The Philly cheesesteak. Just uttering the name conjures images of sizzling beef, melted cheese, and a soft, hoagie roll – a culinary icon synonymous with the city of Philadelphia. But with countless establishments vying for the title of “best,” the question remains: what is the most famous Philly cheesesteak? This is not a question with a simple answer, but rather a journey through history, tradition, and personal preference, exploring the contenders and their unique approaches to this classic sandwich.
A Deep Dive into Cheesesteak History
Before we crown a “most famous,” it’s crucial to understand the roots of this beloved creation. The story begins in the early 1930s with Pat and Harry Olivieri, who ran a hot dog stand near the Italian Market. Legend has it that Pat, tired of the same old fare, decided to grill some thinly sliced beef and put it on an Italian roll. A cab driver, intrigued by the smell, asked for one, and the cheesesteak was born – albeit cheeseless at this point.
Initially, it was just steak on a roll, but cheese was added later, with provolone often cited as the original choice. However, it wasn’t long before other cheese options, including the now iconic Cheez Whiz, emerged, forever changing the cheesesteak landscape.
The Olivieri brothers officially opened Pat’s King of Steaks, and the rest, as they say, is history. The rivalry and competition among cheesesteak vendors began, solidifying the sandwich’s place in Philadelphia’s culinary and cultural identity.
The Contenders: Iconic Cheesesteak Institutions
Several establishments have earned their place among the most famous and respected cheesesteak vendors in Philadelphia. Each offers a unique experience and boasts a loyal following, making the “most famous” title a matter of passionate debate.
Pat’s King of Steaks: The Original
As the originators of the cheesesteak, Pat’s King of Steaks holds a special place in the hearts of many. Located at the intersection of 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue, Pat’s is a 24/7 institution, drawing crowds of locals and tourists eager to experience a piece of cheesesteak history. Ordering at Pat’s is an experience in itself, often involving a rapid-fire exchange of instructions using the local lingo (“Whiz wit,” meaning Cheez Whiz with onions, or “Whiz witout,” meaning Cheez Whiz without onions). Pat’s is known for its thinly sliced steak, generous portions of cheese, and the bustling atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.
Key features of Pat’s Cheesesteaks:
- Original cheesesteak creators
- Thinly sliced ribeye steak
- Variety of cheese options, including Cheez Whiz, provolone, and American
- 24/7 operation
- Iconic location with outdoor seating
Geno’s Steaks: The Cross-Street Rival
Directly across the street from Pat’s stands Geno’s Steaks, another cheesesteak institution founded by Joey Vento in 1966. The rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s is legendary, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the area. Geno’s is known for its brightly lit exterior and its policy of requiring customers to order in English, a stance that has drawn both praise and criticism. Like Pat’s, Geno’s offers a classic cheesesteak experience, with a focus on quality ingredients and fast service.
Key features of Geno’s Cheesesteaks:
- Directly across from Pat’s, creating a historic rivalry.
- Thinly sliced steak.
- Cheese options including provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz.
- Brightly lit, distinctive exterior.
- Known for its consistent quality.
Jim’s Steaks: A South Street Staple
Jim’s Steaks, originally located on South Street and now at a new location on 4th street, is another strong contender for the most famous Philly cheesesteak. Jim’s is known for its slightly thicker-cut steak and its more relaxed atmosphere. Its former South Street location, with its iconic neon sign, was a landmark for decades. Jim’s offers a wider range of cheese options and toppings, catering to a broader range of tastes.
Key features of Jim’s Cheesesteaks:
- Slightly thicker-cut steak than Pat’s and Geno’s.
- Wider variety of cheese options and toppings.
- Historically a South Street landmark, now on 4th street.
- Known for its quality and consistency.
- More relaxed atmosphere.
Dalessandro’s Steaks: A Roxborough Favorite
Venturing outside the South Philly cheesesteak corridor, Dalessandro’s Steaks in Roxborough offers a different but equally compelling cheesesteak experience. Dalessandro’s is known for its generous portions of steak and its commitment to quality ingredients. Locals often consider it a hidden gem, offering a more authentic and less tourist-driven cheesesteak experience.
Key features of Dalessandro’s Cheesesteaks:
- Generous portions of steak.
- Commitment to quality ingredients.
- Considered a local favorite and a hidden gem.
- More authentic and less tourist-driven experience.
- Located in Roxborough.
What Makes a Cheesesteak Famous? Factors to Consider
The fame of a cheesesteak isn’t solely based on taste; several factors contribute to its iconic status.
Historical Significance
The origin story plays a significant role. Pat’s King of Steaks, as the birthplace of the cheesesteak, automatically gains a level of fame that other establishments struggle to match. Their history is intertwined with the very identity of the sandwich.
Location and Accessibility
A prime location, particularly one that’s easily accessible to tourists, can significantly boost a cheesesteak’s fame. The corner of 9th and Passyunk, home to Pat’s and Geno’s, is a prime example of this phenomenon.
Word-of-Mouth and Reviews
Positive word-of-mouth, glowing reviews, and consistent praise from food critics all contribute to a cheesesteak’s reputation. Social media and online review platforms have amplified this effect, allowing recommendations to spread rapidly.
Consistency and Quality
Maintaining consistent quality over time is crucial for long-term fame. A cheesesteak that’s great one day but mediocre the next won’t build a lasting reputation.
Cultural Impact
A cheesesteak’s fame can also be influenced by its cultural impact. Appearances in movies, television shows, and other forms of media can elevate its status and introduce it to a wider audience.
Cheese Selection: The Heart of the Debate
The choice of cheese is arguably the most contentious aspect of the Philly cheesesteak. While provolone was likely the original choice, Cheez Whiz has become the most popular option, dividing cheesesteak aficionados into two camps: those who swear by Whiz and those who consider it sacrilege.
Cheez Whiz: The Ubiquitous Choice
Cheez Whiz, with its distinctive flavor and creamy texture, has become synonymous with the Philly cheesesteak for many. Its popularity stems from its ability to melt evenly and coat the steak in a flavorful sauce.
Provolone: The Traditionalist’s Choice
Provolone offers a more nuanced and savory flavor than Cheez Whiz. Many purists prefer provolone for its authenticity and its ability to complement the flavor of the steak.
American Cheese: A Versatile Option
American cheese, while not as popular as Whiz or provolone, is another common choice. Its mild flavor and meltability make it a versatile option that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
The Onion Question: To Wit or Witout?
Another key element of the cheesesteak equation is the presence (or absence) of onions. Ordering “wit” means you want your cheesesteak with onions, while “witout” means you prefer it without. Grilled onions add a sweetness and depth of flavor that many find essential to the cheesesteak experience.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Innovations
While the classic cheesesteak remains the most popular option, many establishments offer variations and innovations on the theme. These include cheesesteaks with different types of cheese, toppings, and even different types of meat.
Chicken Cheesesteaks
Chicken cheesesteaks offer a lighter alternative to the traditional beef cheesesteak. They are typically made with thinly sliced chicken breast and can be customized with the same cheese and toppings as their beef counterparts.
Pizza Steaks
Pizza steaks combine the flavors of a cheesesteak and a pizza, typically topped with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce.
Gourmet Cheesesteaks
Some establishments offer gourmet cheesesteaks with premium ingredients such as Wagyu beef, artisanal cheeses, and unique toppings.
So, What Is The Most Famous Cheesesteak?
After considering all the factors, there’s no definitive answer to the question of which Philly cheesesteak is the most famous. Each of the contenders – Pat’s, Geno’s, Jim’s, and Dalessandro’s – has its own unique appeal and a loyal following.
Pat’s, as the originator, holds a special place in history and boasts a level of recognition that’s hard to match. Geno’s, with its cross-street rivalry and distinctive exterior, is equally iconic. Jim’s, with its South Street legacy and wider range of options, appeals to a broader audience. And Dalessandro’s, with its generous portions and local appeal, offers a more authentic experience.
Ultimately, the “most famous” cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. It depends on your taste, your values, and your overall cheesesteak experience. The best way to determine your favorite is to embark on your own cheesesteak journey, sampling the offerings of each contender and deciding for yourself which one reigns supreme.
The search for the best, the most famous, cheesesteak is an ongoing Philadelphia tradition. A delicious quest that continues to evolve. Each bite is not just a sandwich, but a piece of Philadelphia history.
What makes a Philly cheesesteak a “Philly” cheesesteak?
