Cheesesteaks are more than just sandwiches in Pennsylvania; they’re a cultural institution. I spent three months touring the state, from Philadelphia’s iconic corners to small-town gems, sampling the best cheesesteaks around.
Armed with an empty stomach and high hopes, I evaluated each based on meat quality, bread texture, cheese distribution, and overall flavor harmony.
1. Pat’s King Of Steaks – Philadelphia, PA
The birthplace of the cheesesteak deserves respect. Founded in 1930, Pat’s serves a classic sandwich with thinly sliced ribeye and your choice of cheese.
The meat-to-bread ratio hits the sweet spot, though the assembly-line service feels rushed. Their 24/7 operation means you can satisfy cravings anytime, but be ready to order quickly – they’ve perfected the art of the hurried transaction.
2. Geno’s Steaks – Philadelphia, PA
Directly across from Pat’s stands its famous rival. Geno’s neon-lit establishment serves up sandwiches with slightly thicker cuts of steak and a distinctive cheese application technique…