steaks Review

2009-12-04T14:05:00.003-05:00

George’s Famous Roast Beef and Steaks is located at 1007 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. This Philly sandwich shop is a perfect example of a great cheese steak shop right in the backyard of the Top 3. Established in 1945, George’s Roast Beef is in the Italian Market only a few blocks north of the famous Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks. This place has history and for many years has been unrecognized. This will change today. Our blog is recognizing this location as a must visit. George’s deserves to have the same amount of tourists visits as any other of the top 3 Philly Cheese steak joints (a term I created for Pat’s, Geno’s, and Jim’s).

George’s Famous Roast Beef and Steaks is located in the famous Italian Market in Philadelphia (claimed to be the oldest outdoor market in the country). This is not to be confused with George’s Sandwich shop down the next block. George’s Roast Beef is a little hole in the wall luncheonette type of shop with about 4 tables to sit. The chairs are hard as a rock and the table does its job and that’s it. The looks of the places appears that there hasn’t been any renovations done since its opening 65 years ago.

Despite these limitations, the sandwiches here are fantastic. For $6.75 I received a foot long sandwich. What a value! They use soft dark brown Italian rolls that are as fresh as a new day. The onions are semi chopped and fried dark. The cheese used was American cheese and is placed under the steak. There were several ears of cheese that was not fully melted with the rest of the cheese as they hung over the side of the rolls. The sandwich was so good that I overlooked this.

The steak was fresh thin slices thrown on the grill. The steak was semi chopped meaning that there wasn’t large strips in the sandwich but the steak wasn’t fine chopped either. There was a balance between the methods of chopping the steak.

The sandwich had just the right amount of content inside the roll. There wasn’t an over amount nor was the sandwich skimpy. It was just right.

George’s Famous Roast Beef and Steaks also have roast beef on the menu and I may need to come back another time to try that.

The hospitality of the staff was very good. The chef appeared to be the owner and he was very polite and modest to me.

For the quality of the Philly cheese steaks here and the price I was surprised that people weren’t breaking George’s door down. There was an average of 1-2 customers in and out the whole time I was there. It was ironic because I drove by Geno’s and Pat’s a few moments before for comparison purposes and the lines were the usual: wrapped around the corner. Do these tourists know that they can walk just 2 blocks down Ninth Street and eat much better for cheaper? George’s sandwich is triple Geno’s or Pat’s and $1.25 cheaper. This is a no brainer. I am not trying to take business away from the Top 3 but I am trying to educate the tourists so that they know that other great places do exist.

George’s Famous Roast Beef and Steaks – welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

White House Sub Shop Cheese Steak Review

2009-11-11T21:26:00.005-05:00

The White House Sub Shop is located at 2301 Arctic Avenue, Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 (Corner of Mississippi and Arctic Avenues). Established in October of 1946, this submarine shop is one of a kind.

The White House Sub Shop was opened over 60 years ago by Anthony Basile and his aunt and uncle, Basilia and Fritz Sacco. Today it is still run by the same Basile and Sacco families.

The White House Sub Shop is a sit down sandwich shop with a row of booths on the right side when you walk in. You can also sit at the counter if you like but the booths are more spacious. Along the walls of this place are decorations of the shops worldly popularity. There are countless pictures of famous people who have eaten here including The Beatles and Frank Sinatra. I also saw a picture of Elvis but without any signature I couldn’t confirm if he was here.

A reason that this place could be so popular is because of its proximity to the casinos in Atlantic City, the length of time it’s been around, and the lack of competition. The combination has led many famous visitors of Atlantic City here to get a quick bite to eat. Since Atlantic City is so close to Philly (many argue that it is Philly with a boardwalk) it would be expected that they would have a famous Philly cheese steak place here. This is where White House Sub Shop comes in.

What makes this place amazing besides the celebrities that it has attracted is the size of the sandwiches. A half a sandwich is about a foot long but the whole sandwich is about 2 foot long (this is how they sell their sandwiches: half and whole).

I ordered a whole famous Philly cheese steak submarine for $15. This was a very good deal considering that you can feed about 3 people with it.

The rolls that were used were slightly toasted light Italian rolls (not your traditional Philly cheese steak roll). The steak is 91.1% fat free U.S. D. A. Choice Lean Top Round Steak Cut. The steak was semi chopped (not fine chopped). There was a reasonable portion of steak put in the sandwich but it was not filled to the rim like many Philly places.

The onions were fried and long thin slices. The cheese used is provolone cheese (they have American if you ask for it otherwise provy is by default). They may have gone a notch too much with the cheese. Not a significant amount like Mama’s Pizzeria but just a little more than enough.

Another difference in White House subs is that they use lettuce and tomato slices in the Philly cheese steak. This is very unorthodox for the traditional cheese steak. I am not concerned with different if different is good but I think that lettuce takes away your concentration from the rest of the sandwich. If I wanted a side salad I would have asked for it.

The White House Sub Shop in AC is overall very good. I have made an exception for them to consider them a candidate for the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club because of their proximity, history, popularity, and the fact that Atlantic City is dominated by Philadelphians. With that said, aside from the lettuce and tomatoes, I like their sandwich especially for the value. The hospitality was warm enough for a steak joint but really what helped them get into the club is because Frank Sinatra approved of them.

The White House Sub Shop welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies

2009-10-24T16:07:00.004-04:00

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies are located at 1510 Dekalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422 (Whitpain Shopping Center). Pudge’s Steaks originally began about 1965 in the LaSalle University area. Ten years after its opening, they moved to the Blue Bell area and have been there ever since. The name "Pudge" came from the original owner, Frank Carbone, who was nicknamed as a child after the dog in the Betty Boop comic strip. After Pudge's death in 2000, the shop was taken over by his daughter.

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies has an extremely friendly staff that are polite from the minute you walk in the door. Their new location (they recently moved from across the street at 1530 Dekalb Pike) has plenty of tables and booths. Their place is very clean in appearance and looks like a place that you don’t want to rush your meal just so that you can leave. What I mean is that it is very cozy in there compared to the majority of Philly cheese steak joints.

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies also are very popular in the media. For example, they were awarded Best of Philly by Philadelphia Magazine in 2005.

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies has a beautiful Philly cheese steak. Their steak is semi chopped and filled high in the sandwich. The onions were sliced small and mixed well with the cheese and steak. But the highlight of this sandwich is the rolls. Pudge’s rolls come from a bakery called Conshohocken Italian Bakery and are the ideal Philly cheese steak rolls. They are soft Italian rolls with just the proper amount of texture as reflected by its smooth light golden brown appearance. I am certain that these rolls were fresh too as the boxes of rolls were stacked in customer view and appears to have been delivered the same day. Also, considering the line of people that were waiting to order, this increased the likelihood that they have a high daily turnover of their rolls inventory.

I really like Pudge’s Philly cheese steak. Even though they are almost an hour away from Philly cheese steak central in South Philadelphia, Pudge’s has done it right. The price of their Philly cheese steak was reasonable too at $6.95 for about a foot long. And their rolls…I would advise them not to switch bakeries…their bakery has mastered the formula for making Philly cheese steak rolls. Their rolls were definitely the highlight of the sandwich. I am not saying that the rest of the sandwich wasn’t good because it was. I am saying that the rolls really made Pudge’s sandwich stand out and have helped me consider them one of the Best Philly Cheese Steaks.

Pudge’s Steaks and Hoagies – welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Steak and Hoagie Factory Franchise Review

2009-10-24T15:35:00.004-04:00

The Steak and Hoagie Factory is one of the Philadelphia cheese steak joints that are doing well franchising. Established in 1990, the Steak and Hoagie Factory currently has six locations, which include: Abington, Doylestown, Hilltown, Penndel, Somerton, and Warminster, PA. This Philly cheese steak franchise only has one owner, Dave Christy, who hand selects his locations to ensure consistency and quality. The place that I have recently visited and will be the subject of this review is located at: 1749 York Road, Abington, PA 19001.

Steak and Hoagie Factory in Abington has a semi large size seating arrangement with several different booths and tables. There is a good arcade section there for the kids too. This is a quick eat type of operation where usually the customer stays no longer than 20-30 minutes.

Steak and Hoagie Factory’s Philly cheese steak was very good. They used lightly toasted Italian rolls to hold their semi chopped steak. The onions were fried and mixed well with the cheese. There was a good proportion of cheese, steak, and onions… a fine balance the way it should be.

There was a substantial amount of steak in the sandwich to full you but yet not an overloading portion. The rolls are about a foot long and are $6.20 for the regular cheese steak. I purchased the pizza steak for $6.20. If you are really hungry, they serve a 2 foot long jumbo cheese steak for $11.50. This size puts the Steak and Hoagie Factory up against its competitors for the largest cheese steak in Philly, which include Larry’s Steaks and Leo’s Steaks. When I say large I mean length not width. Some of the widest competitors are gooey Gooie’s, Pagano’s, and 4th Street Deli.

Steak and Hoagie Factory has just been made a member of the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club. They offer a very good sandwich at a very reasonable price. If you were to purchase the jumbo cheese steak for $11.50 then you could feed at minimum 2 -3 people. For a quality sandwich at that price, Steak and Hoagie Factory is extremely competitive.

Congratulations Steak and Hoagie Factory!

Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies Review

2009-10-24T10:17:00.003-04:00

Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies Philly Cheese Steak Review

Established in 1960, Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies are located at 7617 Ogontz Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19150. Pagano’s has received national attention as they have been voted the best steaks by several different sources over the years. The Courier News voted them the best steaks in 2002 and Focus Metropolitan Philadelphia’s Business Newsweekly voted Pagano’s the best hoagie contender in 1984.

Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies has a funny operation. There is no place to sit inside and it is strictly pick up or take out. Pagano’s is a hole in the wall food place as there is nothing fancy in physical appearance that would attract customers there. People go there just for the food. They also have 2 sections in the store (and 2 lines) one for hoagies and one for cheese steaks. Make sure you stand in the right line or you will get dirty looks and maybe yelled at. The workers are semi friendly but I can see that they have rules that you need to follow just like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks. I don’t like following rules if I am the paying customer.

I have to give Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies a yellow light (proceed with caution) as I am not completely impressed to consider them the best. However, I still feel that they have some potential and that is why I don’t want to give them the full red light (don’t go).

Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies has an excellent value for their Philly cheese steak at $6.75 for a foot long loaded steak. When I mean loaded I mean LOADED. You can put rubber casing around their steak sandwiches and sell it to local gyms for their members. It weighs that much. Don’t worry about gaining weight as you will get a full workout by lifting it to your mouth every time.

Even though the value is there I still have several problems with it. First, the steak was chopped ultra fine…too fine. You cannot see any texture to the steak at all. This is what Rick Olivieri from Rick’s Steaks cautions about. If the steak is chopped too fine then you can’t tell what kind of beef they are serving and the quality of it. By the taste of the beef, I was not impressed. Just thinking about Olivieri’s words were echoing in my head as I was eating it. Yes, it is loaded with steak…but what grade of steak is it?

Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies use soft Italian rolls yet the roll was not ideal. It didn’t have that beautiful golden brown texture with a shiny glaze that the perfect Italian roll would have. This roll actually appears to have been there for a few days.

The cheese and fried onions were mixed in the sandwich but were not enough. There was so much steak in there that you were bombarded with chopped steak flavor and couldn’t taste the rest of the sandwich. The cheese and onions were in there somewhere but I needed a road map to find them.

Basically, Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies has way too much steak on their Philly cheese steak and the quality of it just doesn’t knock you off your seat. Sorry Pagano’s Steaks and Hoagies but I can’t recommend you as the Best Philly Cheese Steaks!

Barry’s Steaks Onion Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-23T21:50:00.005-04:00

Barry’s Steaks was established in 1989 and is located at 471 Leverington Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128 (in Roxborough). Barry’s was started on the cornor of Ridge and Leverington in what used to be Nico's Pizza (only a few steps away from where it is now) by a man named Barry McGuinn. Barry’s shop is a quaint cheese steak joint with several tables and a counter filled with more seats. They give good competition to the other major Roxborough cheese steak shops, Dalessandro's and Chubby’s Steaks.

Barry’s Steaks has a good value for the sandwich at $6.25. The steaks are chopped and filled to a substantial level. The rolls are Italian soft rolls. They are not the full foot long but very close at about 10 inches. The cheese is melted with the fried onions and steak but not so much that it oozes out.

What stood out the most about Barry’s Steaks was there large onion slices that they used. These onions were slightly fried but filled the sandwich. If you are a big onions fan then you may appreciate this sandwich even more.

I also liked how friendly the staff was to me. This is very important for a successful food business as the customer will always remember how they were treated when they ate there.

Barry’s Steaks – welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club!

Larry’s Steaks Mushroom Cheese Steak

2009-10-23T21:28:00.005-04:00

Larry’s Steaks was established in 1956 and is located at 2459 North 54th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19131. This Philly cheese steak joint is located right next to Saint Joseph’s University and City Line Avenue. Due to its proximity to the college, Larry’s has become famous because of all the college students that it attracts.

Larry’s Steaks is also the official caterers for the Philadelphia 76ers and St. Joseph’s University since 2003. But what really makes Larry’s famous is that they are the home of the belly fillers. What is that you say? The belly filler is a giant 2 foot hoagie that makes Leo’s Steaks look silly. Let’s go over their steak.

I ordered a Philly cheese steak with onions and mushrooms. Larry’s Steaks chops their steaks as opposed to serving it in strips. The sandwich that I ordered was a regular foot long for $6.25, which is a good value. They give a decent amount of steak in there as well. I did not order the belly filler as this sandwich is just insanely big for my tolerance today. It is really huge and it only costs $12.30, a big deal. You can split this with 2 or 3 people and you would have a cheap meal and be full. The onions and mushrooms were fried and mixed well with the cheese. The Italian rolls were soft but yet not the ideal golden color that a really fresh quality Italian roll would have. Nevertheless, the sandwich overall was very good and the value was excellent. I can see why the Saint Joe’s students really rave about it.

Larry’s Steaks also has a very large sit in restaurant with very cozy booths. This is a huge asset if you want to eat there. The only problem that I had was that I found the cashier to be a little rude. He did not look at me at all and talked to me like the Soup Nazi on Jerry Seinfeld. “Next.” I don’t like this sort of treatment.

Besides the cashier, everything else about Larry’s is the complete package. Larry’s Steaks welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club (do something about that cashier will ya)!

Subway South Philly Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-22T15:20:00.005-04:00

Did you ever wonder how a Subway Philly cheese steak from the cheese steak headquarters in South Philadelphia would rank amongst its local competition? Today I will be providing a review that will set the record straight about who can make a better Philly cheese steak, one of the largest restaurant chains in America or the small local Philadelphia shops.

First I would like to provide a little overview of Subway. Subway has over 30,000 restaurant franchises in over 90 countries. The SUBWAY® chain consistently ranks at the top of Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 rankings. Besides being number one for the Submarine Sandwich Category, the SUBWAY® chain has received the distinction as being the number one Franchise Opportunity for 15 of the past 21 years! In Philadelphia, Subway has a strong presence as well. Here are the following Subway addresses in Philly for your convenience:

1827 JFK Blvd
Sterling House
Philadelphia PA 19103
215-246-00551701

Benjamin Franklin Pky
Philadelphia PA 19103-1208
215-568-7676

2201 Walnut St
Philadelphia PA 19103
215-567-76501238

Franklin Mills Circle
Franklin Mills Mall Food Court
Philadelphia PA 19154-3141
215-281-3242

1109 Walnut St
Philadelphia PA 19107
215-829-1262

2385 Cheltenham Ave#132
Philadelphia PA 19150
215-887-6997

2951 Market St
Suite 201
Philadelphia PA 19104
215-222-5833

1001 Market St
Gallery II Mall
Philadelphia PA 19107
215-733-9722

3400 Aramingo Ave
Imperial Plz
Philadelphia PA 19134
215-423-0885

9979 Bustleton Ave
Shoppes at Red Lion
Philadelphia PA 19115
215-969-3155

Concorse Train Location
Two Penn Center Plaza
Philadelphia PA 19102
215-569-4466

106 South 16th St
Philadelphia PA 19102
215-561-14811

1000 Roosevelt Blvd
Space 155
Philadelphia PA 19116
215-676-7274

7339 Frankford Ave
Philadelphia PA 19136
215-333-4740

2329 Cottman Ave
Roosevelt Mall NE
Philadelphia PA 19149
215-543-9411

4500 City Ave Ste 220
City Centre Shp Ctr
Philadelphia PA 19131
215-878-2005

5610 Lancaster Ave #300A
Overbrook Plz Shopping Center
Philadelphia PA 19131
215-452-5772

551 Franklin Mills Circle
Philadelphia PA 19154
215-281-3243

6125 Ridge Ave
Philadelphia PA 19128
215-482-3515

1625 Chestnut St
Shops at Liberty Place
Philadelphia PA 19103
215-561-2320

2936 Island Avenue
Philadelphia PA 19153
215-365-5880

9475 E Roosevelt Blvd #3Subway
Philadelphia PA 19114
215-676-7821

501 S Broad St
Philadelphia PA 19147
215-545-6824

714 Market St
Philadelphia PA 19106
215-733-03211

511 Cecil B Moore Ave
Philadelphia PA 19121
215-769-7827

3228 N Broad St
Philadelphia PA 19140
215-221-5850

6200 Frankford Ave
Philadelphia PA 19135
215-288-4477

#1 Franklin Mills Blvd
Philadelphia PA 19154
215-281-1225

9745 Roosevelt Blvd A
Philadelphia PA 19114
215-677-5780

4600 E Roosevelt Blvd
Bldg G
Philadelphia PA 19120
215-288-3813

45 Snyder Ave
Philadelphia PA 19148
215-336-7777

545 N.Broad St.
Philadelphia PA 19123
215-733-9000

200 Oregon Ave
Philadelphia PA 19147
215-468-4068

910 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia PA 19107
215-923-5600

2217 S Broad Street
Philadelphia PA 19145
215-271-8589

801 Arch St
Philadelphia PA 19107
215-923-5700

1100 South St
Unit 1
Philadelphia PA 19107
267-519-8023

8944 Frankford Ave
Philadelphia PA 19136

Oxford Avenue & Levick Street
Philadelphia PA 19111

203 North 34th Street
Philadelphia PA 19104
484-410-9842

3800 Locust Walk
1920 Commons Food Court
Philadelphia PA 19104
215-898-5265

1000 Easton Rd Suite 200
Wyncote PA 19095

2376 Street Rd
Bensalem PA 19020
215-604-0113

1500 Garrett Rd
Barclay Sq Shp Ctr
Upper Darby PA 19082
484-461-9771

700 N Rt 73
Palmyra NJ 08065
856-786-2345

My review today is about the Subway in South Philadelphia located at 45 Snyder Avenue (this is right across the street from the famous John’s Roast Pork). There are very interesting observations that I made from eating at Subway. First, I ordered a foot long Philly cheese steak for $8. This is the same price as Gino’s and Pat’s Steaks, the most popular cheese steak places in the world. Was it worth it? Absolutely not!

