Greetings Eagles fans! Philadelphia is known for many things. The history, the legendary hospitality (take that any way you want to), the beautiful view of the skyline you get from the Ben Franklin Bridge after being in Camden for some weird reason, seeing Sylvester Stallone run up the steps of the art museum, and the list goes on and on. One of the things that Philadelphians are proud of is the foods that have their roots in the City of Brotherly Love. Soft pretzels. Water ice. Tastykakes. Oh yes, and those things we affectionately call cheesesteaks. Although it is dubbed a "Philly Steak and Cheese" everywhere else in the country, we know it as just a cheesesteak. Whether you like yours with onions, peppers, and mushrooms or with American, Provolone, or Cheese Whiz, a real cheesesteak can only be found within the city of Philadelphia and the suburbs surrounding it. We at The Eagle Report have tried the imitators outside of the area and have found this to be entirely true. You see, anyone can put chopped up steak with cheese and a vegetable on a roll, but only in Philadelphia can you get those ingredients on an authentic "crusty on the outside, chewy on the inside" Italian roll that doesn't taste like a sponge.
We love our cheesesteaks at The Eagle Report, but we know that everyone has their own opinions on where to go to get one. Therefore, for your viewing and reading pleasure we are pleased to present "Cheesesteak Wars." We traveled all over the Delaware Valley clogging our arteries along the way with this delicious Philadelphia treat and have lived to tell the tale. If you have a cheesesteak place that you enjoy that has not been listed on this site, please email us at theeaglereport@gmail.com or IM us via AOL Instant Messenger at "theeaglereport" and we will post your comments as soon as possible.
Happy Eating!
-The Eagle Report
Happy Eating!
-The Eagle Report
The Reviews:
Steak & Hoagie Factory Slack's Chickie's and Pete's Dalessandro's Chubby's Franzone's Pudge's Campo's Steve's Jim's Geno's Pat's Tony Luke's Rick's
Steak and Hoagie Factory
Various locations throughout the Delaware Valley
Steak and Hoagie Factory has found its way to strangely located buildings and strip malls all over the Delaware Valley in recent years. Even though it is a chain of stores, each Steak and Hoagie is an independently owned franchise making some locations better than others. Their menu offers a nice selection of hoagies, cheesesteaks, wings, and appetizers. Steak and Hoagie prides themselves on using fresh ingredients, and baking their own bread. Remember that appearance is not always everything. If you are hungry and not near any of these other places, chances are you are near a Steak and Hoagie Factory. It is definitely worth a try.
Andrew: Lots of locations make the chain a good option for hungry suburbanites. Usually will offer some sort of special deal.
Christian: I was pretty surprised by Steak and Hoagie Factory. As mentioned previously, they always seem to find their ways into the empty buildings where no business seems to ever survive or into strip malls that have difficult access points and that's usually never a good sign. Hell, look at Subway. However, despite my reluctance, Steak and Hoagie put on a pretty good show. Their rolls are very fresh and tasty. The meat itself was okay and the whiz was whiz. This is a good place if you don't feel like driving very far and if you're willing to sacrifice quality.
Matt: N/A
Various locations throughout the Delaware Valley
Steak and Hoagie Factory has found its way to strangely located buildings and strip malls all over the Delaware Valley in recent years. Even though it is a chain of stores, each Steak and Hoagie is an independently owned franchise making some locations better than others. Their menu offers a nice selection of hoagies, cheesesteaks, wings, and appetizers. Steak and Hoagie prides themselves on using fresh ingredients, and baking their own bread. Remember that appearance is not always everything. If you are hungry and not near any of these other places, chances are you are near a Steak and Hoagie Factory. It is definitely worth a try.
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Andrew: Lots of locations make the chain a good option for hungry suburbanites. Usually will offer some sort of special deal.
Christian: I was pretty surprised by Steak and Hoagie Factory. As mentioned previously, they always seem to find their ways into the empty buildings where no business seems to ever survive or into strip malls that have difficult access points and that's usually never a good sign. Hell, look at Subway. However, despite my reluctance, Steak and Hoagie put on a pretty good show. Their rolls are very fresh and tasty. The meat itself was okay and the whiz was whiz. This is a good place if you don't feel like driving very far and if you're willing to sacrifice quality.
Matt: N/A
Slack's Hoagie Shack
Various locations, we went to the Hillcrest Shopping Center location Lansdale, PA
Slack's Hoagie Shack is a chain of restaurants that can be found throughout the Delaware Valley. Their menu has lots of variety, especially when it comes to hoagies. The inside of Slack's makes it an enjoyable experience for any Philadelphia sports fan. The walls are decorated with artifacts from all four of our beloved sports teams and there is always sports on the television. For "Cheesesteak Wars", The Eagle Report visited the location on Main Street (also known as Route 63) in Lansdale.
Andrew: N/A
Christian: This was, far and away the worst cheesesteak I've ever eaten. It wasn't until after I went there that someone informed me, "Dude, if you're going to Slack's you gotta get the hoagies, not the cheesesteaks!" I wish someone had told me that before. After being kept waiting for 5 minutes when I was the only one in the place, the employees proceded to be very rude to me. When I finally got my meal after about 10 minutes of waiting, the meat on the cheesesteak was dry and gamey and for whiz...Velveeta. That's right, their version of whiz was that even crappier cheese subsitute, Velveeta. The only redeeming aspect of Slack's was all the sports stuff on the walls and that they used Amoroso rolls. I'll give their hoagies a shot but their cheesesteaks were atrocious.
