The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of the United States, has been a topic of debate among food enthusiasts for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich, consisting of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, has captured the hearts of many. But the question remains: who makes the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the history of the Philly cheesesteak, its evolution, and the top contenders for the title of the best Philly cheesesteak in the country.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak date back to the 1930s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, is still open today and is often credited as the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak.
The Evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has undergone significant changes. The original recipe consisted of thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. However, as the popularity of the sandwich grew, so did the variations. Today, you can find Philly cheesesteaks with a range of toppings, from mushrooms and bell peppers to bacon and BBQ sauce.
Regional Variations
Despite the many variations, some regional differences remain. In Philadelphia, the traditional Philly cheesesteak is still made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. However, in other parts of the country, you may find variations that incorporate local flavors and ingredients. For example, in the Midwest, you may find Philly cheesesteaks with a sweeter, more caramelized onion flavor, while in the South, you may find them with a spicy kick.
The Top Contenders for the Best Philly Cheesesteak
After conducting extensive research and consulting with food experts, we’ve narrowed down the list to the top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States. Here are the top five:
1. Pat’s King of Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
As the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak, Pat’s King of Steaks is a must-visit destination for any cheesesteak enthusiast. This iconic restaurant has been serving up classic Philly cheesesteaks since 1930 and is still family-owned and operated today.
2. Geno’s Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
Located right across the street from Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks is another iconic Philly cheesesteak joint. Founded in 1966 by Joey Vento, Geno’s Steaks is known for its thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all served on a crusty hoagie roll.
3. Jim’s Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
Jim’s Steaks is a Philadelphia institution, with a history dating back to 1939. This family-owned restaurant is known for its tender, juicy steak and its signature “Whiz Wit” – a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
4. Steve’s Prince of Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
Steve’s Prince of Steaks is a Philadelphia staple, with a history dating back to 1980. This family-owned restaurant is known for its high-quality steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all served on a crusty hoagie roll.
5. Dalessandro’s Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)
Dalessandro’s Steaks is a Roxborough institution, with a history dating back to 1960. This family-owned restaurant is known for its tender, juicy steak and its signature “Whiz Wit” – a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
Other Notable Mentions
While the top five contenders are all located in Philadelphia, there are other notable mentions across the country. Here are a few:
Shank’s Original (Philadelphia, PA)
Shank’s Original is a South Philadelphia institution, with a history dating back to 1962. This family-owned restaurant is known for its tender, juicy steak and its signature “Whiz Wit” – a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
John’s Roast Pork (Philadelphia, PA)
John’s Roast Pork is a South Philadelphia institution, with a history dating back to 1930. This family-owned restaurant is known for its tender, juicy steak and its signature “Whiz Wit” – a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
Pepper’s Philly Steaks (Chicago, IL)
Pepper’s Philly Steaks is a Chicago institution, with a history dating back to 1978. This family-owned restaurant is known for its tender, juicy steak and its signature “Whiz Wit” – a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
The Verdict
After conducting extensive research and consulting with food experts, we’ve come to a conclusion: the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States is a matter of personal preference. While Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are iconic institutions, Jim’s Steaks, Steve’s Prince of Steaks, and Dalessandro’s Steaks are all worthy contenders.
What Makes a Great Philly Cheesesteak?
So, what makes a great Philly cheesesteak? Here are a few key factors to consider:
Quality of the Steak
A great Philly cheesesteak starts with high-quality steak. Look for thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak that’s tender and juicy.
Melted Cheese
Melted cheese is a crucial component of a great Philly cheesesteak. Look for a restaurant that uses high-quality cheese, such as Cheez Whiz or provolone.
Sautéed Onions
Sautéed onions add a depth of flavor and texture to a great Philly cheesesteak. Look for a restaurant that uses fresh, high-quality onions.
Hoagie Roll
A great Philly cheesesteak is served on a crusty hoagie roll. Look for a restaurant that uses a fresh, high-quality roll.