Subway gives you a variety of breads to choose from but I choose the Italian roll. This roll is a semi soft roll but does not come close to the texture appropriate for Philly cheese steaks that are found at many of the local South Philly bakeries here. Why doesn’t Subway make an exception and outsource the rolls in South Philly. Their sandwich would be so much better and this would help the local community. This is one big mistake for Subway (the inevitable part of being in a giant franchise).

The steak was semi chopped. But the amount of steak that was put in the sandwich was minimal compared to the local competition. Also, the steak was not freshly cooked on a grill as the locals do. Instead it was precooked and then microwaved (I am sure my readers are familiar with Subway but just as a refresher).

The onions…well…there weren’t any. What? NO onions! No onions on my Subway Philly cheese steak. You can ask for them from the condiment section but they wouldn’t be fried or come close to an original South Philly cheese steak onions.

My biggest problem was the cheese. I asked for American cheese and I received one small slice on top of each half loaf section. This equated to hardly any cheese at all and considering that it was microwaved, the end result was tasteless.

I did eat one half of my Philly cheese steak with the special Chipotle sauce that they have. It did spice the sandwich up a little but not much. You can also ask them to add hot or sweet peppers with your sandwich for a little more flavor (you should as you will need it).

By writing this review, I am not knocking Subway. I actually like the place when I travel. However, in Philadelphia, Subway is up against some very fierce local competition and this review stands to show that to compete in this market even a giant name like Subway needs to demonstrate culinary skills. Their name can only get so far in this market. Subway has a great name, is very clean, and offers consistent products. This normally works well especially when you are selling Philly cheese steaks in places like Small Town, Utah (Imaginary name for illustration purposes) to people who never ate a real Philly cheese steak, hoagie, roast beef, pizza, or any of the million other great foods offered here. Of course they will think the sandwich is great because they have nothing to compare it too. But you can’t fool true Philadelphians, especially South Philadelphians who smell cheese steaks every time they leave their house.

Again, I like Subway as a whole but I think that their Philly cheese steak is no match for real Philly cheese steaks. Also, I specifically choose the Subway in South Philly as it is headquarters for the real cheese steak. If a South Philly subway Philly cheese steak is no competition to the locals then I am only left to assume that this sandwich has the same problems nationwide. And the price…absurd. They should make this a $5 foot long like the rest of their sandwiches and then maybe I will change my review. If the locals are charging between $5.50 and $7 for a sandwich how could Subway possible charge $8 for a sandwich half the width in this kind of recession? Come on… this is Philadelphia, Subway. Get with the program! Philadelphians are tough, smart cookies. The Philadelphia Phillies just won the National League Championship 2 years in a row…Does Subway think that Philadelphians aren’t smart enough to distinguish between a real Philly cheese steak?

Subway Philly cheese steaks…what do you think about them?

Simonetta’s South Philly Cheesesteak Review

2009-10-21T14:37:00.005-04:00

Simonetta’s Italian Style Hoagies and Mediterranean Delights Review

Simonetta’s Italian Style Hoagies and Mediterranean Delights are located at 2510 South Broad Street, South Philadelphia, PA 19145. Simonetta’s owner, Philip Simonetta, derives his recipes from his half Italian and half Lebanese roots. This place specializes in Italian hoagies but has a special twist of underlying Lebanese culinary, which Philip learned from his grandmother.

Simonetta’s Italian Style Hoagies and Mediterranean Delights has a nice little place on Broad Street in South Philly. There is a back room where you can sit and watch television. You can also stare at all the nice Italian pictures on the wall. The staff was also extremely friendly and helpful and made me feel at home.

I ordered their version of the South Philly cheese steak, one of their specialties. I was impressed with their cheese steak (large about $7.25). Simonetta’s Italian Style Hoagies uses about a 10 inch soft Italian roll with sesame seeds. The steak is semi chopped (not fine chopped) and is very juicy. The American cheese that I ordered (you can select other cheeses) was stacked underneath the steak as it slowly was melting. I don’t usually like it this way as I prefer the cheese to be melted within the steak 100% but it actually complemented the Italian roll used. The cheese half melted and half unmelted created an Italian cheese steak hoagie effect. The onions were slightly cooked and chopped in small strips and mixed within the sandwich.

Overall, I was very impressed with Simonetta’s Philly cheese steak and their hospitality. Simonetta’s Italian Style Hoagies and Mediterranean Delights – welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Mama’s Pizzeria Cheesy Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-17T20:04:00.003-04:00

Mama’s Pizzeria is located at 426 Belmont Avenue, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. Established in 1958, Mama’s has built a large reputation. Their shop has two levels. The first level is mainly for take out with a few tables. The second floor has the restaurant area. Be wary of the clowns as there are many pictures of clowns on their walls.

Although Mama’s Pizzeria has won many awards including Best of Philly (Mainline) 2006 cheese steaks, their sandwich doesn’t cut it for me. Let me explain why.

Mama’s Pizzeria sells what they call mini sandwiches in addition to their large. The mini cheese steak was $6.50 and their large was $10.75. Their mini was only 6 inches (I kid you not) and their large was only 10 inches. So after reading my blog and all of the best Philly cheese steak sandwiches, you will find that at the time of this writing, a Geno’s and Pat’s famous Steaks cost $8 for about a 10 inch Philly cheese steak. These are the most famous places in Philly and their sandwich is $3 cheaper than Mama’s Pizzeria large (equivalent in size). Their argument is that the pack their sandwich thick. I say “Who cares.” Actually, they didn’t pack it thick enough for that price compared to a Gooey Looey’s, Leo’s Steaks, or any local steak shop in South Philly for that matter. I bought the mini sandwich because I wanted to test the ground. Good thing I did as aside from the size and cost issue, the taste was nowhere in line to be considered the best.

Mama’s Pizzeria chops their steak instead of using strips. I think that they may have chopped it too fine. If you read the interview of the famous Rick Olivieri from Rick’s Steaks he explains why chopping is second to steak strips in terms of quality. He says that it is easier to hide the quality of the beef when it is chopped. It is the opposite effect for steak strips, which demonstrate easily if the beef has beautiful marbeling or not. I totally agree with him and with a sandwich such as Mama’s Pizza I can’t tell what the steak even looks like. The steak was chopped so fine and covered with so much cheese that you can barely see anything let alone what grade and texture the beef has.

That leads to another point that I didn’t like about Mama’s Pizzeria. They used so much cheese (American) that the sandwich looked like a big bowl of cheese with something (you had to find the surprise) inside. Guess what the surprise was - some form of steak. With just a mini sandwich I must have ate more cheese than in the last 5 cheese steak reviews. The cheese was not only mixed inside with the steak and onions but it was layered on top of the sandwich and on the top and bottom of the roll (this is insane).

The rolls on Mama’s Philly cheese steak were semi soft Italian roll. The onions were not thoroughly cooked. This was another negative. Onions need a little brown too them whether it is a light or average (burnt is bad too).

Overall, I do not recommend Mama’s Pizzeria. They are way over priced, have too much cheese, onions are not cooked enough, and the steak has a lower grade quality that was well hidden in the chop. If you like all of these qualities than you are more than welcome to pay them a visit. If you like my style of Philly cheese steaks then stay tuned for more reviews (or visit my Best Philly Cheese Steaks Review page).

Ardmore Pizza Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-17T19:30:00.003-04:00

Ardmore Pizza is located at 10 Rittenhouse Place, Ardmore, PA 19003. Established in 1973, this pizzeria has made a reputation in its area just a little drive outside of Center City Philadelphia.

Ardmore Pizza is a little pizzeria on a beautiful street alongside many other various shops. The place has a few tables to sit if you want to eat there. Their shop is also very clean in appearance. They have newer tiling and a nice big flat screen TV. I also like how high tech this place is. They have several giant monitors behind the counter that appears to be handling their internet pizza system. From a quick glimpse at their website it appears that you can order pizza online. Ardmore Pizza also has a very friendly staff but they were extremely busy (a good sign).

Ardmore Pizza is also known for its Philly cheese steaks. I ordered one Philly pizza cheese steak. They chopped their steak instead of using steak strips. The onions are slightly fried and mixed well with the American cheese steak, and pizza sauce. They didn’t use much pizza sauce in their sandwich. I actually agree with this method because if you use too much then you may risk drowning out the taste of the steak sandwich. The cheese was mixed well in the steak but was also placed on top of the steak, onions, and sauce for an extra kick. However, the result wasn’t too much cheese. Their style made it just right.

The foot long Italian roll they used was slightly toasted. This toasted option worked well for this sandwich as it complemented the tomato sauce. This resulted in a very Italian sandwich that gave a crunchy bite as you taste your way through the juicy tomato sauce.

Ardmore Pizza has just the right ingredients to make it in to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club!

Welcome Ardmore Pizza!

Leo’s Steaks Largest Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-17T19:02:00.004-04:00

Leo’s Steaks is located at 1403 Chester Pike, Folcroft, PA 19032. Established somewhere in the early 1970s, Leo’s is an extremely popular place in Delaware County, PA. Not too far from Central Philadelphia, Leo’s popularity has echoed all over the city as they have won various best Philly cheese steak awards for many years.

Leo’s Steaks sells a large variety of sandwiches including hoagies, burgers, and steaks. They also sell 3 and 6 foot long hoagies. However, their real popularity comes from their large cheese steak, a monster 18 inch long sandwich for $12.90. There small is a great value too for $6.80 at about a foot long.

Leo’s sandwich is beautiful. I bought the 18 incher and had to share. I mean I could eat it but it would be too much. They stack their steak high in the sandwich too so you are not only eating a supremely large sandwich but you are also tackling the giant portions that the put on there. Honestly, an average person can eat a third of this monster and be full.

Leo’s Steaks chops their steaks as opposed to using steak strips. Their rolls are semi soft Italian rolls. For a sandwich this size though it would be difficult to have an ultra soft loaf of bread as it may not hold the contents well. The onions were nicely browned and mixed well with the steak and American cheese.

An interesting observation I made is that the farther you go away from the Big Three Philly cheese steak joints, the more you will notice that there are less rules. For example, Leo’s didn’t even ask me if I wanted a specific kind of cheese so I assume that they only use American cheese (believe it or not this is the majority way in Philly). However, at Pat’s or Geno’s Steaks if you don’t tell them what kind of cheese you want then you may be setting yourself up for an argument.

Leo’s Steaks does not have any indoor sitting. Actually the place was so crowded when I went that you barely had any place to stand. They do have a table outside to eat if it is a nice day.
I totally am convinced that Leo’s Steaks gives you value for your dollar. I don’t really have any suggestions for them because I feel that they have the proper formula down. I wouldn’t say it is the best steak I ever ate but it is one of the best. They definitely have the longest sandwich that I have eaten out of all the places (not the widest as that record goes to Gooey Looie’s in South Philly). I think that they should continue to market themselves as the longest Philly cheese steak as that is what will stand in their customers minds.

Leo’s Steaks welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club!

Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork Beef Review

2009-10-16T20:42:00.006-04:00

Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef

Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef is located in the famous Reading Terminal at 12th and Arch, Center City Philadelphia, PA. Established in 1954, Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef has one of the best roast beef and pork sandwiches in the city. The only place that I think tops them is my favorite Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef.

This is not exactly a Philly cheese steak review unless you define the term very loosely. Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef do not sell traditional Philly cheese steaks. However, if you were to compare this sandwich to a Philly cheese steak it has many similar qualities. Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef uses long soft Italian rolls and thin slices of roasted beef (the same animal used to make a cheese steak). There aren’t any onions on there but there is provolone cheese (just like a Philly steak).

Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef has a wet sandwich but not anywhere as wet as Nick’s Roast Beef. The roast beef sandwich is so juicy that the bottom of the roll becomes extremely wet. If you don’t eat it fast enough the wet roll will make the roast beef start to fall out from under.

Tommy DiNic’s Roast Pork and Beef also has veal, chicken, and sausage that they cook daily. They also have a very small counter that you can eat at. I was actually supposed to try Spataro’s Cheesesteaks, which is right across from DiNics but they closed early…oh well for them. I don’t know why these places want to close so early and give up good business. Anyway, I ended up a very satisfied customer of DiNic’s.

First Chocolate Philly Cheese Steak

2009-10-16T19:06:00.001-04:00

I just wanted to make a brief post about the first chocolate Philly cheese steak that I ever ate. I was in the Reading Terminal today in Center City Philadelphia and purchased a chocolate Philly cheese steak (not “cake” that’s right “steak”) from a company called Chocolate by Mueller.

This chocolate Philly cheesesteak is a custom made all milk chocolate desert. There isn’t any Italian rolls, rib eye steak, onions, or cheese…it is purely a desert that is in the shape of a Philly cheese steak. I was so curious since I run this cheese steak website that I sprung for the big price tag, $11.95. This would be worth it if the size was right.

It was a very small less than six inch chocolate candy that was about an inch thick. It tasted very good (if you like milk chocolate) and had a nice box but I don’t recommend it. Why waste $12 when you could actually buy about 2 real foot long Philly cheese steaks in South Philly? Nevertheless, it would make a nice gift as it does make an interesting conversation!

Rick’s Original Philly Steaks Review

2009-10-16T18:39:00.006-04:00

Rick’s Original Philly Steaks is located at the Bellevue Hotel downstairs, 200 South Broad Street at Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102. This is really a special review because Rick Olivieri, owner of this place, is a legend in the cheese steak world. He is the direct descendent of Pasquale (Pat) Olivieri who started the first Philly steak sandwich in 1932.

The history of Rick’s ancestry is as follows: Pat Olivieri was his grandfather who invented the Philly cheese steak in 1932. In 1934, Pat’s son, Herbert Olivieri, was born (Rick’s father). Herb’s son Rick Olivieri was born in 1964.

The history of Rick’s Original Philly Steaks began in 1982 when Rick and his father Herb opened a place in the Reading Terminal called Olivieri Prince of Steaks (Herb’s nickname). In 1995, Rick’s father retired and passed his crown to Rick to take over his empire and the store name was changed to Rick’s Original Philly Steaks. In 2008, Rick left the reading Terminal and began his new business at the famous Bellevue in Center City Philadelphia.

Rick’s Original Philly Steaks has received so many awards and recognition that it would take forever to mention them. For more information about Philly cheese steak history you should visit my Pat’s King of Steaks review page.

Rick’s Steaks at its new location at the Bellevue is very simple. There are several tables in front but it is set up within a food court of many other restaurants competing for your business. Rick’s is all the way in the back at the end. The way it works is you order your food and then you find yourself a table.

Rick’s staff was very friendly. I ordered a regular cheese steak with onions. There is a side counter for peppers if you would like.

The Italian roll was nice and soft but not quite a foot long. The steak used was chuck eye steak, which is a little different than rib eye but Rick believes that this meat is better. The steak is in strips and not chopped and stacked several thin slices of steak high. The American cheese was mixed well with the lightly browned onions, steak, and cheese.

The price for the sandwich was $7.80. This is a little steep compared to the competitors but you have to add in the location of this place in Center City Philadelphia.

I like Rick’s Steak. It is not one of my most memorable sandwiches that I have eaten but it has enough to get it into the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club. Rick’s history is absolutely fascinating. I highly recommend that you learn more about it from his website or throughout this website if you are a cheese steak fan.

For your convenience I have included an interview of Rick Olivieri below.

1. How are you related to the Inventor of the Steak Sandwich, Pat Olivieri?

Pat was my Grandfather. My father, Herb Olivieri, was Pat’s son.

I am the only one of my dad’s five children who was interested in the family business. I started slinging cheesesteaks at age 14. Click here to learn about me.

2. How old was your Grandfather (Pat) when he created the Steak Sandwich?

My grandfather was 25 years old in 1932 when he made that first steak sandwich. His youngest brother, Harry, who worked for him, was 16 at the time. Click here to learn more about our family tradition.

3. Do you own the restaurant in South Philadelphia with your Grandfather’s name on it?

No. The store in South Philly is still owned by family members, but Rick’s Steaks is NOT affiliated with that store in any way. We are completely separate businesses and our sandwiches are completely different as well.

4. What was the first type of cheese added to the sandwich and when?

In 1949, one of "Pop-Pop" Pat’s employees, Joe Lorenzo, slapped some American cheese on his own sandwich for a change of pace. The cheesesteak was born!! Provolone was also an option at that time. Cheez Whiz was included as an option soon after it was introduced in the 50’s.
At Reading Terminal Market, provolone is the most requested cheese.

5. Why don’t you chop up your meat like other steak shops? Isn’t that the authentic way to do it?

Actually, chopping IS NOT the authentic preparation!

"Pop-Pop" Pat (Olivieri) did not chop up the steak for his sandwiches. He grilled the slices whole. This is the proper and traditional way to cook a cheesesteak.

SOME PLACES CHOP UP THEIR BEEF TO DISGUISE THE MEAT that they use. This process also tends to overcook the meat, making it dry and, in some cases, burnt. At Rick’s, we have nothing to hide. Our steak is beautifully marbled and delicious!

6. Why do you use Chuck-eye when most other shops use Rib-eye?

Years ago, a meat packer suggested I try using Chuck-eye because it has more flavor and less gristle than Rib-eye. After taste testing it myself, and giving it a trial run at our restaurant, we agreed: Chuck-eye tastes better!

7. Do you think Rick's Steaks is “the best” Steak Sandwich?

Well, many seem to feel that we are one of “the best” cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, and we certainly believe that we serve a GREAT steak sandwich! Truth is, it’s really hard to label any one place “the best” because we all have our own loyal customers. Everyone has different tastes and preferences. The one YOU like most is “the best” to you! Even Philly Mag chooses a different chessesteak place every year.

8. Do you think your success at the Reading Terminal Market was because you are across from the Convention Center?

Nah! While the addition of the Convention Center in the 1990’s has increased foot traffic at the Reading Terminal Market, we have been here for over 25 years! Long before the Convention Center, long before renovations improved the look of The Market, long before air conditioning and heat made shopping at The Market more comfortable. We had always been one of the busiest and most successful stands in Reading Terminal Market History!

Now, we're geting ready to start a new chapter in the Rick's Steaks history! We will be reopening in a new location: Downstairs at The Bellevue (Broad & Walnut Sts.) in mid-April 2009.

9. Do you need to order in English-only at Rick’s Steaks?

Food is an international language, and everyday we serve customers from all over the world. All are happily served at Rick’s Steaks!

10. Do you send people to the back of the line if they are too slow when ordering?

No Way! While we appreciate when customers have their choices ready when they reach the register, we will happily assist you with your order. Satisfying the customer is our #1 priority!
In the meantime, you can acquaint yourself with Philly Cheesesteak Ordering Lingo by clicking here.

11. Is your father still involved in the business?

Unfortunately, no. My dad (Herb) passed away in December 1998 after a long illness.

12. Are Philly Cheese Steaks made with Philadelphia™ Cream Cheese?

No! Philadelphia™ Cream Cheese makes a great cheese CAKE, but it would taste lousy on a cheeseSTEAK!

13. How often do you (Rick) eat a cheese steak?

I used to eat one EVERY DAY until I got married. My wife Debi has encouraged me to eat a little healthier, so I limit myself to one cheesesteak each week.

14. How do you like your cheese steak?

Cheez Whiz, onions, hot peppers and ketchup ("Whiz, with... Plus hots and ketchup")

15. Other than cheesesteaks, what is your favorite thing to order in a restaurant?

Filet Mignon!

