Tucked away on York Road in Towson sits a modest gray building that houses what might be Maryland’s most addictive culinary secret—The Real Thing, where locals line up for what many swear is the best cheesesteak you’ll find outside of Philadelphia.
The unassuming storefront doesn’t hint at the magic happening inside, but that “Voted Baltimore’s Best Cheesesteak” sign in the window? It’s not just marketing—it’s a promise they deliver on with every single order.
You might drive past this place a dozen times without noticing it, but once you’ve tasted their signature sandwich, you’ll never miss it again.
The exterior of The Real Thing speaks to its no-nonsense approach—simple gray siding, a straightforward blue and white sign, and a neon “OPEN” beckoning hungry patrons through its doors at 412 York Road…