PHILADELPHIA - You have a few options if you want a great cheesesteak in Philadelphia. Check out these recommendations: Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies in Roxborough or Pats and Geno's. Both of these places serve fluffy cheesesteaks with cheese sauce and fried onions.
Whether you are heading out on a weekend review run with your cheesesteak associate Joe or simply hunting down a classic bite, navigating the Philadelphia cheesesteak scene is a serious culinary mission. While the city is packed with incredible neighborhood joints, the debate always circles back to the historic heavyweights.
Here is a breakdown of three iconic destinations that have defined the Philly cheesesteak for decades.
Pat's King of Steaks
Widely recognized as the "inventor of the cheesesteak," Pat's is an absolute Philadelphia institution. Sitting squarely in South Philly, it serves as the ultimate destination for a classic, traditional version of the world-famous sandwich.
- The Sandwich: Pat's builds its steaks on locally baked long rolls, loaded with griddle-fried beef. You can top it off with fried onions and your choice of melted provolone, American, or classic Cheese Whiz.
- The Rivalry: The legendary turf war between Pat's and Geno's has been raging across the street from one another since the 1970s, with both sides regularly trading barbs in interviews over stolen secrets.
- Pop Culture Status: This iconic 24/7 window has been featured in numerous movies, most notably serving as a backdrop for Sylvester Stallone in the 1976 classic, Rocky.
Geno's Steaks
If you are looking for the real deal right across the intersection from Pat's, Geno's Steaks has been a formidable player for decades. With three locations in and around the city, they have built a nationwide reputation for their signature sauces and high-quality meat.
- The Sandwich: Geno's utilizes freshly baked rolls from Amoroso's Bakery and fries their premium, perfectly seasoned meat in real lard for a highly distinct flavor profile.
- The Options: Whether you are team American, Provolone, or Kraft Cheese Whiz, Geno's customizes their iconic sandwiches to order. They are also highly regarded for their delicious hoagies.
Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies
Located on Henry Avenue in Roxborough, Dalessandro's offers a slightly different, deeply beloved take on the classic Philadelphia staple. This quaint rowhouse counter has been in business for more than 50 years, attracting locals and stars like Jimmy Fallon and the Legendary Roots Crew.
- The Sandwich: Dalessandro's focuses on fresh ingredients and made-to-order execution. They specialize in finely chopped, greasy ribeye that stays incredibly juicy without feeling overly heavy.
- The Toppings: They are famous for their perfectly crispy onions and the highly requested "Wiz wit" combination. Adding a side of their marinara dipping sauce is a highly recommended pro-move.
- The Accolades: Beyond their massive daily crowds, their commitment to the craft earned them a Best of Style Readers' Choice Award from Philadelphia Style Magazine in 2022.