16. Do you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from flipping cheese steaks all day?

Not Yet! Hopefully I won't ever develop the condition.
Maybe I should insure my right hand!

18. How did you come to take over “Geno’s Steaks” place at Citizens Bank Park?

I was approached by the Phillies' Director of Business Development, Joe Giles, and asked if I would be interested in the concession. Before I agreed to sign a contract with Aramark, I contacted “Geno’s” owner, Joe Vento, to find out why he was leaving. After meeting with Mr. Vento, I accepted the offer to open at Citizens Bank Park with Mr. Vento’s blessing.

19. What is Cheez Whiz made of?

Do we really want to know the answer?! Great Stuff!

20. So which is it: Cheese Steak or Cheesesteak?

Either way is fine, as long as "Rick's" and "Philly" are in there also! When it came to creating our web site (website), after some lengthy debates, we finally settled on it being one word: Cheesesteak.

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks Review

2009-10-16T17:50:00.002-04:00

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks is located at The Shops at Liberty Place #F6, 16th and Chestnut in Center City Philadelphia, PA 19103. Their hours of operation our Monday – Saturday 11-7 and Sunday 12-6.

Established in 2006 by Gary Dorfman, a long time healthcare consultant, Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks is a newcomer in the Philly cheese steak world. This doesn’t stop him from trying to be known as the best Philly cheese steak joint. His hard work and determination has caused many questioners to be become loyal regulars.

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks is located in a mall setting in the middle of traffic infested Center City Philadelphia. I was a little skeptical about this place at first because from my experience Center City is known to be overpriced and under quality compared to the food Mecca of Philly, South Philly. Jake’s is located in the food court amongst many other varieties of foods that stack up right next to each other. What sets Jake’s apart is the hospitality. The cashier was extremely friendly and so was the chef.

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks is set up so that their customers can eat at any table throughout the food court. This is very beneficial to its customers as there are plenty of tables and seats available.

I bought a Philly cheese steak for $7.48 with American cheese and onions. I was impressed with the generous size of the sandwich. It wasn’t really thick but they used foot long rolls instead of those skimpy 8 inch rolls that many other places use.

The great thing about this sandwich is the soft Italian rolls they use. These rolls are a tad bit harder than the ideal ultra soft rolls but they come from Carangi’s Bakery in South Philadelphia, which is a good indication that they know what they are doing. Carangi’s is a very popular bakery in South Philly that produces a wide variety of delicious rolls.

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks also used chopped rib eye steak packed well in the roll but with the roll being a foot long, this sandwich should make the average person full. The onions were cooked well and square chopped and then mixed with the steak and American cheese.

For an extra kick, I order long Italian hot peppers. This was the highlight of the meal. They used 2 long hotts that stretched the length of the sandwich and they were juicy and yes hot. Looking at my receipt, I don’t believe that they charged me for the long hotts so it must have been included (good deal).

Jake’s Philadelphia Cheesesteaks welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club!

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef Review

2009-10-15T16:55:00.004-04:00

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef Philly Cheese Steak?

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef first opened in 1938 and is still located in its original address at 2149 South 20 Street, South Philadelphia, PA 19145. Nick’s is a little sit down joint with a bar. The décor is totally 70’s but that is what people like best about it, like you walk into another time dimension.

In 1998, Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef opened up its second location at 10 East Woodland Avenue, Springfield, PA 19064 (why did they go so far?). There are several other places with the same name that claim to have once been a franchise of this original location but are independently owned now. For example, there is a Nick’s Roast Beef in Old City but with no current affiliation. I am curious to know more if any of you can elaborate on what the story is about the various Nick’s Roast Beef names.

I had a sample of everything today at Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef. By the way, this post is not a cheese steak review, per se. Nick’s Roast Beef does not sell Philly cheese steaks as we know it. But I am reviewing them because they have one of the best sandwiches in Philly and they are highly relevant to the Philly cheese steak world.

First, I want to say that they serve a delicious roast beef, the best that I have ever eaten. But as I was eating this, I thought to myself “How different is this sandwich from the off the wall cheese steaks that I have been eating lately?” If you use the definition of Philly cheese steak loosely you will see that this sandwich may fit in at its extreme levels. You see, roast beef is made from cattle just like rib eye steak. The same animal. The only difference is the way that it is cooked. Steak is pulled from the body and sliced then cooked. Roast beef is cooked first then sliced. The taste can be very different but I am noticing many similarities to what is traditionally known as a Philly cheese steak when compared to the places that I have been recently. Let me elaborate.

First, Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef uses round Italian rolls about four inches in diameter. Donkey’s Place uses round rolls too except with poppy seeds.

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef uses provolone cheese only. Many cheese steak places in Philly also use provolone cheese.

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef uses USDA prime beef. This is top of the line beef that most other cheese steak places may or may not use. Most use Choice beef a lower quality. But no matter what, it is still beef.

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef has tons of juices that they serve with their beef. The bottom becomes soaking wet while the top is still semi dry. This is a very messy wet sandwich but ya gotta love it as it is unbelievably good. Frusco Steaks and several other steak sandwich places serve their cheese steaks wet too. Are you starting to see the resemblance?

Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef stacks up several semi thick slices of roast beef in their sandwich. For around $6 with cheese (combo) you can’t go wrong. This is similar to the price of many other cheese steak shops. Also, many other cheese steak joints stack semi thick slices of their beef in their sandwiches like Campo's Deli.

The point I am trying to make is that this roast beef sandwich has so many similarities to a Philly cheese steak that you can’t help but question whether a revolution would have this name changed. The only difference is that Nick’s does not put any onions on it and the beef is roasted (but it is the same type of meat).

This may have many of my readers scratching their heads but I would love to know what you all think about it. Do you think that a sandwich like this is a Philly cheese steak on a very loose definition? Look at Grilladelphia’s sandwich or Donkey’s Place. If you could call those sandwiches a Philly cheese steak then you can call Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef one too. Grilladelphia uses a leaner type of meat (not the standard rib eye) and a pouch. Donkey’s Place uses poppy seeded Kaiser rolls. There are so many variations of a Philly cheese steak but where do we draw the line? For more information about beef, please follow this link. Please post your comments as I would love to hear your feedback.

I forgot, I tried Nick’s baked ham, roast pork, and roast turkey sandwiches today for the first time and was impressed. They are made the same style as the roast beef but with different juices. They too use round rolls that are soft and provolone cheese. Maybe we should call these sandwiches a Philly cheese steak too (just kidding :))!

Beef | Steak Information Online Facts

2009-10-15T09:31:00.004-04:00

To assist you with understanding the highly technical beef terms used on this site, I have provided the following beef and steak facts and information here at our online Philly Cheese Steak Blog. This information is derived directly from the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A) Food Safety and Inspection Service's online website. Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is the public health agency in the U.S. Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring that the nation's commercial supply of meat, poultry, and egg products is safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled and packaged. Their information is as good as it gets when we are talking about beef. Enjoy!

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Beef History

Since 1910, the first year that statistics were compiled, Americans have been eating an average of 60 pounds of beef yearly. About 36 million cattle were inspected in 1997 alone by USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service. This translates into 64 pounds of beef per person in 1997. In calls to the Hotline, beef is the third food category (behind turkey and chicken) callers most ask about. The following information answers many of their questions.

What is Beef?

The domestication of cattle for food dates to about 6500 B.C. in the Middle East. Cattle were not native to America, but brought to the New World on ships by European colonists. Americans weren't big eaters of fresh beef until about 1870, due to the enormous growth of the cattle industry in the West. The introduction of cattle cars and refrigerated cars on the railroad facilitated distribution of the beef.

"Beef" is meat from full-grown cattle about 2 years old. A live steer weighs about 1,000 pounds and yields about 450 pounds of edible meat. There are at least 50 breeds of beef cattle, but fewer than 10 make up most cattle produced. Some major breeds are Angus, Hereford, Charolais, and Brahman.

"Baby beef" and "calf" are 2 interchangeable terms used to describe young cattle weighing about 700 pounds that have been raised mainly on milk and grass. The meat cuts from baby beef are smaller; the meat is light red and contains less fat than beef. The fat may have a yellow tint due to the vitamin A in grass.

"Veal" is meat from a calf which weighs about 150 pounds. Those that are mainly milk-fed usually are less than 3 months old. The difference between "veal" and "calf" is based on the color of their meat, which is determined almost entirely by diet. Veal is pale pink and contains more cholesterol than beef.

NOTE: This information is about whole muscle beef and variety beef. See "Focus on Ground Beef" for information about hamburger and ground beef.

How are Cattle Raised?

All cattle start out eating grass; three-fourths of them are "finished" (grown to maturity) in feedlots where they are fed specially formulated feed based on corn or other grains.

Can Hormones & Antibiotics Be Used in Cattle Raising?

Antibiotics may be given to prevent or treat disease in cattle. A "withdrawal" period is required from the time antibiotics are administered until it is legal to slaughter the animal. This is so residues can exit the animal's system. FSIS randomly samples cattle at slaughter and tests for residues. Data from this Monitoring Plan have shown a very low percentage of residue violations. Not all antibiotics are approved for use in all classes of cattle. However, if there is a demonstrated therapeutic need, a veterinarian may prescribe an antibiotic that is approved in other classes for an animal in a non-approved class. In this case, no detectable residues of this drug may be present in the edible tissues of the animal at slaughter.

Hormones may be used to promote efficient growth. Estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone (three natural hormones), and zeranol and trenbolone acetate (two synthetic hormones) may be used as an implant on the animal's ear. The hormone is time released, and is effective for 90 to 120 days. In addition, melengesterol acetate, which can be used to suppress estrus, or improve weight gain and feed efficiency, is approved for use as a feed additive. Not all combinations of hormones are approved for use in all classes of cattle. Hormones are approved for specific classes of animals only, and cannot be used in non-approved classes.

How is Beef Inspected?

Inspection is mandatory; grading is voluntary, and a plant pays to have its meat graded. USDA-graded beef sold at the retail level is Prime, Choice, and Select. Lower grades (Standard, Commercial, Utility, Cutter, and Canner) are mainly ground or used in processed meat products. Retail stores may use other terms which must be different from USDA grades.

USDA Prime beef (about two percent of graded beef) has more fat marbling, so it is the most tender and flavorful. However, it is higher in fat content. Most of the graded beef sold in supermarkets is USDA Choice or USDA Select. The protein, vitamin, and mineral content of beef are similar regardless of the grade.

How Is Ungraded Beef Different?

All beef is inspected for wholesomeness. The overall quality of ungraded beef may be higher or lower than most government grades found in retail markets.

What is Marbling?

Marbling is white flecks of fat within the meat muscle. The greater amount of marbling in beef, the higher the grade because marbling makes beef more tender, flavorful, and juicy.

Retail Cuts of Fresh Beef

There are four basic major (primal) cuts into which beef is separated: chuck, loin, rib, and round. It is recommended that packages of fresh beef purchased in the supermarket be labeled with the primal cut as well as the product, such as "chuck roast" or "round steak." This helps consumers know what type of heat is best for cooking the product. Generally, chuck and round are less tender and require moist heat such as braising; loin and rib can be cooked by dry heat methods such as broiling or grilling.

Unfortunately, names for various cuts can vary regionally in stores, causing confusion over the choice of cooking method. For example, a boneless top loin steak is variously called: strip steak, Kansas City Steak, N.Y. strip steak, hotel cut strip steak, ambassador steak, or club sirloin steak.
How Much Beef Is Consumed?

Figures from the USDA's Economic Research Service show average annual per capita beef consumption for the following selected periods:

How Much Beef is Consumed?

Year Weight Year Weight
1910-15 51 pounds 1960-65 69 pounds
1920-25 46 pounds 1970-75 85 pounds
1930-35 41 pounds 1980-85 78 pounds
1940-45 45 pounds 1990-95 67 pounds
1950-55 55 pounds 1995-97 64 pounds

Nutrition Labeling

Nutrition claims such as "lean" and "extra lean" are sometimes seen on beef products. Here are their definitions:

"Lean" - 100 grams of beef with less than 10 grams of fat, 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat, and less than 95 milligrams of cholesterol.

"Extra Lean" - 100 grams of beef with less than 5 grams of fat, less than 2 grams of saturated fat, and less than 95 milligrams of cholesterol.

What Does "Natural" Mean?

All fresh meat qualifies as "natural." Products labeled "natural" cannot contain any artificial flavor or flavoring, coloring ingredient, chemical preservative, or any other artificial or synthetic ingredient; and the product and its ingredients are not more than minimally processed (ground, for example). All products claiming to be natural should be accompanied by a brief statement which explains what is meant by the term "natural."

Some companies promote their beef as "natural" because they claim their cattle weren't exposed to antibiotics or hormones and were totally raised on a range instead of being "finished" in a feedlot.

How & Why is Some Beef Aged?

Beef is aged to develop additional tenderness and flavor. It is done commercially under controlled temperatures and humidity. Since aging can take from 10 days to 6 weeks, USDA does not recommend aging beef in a home refrigerator.

Why is Beef Called a "Red" Meat?

Oxygen is delivered to muscles by the red cells in the blood. One of the proteins in meat, myoglobin, holds the oxygen in the muscle. The amount of myoglobin in animal muscles determines the color of meat. Beef is called a "red" meat because it contains more myoglobin than chicken or fish. Other "red" meats are veal, lamb, and pork.

Color of Beef

Beef muscle meat not exposed to oxygen (in vacuum packaging, for example) is a burgundy or purplish color. After exposure to the air for 15 minutes or so, the myoglobin receives oxygen and the meat turns bright, cherry red.

After beef has been refrigerated about 5 days, it may turn brown due to chemical changes in the myoglobin. Beef that has turned brown during extended storage may be spoiled, have an off-odor, and be tacky to the touch.

Iridescent Color of Roast Beef

Sliced cooked beef or lunch meat can have an iridescent color. Meat contains iron, fat, and many other compounds. When light hits a slice of meat, it splits into colors like a rainbow. There are also various pigments in meat compounds which can give it an iridescent or greenish cast when exposed to heat and processing. Iridescent beef isn't spoiled necessarily. Spoiled cooked beef would probably also be slimy or sticky and have an off-odor.

Additives

Additives are not allowed on fresh beef. If beef is processed, additives such as MSG, salt, or sodium erythorbate must be listed on the label.

Dating of Beef Products

Product dating is not required by Federal regulations. However, many stores and processors may voluntarily date packages of raw beef or processed beef products. If a calendar date is shown, there must be a phrase explaining the meaning of the date.

Use or freeze products with a "Sell-By" date within 3 to 5 days of purchase
If the manufacturer has determined a "Use-By" date, observe it. This is a quality assurance date after which peak quality begins to lessen but the product may still be used. It's always best to buy a product before its date expires. It's not important if a date expires after freezing beef because all foods stay safe while properly frozen.

What Foodborne Organisms are Associated with Beef?

Escherichia coli can colonize in the intestines of animals, which could contaminate muscle meat at slaughter. E. coli O157:H7 is a rare strain that produces large quantities of a potent toxin that forms in and causes severe damage to the lining of the intestine. The disease produced by it is called Hemorrhagic Colitis and is characterized by bloody diarrhea. E. coli O157:H7 is easily destroyed by thorough cooking.

Salmonella may be found in the intestinal tracts of livestock, poultry, dogs, cats, and other warm-blooded animals. There are about 2,000 Salmonella bacterial species. Freezing doesn't kill this microorganism, but it is destroyed by thorough cooking. Salmonella must be eaten to cause illness. They cannot enter the body through a skin cut. Cross-contamination can occur if raw meat or its juices contact cooked food or foods that will be eaten raw, such as salad.

Staphylococcus aureus can be carried on human hands, nasal passages, or throats. Most foodborne illness outbreaks are a result of contamination from food handlers and production of a heat-stable toxin in the food. Sanitary food handling and proper cooking and refrigerating should prevent staphylococcal foodborne illness.

Listeria monocytogenes is destroyed by cooking, but a cooked product can be recontaminated by poor handling practices and poor sanitation. FSIS has a zero tolerance for Listeria monocytogenes in cooked and ready-to-eat products such as beef franks or lunchmeat. Observe handling information such as "Keep Refrigerated" and "Use-By" dates on labels.

Rinsing Beef

It isn't necessary to wash raw beef before cooking it. Any bacteria which might be present on the surface would be destroyed by cooking.

How to Handle Beef Safely

Raw Beef: Select beef just before checking out at the register. Put packages of raw beef in disposable plastic bags, if available, to contain any leakage which could cross-contaminate cooked foods or produce. Beef, a perishable product, is kept cold during store distribution to retard the growth of bacteria.

Take beef home immediately and refrigerate it at 40 °F; use within 3 to 5 days (1 or 2 days for variety meats such as liver, kidneys, tripe, sweetbreads, or tongue) or freeze (0 °F). If kept frozen continuously, it will be safe indefinitely.

It is safe to freeze beef in its original packaging or repackage it. However, for long-term freezing, overwrap the porous store plastic with aluminum foil, freezer paper, or freezer-weight plastic wrap or bags to prevent "freezer burn," which appears as grayish-brown leathery spots and is caused by air reaching the surface of food. Cut freezer-burned portions away either before or after cooking the beef. Heavily freezer-burned products may have to be discarded for quality reasons. For best quality, use steaks and roasts within 9 to 12 months.

Ready-Prepared Beef: For fully-cooked, take-out beef dishes such as Chinese food, barbecued ribs, or fast food hamburgers, be sure they are hot at pickup. Use cooked beef within 2 hours (1 hour if the air temperature is above 90 °F) or refrigerate it at 40 °F in shallow, covered containers. Eat within 3 to 4 days, either cold or reheated to 165 °F (hot and steaming). It is safe to freeze ready-prepared beef dishes. For best quality, use within 4 months.

Safe Defrosting

There are three safe ways to defrost beef: in the refrigerator, in cold water, and in the microwave. Never defrost on the counter or in other locations.

Refrigerator:. It's best to plan ahead for slow, safe thawing in the refrigerator. Ground beef, stew meat, and steaks may defrost within a day. Bone-in parts and whole roasts may take 2 days or longer. Once the raw beef defrosts, it will be safe in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days before cooking. During this time, if you decide not to use the beef, you can safely refreeze it without cooking it first.

Cold Water:. To defrost beef in cold water, do not remove packaging. Be sure the package is airtight or put it into a leakproof bag. Submerge the beef in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes so that it continues to thaw. Small packages of beef may defrost in an hour or less; a 3- to 4-pound roast may take 2 to 3 hours.

Microwave:. When microwave defrosting beef, plan to cook it immediately after thawing because some areas of the food may become warm and begin to cook during microwaving. Holding partially-cooked food is not recommended because any bacteria present wouldn't have been destroyed.

Foods defrosted in the microwave or by the cold water method should be cooked before refreezing because they may have been held at temperatures above 40 °F.

It is safe to cook frozen beef in the oven, on the stove, or grill without defrosting it first; the cooking time may be about 50% longer. Do not cook frozen beef in a slow cooker.

Marinating

Marinate beef in the refrigerator up to 5 days. Boil used marinade before brushing on cooked beef. Discard any uncooked leftover marinade.

Partial Cooking

Never brown or partially cook beef to refrigerate and finish cooking later because any bacteria present wouldn't have been destroyed. It is safe to partially pre-cook or microwave beef immediately before transferring it to the hot grill to finish cooking.

