How to Order a Cheesesteak

Express your onion preference by saying "wit" or "witout."

The cheesesteak sandwich--warm steak, thinly sliced on a hoagie bun and topped with cheese--originated in Philadelphia. Whether traveling to the home of the cheesesteak or just visiting a sandwich shop in your hometown, you should know the proper way to order one of these filling sandwiches. Unless you learn the language of ordering, you might annoy the shop owner, especially if business at the time is brisk. When in the "City of Brotherly Love," ordering a cheesesteak correctly helps you look like less of a tourist.

Instructions

1. Look over the menu and decide what you want before ordering.

2. Place your order using the number of the sandwich you want on the menu, if the cheesesteak restaurant has such a system.

3. Alternatively, order without using the menu by using three words: the number, along with your cheese and onion preferences.

4. Say the number of sandwiches you want. For instance, if ordering a single cheesesteak, say "One."

5. Tell the cashier the type of cheese you want, such as "wiz" for Cheez Whiz or "provolone" or any other cheese options.

6. Say "wit" for a cheesesteak with pan-fried onions on top or "witout" for a cheesesteak without onions. For instance, you would order a single cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and no onions as "One wiz witout."

References

• Best Philly Cheesesteaks: How to Order a Cheesesteak in Philly
• Visit Philly: Pat's King of Steaks