A true Philly cheesesteak is defined by a few key characteristics. First and foremost is the thinly sliced ribeye steak, chopped and grilled on a flat top. The roll is crucial, typically a long, soft, but sturdy Italian-style roll, often from Amoroso’s Bakery. Finally, the cheese options are usually limited to provolone, American, or “Whiz” (Cheese Whiz), though provolone is considered by many purists as the classic choice.
Beyond the ingredients, the environment contributes. It’s often about the bustling, no-frills atmosphere of the cheesesteak shop, the rapid-fire ordering process (“Whiz wit'”), and the shared experience of enjoying a hot, messy, and delicious sandwich on the streets of Philadelphia. The speed and efficiency of preparation are also important, embodying the city’s fast-paced energy.
Is Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks really the “best” cheesesteak?
Pat’s and Geno’s, located across the street from each other in South Philly, are undeniably famous and significant historical landmarks in the cheesesteak world. They claim to be the originators of the cheesesteak, and their rivalry has become legendary. However, whether they are the “best” is a matter of personal preference and heavily debated among Philadelphians and tourists alike.
Many argue that their fame has led to a decline in quality, focusing more on tourist appeal than consistent, high-quality ingredients and preparation. Other establishments throughout the city, often less well-known, are considered by many to offer superior cheesesteaks. Ultimately, the “best” is subjective and depends on individual taste.
What are some popular alternatives to Pat’s and Geno’s that locals recommend?
Beyond Pat’s and Geno’s, Philadelphia boasts a vibrant cheesesteak scene with numerous contenders for the “best” title. Jim’s Steaks on South Street, though having undergone recent changes, remains a popular and highly regarded option known for its generous portions and quality ingredients. Their lines can be long, but many feel the wait is worthwhile.
Other frequently recommended spots include Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies in Roxborough, known for their perfectly balanced flavor profiles, and Steve’s Prince of Steaks, which has multiple locations and offers a consistent and reliable cheesesteak experience. John’s Roast Pork, while primarily known for its roast pork sandwich, also offers a highly praised cheesesteak.
What does “wit” or “witout” mean when ordering a cheesesteak?
“Wit” or “witout” refers to whether you want your cheesesteak with or without onions. It’s a shorthand used in the fast-paced ordering environment of Philly cheesesteak shops, and knowing this terminology is essential for a smooth ordering experience. Saying “Whiz wit” means you want a cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz and onions.
Conversely, “Provolone witout” means you want a cheesesteak with provolone cheese and no onions. Using this simple phrasing demonstrates your understanding of the local culture and ensures your order is prepared correctly, minimizing confusion and delays for both you and the cheesesteak maker.
What are the common cheese options on a Philly cheesesteak?
The three most common cheese options for a Philly cheesesteak are provolone, American, and Cheese Whiz. Provolone is often considered the classic and most authentic choice by many, offering a sharp and slightly tangy flavor that complements the steak. American cheese provides a milder and creamier taste.
Cheese Whiz, a processed cheese sauce, is a controversial but undeniably popular choice, offering a distinctive, almost metallic flavor and a smooth, melty texture. While some consider it a culinary abomination, others swear by it as the quintessential Philly cheesesteak experience. The choice ultimately depends on individual preference.
Are there variations on the classic Philly cheesesteak?
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is defined by its thinly sliced ribeye, Italian roll, and choice of provolone, American, or Whiz, variations do exist. Some places offer different types of steak, such as sirloin, or experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, though these are less traditional.
Vegetarian cheesesteaks, often using mushrooms or other vegetables in place of the steak, are also available at some establishments. Additionally, some shops offer variations in toppings, such as peppers, mushrooms, or sauce, though these are generally not considered part of the “classic” Philly cheesesteak experience.
How has the Philly cheesesteak evolved over time?
The Philly cheesesteak’s origins trace back to the early 1930s, when Pat Olivieri supposedly threw some beef on a hot dog roll and created a steak sandwich. The addition of cheese came later, and the cheesesteak as we know it today gradually evolved. Initially, the cheese was likely provolone, as it was a readily available option in Italian-American neighborhoods.
The introduction of American cheese and, most notably, Cheese Whiz, broadened the cheesesteak’s appeal and contributed to its widespread popularity. Over the years, the sandwich has become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia, evolving from a simple street food into a culinary institution, with countless variations and interpretations while still retaining its core identity.