Liquid in Package

Many people think the red liquid in packaged fresh beef is blood. However, blood is removed from beef during slaughter and only a small amount remains within the muscle tissue. Since beef is about 3/4 water, this natural moisture combined with protein is the source of the liquid in the package.

Safe Cooking

For safety, the USDA recommends cooking hamburgers and ground beef mixtures such as meat loaf to 160 °F on a meat thermometer. However, whole muscle meats such as steaks and roasts may be cooked to 145 °F (medium rare), 160 °F (medium), 170 °F (well done). For approximate cooking times for use in meal planning, see the following chart compiled from various resources.

Times are based on beef at refrigerator temperature (40 °F). Remember that appliances and outdoor grills can vary in heat. Use a meat thermometer to check for safe cooking and doneness of beef.

Approximate Beef Cooking Times °F

Type of Beef Size Cooking Method Cooking Time Internal Temperature
Rib Roast, bone in 4 to 6 lbs. Roast 325° 23-25 min./lb. Medium rare 145°
Rib Roast, boneless rolled 4 to 6 lbs. Roast 325° Add 5-8 min./lb. to times above Same as above
Chuck Roast, Brisket 3 to 4 lbs. *Braise 325° *Braise 325° Medium 160°
Round or Rump Roast 2 1/2 to 4 lbs. Roast 325° 30-35 min./lb. Medium rare 145°
Tenderloin, whole 4 to 6 lbs. Roast 425° 45-60 min. total Medium rare 145°
Steaks 3/4" thick Broil/Grill 4-5 min. per side Medium rare 145°
Stew or Shank Cross Cuts 1 to 1 1/2" thick Cover with liquid; simmer 2 to 3 hours Medium 160°
Short Ribs 4" long and 2" thick *Braise 325° 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours Medium 160°

*Braising is roasting or simmering less-tender meats with a small amount of liquid in a tightly covered pan.

Microwave Directions:

When microwaving unequal size pieces of beef, arrange in dish or on rack so thick parts are toward the outside of dish and thin parts are in the center; cook on medium-high or medium power.

Place a roast in an oven cooking bag or in a covered pot.
Refer to the manufacturer's directions that accompany the microwave oven for suggested cooking times.

Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness in several places to be sure temperatures listed above have been reached.

Storage Times

Since product dates aren't a guide for safe use of a product, how long can the consumer store the food and still use it at top quality? Follow these tips:

Purchase the product before the date expires.
Follow handling recommendations on product.
Keep beef in its package until using.
It is safe to freeze beef in its original packaging. If freezing longer than 2 months, overwrap these packages with airtight heavy-duty foil, plastic wrap, or freezer paper or place the package inside a plastic bag.

For storage times, consult the following chart.

Home Storage of Beef Products

If product has a "Use-By" Date, follow that date. If product has a "Sell-By" Date or no date, cook or freeze the product by the times on the following chart.

Storage Times for Beef Products

Product Refrigerator 40 °F Freezer 0 °F
Fresh beef roast, steaks, chops, or ribs 3 to 5 days 6 to 12 months
Fresh beef liver or variety meats 1 or 2 days 3 to 4 months
Home cooked beef, soups, stews or casseroles 3 to 4 days 2 to 3 months
Store-cooked convenience meals 1 to 2 days 2 to 3 months
Cooked beef gravy or beef broth 1 or 2 days 2 to 3 months
Beef hot dogs or lunch meats, sealed in package 2 weeks (or 1 week after a "Use-By" date) 1 to 2 months
Beef hot dogs, opened package 7 days 1 to 2 months
Lunch meats, opened package 3 to 5 days 1 to 2 months
TV dinners, frozen casseroles Keep Frozen 3 to 4 months
Canned beef products in pantry 2 to 5 years in pantry; 3 to 4 days after opening After opening, 2 to 3 months
Jerky, commercially vacuum packaged 1 year in pantry
Refrigerate 2 to 3 months Do not freeze

Donkey’s Place New Jersey Cheese Steak

2009-10-14T15:26:00.006-04:00

Donkey’s Place New Jersey Philly Cheese Steak – The Most Dangerous Cheese Steak in America

I have been hearing about and reading reviews of Donkey’s Place for years and how great their Philly cheese steaks are. Considering that it is located at 1223 Hadden Avenue in Camden, New Jersey, it is only a few minutes from most parts of Philly. But the thought of going into Camden, NJ just to try a cheese steak was more weight than my actions could lift. Finally, I got the nerve to go as it is a prerequisite for having the best Philly cheese steak blog.

Donkey’s Place was established in 1943 as a bar by the Matthew’s family. But its true origin began in 1947 when a man named Leon Lucas, AKA Donkey, bought the bar and started selling steak sandwiches. Leon was a champion boxer (light heavy weight) on the 1928 United States Olympic Boxing Team. Leon was also a champ fighter in his unit in World War 1. He received his nickname from having said to have a punch like a mule.

“Donkey” Lucas renamed his place after himself, Donkey’s Place. He ran the business for many years until his death in 1971. After his passed away, his son Bob Lucas took over the business and runs it presently. In 2003, Bob Lucas opened up another location in Medford, NJ (7 Tomlinson Mill Road) and in 2005 he opened a third spot in Ocean City, NJ (1018 Asbury Avenue).

OK…enough of the background…let’s get to the point. Donkey’s cheese steak has been ranked unbelievably high in my book. Its sandwich has characteristics of no other. Their cheese steak is a unique sandwich that is a twist of the traditional South Philly version in that its roll is a round, soft, Kaiser roll with poppy seeds. The steak used is thin rib eye stripped steak (not chopped) stacked high in the roll. The cheese is American cheese placed on top of the steak to melt from its heat. The onions are very unique.

Donkey’s Place used large strips of onions that are very stringy. These onions have been sitting in a big pile on the grill not too far from the meat for an hour or two. However, they are not browned at all. I believe that it is the steam that has created its unique taste and for a long period of time. There is a huge pile of onions that is placed on Donkey’ sandwich, their trademark.

Every part of Donkey’s Place’s sandwich is unique. I love the poppy seed effect. This is very different if you are used to the traditional soft long Italian rolls. It really makes you question what the future of Philly cheese steaks may hold. This style along with Grilladelphia’s pouch rolls have really made me think twice about what is a customary Philly cheese steak. I think a revolution may be underway. The poppy seeds effect though is much better than I thought.

The inside of Donkey’s place is very old fashioned. I question whether anything has been moved since its inception other than a routine cleaning. There is so much history to this place as well and this may be the reason that you may find very important politicians, etc. frequenting the place.

The hospitality was exceptional. Their menu was simple.

The biggest disadvantage, for those of you who don’t know anything about South Jersey, is getting there. Donkey’s place is in the middle of the most dangerous city in America: Camden, New Jersey. Although it is just a quick toss away from Philly, Camden is a very different place in that the crime is unbelievably high here. This is why a label Donkey’s Place the “Most dangerous cheese steak in America.” To get here, I should have brought a couple machine guns. You drive through tons of abandoned buildings and crime infested streets.

But let me tell you how it was worth it. I ate two sandwiches today ($6.50 each) and I could have sat there all day long and ate more. I still can’t get it out of my mind how good these sandwiches are. Not only do I put Donkey’s Place in the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club but they may just be the best of the best (maybe) (definitely one of the best New Jersey Philly cheese steaks). Although they are not in Philly exactly, for now I will allow them to be a special exception to get into the club even though I have originally designed it exclusively for Philadelphia cheese steaks only. If you have never been there, take a little risk through Camden County (bring the bullet proof gear), and try Donkey’s Place’s Philly cheese steak!

Grilladelphia Gas Station Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-13T18:35:00.004-04:00

Grilladelphia is an interesting take on a Philly cheese steak and must be reviewed here. They are located at 2330 Aramingo Avenue, Philadelphia, PA inside of the Rock and Roll Exxon gas station (that’s right). A gas station has one of Philly’s secret cheese steak shops! This goes to show you that the real Philly cheese steak shops are out there but need to be discovered.

Grilladelphia was established around 2000 by Barry Appelbaum from Northeast Philly. In 2002, another location was set up at Fasone’s Bar and Grill in the Port Richmond area.

Grilladelphia has its share of popularity. It is considered by many to have the best Philly cheese steak in the Fishtown section of Philadelphia (voted best cheese steak by the Fishtown Star). But the real popularity began in 2002 when Craig LaBan from the Philadelphia Inquirer gave them great reviews.

What is different about Grilladelphia is the way that they make their Philly steak – it is absolutely unique. They use a giant custom made circular roll (it has about a 6 inch diameter), which they take the inside dough out and then pack it with their ingredients. These special rolls are called hot pouches.

I ordered the special: a half pound of steak cheese steak, French fries, and a soda for $8.09 with tax. This is a real deal as you get the whole package for the same price of just a cheese steak at Geno’s or Pat’s Steaks.

I was impressed with the small shop tucked inside of the gas station. There are several small chairs and a stand up counter to eat off. The chef/waitress was very friendly. The only thing that I didn’t really approve of was that she sliced the giant roll in half and then pulled out the inside dough by hand with no gloves on (and her hands looked a little dirty). This is a major issue that I will try to look past but if the owner reads this please make sure that your staff is always wearing a fresh pair of gloves (not the same one used all week either as this is pointless).

Other then the glove issue, this place rocks. The steak was not rib eye but was an extra lean, steam grilled skirt steak, which is the opposite of every major Philly cheese steak place in Philly. This resulted in a healthier approach to eating this sandwich and benefitted my longevity on this planet. The steak was chopped fine and mixed well with the cheese and onions (cooked thoroughly). There was no ooziness like many “wanna a be” Best Philly Cheese Steak members. However, even if there was, the pouch was designed so well that the juice wouldn’t run out.

This sandwich is really a clever idea and somebody ought to help this guy take his sandwich to the next level. If you think about how many varieties of Italian rolls are out there, this is how many varieties of hybrid cheese steaks that could be created. Grilladelphia may be holding on to the key to the future of Philly cheese steaks.

I do want to say that this place does sell pizza slices too for $1. For many of you who don’t know the origin of this blog, I am one of the administrators of Blog Pizza, the famous pizza blog. This pizza really looks gross. There appeared to be too much oil on top with very burnt crust. I would highly recommend that this place focuses on the cheese steaks instead of the pizza. But for a buck, I can see it being a good complement to their customers. I just wouldn’t eat it.

Grilladelphia, keep doing what you are doing and welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steaks Club!

Frusco Steaks Philly Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-13T17:52:00.004-04:00

Frusco Steaks is located at 7220 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19135. Established in 1994, Frusco Steaks is building a strong following in Northeast Philly. They are only a few blocks from their rivals, the great Chink’s steaks.

Frusco Steaks has won various awards since their opening including “#1 Steak in Philly” by Steve Levy’s “On the Menu” from Channel 10. Their menu is very simple Philly fast food: steaks, hoagies, club sandwiches, chicken cutlets, chicken wings, side orders, and milkshakes. They have a take out, delivery, or eat in option (no waiter).

I have a mixed review of Frusco Steaks. Actually my companions that came along with me have a better review than me.

What I liked:

I liked their special. For $6.99, you get a cheese steak, French Fries, and a soda (16 ounzes). This is a great deal (Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks is $8 just for the sandwich).

I did like Frusco’s Philly cheese steak but not crazy about it. They have about a 10 inch semi soft Italian roll that they serve with strips of rib eye steak inside about 2-3 thin strips per layer. I asked for American cheese and onions and this is where the debate comes in.

Frusco Steaks is a wet sandwich, that is, the cheese is almost gone as it merges with the juices of the steak. When the sandwich is served, you do not see any cheese as it is camouflaged with the juices. These juices are softening the rolls more and oozing out the sides. The end result is a mess. You can’t eat this standing up (especially with a new pair of shoes).

This is an old time debate in Philly. Is the sandwich better dry or wet? The end result is that it always depends on the person. I like wet sandwiches only in certain situations from certain places. For example, I have yet to review a place called Nick’s Roast Beef. Their sandwich is the wettest but tastiest one of its kind on the planet. A wet roast beef like this is unbelievable but a cheese steak, I like them dry. I will make an exception for this place as they made an example of a wet Philly cheese steak that I would consider acceptable. Note: several people with me actually like wet sandwiches better. I will say that Frusco’s is not like Steve’s Prince of Steaks whose oozy cheese looks unbelievably disgusting. That is why they did not get a red light. At least Frusco’s takes the cheese to the point where it becomes one unhealthy but delicious juicy steak.

What I didn’t like about Frusco Steaks:

I didn’t like the hospitality level. The attitude of the employees needs to be a bit friendlier. I just didn’t feel comfortable when I find myself thanking them more than they are thanking me. I also question the hygiene of the place as I peered into their cooking quarters and saw a dirty looking work station. Cleanliness is very important as Joe Vento from Geno’s Steaks attests.

I am going to have to vote Frusco Steaks as a yellow light (proceed with caution). I know that many may disagree with me but I just don’t feel comfortable considering this place to be in such an elite club. I am not saying don’t go there at all but I don’t think that they are ripe for the best club. The Best Philly Cheese Steak Club includes the total package. I would recommend that they lower the amount of ooziness in their cheese (when I order cheese I want to see it - it really wasn’t visible). Also, it doesn’t hurt to smile and say thank you to your customers.

I hope that you have enjoyed another review from Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog!

Chink's Steaks Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-13T17:06:00.004-04:00

Chink’s Steaks in Northeast Philly is at minimum the best Philly cheese steak joint in Northeast Philly. Chink’s Steaks located at 6030 Torresdale Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19135 has been around long enough to be considered a historical Philly cheese steak shop. They are opened every day except Sunday.

Chink’s Steaks was established in 1949 by Samuel Sherman (his nickname was chink). Sherman originally worked at Pat’s King of Steaks before he got the idea to open his own place. He learned from the best steak place at that time and took his skill to a relatively untouched steak sandwich area in Northeast Philly. Sherman worked at Chink’s for 46 years before retiring. He then turned the business over to one of his long time workers, Joe. Chink died several years later.

Chink’s is extremely popular and has won many awards. In 2002, after Craig LaBan from The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Restaurant Guide published a complimentary article favoring Chink’s, their publicity grew. Also, in 2002 Best of Philly voted them “best cheesesteak”. They also received acclaim from AOL’s Citysearch, Sport’s Radio WIP 610 and many others sources. But as I keep telling you these awards don’t mean squat until it is reviewed here on the famous Best Philly Cheese Steak Blog. This is where real Philly cheese steak knowledge comes from.

I am extremely impressed by Chink’s Steaks in many ways. For starters, their sandwich is incredible. They use soft, golden, Italian rolls about 10 inches (not quite a foot). The steak is rib eye steak (if it is not rib eye steak then it is an immediate strike) that is stripped and layered maybe 2-3 thin strips on top of each other in the sandwich. The cheese is American cheese that is smoothed out evenly amongst the steak – paradise! The onions are small square chops that are lightly browned mixed well amongst the steak and cheese. The sandwich itself makes this a great cheese steak. But there is more…

Chink’s Steaks is situated inside of a old fashioned mom and pop cheese steak shop that still has the same look and feel of when it opened 60 years ago with its 1950’s decor. They carry a simple menu consisting of hot dogs, hamburgers, hot sausage, old fashioned sodas, milkshakes, and ice cream sundaes. This is a simple old fashioned menu that goes with their theme. Simple can be wonderful. Chink’s Steaks even has old fashioned jukeboxes (that don’t work) at each table.

I also like the cleanliness factor. It appeared that the place was well kept from the customer’s viewpoint (you never really know what is going on in the ceilings and basement). The steaks were cooked right in the front window. This is an opportunity to see your steaks being made to your standards. Always be leery when the cooking quarters is far away from the customer’s access.

The staff is very young, beautiful, friendly women running the whole place. There are several old fashioned booths where you can sit as well as at the counter. Although I didn’t eat any ice cream I plan to upon next visit.

Chink’s Steaks is a classic for Philly cheese steak fanatics. Chink’s is an original style joint as no other Philly cheese steak place will give you the same look and feel in addition to the excellent steak product it offers. They have been around for 60 years and with new, smart, self sufficient, forward looking management, I believe that they will be here another 60 years.

If I can explain the feel of this place with an analogy I would say that Chink’s Steaks is like Jim’s Steaks combining with Nifty Fifty’s Restaurant. Actually, with the pretty staff and the nostalgic atmosphere, you feel like you are being taken back in time to what the fifties were like (even if you weren’t born in that era).

Chink’s Steaks, I am honored to welcome you to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Philadelphia Lincoln Financial Field Liberty Grill

2009-10-11T20:58:00.003-04:00

Philadelphia Lincoln Financial Field Liberty Grill Philly Cheese Steak Review

A little visit to an Eagles game at the Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia gave me the opportunity to contribute to this cheese steak blog. The Lincoln Financial Field, established in 2003, is home of the Eagles. I thought reviews of the best Philly cheese steak places would not be complete without a review of the cheese steaks sold in the sports centers.

The Lincoln Financial Field doesn’t have too many opportunities to buy famous cheese steaks like Citizens Bank Park. They do have a place in there called Liberty Grill that is found in several concession stands throughout the complex. I ordered a Philly cheese steak with onions. The rolls were about 8 inches and were semi soft. The problem with the roll was it was not as thin as it should be. It wasn’t a really thick roll but it wasn’t the perfect size that a Philly steak should be. Furthermore, it should have been about a foot long.

I do want to give them credit though because they did pack the sandwich with a good amount of meat. The steak was chopped very thoroughly. I also believe that I spotted some red blood which means that it wasn’t cooked one hundred percent. The cheese was melted in between the steak but there were some ears of unmelted cheese that stuck out. I only believe that they have one kind of cheese, American. The onions were cooked well and chopped small.

For $7.75 for a cheese steak at a major Philadelphia sports arena, I was impressed with the price as they were still a quarter shy of Geno’s or Pat’s Steaks. They did give you a good portion even though their roll wasn’t long enough. However, this all does not cut it though to be in the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club. I think the Coors Light beer that I wasn’t drinking made this sandwich taste better than it really was but I am still absolutely convinced that it isn’t a pure representation of the best of Philly.

I will give Liberty Grill a yellow light (proceed with caution) because I still feel that it has potential even though it is a ballpark cheese steak. Usually your expectations are to be robbed for your dollar at a ballpark for any food that you buy at a concession stand. I feel that I did get my money’s worth but I think that they just need to improve on the quality of the sandwich. So if you go to an Eagle’s game, hopefully I have set the expectation level for the Philly cheese steaks there!

University City Abner’s Cheese Steaks

2009-10-10T17:22:00.004-04:00

University City Abner’s Cheese Steaks and Pizza Review

University City Abner’s Cheese Steaks is located at 3813 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA in University City. Abner’s was established approximately in 1983 and is a favorite for many of the students in that area.

What I thought was interesting about this place before I went in was that there is a small gentlemen’s club right next door that said to buy a drink and get a free Abner’s cheese steak. I am not sure of the connection between a strip club and a cheese steak place but maybe this combo works for them. The place is very wide inside with many TVs. I thought the staff was very friendly and I like that they had a giant booth to sit.

Nevertheless, I was not impressed with their Philly cheese steak. University City Abner’s Cheese Steaks and pizza has a large fan base but it didn’t ring a bell for me. Actually, when I first came in I looked directly at the pizza that was in the counter and it appeared that it had been sitting out for hours (sort of like many of the boardwalk pizzas on the New Jersey boardwalk). This doesn’t mean they were going to serve you these pizzas though. I mean I don’t know because I came there for the cheese steak but it still wasn’t a good first impression.

Abner’s Cheese Steaks were about a foot long sandwich. They gave you an Italian roll that was soft but yet I still didn’t see the shiny golden brown of the perfect soft Italian roll that could be found in many South Philly joints. The onions were lightly darkened and chopped thoroughly with the steak. The steak was chopped very fine and a decent amount was placed in the roll. But that is not why I am giving this place a yellow light (proceed with caution).

It is not that the steak sandwich was entirely bad. It was average. The biggest problem was that the steak on the sandwich was dry. I asked for American cheese and it was put at the base but not enough was used. The rolls were not very fresh either. Thus, the combo made a decent sandwich but I am not here to find decent. I am here to find the best. I know that the best has different degrees, for example, the best of the best. But this place could not quite make it to my tolerance level of what would be minimally accepted as the best (they were almost there though).

If you compare this sandwich up against my other recommended Philly cheese steaks then you will see that Abner’s is not on the same quality level. My suggestions would be to try using fresh soft Italian rolls (maybe Amoroso, Sarcone’s, etc.) They must be shipped fresh everyday. This is only fair if you want to be in the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club. Also, you need to master the art of mixing the cheese well with the steak and putting just enough.

I hope that you have enjoyed my review of University City Abner’s Cheese Steaks!

Sonny’s Famous Steaks

2009-10-10T16:42:00.003-04:00

Sonny’s Famous Steaks is located at 228 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Specifically it is located right in Old City just a few steps away from Campo’s Deli. The proximity to Campo’s sort of creates a rivalry similar to Dalessandro’s and Chubby’s and Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks.

Sonny’s Famous Steaks is a newcomer to the Philadelphia cheese steak game being only around since November of 2000. Actually Sonny’s first opened up right next door to Campo’s at 216 Market Street. A few years later (2003) they had to move though because their building had structural problems. This stalled this business for a few months. It worked out best for them because their new location is a little bigger.

Sonny’s has won several awards including Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly 2001.” They are about to get an even better award…

Sonny’s Famous Steaks has a nice sized steak shop with many tables and a big television to watch while you eat. The staff was very friendly and their menu is extremely simple: French fries, hamburgers, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, or cheese steaks.

The rolls were top of the line as I saw the delivery man dropped them off straight in the back room. They were holding several bags from Amoroso bakery, the same bread used by Jim’s Steaks. I did notice that the roll on my sandwich was a little flaky though, which may indicate that it may have been over a day old (questions the freshness). While we are on the topic of rolls, Sonny’s cheese steak is just way too small. It is less than 8 inches, a small Italian roll. They really need to think about making their sandwiches bigger.

Sonny’s Steaks chops their meat but not by much at all. It is a stringy chop where the slices of the rib eye meat used is sliced several times. The steak is not a fine chop where every part of the meat is completely subdivided.

At Sonny’s, I changed things up a little and ordered a traditional Philly cheese steak with cheese whiz instead of American cheese (the sign at the counter said this was Sonny’s recommendation as it is the sandwich that he eats). The cheese was smoothed around amongst the steak evenly with minimal signs of oozing (oozing is a sign that the cheese has melted too much).

The onions were slightly darkened and chopped into tiny blocks.

I like Sonny’s but I have some suggestions for him. The sandwich taste is very good but the length of the sandwich for $7 has got to go. Sonny if you are reading this you need to give a foot long in this economy for $7. Campo’s down the street has roughly the same size for the same price except their sandwich is a little thicker (even though they use steak strips).

Another suggestion for Sonny would be to brighten the place up. Put some money into your place. It looks like a dingy hole in the wall. Campo’s Deli has a nice clean bright looking place. Yours looks like a prison cell barbecue. Philly cheese steaks and bright colors work very well together. If you think I am off then take a ride to Geno’s and stare at the bright orange signs that attract people like magnets.

Other than the size of the ugly interior, I still believe that Sonny’s Philly cheese steak still holds strong. Sonny’s Famous Steaks welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Campo's Deli Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-10T15:55:00.003-04:00

Campo’s Deli is one of the most popular Philly cheese steak joints in Philly. Campo’s was established in 1947 and has 3 locations. The main location was the one that I am reviewing at 214 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Campo’s is also located at Citizen’s Bank Park and the Wachovia Center. That’s right, Campos is the official Philly Cheese Steak of the 2008 world champion Philadelphia Phillies Fans and the official hoagie and cheesesteak of the Wachovia Center, home of the Philadelphia Flyers and 76ers.

Campo’s Deli was started by Ambrose and Rose Campo and is still family operated many years later. The difference is that it is not a little corner luncheonette slash grocery store anymore. Campo’s has been elevated to new higher levels through its increased popularity. Campo’s has a very strategic location in Center City as it benefits from the high trafficked area especially in its Old City neighborhood.

Campo’s has a nice sit down place inside. The place is very clean looking and the workers are all very friendly. The best part is that you can sit by the window and just gaze outside of the beautiful neighborhood of Old City Philadelphia and its passersby.

Campo’s Deli also has an increasing online presence as they ship virtually anywhere in the world. Campo’s has been rated the best by many different sources but you all know by now that I am not impressed until I review it myself (and you should have the same attitude).

I really liked Campo’s Philly cheese steak. I ordered a cheese steak with bell peppers and mushrooms. The steak sandwich itself was $7, which is very reasonable. The mushrooms and peppers were an additional $.50 each. The bread used is the famous Sarcone’s bread from South Philadelphia. This bakery has a huge fan base as they are one of the biggest bread distributors in the area along with Amorosa. The rolls were nice soft golden Italian rolls. The problem with the roll was that it was a little too small (about 8-10 inches). They need to upgrade to the foot long to really impress me.

The steak was stripped steak as was sliced a little thicker than the average thin strips. Obviously it was well done as there was no sign of blood. This is the normal way to cook a Philly cheese steak though. If you see a drop of red blood from your steak sandwich in Philly then you better run because that is not how it should be cooked.

The onions were nicely cooked to a golden brown and chopped into small slices. The American cheese was mixed well into the steak and stayed in one place (as opposed to oozing out the sides. The peppers and mushrooms were also cooked Italian style and were mixed right into the sandwich. They were a nice complement to the meal. Campo’s Deli also has many varieties of the sandwich that you can try like the old fashioned Italian pizza steak. You can tell that these sandwiches are influenced by Italian culinary traditions.

Overall, I like Campo’s atmosphere, location, cleanliness, and their sandwich. They appear to be a very nice family run organization. The price was also right considering the location. However, my only suggestion for them is to think about using a foot long roll.

Campo’s is truly a Philly favorite that needs to be recognized by our cheese steak blog. Campo’s Deli, welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Talk of the Town CheeseSteaks

2009-10-09T18:51:00.005-04:00

Talk of the Town CheeseSteaks is another very popular cheese steak joint in Philly. Established in April of 1997, Talk of the Town is opened and operated by the D’Ambrosia family. This cheese steak shop is located at 3020 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA. They are located just minutes away from Lincoln Financial Stadium, Citizens Bank Park, The Wachovia Center, and the Spectrum. They are also a few minutes from the Walt Whitman Bridge, under I-76, near I-95 North and South in the heart of South Philly.

Talk of the Town’s strategic location may be the reason why they are visited so often by famous sports players. Donovan McNabb, for example, had made this place his lucky charm one year and had to visit it before he went on away games. You can actually walk to any of the sports centers from here straight down Broad Street.

What I noticed about this place that seems appealing is that they offer party trays. This can be very good for small football gatherings or birthday parties. For example, their current menu says small trays (3 whole loafs that feeds 10 to 12 people) is $45. Their large tray (5 whole loafs used that feeds 18-20 people) is $65. This is a nice investment for a good party. I bet though that if you asked any of the local deli’s like Cosmi’s Deli in South Philly, they will make you a party tray as well.

Talk of the Town used beautiful light golden brown soft Italian rolls. Their onions were slightly golden and chopped well. The cheese was American but you can ask for other cheeses if you like. They melt the cheese smoothly between the steaks.

The steak that was used was stripped steak and not chopped but they said that if you want chopped just ask and they will please. They layered the small steak strips with two strips on top of each. So the sandwich was 2 strips of thin steaks high.

The biggest problem I had with Talk of the Town was that their roll was less than 8 inches and their price was $6.75. Their sandwich was awesome but it needs to be a little bigger. You have to give to get back. They should give you the foot long rolls not these cheesy small rolls.

I also like the fact that you can sit down inside and watch TV. They make it nice and cozy with several booths and tables. It is painted all blue and it appears that they take good care of the place.

Other than the size, I think this was a great example of a perfect Philly cheese steak that takes the stripped steak approach. Small steak sandwiches like this will keep you thin. When you mess with a place like Gooey Looie’s then you better be careful because they give you an extraordinary amount of steak on your sandwich.

Talk of the Town, you did good (but make it bigger). Welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Cosmi's Deli Review

2009-10-09T18:21:00.003-04:00

Cosmi’s Deli is a perfect example of an Italian deli in South Philly that will whip you up a great Philly cheese steak a few blocks south of Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks. Cosmi’s Deli was established in 1932 and is located at 1501 S. 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. They have been family owned and operated since its inception.

Cosmi’s Deli is a nice little corner Philly deli where you can get all kinds of Philly goodies. They serve homemade soups, appetizers, various sandwiches including hoagies, hamburgers, and their award winning Philly cheese steaks.

The different option that I like about this Italian delicatessen is that when I asked for a Philly cheese steak they asked me not whiz and wit or witout but “Do you want seeded or non seeded?” This just proves my whole theory that that whiz or wit out crap is just a little game that the top cheese steak places play with tourists. They don’t ask that to any local Philadelphian. Could you imagine if Geno’s or Pat Steaks starting taking Cosmi’s Deli question: “Yo, you want seeded or not seeded?” How do you think people might react?

Anyway, they serve a nice foot long Italian roll (Of course I took non seeded as this is a sign of a real Philly steak) for $6.50. That just gave me an idea: Maybe one of these places should start selling a healthy cheese steak like a wheat roll cheese steak. This may be a good option to add to their variety.

The cheese was melted in between the steak (they never even asked what kind of cheese as they assumed American cheese). The steak was chopped thoroughly and stacked just enough in the roll. It wasn’t a monster of a sandwich but it was a nice size. The onions were chopped and golden brown and mixed between the steak and cheese.

There isn’t a place to sit inside Cosmi’s Deli, which I dislike. Most places will at least have a place to eat whether it is inside or outside the shop.

Overall, I agree with the fans that Cosmi’s Deli has a great cheese steak. Being around since 1932 and having a history with meats, this place has a strong foundation to give them credibility for being the best. That is why they get a green light from me.

Cosmi’s Deli – Welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Steaks on South Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-09T17:35:00.004-04:00

Steaks on South Street (SOS) Cheese Steak Review

Steaks On South is located at 308 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 on the South Philly side of South Street. Steaks On South is a rather new comer in the Philly cheese steak world but I am certain that they will be in business for many years to come.

Steaks On South has only been open for several years now and they are already gifted with many Best Cheese Steak Awards. SOS was named “best cheese steak in Philadelphia” by NBC10.com. They also won the City Paper Choice Award and were featured on CN8 Live. This doesn’t mean anything though until Best Philly Cheese Steaks Blog puts their review to work. And here it is…

I was very impressed with Steaks On South. They give a good foot long Philly Cheese Steak on a beautiful soft, golden light brown, Italian roll. The cheese is melted evenly between the steak and does not ooze out of the ends the way Steve’s Prince of Steaks does. The onions are chopped into smaller pieces and are cooked semi golden.

I am more impressed by the uniqueness of the cheese steak. After visiting so many cheese steak places in Philly, you start to see the same patterns over and over without anyone trying to be unique. SOS is unique. The steak is not exactly chopped and not completely stripped – it is somewhere in between. Really small strips of steaks semi chopped should describe it well. They are one of the few places that make these sandwiches this way. Usually a place will pick a side as their trademark: either chopped or stripped. This is one of those rare shops that said: “Hey can we do both?”

Steaks On South is also unique because they have added black pepper to their sandwich automatically. This is a very powerful taste that overrides anything else that you will eat that day. This is a rare quality. Again most steak places will leave the option of adding pepper to the customer. I really liked the extra kick of pepper but I am not sure how others may feel.

Overall, I was totally impressed with their cheese steak and for the price at $7.50 I think it was worth it. The price is a little higher than the competition (but still not as high as Pat’s and Geno’s) but considering the busy location on South Street, the price makes sense.

Steaks On South gets a green light from my book. Steaks On South welcome to the Best Philadelphia Cheese Steak Club!

Steve’s Prince of Steaks Review

2009-10-08T19:52:00.004-04:00

Steve’s Prince of Steaks is located at 7200 Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia PA (Northeast Philly). This steak place is very popular in the Northeast section of Philly and has received many awards since its inception.

Steve’s Prince of Steaks was started at its original location on Bustleton Avenue in 1980 by Steven Iliescu. Steve’s Steaks was voted best cheese steak in Philly by the Philadelphia Magazine in 1998 and 2007. Steve’s has also been awarded "Best of Citysearch" 2005 & 2007 and "Best of Bucks" 2007 & 2008.

On November 27th 1998, the Philadelphia Eagles decided to make the "World’s Largest Cheese steak", for the Guinness Book of World Records. The steak itself was 365 feet long and was made by 22 local cheese steak restaurants, all competing to be the Best of the Biggest, which Steve's Prince of Steaks was crowned the winner. Other sources of fame for Steve’s Prince of Steaks happened in 2006 when the Food Network aired a show called the Hungry Detective. During the show Steve's Prince of Steaks was highlighted as the best kept secret in Philadelphia cheesesteaks.

Steve’s has since expanded to open 2 different shops. In 1999, "The Prince" opened his second location, Steve's Comly, at Comly Road and the Roosevelt Blvd. The third location opened in 2006, Steve's Langhorne, located at 1617 E. Lincoln Highway.

I ate at Steve’s original location and have to say that I am not impressed. I had a regular Philly cheese steak and it cost me roughly $7. The steak sandwich used strip steak instead of chopped. Steve’s was unique in the sense that he double layered the stripped steak on the rolls. Also the steak was a little thicker than Geno’s or Pat’s who also use strips of steaks instead of chopping it. The roll was a nice Italian roll but Dattilo’s Italian Deli sandwich had a roll that was much longer and better in terms of color, texture, softness, and taste. The onions were plentiful but were very dark. They were not the kind of caramelized onions that your perfect cheese steak would have.

The cheese…

This was the gooiest steak I have ever seen with American cheese. The cheese on this sandwich is what ruined it. It was layered on top of the steak but in an oozy type of format. I was served the steak sandwich with the cheese actually dripping off the ends of the steak because the American cheese was just completely liquefied. This is American cheese and not whiz. This just is an absolute no-no.

Although I liked the fact that you can sit inside and eat at Steve’s Steaks, they have peppers for you, and an interesting chocolate soda, I am not impressed with their sandwich at that value. I think that they have tried to compete so hard with Geno’s and Pat’s by using the same style that it has worked against them. Tell me one reason why I won’t drive an extra mile up the street to Dattilo’s to eat a steak for $1,50 less and have a much bigger, better quality sandwich. I can’t think of one. Steve’s needs to be more of Steve’s. I think that when they first started out they may have been great, but this isn’t South Philly and you aren’t Geno’s or Pat’s.

Steve’s should take my advice and lower the price and beef up on what it has to offer its customers. I especially recommend that they do something about that cheese as it has ruined what potentially could have been a very good sandwich. Sorry Steve’s Prince of Steaks, I cannot recommend you in the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club this year!

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen Review

2009-10-08T16:36:00.004-04:00

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen in Northeast Philly Review

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen is located at 8000 Horrocks Street, Philadelphia, PA 15152 (at the corner of Bustleton Avenue and Rhawn Street in the Great Northeast Philly). Established in 1973, Dattilo’s is a perfect example of what a Philly Italian deli should look like. There is about 10 people working there and everyone of them is friendly and ready to help you with your order. They serve not only sandwiches but many Italian specialties and deserts as well. There are 2 isles of Italian groceries in the tiny shop.

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen does not have a place to eat inside but there are small tables outside if it is a nice day. I only ordered a Philly cheese steak here but from the many people I know that frequent the place, the hoagies and roast pork sandwiches are unbelievable.

The Philly cheese steak was not badly priced at $5.50 for a foot long sandwich. The roll used was a classic soft Italian roll, the best example of the right roll to use for a cheese steak. The steak was chopped and nicely tucked away but yet not over filled like Gooey Looie’s Hoagies and Steaks. They give you a nice portion for you money. The cheese was nicely melted in between the steak. They don’t ask you what kind of cheese you want; they just give you American cheese. Most Philly average Joe steak places do this. Only the fancy ones make a big deal about what type of cheese you want and whether you want onions.

The onions were caramelized nice and brown and sliced to an average small size. They were also distributed evenly throughout the steak sandwich.

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen also has a nice selection of Italian side orders if you are interested. For example, if you like olives and peppers there are several Italian versions available.

Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen is a great little cheese steak shop tucked away in the Great Northeast. I would definitely give them a ticket into the Best Philadelphia Cheese Steak Club as I am totally impressed with their overall package and the loyalty of its customer base. Dattilo’s Italian Delicatessen is a great representation of a top Philly cheese steak shop in the Northeast area of Philly.

Gooey Looie’s Hoagies Steaks Review

2009-10-07T16:20:00.004-04:00

Gooey Looie’s Hoagies and Steaks Review

Gooey Looie’s Hoagies and Steaks is a perfect example of a Philly cheese steak place that only the locals know about. Do you remember when I first started this blog that I said I was going to introduce the tourists to Philly cheese steak places that only the locals know of and is ten times better than anyone of ”The Big Three” (the name I gave to Geno’s, Pat’s, and Jim’s Steaks)… well today is your lucky day. I am revealing another hidden gem that is a true Best Philly Cheese Steak joint.

Gooey Looie’s Hoagies and Steaks was established approximately 25 years ago and is located at 231 McClellan Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. It is located inside of the Pennsport Mall, a small little mall close to the Delaware River in South Philly. You can park your car in the lot and walk inside. This place is really tiny but there are about 3 small tables to sit and eat if they are not occupied.

Gooey Looie’s is open every day but Sunday and is very popular by the locals. They were rated Best in Philly by Philadelphia Magazine dating back from 1995, 1996, and 1997.

Gooey Louie’s Cheese Steaks are probably the widest cheese steak in Philly. I have known about this place for years and haven’t found any that has been wider. When I say wider I mean how thick the sandwich is. The sandwich is so thick that you need a fork to bring it down to a manageable size.

The bread they use is soft Italian rolls. The steak is chopped well and stacked high. The American cheese used is mixed well within the steak. They use a good amount of cheese to make the steak nice and gooey (I guess that is where they got their name from). There are a decent amount of onions used and they are cooked very thorough with the steak to create a darker color onion.

When a Gooey Looie’s sandwich is served to you it is wrapped so thick that it may be mistaken for something other than a cheese steak. Be careful not to wave that sandwich at the police or they may take you down by mistaking it for a machine gun.

If you come to Philly for the first time and you want a real cheese steak, go to Gooey Looie’s instead of the top 3. Do you know how much my cheese steak cost? The large cheese steak was $6.95 – over a dollar less than any of the Big Three cheese steak shops. For the value you CAN NOT beat this place. You can fit 3 Geno’s Steaks inside of this one sandwich (why are you laughing – I am serious). If you don’t believe me then you will have to see for yourself. You also won’t have to deal with tourist lines and the staff here is very friendly. After you go to Gooey Looie’s, please make sure to return and thank me in the comment section.

Gooey Looie’s Hoagies and Steaks – Welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club!

Steve’s Steaks Pizza Cheese Steak Review

2009-10-03T17:30:00.002-04:00

Steve’s Steaks Pizza Cheese Steak Review

Steve’s Steaks is located at 650 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (corner of 7th and South Street). Established in 2003, Steve’s Steaks is a very popular cheese steak spot along the famous South Street in Philly.

You may have noticed by now that I have reviewed many places from the Italian Market and South Street area. Having eaten at various food spots all over the city, I have found that this area has some of the best of Philly foods.

Steve’s Steaks is a little eat in restaurant/diner that serves Philly cheese steaks, hoagies, club sandwiches, salads, milkshakes, burgers, wraps, gyros, and also Coca Cola in classic bottles (this is a nice fifties twist). This restaurant is sort of a fusion between modern Philly cheese steak shops and the original 1950’s diners.

I like Steve’s Steaks. My biggest problem was that the 2 chefs appeared to be very unfriendly. The owner himself, however, was very pleasant and this balanced everything out.

Steve’s Steaks had a very good cheese steak and a pizza steak. For those of you who don’t know what a pizza steak is let me elaborate. In Philly, a pizza steak is very popular. It is a Philly cheese steak with tomato sauce (South Philly calls it gravy) on top like a pizza meets a cheese steak. Actually, this sandwich, if done right, may be properly labeled an “Italian Sandwich” because it has the qualities of Italian Philly cheese steak and an Italian pizza. Steak, tomato sauce, provolone cheese, and an Italian roll are the ingredients, thus, an “Italian Sandwich” would be a well suited name.

Steve’s Steaks has a very good pizza steak. Their rolls are perfect: soft, lightly golden Italian rolls, which appears to have come from the local Italian Market in South Philly.

The steak is chopped extra lean beef steak. I think that a little more steak could have been added but considering that the roll was a foot long, you should be full on one sandwich.

The cheese (American, provolone, or whiz) is blended with the steak inside the roll. Some parts of the edges were not 100% cooked when served. Thus, my only suggestion would be to ensure that the cheese is fully cooked on all sides of the sandwich before giving it to the customers.
Considering that I ordered a pizza steak, it was hard to tell how tell how the onions (because they were well mixed in the sauce) were cooked but the sauce was average. The tomato sauce was good but it wasn’t great. The tomato sauce was served very hot and helped to cook the rest of the contents in the sandwich some more. I needed to wait a moment to let it cool down before I began my devouring.

Overall, Steve’s Steaks served a very good Philly cheese steak for the money. At $7.20 for the regular and $7.50 for the pizza steak, the value was there (at least more than the Big Three Cheese steak shops in Philly). I would only recommend that they work on their sauce a little more. A really good tomato sauce can make a pizza steak an unforgettable sandwich. Steve’s Steaks, welcome to the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club (you received your green light)!

Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies Review

2009-10-01T20:46:00.003-04:00

Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies Review (Follow up to Chubby's)

As mentioned in my prior article today, I have recently eaten at 2 major cheese steak joints in the Roxborough area of Philadelphia. These two places are directly across the street from each other similar to Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks. I will now review Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies as a follow up to Chubby’s Cheese Steaks.

DAlessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies was established in 1960 and is located at 600 Wendover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19128 (at Henry and Walnut Lane). They are a must if you are interested in trying the best Philly cheese steaks. Dalessandro’s is the best cheese steak place in Roxborough/Manayunk at minimum and debatably the city. They have a specialness to them that makes them unique. First, you can order gourmet sodas and domestic and imported beers at their small “sit down inside” shop. The uniqueness of this place is also found on the counter where you eat. There is a long chain of various peppers from mild to really hot hot peppers that you can sample for free with your cheese steak. This is very different for a cheese steak shop.

I ordered Dalessandro’s Philly cheese steak with provolone cheese (I wanted to mix things up compared to my usual American cheese). The cheese steak is very cheap at $5.94 for a foot long sandwich. They packed the rolls with the chopped rib eye steak that they use making sure that you get your money’s worth. The provolone cheese was mixed well with the steak. I am not such a big provolone fan but I wanted it today.

The soft Italian rolls were perfect. They had the right soft texture that is ideal for this type of sandwich. Their onions were slightly cooked and were mixed in with the steak and cheese. I had a few peppers with their cheese steak to complement the meal.

I am really impressed with Dallesandros and think that they may be considered an elite group from the best of the best. Their place is very small but the staff was very friendly and they run their business very professionally. Also, Dallesandro’s has received numerous awards throughout the years from many different sources.

Dalessandro’s is definitely better than their competition across the street, Chubby’s. Not only have they been around much longer but their total package is much better. A cheaper, bigger, tastier sandwich. Allessandro’s, welcome aboard the Best Philly Cheese Steaks and I am sure our readers will be hearing more about you in the future!

Chubby’s Cheese Steaks Review

2009-10-01T20:13:00.003-04:00

Chubby’s Cheese Steaks in Roxborough Review

I tackled 2 major cheese steak joints in the Roxborough section of Philly today. They are both right across the street from one another similar to Pat’s and Geno’s in South Philly. The competition is pretty fierce too. This post will be about the newer of the two called Chubby’s Cheese Steaks.

Chubby’s Cheese Steaks was established in 1987 and is located at 5826 Henry Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19128 (Roxborough area). Chubby’s is a bar type cheese steak place which makes it unique compared to many cheese steak joints in South Philly. You can sit at the bar and eat you sandwich while ordering whatever special is on tap. There is a small TV there but it wasn’t on while I was there so it’s not much of a sports bar. What is interesting about this place is that it is a small little shop but yet very comforting. It is the type of place that you go to after a real stressful day of work to get two fixes that will cure your blues: a drink and a cheese steak.

The Philly cheese steak here is similar to the DAlessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies across the street. The roll was a soft type of Italian roll but a little crispier than its competition. The value was excellent. I ordered a Philly cheese steak with provolone cheese and it came out to about $6. The onions were larger sliced onions that were grilled slightly brown. The cheese was all wrapped up in the steak and melted nice. I would say that the sandwich needed a little more cheese though.

Chubby’s also used chopped meat in their sandwich as opposed to steak strips. The chef cooked a whole pile of chopped meat on the grill at one time Jim Steaks style. Chubby’s cheese steak was a decent size and a good amount for the buck. I will give them a green light but as my next review of Dalessandro’s will tell you, I liked them better out of the two steak joints. I also had several other testers with me and they came to the same conclusion that Dalessandro’s had a better Philly cheese steak.

Philip's Steaks Philly Cheese Steak

2009-09-26T19:13:00.004-04:00

Philip's Steaks Philly Cheese Steak Review

Philip’s Steaks is another perfect example of how you can find better Philly cheese steaks in Philly than what is traditionally known to be the best. I have recently eaten at Philip’s to reconfirm what I have known for many years.

Philip’s Steaks is located at 2234 West Passyunk Avenue, South Philadelphia, PA. They have been in business for over 25 years and have a very solid revenue from the locals. Philip’s Steaks is situated at a key traffic point off the highway and generates a decent amount of sales. They could be what Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s Steaks have been for some time but are still lacking major recognition. This could be why I still like their steaks. Philip’s Steaks has a good bang for your buck. I bought a regular Philly cheese steak with extra onions and a large soda for $9.

Phillip’s cheese steak was only $7.25, which is 75 cents cheaper than Pat’s and Geno’s. The sandwich was all round perfect. The bread was soft Italian bread about a foot long. This is a few inches bigger than Pat’s and Geno’s. The cheese that I ordered was American cheese (if I eat whiz with my cheese steaks for all my reviews I may not make it too far). The cheese was perfectly melted and tucked away within the steak. The steak was thinly sliced rib eye steak. There was a sufficient amount in there to give you your money’s worth.

The only problem that I had was with the onions. The onions were rarely cooked at all. I like onions cooked from medium to almost well done. Actually, the best onions are those that are cut really thin and simmered low for a few hours. They become so tasty that you could eat them without anything else.

I ate my Philip’s cheese steak on the small metal stand up tables attached to the side of the building. Most cheese steak places in Philly have this including Geno’s, Pat’s, and Jim’s. I have always found it fascinating of how many diverse people that you meet at cheese steak shops. Word of advice for many tourists: Just act natural when you are in Philly. I write this blog as an educational blog for those who are interested in the Philly cheese steak but inevitably I have to share some information about the city as a whole.

It appears to me that many tourists who visit Philly always have this preconception of everyone being so rude and looking for a fight. The truth is that it is not that way. For example, when I went to Philip’s, this tourist with his friend kept talking tough to the cashier as if he was supposed to because he is in Philly. Philip’s is a regular local Philadelphia cheese steak place run by friendly locals. They are not looking for trouble. Because people are told what to expect when they go to Geno’s or Pat’s they think that they have to act tough for every cheese steak place. This is inaccurate and unnecessary. Geno’s and Pat’s has a reputation to live up to and deals with tourists all day long and that could be the reason they have so many ordering rules there (and the tough guy reputation to live up to). It could also be that they have been abused by the tourists so long that this is the result.

Philadelphians are nice people as a whole so if you come to Philly don’t try to act tough for no reason. This actually makes you look more like a tourist. The reason that I digressed here was to let you know that the people working in these cheese steak places are just normal hardworking people and deserve to be treated with respect. If they don’t give you any trouble than you shouldn’t give them any. Enough with the lecture…

My review conclusion…Philip’s Steaks has a dynamite Philly cheese steak for your buck. Aside from their onions not meeting my standards, Philip’s Steaks is a true hidden gem of a cheese steak shop and goes down as having one of the Best Philly Cheese steaks.

Tony Luke's Review

2009-09-24T18:47:00.008-04:00

Tony Luke's Cheese Steak Review

Tony Luke’s is a place that you go for real Philly sandwiches. My review today is about their Philly cheese steak but I have been here many times and have to say that all of their sandwiches have made an impression on me.

Tony Luke’s located at 39 East Oregon Avenue in South Philadelphia, PA is one of the newer of the major sandwich/cheese steak shops in Philly. They opened around 20 years ago (I don’t know the exact date). They are located right under the bridge before you get on the highway in a very high trafficked area of South Philly. Tony Luke’s has made a name for themselves in the short time that they have been open. The following is a sample of the awards that they have won:

Tony Luke's has been featured numerous times in Philadelphia Magazine's
annual "Best of Philly" issue, so much so that it has been inducted into the
"Best of Philly HALL OF FAME."

Best Food
Roast Pork Sandwich, 2004

Best Food,
Best Sandwich at the Ballpark, 2004

Best Food,
Hamburger Alternative, 1998

Best Food,
Hamburger Alternative, 1997
Roast Pork Sandwich

Voted into Philadelphia Magazine's "Best of Philly Hall of Fame" Best Food,
Cheesesteak, 1994

Best Food,
Roast Pork Sandwich, 1994

Tony Luke's Steak Italian
Named among the Gentleman's Quarterly's "Golden Dishes of 1998"

Tony Luke’s was started by a man nicknamed Tony Luke. The business is now run by his son Tony Luke Junior. The family has been very successful with their sandwich shop and their other businesses. Tony Luke’s has opened up a Beef and Sports Bar right across the street. Tony Luke Junior also has a successful side career as an actor. He has been featured in movies such as Invincible and 10th and Wolf and soon to be the main character in The Nail.

The Luke family continues to compete successfully against many other major sandwich competitors because they offer a good product at a reasonable price. Tony Luke’s menu is one of the best features of their business. They have a large variety of sandwiches that are consistently good in all categories. My favorite sandwich that I recommend is to order the chicken or veal cutlet with broccoli rabe. From my many years eating there and the various sandwiches that I have tried, that one seems to be their most popular and the most satisfying.

But we’re not here to talk about other sandwiches…this is the greatest cheese steak blog ever invented so I have to give my Philly cheese steak review.

Tony Luke’s Philly cheese steak is outstanding. Their cheese steak is slightly underpriced to Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks but a little larger. Weighing in at $7.25 and a few inches longer then the Top Three cheese steak Shops, Tony Luke’s is a major contender.

Tony Luke’s steak uses sliced rib eye steak packed just enough (at least more than the Top Three). However, compared to other local cheese steak places in Philly, it is still not thick enough. Don’t get me wrong, one sandwich should fill you but nothing like the Famous 4th Street Deli.

The bread was an Italian roll but a little hard. The ideal roll should be very soft. Although this Italian roll was hard the inside was not thick, which makes the roll acceptable. The worst cheese steaks are those with very thick Italian rolls. The rolls can be hard but the insides should be gutted to create a thin roll (the steak is thick enough as it is).

The cheese melted nicely between the steak. The onions: I forgot to order onions…sorry. Well, actually the truth is they never asked me. Usually major cheese steak places in Philly always make a big deal about “With or Without.” Again that is only the Top Three and only for tourists. Local Philly cheese steak sandwiches do not make a big deal about asking for onions properly. Tony Luke’s takes on the local mentality as in “who cares.”

I also ordered a side of sweet peppers. I highly recommend them as a nice somewhat healthy side order. They are very tasty and they give you a good amount. A soda, Philly cheese steak, and a side of sweet peppers for under $12. That is a reasonable price for a good healthy greasy Philly meal.

Overall, I am satisfied with Tony Luke’s and have been for years. This is where the locals really eat when they want a popular sandwich. Not many local Philadelphians who have lived here their whole life goes to Pat’s or Geno’s very often. They are too expensive and usually come with at least an hour wait (all that when you can go a few blocks in any direction and find a place that will crush them in a competition.

Although Tony Luke’s rolls are a little harder than normal, their sandwich goes down for the record as one of the best Philly cheese steaks.

John’s Roast Pork Shop Review

2009-09-21T20:25:00.004-04:00

John’s Roast Pork Shop Review

John’s Roast Pork is one of the oldest sandwich shops actively running in Philadelphia. Established in 1930, John’s Roast Pork also known as: John’s Lunch, The Snyder Avenue Lunch Bar, and the Shack has been in the same spot since its inception. John’s is located at 14 East Snyder Avenue, South Philadelphia, PA 19148, which is across the street from the Snyder Plaza (on the corner of Weccacoe and Snyder). John’s has been successful for three generations and the same family (Bucci’s) is still running the place.

Don’t let the name fool you. John’s Roast Pork is actually a place where you can get all kinds of sandwiches, both hot and cold. They have won many awards from various places too. For example, in 2006 John’s won the James Beard Award for culinary excellence. John’s was also voted number one for best pork sandwich in 2000 and best Philly cheese steak in 2002 by the Philadelphia Inquirer.

I like John’s Roast Pork Sandwich Shop. I recently ate both a roast pork and a Philly cheese steak there. The roast pork was very good. I had it with spinach on top, hot peppers, hot sauce, and Americn cheese. Since this blog is about Philly cheese steaks, I will focus my review on that.

John’s Roast Pork Philly cheese steak is a very solid sandwich. A large cost me $6.50 and was close to a foot long. The steak was chopped and not cut thin like Geno’s or Pat’s Steak. The American cheese was melted nice on top of the steak. The onions were lightly grilled with minimal sightings of dark coloration.

The bread would be one of the downfalls of this cheese steak. John’s uses Italian roils but the rolls are much harder than Pat’s and Geno’s. The ideal best Philly cheese steak would have a soft Italian roll with a lightly glazed golden color. The key is soft. This is a phenomenon as like why is the sky blue. I don’t know but a soft roll makes a cheese steak tastes better (in most expert’s opinion including famed Joey Vento).

Overall, this sandwich is very good but I vote John’s Roast Pork Philly cheese steak a yellow light. Why? The reason I think that you should proceed to eat from John’s with caution is because of a few observations that I made. First, this sandwich shop is located on a small little section all by its lonesome next to giant shopping centers and only a few stone’s throw from the Delaware river. The building that it is located in looks like it has not been fixed up since the original owner opened for business. Inside the shop, the grill appears very dirty compared to many other famous cheese steak joints. Joey Vento from Geno’s Steaks has high priced steaks and doesn’t give you your money’s worth but his place is as clean as he proclaims it to be. Cleanliness is a huge issue that needs to be incorporated into food’s price. How much would you pay to know that you are eating clean food (forget healthy – we are talking about cheese steaks)?

John’s Roast Pork’s employees were not wearing gloves and were handling the sandwich, meat, and the money. That is a no no for me.

The other thing that I didn’t like about this place is that their hours are funny. They open at 6:30 and close the grill at 2:30. From that point you can only order cold sandwiches until the doors shut at 3:00. This is not the way to run a business. Why limit yourself to a certain schedule when the demand is constant and all day?

My final recommendation is to think about what was discussed today before you try John’s Roast Pork. If cleanliness is a big issue to you that a greasy hole in the wall like this may not be your bag of tea. If on the other hand, you are willing to look the other way when it comes to the food preparation then you may want to consider this place to visit. John’s does have an excellent roast pork and Philly cheese steak but I am voting them a yellow light (proceed with caution) because I am a little leery about their overall cleanliness.

Below I have included some of John’s Roast Pork recent menu items for your convenience:

Roast Pork Sandwich
Roast Beef Sandwich
Meatball Sandwich
Italian Sausage Sandwich
Chicken Cutlet Sandwich
Chicken Cutlet Parmesan Sandwich
American Hoagie
Italian Hoagies
Ham & Cheese Hoagie
Cheese Hoagie
Tuna Hoagie
Turkey Hoagie
Chicken Salad Hoagie
Roast Beef Hoagie
Plain Steak Sandwich
Cheese Steak
Pizza Steak
Cheese Steak Hoagie
Bacon Cheese Steak
Mushroom Cheese Steak
Sweet Pepper Cheese Steak
Steak Milano (w/Grilled Tomato & Provolone)
Chicken Steak
Chicken Steak (w/Cheese)
Chicken Steak Italiano (w/Provolone & Spinach)
Chicken Steak Hoagie
Bruschetta Cheese Steak
Hot Dog
Hamburger
Cheese Burger
Hot Ham & Cheese
Grilled Cheese
Fish Cake
Deviled Crab Cake
Bacon Lettuce & Tomato
Texas Tommy
French Fries
Onion Rings
Chicken Wings (8 pc.)
Mozzarella Sticks

Little Sicily Pizza Steaks | Hoagies

2009-09-18T17:55:00.005-04:00

Little Sicily Pizza Steaks and Hoagies Review

Little Sicily Pizza Steaks and Hoagies in South Philadelphia is a perfect example of a pizza and Philly cheese steak place that is a hidden secret in the Philadelphia food community. This is a perfect example of how you can find non touristy places in the heart of Philly that has food better and cheaper than the most popular restaurants.

