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Best Cheesesteak in Philadelphia

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John's Roast Pork
14 Snyder Ave Philadelphia, PA 19148
215-463-1951
Huh? Why would I get a ‘steak at a place called “John’s Roast Pork?” Because we told you to, that’s why. Ok, so the roast pork sandwiches are really, really good. But we’re talking about steaks here, and John knows steak too. Located across the street from Snyder plaza deep in South Philly, this place sets itself apart with perfect seeded rolls from Carangi’s and a lack of the attitude you’ll find behind the counter at other steak haunts. The sharp provolone is a must (no wiz please) and here’s the real kicker: these bad boys are made to order. Like Joey Russo said, “woah!”
Jim's Steaks
400 South St Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-928-1911
Set right smack in the middle of increasingly schizophrenic South Street (Tourist magnet? Punk hangout? Teen mall alternative? Gentrified yuppie enclave? I can’t tell anymore), Jim’s is definitely not one of those hidden gems that only locals know about. Jim’s is considered one of the Big Three. People come from far and wide, and lines can be long – but they move fast. What sets Jim’s apart is the consistent quality (and quantity – these steaks aren’t of the wimpy “I need two to fill me up” variety) of the beef. No nasty fatty gristle here. The rolls are tops as well, and Jim’s does serve beer – albeit in limited varieties. Jim’s covers all of your “Philly cheesesteak Mecca” bases (wiz/provolone/American, rude cooks/cashiers, long lines, and signed celebrity headshots) and does it better than anyone else.
Rick's Steaks
1 N 12th St Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-925-4320
Rick’s is a classic, but stay tuned to local news - owner Rick Olivieri was unceremoniously tossed from his corner in the Reading Terminal Market when the Market’s management decided to terminate his lease after 25 years at the location. Fear not, as there might be a giant gleaming diamond in the still-ongoing legal battle. If Rick’s leaves the Market, might Mr. Olivieri decide to take position as the only quality ‘steak shop in center city? Like we said, stay tuned…
Dalessandro's Steaks
600 Wendover St Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-482-5407
So it’s not in South Philly. And you can’t get Wiz. And they don’t serve fries. So what’s to like about Del’s? Perfectly portioned (read: huge) steaks, delicious chopped ribeye, chewy rolls, and a nice hot pepper selection (feeling brave? Break up one of those crispy, oily black peppers and sprinkle it over your steak). For some reason, Dalsessandro’s seems to polarize the steak-eating community – for every schmoe that rates their steaks as best in the City there’s another that hates them. We’re with the former schmoe. What about you? Head to The ‘Borough (Roxborough) and find out.
Geno's Steaks
1219 S 9th St Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-389-0659
Geno’s and its neighbor Pat’s have been slammed by reviewers lately. The titans may have been dethroned, but they are still a must-visit for any out-of-towner. Geno’s beats out Pat’s with better bread and one of the best (and hottest) hot sauces in the City. The meat also tends to be more consistent, with less gristle and more juice. Political correctness aside (if you haven’t heard about Geno’s strict “English only” policy, Google it), Geno’s still serves up one of the best steaks in Philadelphia. For the real experience, get there at about 2:30 am on a Saturday and follow it up with a trip across the street to Pat’s.
Pat's King of Steaks
1237 E Passyunk Ave Philadelphia, PA 19147
215-468-1546
The original, and possibly the first to use Cheese Wiz. Learn how to order before you get there to avoid dirty looks and boos (yes, we have seen people get booed trying to order a cheesesteak here). Say your cheese first (Wiz, American, or provolone) then “wit’” or “wit’out” fried onions. Wiz wit’ is the crowd favorite here and at Geno’s. Pat’s has dropped off a bit in quality over the last decade or so, and certainly lacks the cleanliness and blinding neon of its neighbor. But it’s the first, the classic, the must-have-when-in-town favorite of many locals, expats, and tourists, and any respectable cheesesteak pilgrim should pay their respects.
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