Conclusion
The quest for the perfect Philly cheesesteak is a never-ending journey. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, there’s no denying the allure of this iconic sandwich. While the top contenders are all located in Philadelphia, there are other notable mentions across the country. Ultimately, the best Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. So, go ahead, try a few, and decide for yourself who makes the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States.
| Restaurant | Location | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Pat’s King of Steaks | Philadelphia, PA | 4.5/5 |
| Geno’s Steaks | Philadelphia, PA | 4.5/5 |
| Jim’s Steaks | Philadelphia, PA | 4.5/5 |
| Steve’s Prince of Steaks | Philadelphia, PA | 4.5/5 |
| Dalessandro’s Steaks | Philadelphia, PA | 4.5/5 |
Note: Ratings are based on online reviews and are subject to change.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all served on a crusty roll. The beef is usually ribeye or top round, and the cheese is often Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella. The onions are typically sautéed with the beef to create a caramelized flavor that complements the cheese and meat.
The traditional Philly cheesesteak is often associated with Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, two iconic restaurants in Philadelphia that have been serving cheesesteaks since the 1930s. These restaurants have helped to popularize the Philly cheesesteak and establish it as a beloved American dish. However, the traditional Philly cheesesteak has evolved over time, and many variations can be found throughout the United States.
What are the key ingredients of a great Philly cheesesteak?
The key ingredients of a great Philly cheesesteak are high-quality beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. The beef should be thinly sliced and cooked to perfection, with a tender and juicy texture. The cheese should be melted to a creamy consistency, and the onions should be caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness. The roll should be crusty and slightly toasted to provide a satisfying crunch.
In addition to these ingredients, a great Philly cheesesteak should also have a balance of flavors and textures. The beef should be seasoned with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance its flavor, and the cheese should be melted to a smooth and creamy consistency. The onions should be sautéed to a caramelized perfection, and the roll should be toasted to provide a crunchy texture.
Who are some of the top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States?
Some of the top contenders for the best Philly cheesesteak in the United States include Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These two iconic restaurants have been serving cheesesteaks since the 1930s and are often credited with inventing the dish. Other top contenders include Jim’s Steaks in Philadelphia, Steve’s Prince of Steaks in Philadelphia, and Dalessandro’s Steaks in Roxborough, Pennsylvania.
These restaurants have gained a reputation for serving high-quality cheesesteaks with tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. They have also been recognized by food critics and enthusiasts for their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods. However, there are many other great Philly cheesesteak joints throughout the United States, and the best one is often a matter of personal preference.
What sets a great Philly cheesesteak apart from a mediocre one?
A great Philly cheesesteak is set apart from a mediocre one by the quality of its ingredients and the care with which it is prepared. A great cheesesteak should have tender and juicy beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions that are cooked to perfection. The roll should be crusty and slightly toasted, and the flavors should be balanced and harmonious.
In contrast, a mediocre cheesesteak may have tough and overcooked beef, congealed cheese, and undercooked onions. The roll may be stale and soggy, and the flavors may be unbalanced and lacking in harmony. A great Philly cheesesteak is also often made with love and care, with the cook taking the time to prepare each ingredient to perfection.
Can you get a great Philly cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia?
Yes, it is possible to get a great Philly cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia. While the city is famous for its cheesesteaks, many restaurants throughout the United States have mastered the art of making a delicious Philly cheesesteak. These restaurants often use high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create a cheesesteak that is similar to those found in Philadelphia.
Some cities that are known for their great Philly cheesesteaks include New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These cities have a high concentration of restaurants that serve cheesesteaks, and many of them have gained a reputation for serving high-quality cheesesteaks. However, it’s worth noting that the best Philly cheesesteak is often a matter of personal preference, and the best one may be found in a small, family-owned restaurant in a unexpected location.
How do you order a Philly cheesesteak like a local?
To order a Philly cheesesteak like a local, you should use the correct terminology and follow the traditional ordering protocol. When you order a cheesesteak, you should specify the type of cheese you want, such as “Whiz wit” (with Cheez Whiz and onions) or “provolone without” (with provolone cheese and no onions).
You should also be prepared to order quickly and efficiently, as the lines at popular cheesesteak joints can be long and the staff may be moving quickly. It’s also a good idea to have your money ready and to be prepared to take your cheesesteak to go, as many cheesesteak joints are take-out only.
What are some common variations of the Philly cheesesteak?
Some common variations of the Philly cheesesteak include the “Whiz wit,” which features Cheez Whiz and onions, and the “provolone without,” which features provolone cheese and no onions. Other variations may include different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or American, or different toppings, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
Some restaurants may also offer variations that stray from the traditional recipe, such as a “chicken cheesesteak” or a “veggie cheesesteak.” These variations can be a great option for those who want to try something new and different, but still want to experience the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak.