5 Philly Cheesesteaks You Should Eat in Philadelphia That Aren’t Pat’s, Geno’s or Jim’s

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Chopped steak. Cheese. Bread. These three essential ingredients make up one of the most iconic sandwiches in the US - the Philly Cheesesteak. Although it can be found in many cities, the only way to truly experience it is to check it out in its birthplace of Philadelphia. One reason is that the roll is locally sourced, often from Amoroso Bakery. Many say the quality of the roll is what makes or breaks a cheesesteak.

Although the ingredients may sound simple, there are subtle differences that distinguish a standout cheesesteak from one that is just OK. And of course, there is the debate of whether or not to go with Cheez Whiz on your steak - we resoundingly say yes! The creaminess of the whiz enhances the juiciness of the whole package. We also add provolone cheese for the best of both worlds and besides, why not have more cheese? In addition, we opt for onions for crunch and another layer of flavor.

Many guides will lead you to the two most famous cheesesteak joints - Pat’s and Geno’s, located across the street from each other on Passyunk Ave at the intersection of Wharton and 9th. The former was founded by Pat Olivieri in 1930, who is also credited with creating the sandwich. While it can be worth checking out as a first-timer to witness the spectacle, we recommend trying these five spots that are less touristed and churn out glorious, greasy rolls of deliciousness.

Ishkabibble’s

South Street is one of the main drags known for its many shops, Isaiah Zagar mosaics and cheesesteaks. The first one that comes to mind for many is Jim’s, a spot that feels like taking a step back in time to the 80’s with its art-deco design. While they do make a good steak, the line will often stretch out of the door and down the block, adding onto what will amount to a 20 to 30 minute once inside.

Instead, head east to Ishkabibble’s, a hole in the wall spot that has been in business since 1979. Each cheesesteak is chopped and grilled to order with the right ratio of cheese to meat. It has been a favorite to artists who have performed at the TLA Theater across the street over the years, just check out the many autographed pictures on the wall. Be sure to order their famous Gremlin - a blend of grape drink and lemonade, perfectly tart and super sweet.

Cosmi’s Deli

A five minute walk from the famous aforementioned cheesesteak corner, Cosmi’s Deli is an old school gem that has been in business since 1932. It feels and looks like your average corner deli, but there is a certain charm as you sit at one of the two tables and hear the sizzle of the griddle and delicious smells wafting through the air.

Interestingly, the deli began as a dry goods store and didn’t even begin selling sandwiches until the 1980’s. The steak comes chopped and is one of the few on the list that doesn’t use the ubiquitous Amoroso roll. The quality of the meat can be tasted at the first bite and unlike many others, they don’t overdo it on the cheese whiz. Another reason to visit is that you are just steps away from the original location of the Termini Bros Bakery, which makes an excellent cannoli as well as other delicious Italian pastries and cookies.

John’s Roast Pork

Great cheesesteak from a place with roast pork as its namesake and a pig wearing a bib as its logo? Believe it! Located in deep South Philly in Pennsport, John’s bucks tradition, using a sesame seed roll, long slices of meat and no option for cheese whiz. In this case, the provolone cheese is a nice alternative. However, the ingredients used are high quality and result in an excellent cheesesteak.

Cheesesteak from John’s Roast Pork

The vibe is very old school and feels like a classic blue collar lunch pail joint. Bonus points for the outdoor tables underneath a canopy to sit outside and enjoy. Their signature sandwich is quite delicious as well, but that is for another conversation!

Sonny’s

In a city where cheesesteaks are ubiquitous, there are inevitably varying styles, quality of ingredients and arrangement of ingredients. Although the chopped steak is preferred, there are a few with the longer strips of meat that are excellent. In addition to John’s, another nice choice is Sonny’s Famous Steaks in the Old City. It is the only option on our list that is conveniently located in the Old City. In addition, it is open until 3AM on Friday and Saturday nights. This cheesy hoagie makes for a great choice to soak up the booze from a night of drinking.

Dalessandro’s

Saving the best for last, Dalessandro’s is off the beaten path about a half hour Northwest of Center City. The moment you step foot into the Roxborough institution, you can feel the difference. Locals know the staff on a first-name basis, a mountain of perfectly chopped steak is cooking on the griddle alongside a pile of onions. Service is efficient and the sandwich made to order.

Dalessandro’s

After eating two other cheesesteaks, the first bite into this gloriously greasy sandwich was superlative. The difference could be tasted immediately compared to the big names. Tender chopped steak is layered perfectly so each bite has a uniform amount. Plenty of gooey cheese whiz and a hint of smokiness from the onions adds another layer of flavor. Plenty of napkins are needed for the stray whiz-covered onions that inevitably fall out of the soft Amoroso roll.

Let us know your underrated Cheesesteak/sandwich spots in Philly ☼☼☼☼

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