Little Sicily Pizza was established in 1968 and sits at 1433 West Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia, PA. They promote themselves as having the best pizza in town and that is why they need to be reviewed here. This type of business falls under two categories, pizza and cheese steaks, so I will have one review for two of our blogs. In Philly, these types of operations are very common. A pizza place tries to complement its business by selling cheese steaks and a cheese steak sandwich shops tries to complement its business by selling pizzas.

Pizza or cheese steak…it doesn’t matter with a place like Little Sicily as you can’t go wrong either way. This place is very Sicilian style Italian. There are many pictures of famous Italian actors on the walls. You may enjoy the Al Pacino pictures. This is a sit down or take out pizzeria. The cashier slash waiter is very polite as this is a nicely run family business.

First the pizza. The pizza that I ordered was American style. They do not have fancy gourmet pizza here and if I asked for my traditional Margherita pizza that might blow my cover as an undercover food critic. So places like this I prefer not to ask stupid questions. Besides, most Philadelphia pizza places aren’t in tune with the whole Margherita concept unless you go to a gourmet pizza joint and they better know what a Margherita is.

I ordered one slice of pepperoni and one plain cheese slice. There pizza is very unique. They really make good Sicilian pizzas (I have been here before) so their regular pizzas have a similar crust. That is, there crust is sort of thick and blackened. They give you plenty of pepperoni on the pepperoni pizza slice. The cheese tasted good but it was part of the only problem with this pizza. The cheese slides off very easy as it was all stuck together. So I had to keep picking it up and putting it back on the pizza. This may be due to a little more oil than necessary.

Overall, the pizza was very good for the price (about $2 each) and the slices are very big slices. I didn’t need the cheese steak to help full me (but I ate it anyway). This is an example of how you can get a great deal in Philly. A place like this runs specials on hoagie, cheese steaks, and pizza specials all day every day. You can get a 16 inch large pizza from anywhere between $11 and $15 depending on what type. This pizza will fill about 3 or 4 people – It’s the real deal!

The cheese steak was phenomenal. It makes Geno’s or Pat’s look silly in all areas. The Philly cheese steak cost about $5.50 and it is a few inches longer and thicker than any of the top 3 cheese steak joints. The rolls are good soft Italian rolls. The softness is what makes this sandwich taste out of this world.

You should be full if you eat the whole sandwich (if you’re not then add a slice of pizza). The cheese was American cheese melted 100% and the stick was chopped rib-eye steak. I put a little ketchup on my cheese steak to add some flavor. The onions were fried nice and crispy.

Little Sicily cheese steak was about $2.50 less than a Geno’s or Pat’s Steak. Are you starting to understand what I mean that you can find way better, cheaper, tastier, and friendlier cheese steak joints in Philly, especially South Philly? Little Sicily Pizza is only about 10 blocks from Geno’s and Pat’s. You can follow Passyunk Avenue straight up and you will actually pass right by it. So with that said, why does all of these tourists want to go wait 2 hours in a line for a cheese steak of a lesser kind? My answer is because they don’t know and that is what this blog is about. So stay tuned as I take you to the true best Philly cheese steak and best Philadelphia pizza places.

Best Philly Cheese Steaks Review

2009-09-14T19:32:00.063-04:00

This page will be a comprehensive list of all of the Best Philly Cheese Steak Blog's best Philadelphia cheese steak reviews. Every review mentioned on this site will be documented here in a consolidated form. I will also provide a brief description of whether or not the cheese steak shop in question was voted to be the Best Philly Cheese Steak by our blog (this is shown with a green light review). Note: the big three cheese steak joints are in a category of their own because of their popularity. Happy reading!

The Big Three Cheese Steak Joints (The most popular - Cheese steak fans must try these at least once)

Geno's Steaks - South Philly

Jim's Steaks - South Philly

Pat's King of Steaks - South Philly

Green Light Cheese Steak Reviews (that means GO)
Note: If a Philly cheese steak place has received a green light then this automatically qualifies them into the Best Philly Cheese Steak Club.

Ardmore Pizza - Ardmore, PA

Barry's Steaks - Roxborough

Campo's Deli - Old City Philadelphia

Chink's Steaks - Northeast Philly

Cosmi's Deli - South Philly

Chubby's Cheese Steaks - Roxborough

Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies - Roxborough

Dattilo's Italian Delicatessen - Great Northeast Philly

Donkey's Place - Camden, NJ (I know it's not in Philly but this place deserves the exception. Besides its right across the river)

Famous 4th Street Deli - South Philly

George's Famous Roast Beef and Steaks - Italian Market

Gooey Looie's Hoagies and Steaks - South Philly

Grilladelphia - Fishtown

Jake's Philadelphia Cheesesteaks - Center City Philadelphia

Larry's Steaks - City Line Avenue

Leo's Steaks - Folcroft, PA

Little Sicily Pizza Steaks and Hoagies - South Philly

Nick's Old Original Roast Beef - South Philly (using a very loose definition of a Philly cheese steak)

Philip's Steaks - South Philly

Pudge's Steaks and Hoagies - Blue Bell, PA

Rick's Original Philly Steaks - Center City Philadelphia

Simonetta's Italian Style Hoagies and Mediterranean Delights - South Philly

Sonny's Famous Steaks - Old City Philadelphia

Steak and Hoagie Factory - Abington

Steaks on South - South Philly

Steve's Steaks - South Philly

Talk of the Town CheeseSteaks - South Philly

Tommy DiNic's Roast Pork and Beef - Center City Philadelphia (using a very loose definition of a Philly cheese steak)

Tony Luke's - South Philly

White House Sub Shop - Atlantic City, NJ (an exception was made for them not being in Philly. Read to find out why.)

Yellow Light Cheese Steak Reviews (that means proceed with caution)

Frusco Steaks - North Philly

John's Roast Pork - South Philly

Lincoln Financial Field Liberty Grill - South Philly

Pagano's Steaks and Hoagies - North Philly

University City Abner's Cheesesteaks - University City (West Philly)

Red Light Cheese Steak Reviews (Forget about it!)

Chocolate by Mueller - Center City Philadelphia - Chocolate Philly Cheese Steak

Mama's Pizzeria - Bala Cynwyd, PA

Steve's Prince of Steaks - North Philly

Subway - South Philly

Other cheese steak spots (Not reviewed yet):

Ishakabibble's - South Street

Famous 4th Street Delicatessen Review

2009-09-14T19:24:00.004-04:00

Famous 4th Street Delicatessen Philly Cheese Steak Review

For some time now I have been telling my readers that I will be letting the secret out of the bag for the best Philly cheese steaks. Before this blog came along, most tourists only know of Pat’s, Geno’s, and Jim’s. Now that I have reviewed the three most popular, it is time to give away some secret cheese steak joints. The first place I will review will be Famous 4th Street Delicatessen in South Philadelphia. They serve all types of sandwiches but after this review you will know why I consider them one of the best Philly cheese steak places.

Famous 4th Street Delicatessen is located at 700 South 4th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. This Jewish deli was established in 1923 and is one of the last of its kind, especially in Philadelphia. Famous Deli is a true hidden secret that many locals know of. Actually it is not a true secret in the sense that only locals know about but it is not like Geno’s Steaks where there are lines blocking traffic in the street. Famous Deli did have some international exposure as it was in several movies including Philadelphia (1993) and In Her Shoes (2005).

Famous 4th Street Delicatessen began as a traditional Jewish deli but has recently changed hands in 2005. Considering that I have been eating here for several decades, personally I have not seen a difference in the quality of the food since the ownership change (this is a good sign). It is very important for a family restaurant that has been established for many years to be consistent with its original formula for success even in times of an ownership change.

The reason that I selected Famous 4th Street Delicatessen as my first cheese steak review outside of the Big Three Philly cheese steak places is because I felt that it would serve as a perfect example of the point that I have been trying to establish on this blog, which is that there are so many better, cheaper, healthier, friendlier cheese steak shops in Philly that the tourists don’t know about. You may ask me why I am giving these secrets away for free. I am a food critic and hope for recognition of my work some day. In the meantime, I don’t mind being compensating with a few comments on my blog. One of my other reasons for spilling the beans so to speak is that I truly would like to see other small restaurant/ food businesses benefit from the enormous amount of money that is being spent by tourists at the Big Three steak houses. There is plenty of room for other food businesses in Philly to earn some of the revenue that tourists bring to Philadelphia.

My review of Famous 4th Street Delicatessen:

Obviously, I have personally selected this company because I believe it to be a first class Philly cheese steak shop. I have recently ate there to verify my past conclusions (I always do this to ensure of a fresh review). Famous Deli is a Jewish Deli that serves all types of sandwiches. My favorites there include the Corn beef Reuben and the pastrami on rye. However, about a year ago I was there with some friends and one of the people in my group ordered the cheese steak. I then sampled it and to my surprise I was hooked.

Famous Deli’s cheese steak will put Geno’s, Jim’s, and Pat’s to shame in a competition. Matter of fact, I would bet that if all three of them came up with one sandwich together that Famous Deli would still win. Why do I say this? Don’t worry I have several reasons.

Famous’ Philly cheese steaks have all of the qualities of a best Philly cheese steak. First, their sandwich is very large. The length is the size of a 12 inch loaf of bread but the width is what makes this a large sandwich. The roll is stacked high with chopped rib eye steak and cheese. One half of a sandwich will full the average person. That’s right! I had a very large table the last time I was there and almost everyone ordered a cheese steak and almost everyone left half to take home.

The cheese is fully melted in their cheese steak unlike Jim’s whose sandwich still had ears of cheese sticking out unmelted.

The onions on this steak sandwich are fried until a little black. Famous takes a cooked well approach to the onions as opposed to Geno’s Steaks, which only lightly glazes the onions (they don’t have an ounce of discoloration on them).

The bread used here is also the traditional Italian roll. However, I am not exactly sure as Famous makes most of their food on premises (this would make it a Jewish roll).

The price of this Philly cheese steak is debatably high though at $11. Let me defend this price. This price includes 2 nice sized potato cakes and a large bowl of pickles and cole slaw. By the time the sandwich comes out you will be lightly full from the best tasting cole slaw that you will ever eat. So this $11 goes a long way. I know that Geno’s Steaks is $3 less but you would need 3 Geno’s cheese steaks to equal 1 of Famous’ sandwich.

In summary, Famous 4th Street Delicatessen is a perfect example of a great Philly cheese steak place outside of what tourists are traditionally advertised. If you visit this place, order the cheesesteak and let me know if you agree with my review. Famous Deli has great service, a positive history, a variety of good foods (including its chocolate chip cookies baked on premises), a large tasty cheese steak, a good atmosphere, and a reasonable price. Famous 4th Street Delicatessen goes down as one of the best Philly cheese steaks!

Geno’s Steaks Cheesesteak Review

2009-09-11T20:21:00.005-04:00

Geno’s Steaks Philly Cheesesteak Review

What can be said of the Great Geno’s Steaks! Even if I was to write a completely negative review of them today, the facts are still facts. Geno’s Steaks is one of if the most popular Philly cheese steak shops in the world. I would like to go over some basic facts about Geno’s before I proceed into my review.

Joe Vento, the owner of Geno’s Steaks, started this amazing business in 1966. The real history begins with his father who opened the famous Jim’s Steaks in the early 1940’s. This is where Joe Vento learned many of the ways of the cheese steak business that were setting the foundations for his future empire.

Vento wanted to open his business across the street from the undisputed King of cheese steaks, Pat’s King of Steaks. All others who had tried this feat had failed. But Joe Vento was confident that he had a good product so he wanted to give it a try. First, he needed to select a name so he thought about Joe’s Steaks but there already was a popular cheese steak place with the name at that time. The origins of the name of the business actually came from a carved name on the door of his building that said “Gino.” At that time there was another business nearby named Gino’s with an “I” so he decided to call it Geno’s with an “e.” Years later in 1971, Joe Vento named his son after his business (instead of the usual other way around). So the real Geno from Geno’s Steak is actually the second generation of that business. Geno today acts as the general and public relations manager.

Joe Vento’s Geno’s Steaks is a rather new business compared to the other famous Philly cheese steak places that exist like Pat’s and Jim’s. But in a period of over 40 years Joe has managed to make his business become a million dollar empire. On any given day, Geno’s Steaks averages around $20,000.

Geno’s Steaks has one main shop located at 1219 S. 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 in the South Philadelphia area. Geno’s also has a warehouse across the street used for the prep work of the steaks. Across the street from that is Joe Vento’s building used to display his Harley Davidson collection. That is what is different about Geno’s.

Joe Vento is a cheese steak owner unlike no other. He loves the fame and glamour. Between his Harley collection and all of the neon lights to his building you would never know that the oldest cheese steak place existed across the street if there weren’t any lines there. His side of the cheese steak spot appears to be a section out of Old Las Vegas.

Geno’s Steaks has helped take the cheese steak business to the level that it is today. Joe Vento and his son Geno have excellent business and public relations skills. They know how to get media attention and use it to their advantage. It has been thier marketing skills that have helped the Philadelphia cheese steak market take the international spotlight. Philadelphia tourism is interconnected with the cheese steak business and many have not given the proper credit to Joe Vento. Joe is a marketing genius behind all his tough guy façade. His ingenuity actually began the first day that he chose the location for his business. Only a person who true vision would have built their business on the door step of the greatest competitor in their field.

At the time Vento started his business, Pat’s King of Steak was thriving and all his competitors who tried to rival Pat’s were defeated eventually and their businesses failed. Not Joe Vento. Joe used his competitor as leverage to build his business. He already knew that he had a good product and all he needed to do was capture the leftovers from the line across the street. Eventually, they would become repeat visitors. What Vento had created was a friendly rivalry created by the fuel of competition. This friendly rivalry, in my opinion, is what helped create the Geno’s of today. People like to have an alternative to compare when eating. The famous question in Philly is “Do you like Pat’s or Geno’s better?” This question is the foundation of Joe Vento’s game plan. He knew that if he could create competition then this would be good for his business (and indirectly Pat’s). If he could find a way to make money for Geno’s Steaks and Pat’s at the same time, Pat’s wouldn’t be reluctant in sharing some of the profits. Vento’s gamble worked and well.

Forty plus years later and Geno’s business is filled with visitors every day from all around the world. Geno’s has seen almost every celebrity imagined from the President to Michael Jordan. If you are in Philly then you have to go to Pat’s or Geno’s at least once in your life time. This is at least the way tourism in Philly directs the traffic. Vento actually created a celebrity booth inside his operation to handle all famous visitors.

The good thing about Joe Vento is that he gives back to his community. The man donates to charities all of the time. When a police officer died in the 1980’s, he donated 24 hours worth of revenues to his fund. During September 11, 2001, Geno’s Steaks donated 72 hours of business to the fallen police and firefighters. That amounted to well over $100,000. Vento loves to help the police organizations out. You will see his wall at his steakhouse that has badges from many police and fire departments throughout the country.

Vento is also known for his strange stunts that cause media attention. One of the most controversial was his sign that he put in his window and still is there that says “This is America when ordering please speak English.” Many have argued that this is not just for the newer immigrants who come here. Joe Vento likes it and it is his store so three years later and the sign is still up. I guess Joe won.

Time for my review. I have spoke very favorably thus far of Geno’s Steaks and the Vento family. From a business standpoint, I respect a man who works hard and can pull off the American dream from his efforts. But don’t think that I am siding with them and would compromise my review for a little kiss ass. I can care less. This review will be as tough as I always dish it. Take the good with the bad but this is my review.

When I went o Geno’s recently I order a cheese steak with cheese whiz, a birch beer, and a side of cheese fries. The cheese steak cost $8, the fries and soda cost $5.50. So my meal total was $13.50 – not too shabby for one of the most popular cheese steaks in the world.

Geno’s Steaks uses thinly slice rib eye steak in their sandwiches just like Pat’s. This is the opposite of Jim’s where they used chopped steak. Geno’s bread is local Italian bread not too thick and not too hard. The bread is a fine combo between soft and hard, also known as just right. The cheese that I ordered was cheese whiz but you can get American or provolone. The onions were lightly grilled (you don’t see a speck of burnt on them). Also, I added hot peppers from the stand out front. Please always take advantage of these as they are a treat that other steak places don’t have.

There were several slices of steak on the cheese steak. The steak is very cooked. You will not see a drop of blood on there. This is your typical red blood steak joint. All steaks are cooked in a consistent manner (and have been for many years). It is similar to McDonald’s. If you went in one of their franchises on two different sides of the planet you will probably experience a similar tasting hamburger. Joe Vento has his steaks down to a science. The best part about Vento’s operation that I have to give him credit is that he is clean. The man is meticulous with every part of his operation (even the ceilings) totally clean.

Overall, Geno’s cheese steak is the same as it has been for the past twenty plus years. My review in the eighties would have been the same as today. The steak is always consistent. I recommend that you visit Geno’s Steaks at least once. However, I will tell you that his steaks are not the best Philly cheese steak. Geno’s is one of the most popular cheese steak places (if not the most popular) but not the absolute best. Geno’s may have been the best at one point in time when his market was targeting the locals. Now his business targets mainly tourists.

You will rarely see a local going to his place. Why do you think that his cheese steaks are $8 each and are a quarter of the size of an average Philly cheese steak from a Philly cheese steak place? And where do you think all this bull**t about order properly came about? This all came about with the increase in dumb tourists that slow up the line.

Do you think Vento and his crew would talk that way to local South Philadelphians? I assure you that he wouldn’t be in business to this day if that was the case. South Philadelphians don’t like to be told how to order. They would usually respond with “go F**k yourself” and then never to return. All this nonsense with make sure you know how to order and know what whiz and without is crap. Whenever I go there I always order my way and wait for someone to tell me how to order so that I can knock their lights out – that is the Philly way. Tourists will never get it that this order properly in English crap is a) Just a marketing tool and b) a mind game for dumb tourists. This is how Geno’s employees get their kicks (it can be boring flipping steaks all day long).

Vento and his Geno’s Steaks get an A for marketing skills, cleanliness, business skills, and consistency. Their steaks are average though, the size is too small, and the price tag is too high. However, for first timers you have to do it at least once. As a Philadelphian, despite the disadvantages of Geno’s Steaks, I still go there at least once a year and have been doing so for many years (many, many , many). So I guess my consistency as a customer speaks for itself. I do want to acknowledge though that there are plenty of dynamite cheese steak places in Philly that in a competition would surely beat out Geno’s Steaks. Stay tuned to Best Philly Cheese Steaks as I will uncover these Philly cheese steak places that only the locals know of!

Jim's Steaks Cheese Steak Review

2009-09-04T20:23:00.006-04:00

Jim's Steaks South Street Cheese Steak Review

Today’s review will be of Jim’s Steaks South Street cheese steak shop. After many years of visiting Jim’s I have made a frequent visit to keep this review fresh. First thing that I will do today is to start out with an overview of Jim’s Steaks. It’s important that you understand its significance in the cheese steak world before I proceed with my review.

