The Top Cheesesteak Destinations in Philly
1.Uncle Gus' Steaks (Reading Terminal Market)
A newer addition that has taken the cheesesteak scene by storm, Uncle Gus'Steaks comes from an all-star team with roots in some of Philly's most beloved eateries, including Pearl's Oyster Bar, Tommy DiNic's, and Angelo's Pizzeria. The menu is brilliantly simple: 12" steak sandwiches focusing on familiar ingredients executed at the highest possible level. The shop is named in honor of Gaetano "Gus" Pollizz, a great-uncle of Joey Nicolosi of Tommy DiNic's, who was a beloved fixture at Reading Terminal Market for nearly 30 years, famous for singing opera to customers. This spot combines incredible culinary lineage with heartfelt tradition.
2.Angelo's Pizzeria (South Philadelphia & Fishtown)
While "Pizzeria" is in the name, Angelo's is a true Philadelphia heavyweight, celebrated for crafting what many consider the city's best cheesesteak andpizza.Their commitment to quality is unparalleled,featuring flawlessly cooked,finely chopped ribeye piled high on a fresh,house-made seeded roll.The demand is immense,so be prepared for a potential line and remember that it's a cash-only establishment.
3. John's Roast Pork(South Philadelphia)
Don't let the name fool you. While John's Roast Pork serves a legendary, world-class version of its namesake sandwich, its cheesesteak is equally phenomenal. This James Beard Award-winning, family-run luncheonette features high-quality steak and serves it on a crusty, seeded roll from Carangi's Bakery, creating a texture and flavor combination that is beloved by locals in the know.
4.Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies (Roxborough)
For decades, Dalessandro's has been a pilgrimage site for cheesesteak aficionados. This classic Roxborough steak shop is renowned for its finely chopped ribeye, grilled to perfection with onions and cheese, resulting in a uniquely gooey and cohesive sandwich. It's a consistently top-ranked spot that embodies the perfect neighborhood steak shop experience.
5.Woodrow's Sandwich Shop (South Street)
Woodrow's takes the classic cheesesteak and elevates it to a gourmet level. Their signature version, the "Woodrow's Whiz Wit," features thinly sliced ribeye, a creamy truffle-infused whiz, cherry pepper mayo, and caramelized onions. It's a modern and incredibly flavorful take on the Philadelphia staple.
6.Gooey Looie's (South Philadelphia)
If you're looking for a massive,"go-big-or-go-home"cheesesteak,Gooey Looie's in the Pennsport neighborhood is your destination. This no-frills corner deli is renowned for its incredibly overstuffed hoagies and cheesesteaks, offering exceptional value and a truly satisfying meal.
7. Joe's Steaks+Soda Shop(Fishtown&Torresdale)
With its fun,retro 1950s diner vibe,Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop serves a fantastic, classic cheesesteak. They offer the traditional options alongside a great selection of milkshakes and sodas. It's a family-friendly spot that delivers a consistently delicious steak sandwich.
8.Jim's South Street
A true Philadelphia landmark, Jim's South Street has been serving up classic cheesesteaks for decades from its iconic black-and-white tiled building. The aroma of grilled steak and onions wafts down South Street, drawing in long lines of hungry customers. The experience of ordering from their bustling counter is as classic as the cheesesteak itself.
9.Ishkabibble's Eatery (South Street)
Located just down the street from Jim's,Ishkabibble's is another South Street institution famous for its cheesesteaks and its invention of the "Gremlin," a half-lemonade, half-grape-juice drink. They offer a fantastic traditional cheesesteak and are also credited with pioneering the chicken cheesesteak.
