How to Find the Best Cheesesteak in Philadelphia

Cheesesteak wars in Philadelphia

Cheesesteaks are sacred to Philadelphians. They are held in the highest esteem, right up there with the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Legend has it that the cheesesteak was invited in the 1930s at Pat's Steaks in the heart of South Philly. But ask any Philadelphian where to get the best cheesesteak and you'll get at least ten different answers. Contrary to what tourists read, the best cheesesteaks aren't necessarily found in South Philadelphia, as you many think. Get in the car, roll up your sleeves and decide for yourself.

Instructions

1. Depending on where you live or where you're staying if you're only visiting Philadelphia, you can find a decent cheesesteak nearby. If you're visiting, ask the hotel concierge or check on line (see Resources). If you're a resident, you should already know the favorite places near your neighborhood. You'll hear a lots about two competitive cheesesteak stands in South Philadelphia, both across the street from each other (Geno's and Pat's Steaks). Sample both if you can and be your own judge.

2. 

   Look for authenticity. What's that? It means the meat is top quality, cooked fresh to order and smothered with fried onions and melted cheese. Oh, there's grease too, so if you're opposed to that, cheesesteaks aren't for you. Rolls from a local bakery mean authenticity as well. The ultimate experience is when the bakery that makes the rolls is a few doors down from the cheesesteak stand, often the case in South Philly. If you see boxes of rolls outside the door of your favorite cheesesteak haunt before opening, that's a sign of a local bakery delivery.

3. Decide want you want on your "steak" before you order as Philadelphians aren't known for their patience. Some places have a sign instructing tourists how to order and there's a unique language attached to the process. "With" means "with friend onions.""Whiz" means with melted, orange cheese. If you want provolone or American cheese, you usually have to say so or you'll get a sandwich smothered in gooey orange.

4. 

   Look for sliced meat rather than shredded. It will be less dry. If you see a meat slicer in the open cooking area, and you will at the best places, that's a good sign. If you see someone actually slicing the meat, oftentimes top round or eye round, even better. That's a sign of a fresh sandwich. The most popular places are open late at night. Don't be surprised to see a packed cheesesteak stand in South Philadelphia at midnight.

5. Go on a cheesesteak tour in and around Philadelphia. Here are some local favorites:Tony Luke's, 39 E. Oregon Ave., PhiladelphiaRick's Steaks, 1 N. 12th St., PhiladelphiaJim's Steaks, 400 South St., PhiladelphiaSteve's Prince of Steaks, 7200 Bustleton Ave., PhiladelphiaMama's Pizzeria, 426 Belmont Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PADalessandro's, Henry and Wendover Streets, Roxborough, PALeo's cheese steaks in Folcroft, PA

Tips & Warnings

• Most places will have ketchup, mustard, etc. located on a separate table, but some people like to order it on their sandwich. Here's a tip: if you see the condiments located separately, don't ask for any on your cheesesteak. You may annoy the cook and you don't want to do that. If you're buying your sandwich from a local food truck, and there are many good ones around the city, then you'd want to ask for condiments on the sandwich, including salt and pepper.

• Try to avoid places that cook mounds of meat that just sit steaming on the grill. However, the places with long lines, meaning they're turning out lots of sandwiches, have to function that way or no one would get served.

• There is a $100 cheesesteak to be found in high end restaurants in Philadelphia, made from Kobe beef.

• Don't attempt to eat a cheesesteak if you're wearing a designer dress. Part of the fun is the grease dripping down your fingers and elbows.

• If you're not sure what kind of peppers to order with your sandwich, there is usually a selection of condiments from which to choose, including peppers.

• Some places have peppers in separate containers on the counter. If you want to get some "to go," ask for a piece of wax paper. That's how real cheesesteak-lovers take them home.

• If you're a vegetarian and see an egg and pepper sandwich on the menu, be prepared to get a look when you order it. They'll make it for you and it will be delicious, but it's an oddity.

Resources

• The Best Philly Cheesteaks
• Authentic Philly Cheesesteak