Jim’s Steaks has 4 locations as of this review. The location that I went to was at 400 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147. Jim’s Steaks’ history actually had its beginnings in 1939 in West Philly at 431 North 62nd Street by the owner Jim and his family. Jim’s expanded to the South Street location in 1976. Another expansion happened many years later in 1996. Jim’s had opened up a new location at Bustleton and Cottman Avenues (at the Roosevelt Mall). The last cheese steak shop opened in Springfield (469 Baltimore Pike).

Last week I had discussed Pat’s steaks and their significance to the cheese steak world. Specifically, because they were the first cheese steak hop in Philadelphia, they are a Mecca for cheese steak lovers. Well, you also have to give a place like Jim’s Steaks credit because although they are not the first cheesesteak shop they are one of the first. They opened approximately 10 years after Pat’s and about 30 years before Geno’s Steaks (the so called King of Steaks). With four stores under their belt, Jim’s Steaks’ history is extremely important for cheese steak lovers. They must be appreciated and relished because they are the foundation for the massive worldwide marketing of making Philly known for this type of food.

So on to my review…please recall that this review of Jim’s Steaks is of its location on South Street. Eventually, I may post a review of the other locations. Ideally, I would like to get in a nice review of the original location and make some comparisons to today’s review. There are so many good cheese steak places to cover in this blog that I don’t want to spend too much time on any given one.

Jim’s Steaks is a totally different cheese steak compared to Geno’s or Pat’s and in many ways. Geno’s and Pat’s have sliced steaks (extremely thin and layered on their steaks). Jim’s Steaks uses chopped steak, a completely different cheese steak experience. Sliced versus chopped both have very good tastes but yet very distinguished.

I ordered a plain cheese steak with onions at Jim’s Steaks. The steak was about 8 -10 inches (sorry I don’t carry a ruler). The great part about Jim’s is that as you wait in line you have to actually pass the frontline of the chef’s working quarters so that you see every move that is made. This is different than Pat’s and Geno’s where the grill is much more obscure. By the way, Jim’s is inside unlike Pat’s and Geno’s. This is a huge factor for those waiting in some ridiculous line in the middle of the winter. At least you can be a little warm inside. But I have also seen Jim’s Steaks‘ line wrap around the building outside on most weekend nights.

The inside of Jim’s Steaks is another interesting part of Jim’s history. There is pictures and autographs from many famous people all over the walls. Don’t forget to go upstairs to eat. Most people aren’t even aware that an upstairs exists but it does and there is many, many more pictures up there too. Upstairs they are even several tables for you to sit and relax while you eat (but don’t forget to feed the meter first because South Street ticket police are always on patrol).

Jim’s Steaks is also famous for its plaque that it has on its wall for the cheese steak record. This record is of the person who ate the most cheese steaks in one hour. The last I can remember it was about 13 but I didn’t check it when I went. If you can beat that record I am sure they will get your name up on that wall.

Ok…sorry I digressed (a bad habit). Back to the cheese steak review…While waiting in line you can watch your steak being cooked right in front of your eyes. There are tons of steaks on the grill. What makes Jim’s Steaks unique is that the cook is chopping your steak. I did not order whiz because I like American cheese (but I recommend it). By the way, Jim’s does not sell cheese fries unlike the other major stores.

Jim’s Steaks’ cheese steak was very good. My sandwich costs about seven dollars plus I ordered a root bear. The chopped steak is really tasty as it is cooked thoroughly. You very rarely find a Philly cheese steak place that has steak with a drop of red in it. This is uncommon as that is not what this steak sandwich is about. This needs to be distinguished from your usual bloody Mary Steak at a pure steakhouse (some served rare).

Jim’s Steaks puts the cheese under the steak in the sandwich. I got to say that this is one thing that I didn’t like. The ears of the bottom layer of cheese that were sticking out never got melted. I like cheese completely melted in a cheese steak. That is the way that it should be. If you want a sandwich with unmelted cheese then you would order a hoagie (subway or poor boy to many other Northeast folks).

The onions were chopped in large slices and were just lightly cooked. The ideal cheese steak would have onions thinly sliced and caramelized. You will rarely find this at any Philly cheese steak joint because it is too much work. However, when I cook them at home I will put any of these steak places to shame (the onion factor has a big reason to do with this). Try it at home and you will see what I mean. If you slice the onions really thin then it will result in much more flavor.

Overall, Jim’s Steaks is Jim’s. Whether or not I like it Jim’s is one of the oldest and most popular cheese steak places in Philly and will continue to be for a long time. I always wondered what would be the effect if Jim’s Steaks opened up a place right next to Pat’s and Geno’s. I think that they would help take some of that traffic off the streets and put them on the pavement. I don’t think their competition would appreciate this though and may have to retaliate by opening another one of their stores next to Jim’s.

I hope that you have enjoyed my review. If you get to Jim’s Steaks, please stop by our blog and let us know what you think about their cheese steak sandwich.

Pat's King of Steaks Review

2009-08-22T13:32:00.005-04:00

Pat's King of Steaks Cheese Steak Review

What can I say about Pat’s King of Steaks? My first review on this blog must start out with an analysis of the greatest cheesesteak place on the planet (well, the oldest at least). Despite whatever I have to say in this review, I must give the credit to the king because without Pat’s Steak history, this blog wouldn’t exist and neither would the food that America loves today called the “Philly Cheese Steak.”

To start our review I would like to present some overview information about Pat’s steak house. Pat’s Steaks is located at 1237 East Passyunk Avenue, South Philadelphia, PA 19147 (where 9th street crosses Wharton and Passyunk Avenue). They are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve.

Next, let talk about the history of Pat’s Steaks. Pat’s was created by a man named Pat Olivieri in 1930. Pat Olivieri’s invention of the cheese steak actually began from a hot dog stand. Pat used to sell hotdogs in South Philadelphia near the Italian market. Olivieri tried something new one day and put together an Italian loaf of bread with some chopped steak that he put on the grill. He sold his first sandwiches to some taxi drivers from around the way. News spread quickly and this became a very profitable business for Pat.

Pat’s Steaks is truly the king in the sense that Pat Olivieri, the originator, started the whole cheese steak business with a little bit of serendipity. All those places that followed such as Jim’s Steaks and Geno’s Steaks had just hopped on the cheese steak bandwagon. Those other steak houses were successful as well because there was plenty a room for more vendors to make money. After all, a whole new great food was created. Just think of how popular the modern pizza must have been when it was created in Napoli, Italy in the 1700s (see pizza history from Blog Pizza).

So back to my review of Pat’s King of Steaks. The Pat’s cheese steak place that we know of today has evolved to become a multimillion dollar business. The same Olivieri family still runs the joint today (and very efficiently too).

For those of you who don’t know me, I am the creator of the famous pizza blog called Blog Pizza. I have a strong Philadelphia background in the food industry. Thus, the reviews that I make here should be taken seriously because I know Philly foods very well. Actually, this cheese steak blog will be discussing various cheese steak places. I am actually going to take you to the hidden cheese steak places that only the locals know of. Do you know why the lines at Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks are two blocks long any given time of any given day? There are many reasons but I bet you a major one is that the tourists just don’t know where the real cheese steak shops are that locals eat at. I started this blog to let this secret out of the bag. Why? I am a true believer in sharing. It’s not that I have anything against the big players in the cheese steak business but there are hundreds of steak shops all over Philly. Why should two businesses take all of the tourists’ attention and their business? Besides, most regular cheese steak shops in Philly provide a better quality sandwich, bigger cheese steak, a cheaper price, and a lesser of an attitude to the tourists (well, that’s debatable – Philly is Philly).

Although I have been to Pat’s Steaks many times in the past, I have gone once more the other day just to ensure that this review is fresh. It is interesting to note that this review would have been said the same way if it was made 20 years ago. Some things never change.

To start this review out about Pat’s I would like to put myself in the perspective of the average tourist. If I was a tourist and I am deciding on which of the two steakhouses to go, Geno’s or Pat’s, I would recommend that you try Pat’s first (a tourist is usually looking to visit the most historical anyway). I like Pat’s over Geno’s but will have to admit that these days there is a blur between the actual differences.

The dynamics between Pat’s and Geno’s steaks is very interesting. The two cheese steak places operate a stone’s throw across from each other yet both businesses have lines that block traffic in the street (sometimes the lines actually get connected by accident). Geno’s has all of the fancy neon lights and glamour of a successful business and Pat’s has more of a modest 1970’s look (recently updated a little). For all of the money the two have made, I am still surprised they haven’t bought the whole neighborhood and put up cheese steak museums yet.

To discuss Pat’s Steak is hard not to include Geno’s into the conversation. Over the years, the two businesses have created this interesting force that has helped one another. The air of competition has startled a friendly debate over who has the best cheese steak. Every tourist that comes to Philly now feeds into the debate by trying to sample the both of them.

Although Pat’s Steaks is still simpler in appearance, don’t let their looks fool you. They make money and a lot of it. This is the reason that the quality of their food has declined drastically over the past 20 or something years.

So the other day I ordered a regular cheddar cheese steak with onions. I also picked up a soda and some cheese fries at the next widow (the first window is for steaks and the second window is for fries and everything else). The cheese steak was $8 and the fries and soda was about $6. I was full for about $15. The cheese steak was on a loaf of bread (about 8 inches long) sliced in 2. The steak was a smooth layer about an inch high off of the bottom of the sandwich. The cheese was cheddar but has an appearance of a watery version of cheddar (the kind that drips quickly). This cheddar is almost transparent (you can see through it). The onions cooked well with a slight burn and had just the right amount.

Overall, the cheese steak is very good but compared to my standards for Philly cheese steaks, it is very poor in many categories. This is why many locals usually don’t go to these two steakhouses. Don’t get me wrong, Geno’s and Pat’s Steaks have a taste that is very unique in Philly and is rarely replicated. However, for the value and quality, there are many more places that will put these places to shame in a competition (Stay tuned). Either way, if you have never tried a Pat’s Steak than it is still a requirement in order to really understand the cheese steak experience. This place is the Mecca of cheese steak places (even though I complain about the value I still end up going there at least once a year).

Now that I have completed my review, there is a couple observations that I made while at Pat’s Steaks that I wanted to discuss. First, while in the line at Pat’s I noticed that a couple of people were getting attitude from the cashier about how to order a steak. After their order was complete, I overheard them make a remark that offended me. The one guy asked the other “what the cashier’s problem was” and the man responded “this is South Philly, all Italians are like that?”

I must clarify this for all of those who are reading. South Philadelphia is the birthplace of Italians in Philadelphia. South Philly has the famous Italian markets which were the thriving area for many new Italian immigrants about 100 years ago. There are still many Italians in Philadelphia, specifically, South Philly. If you are going to make you impression of what Italians in South Philly are like based off of what you experience was standing in the line at Geno’s or Pat’s Steaks, I will highly advise you to reconsider. Not only will that impression be highly inaccurate but it is also the exact opposite of the truth.

First, you must distinguish between the South Philly cheese steak business and South Philadelphian Italian Americans. I have heard similar responses one too many times before and this is why I am taking the time to clarify. The Philly cheese steak business has become a show over the years (every celebrity known has visited Geno’s and Pat’s, including every politician). There is a huge marketing strategy that keeps bringing the customers back. The major cheese steak players treat you like s**t and create all of these weird rules of how to order. Then you buy into it and keep returning because tourists don’t know any better. People, it is a game! The workers are f***ing with your head. They know that you are a tourist so they keep asking you silly questions like “Wit or Witout.” Come on! You know what the irony is? An average local Philadelphian who does his or her once a year pilgrimage to Pat’s or Geno’s don’t ever say “Wit” or “Wit out”. I would guess that the average local don’t even know what that means. These are code words for tourists. The average local Philadelphian would walk up to the counter and say something like “give me a regular cheese steak WITH onions.” It would be understood and the line would keep moving. The bottom line is to not act like an idiot or a tourist when ordering. If you take your time ordering you will piss them off and you will get treated poorly (just like any other food place that you visit except it is a little more extreme here).

Regardless of who was right and who was wrong between the tourist and the cashier, the remark of the tourist was definitely not correct. How can you say that all Italian people in South Philadelphia (one of the largest parts of one of the biggest cities in America) are miserable people based off the reaction of a cashier at one cheese steak place (who is actually a nice guy but it was a very hot day and he may have been overworked). Most Italian people in Philadelphia and other South Philadelphians are very hospitable and kind. There is hardly a correlation between the cheese steak business and the norm in South Philly. Please don’t stereotype and try to resist characterizing a whole population. The truth is that people in Philly are built tough. They may have a stronger façade than the norm but a generally very nice people.

The next observation that I made was the reaction of one of the tourists who commented after the negative experience with the cashier. He was wondering why people keep come back to these steak shops even though the cashier is rude. My answer to that can be written in volumes but I will try to condense it for you. These cheese steak houses make so much money that the loss of one customer will not hurt them at all. They know that no matter what they will always be busy because of tourists who don’t know any better (do you see the value in this blog now – I will be giving everyone more options).

There are many things that the cheese steak places do that many locals don’t approve of either (like Geno’s Steaks sign about ordering in English) but they just don’t like to interfere with other people’s business. The cheese steak world has highly evolved to become one of the most original characteristics true to Philly. Please don’t take it personally if one of these places gives you attitude (and don’t think it is an Italian or a Philadelphian thing either). Just like all parts of life, if someone gives you attitude just give it right back (but make sure that you can back up your words in case the other party is prepared for your counter).

I hope that you have enjoyed this discussion of Pat’s King of Steaks cheese steak shop! Below I have included a list of Pat’s Steak menu and prices for your convenience. Keep in mind that this is the prices as of 2009. I am sure that a cheese steak will be worth double in about another 5 years.

Pat's King of Steak 2009 Menu (Price Includes Tax)

Steak
7.00
Cheesesteak
7.50
Extra Cheesesteak
8.00
Pizza Steak
8.00
Mushroom Steak
7.50
Mushroom Cheesesteaks
8.00
Mushroom Pizza Steak
8.50
Pepper Steak
7.50
Pepper Cheesesteak
8.00
Pepper Pizza Steak
8.50
Mushroom Pepper Steak
8.00
Mushroom Pepper Cheesesteak
8.50
Mushroom Pepper Pizza Steak
9.00
Roast Pork
7.00
Hot Dog
1.50
Large Hot Dog
7.00
Fish Cake (Small)
3.25
Fish Cake (Large)
7.00
Lettuce
.50
Tomato
.50
Ex Cheese
.50
Mushrooms
.50
Peppers
.50
Sodas
1.50
French Fries
2.50
Cheese Fries
3.75

Best Wyoming Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T20:03:00.001-04:00

Best Wyoming Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Wyoming cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Wisconsin Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T20:01:00.001-04:00

Best Wisconsin Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Wisconsin cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best West Virginia Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:59:00.001-04:00

Best West Virginia Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best West Virginia cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Washington Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:57:00.001-04:00

Best Washington Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Washington cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Virgin Islands Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:55:00.001-04:00

Best Virgin Islands Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Virgin Islands cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Virginia Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:53:00.002-04:00

Best Virginia Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Virginia cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Vermont Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:50:00.001-04:00

Best Vermont Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Vermont cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Utah Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:48:00.001-04:00

Best Utah Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Utah cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Texas Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:45:00.001-04:00

Best Texas Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Texas cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Tennessee Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:43:00.001-04:00

Best Tennessee Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Tennessee cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best South Dakota Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:41:00.001-04:00

Best South Dakota Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best South Dakota cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best South Carolina Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:39:00.001-04:00

Best South Carolina Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best South Carolina cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Rhode Island Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:36:00.001-04:00

Best Rhode Island Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Rhode Island cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Puerto Rico Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:34:00.001-04:00

Best Puerto Rico Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Puerto Rico cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Pennsylvania Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:32:00.002-04:00

Best Pennsylvania Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best PA cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Oregon Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:30:00.001-04:00

Best Oregon Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Oregon cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Oklahoma Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:26:00.002-04:00

Best Oklahoma Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Oklahoma cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Ohio Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:24:00.001-04:00

Best Ohio Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Ohio cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best North Dakota Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:21:00.002-04:00

Best North Dakota Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best North Dakota cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best North Carolina Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:19:00.001-04:00

Best North Carolina Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best North Carolina cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best New York Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:17:00.001-04:00

Best New York Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best New York cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best New Mexico Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:16:00.002-04:00

Best New Mexico Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best New Mexico cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best New Jersey Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:14:00.003-04:00

Best New Jersey Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best New Jersey cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

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Best Philly Cheese Steaks' Reviews

Donkey's Place - Camden, NJ

Best New Hampshire Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:12:00.002-04:00

Best New Hampshire Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best New Hampshire cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Nevada Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:02:00.001-04:00

Best Nevada Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Nevada cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Nebraska Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T19:00:00.001-04:00

Best Nebraska Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Nebraska cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Montana Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:58:00.001-04:00

Best Montana Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Montana cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Missouri Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:57:00.002-04:00

Best Missouri Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Missouri cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Mississippi Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:54:00.001-04:00

Best Mississippi Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Mississippi cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Minnesota Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:51:00.001-04:00

Best Minnesota Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Minnesota cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Michigan Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:50:00.002-04:00

Best Michigan Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Michigan cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Massachusetts Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:47:00.001-04:00

Best Massachusetts Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Massachusetts cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Maryland Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:45:00.001-04:00

Best Maryland Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Maryland cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Maine Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:43:00.001-04:00

Best Maine Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Maine cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Louisiana Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:40:00.001-04:00

Best Louisiana Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Louisiana cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Kentucky Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:39:00.002-04:00

Best Kentucky Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Kentucky cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Kansas Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:36:00.002-04:00

Best Kansas Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Kansas cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Iowa Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:34:00.001-04:00

Best Iowa Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Iowa cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Indiana Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:31:00.001-04:00

Best Indiana Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Indiana cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Illinois Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:29:00.001-04:00

Best Illinois Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Illinois cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Idaho Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:27:00.001-04:00

Best Idaho Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Idaho cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Hawaii Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:24:00.001-04:00

Best Hawaii Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Hawaii cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Guam Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:22:00.002-04:00

Best Guam Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Guam cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Georgia Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:19:00.001-04:00

Best Georgia Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Georgia cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Florida Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:17:00.001-04:00

Best Florida Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Florida cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Washington DC Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:14:00.002-04:00

Best Washington, DC (District of Columbia) Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best DC cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Delaware Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:11:00.001-04:00

Best Delaware Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Delaware cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Connecticut Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:09:00.002-04:00

Best Connecticut Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Connecticut cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Colorado Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:07:00.002-04:00

Best Colorado Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Colorado cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best California Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:04:00.001-04:00

Best California Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best California cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Arkansas Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T18:02:00.001-04:00

Best Arkansas Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Arkansas cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!

Best Arizona Cheese Steak Reviews

2009-08-21T17:59:00.001-04:00

Best Arizona Cheese Steak Reviews

This page was created to provide extensive Philly cheese steak reviews of the best Arizona cheese steak places. This place should follow in the tradition of the original Philadelphia cheese steak recipe (or as close to it as possible).

If you know of a place worthy of being considered the best Philly cheese steak restaurant, shop, place, store (you get the point) then please be kind enough to comment on this page. The more information that you provide about their Philly cheese steaks, the better for everybody (unless you are afraid that your home town may become famous like Pat’s and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia). But don’t worry the tourists are friendly!

Don’t forget to discuss what type of cheese steak they are famous for (with onions, American cheese, cheddar cheese, with peppers, big steak, large steak, etc.), where they are located, the name (Duh!), and whatever else makes you excited. The world is depending on your best Philly cheese steak reviews so please be kind enough to describe your nominee the best that you can!