Matt: N/A
Various locations, we went to the Hillcrest Shopping Center location Lansdale, PA
Slack's Hoagie Shack is a chain of restaurants that can be found throughout the Delaware Valley. Their menu has lots of variety, especially when it comes to hoagies. The inside of Slack's makes it an enjoyable experience for any Philadelphia sports fan. The walls are decorated with artifacts from all four of our beloved sports teams and there is always sports on the television. For "Cheesesteak Wars", The Eagle Report visited the location on Main Street (also known as Route 63) in Lansdale.
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Andrew: N/A
Christian: This was, far and away the worst cheesesteak I've ever eaten. It wasn't until after I went there that someone informed me, "Dude, if you're going to Slack's you gotta get the hoagies, not the cheesesteaks!" I wish someone had told me that before. After being kept waiting for 5 minutes when I was the only one in the place, the employees proceded to be very rude to me. When I finally got my meal after about 10 minutes of waiting, the meat on the cheesesteak was dry and gamey and for whiz...Velveeta. That's right, their version of whiz was that even crappier cheese subsitute, Velveeta. The only redeeming aspect of Slack's was all the sports stuff on the walls and that they used Amoroso rolls. I'll give their hoagies a shot but their cheesesteaks were atrocious.
Matt: N/A
Chickie's and Pete's
Various locations, we went to the Packer Avenue location Philadelphia, PA
Can't make it down to the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, or Sixers game? Well don't worry, there's a 100% chance it will be on at Chickie's and Pete's. While you're there watching the game, Chickie's offers an outstanding beer selection in addition to a menu that has many options including seafood, hoagies, and of course cheesesteaks. Like all the other places we reviewed, Chickie's and Pete's gets very busy at times so it is best to go early and on days when there are not broadcasts taking place, either by Comcast SportsNet or by 610 WIP. For "Cheesesteak Wars", we traveled to the location on Packer Avenue right near the sports complexes.
Andrew: N/A
Christian: I didn't get a cheesesteak when I ate here but I'll say this, do NOT get the clams.
Matt: This steak was nothing special. The meat was pretty good, but the sandwich was a little small. There are other things at Chickie's and Pete's that are worth having before this.
Various locations, we went to the Packer Avenue location Philadelphia, PA
Can't make it down to the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, or Sixers game? Well don't worry, there's a 100% chance it will be on at Chickie's and Pete's. While you're there watching the game, Chickie's offers an outstanding beer selection in addition to a menu that has many options including seafood, hoagies, and of course cheesesteaks. Like all the other places we reviewed, Chickie's and Pete's gets very busy at times so it is best to go early and on days when there are not broadcasts taking place, either by Comcast SportsNet or by 610 WIP. For "Cheesesteak Wars", we traveled to the location on Packer Avenue right near the sports complexes.
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Christian: I didn't get a cheesesteak when I ate here but I'll say this, do NOT get the clams.
Matt: This steak was nothing special. The meat was pretty good, but the sandwich was a little small. There are other things at Chickie's and Pete's that are worth having before this.
Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies
Henry Avenue and Walnut Lane Philadelphia, PA
Dalessandro's probably has one of least convenient locations when it comes to the places we reviewed (it is not off the side of a major highway or in the heart of the city). Dalessandro's is located in the Roxborough part of Philadelphia and is often been characterized as a "hole in the wall." Do not let this fool you for this is a place that has a devoted following amongst cheesesteak lovers and try finding a place to sit during lunch hour! The line forms quickly and with good reason as this is a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. On our most recent visit (November '07) we were dismayed to learn that they have indefinitely stopped selling beer.
Andrew: Not perfect, but pretty close. Friendliest atmosphere I've encountered.
Christian: I dont even know where to start about Dalessandro's. This is by far my favorite cheesesteak place. The prices are dirt cheap, the people who work and eat there are extremely friendly, their hoagies are enormous, I could go on all day. Dalessandro's has a really special kind of charm to it as well. It is a very tiny, family owned business that is not in a very populated or easily accessable part of the city. That said, it doesn't have the same luck with tourists that Campo's or Geno's/Pat's enjoys. That's just it though. Because of this, Dalessandro's has been around for decades because of their superior product and the droves of people like myself that keep going back there. Did I also mention that they always have banana peppers and ketchup on the counter ready to go? Or that their cheesesteak has outstanding quality meat, a delicious roll, and cheese (provolone or American) that compliments the steak well? Apparently I just did. Do yourself a favor and eat at Dalessandros. You'll be happy you did.
Matt: This is my personal favorite. Great combo of high quality steak, crisp and tasty roll, and American cheese melted in the steak. The onions and mushrooms also add to the quality flavor of the steak. If you want peppers, they have them out for all to share and pass around. It is not at all flashy; it's just a friendly place, with a friendly atmosphere.
Henry Avenue and Walnut Lane Philadelphia, PA
Dalessandro's probably has one of least convenient locations when it comes to the places we reviewed (it is not off the side of a major highway or in the heart of the city). Dalessandro's is located in the Roxborough part of Philadelphia and is often been characterized as a "hole in the wall." Do not let this fool you for this is a place that has a devoted following amongst cheesesteak lovers and try finding a place to sit during lunch hour! The line forms quickly and with good reason as this is a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many. On our most recent visit (November '07) we were dismayed to learn that they have indefinitely stopped selling beer.
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Andrew: Not perfect, but pretty close. Friendliest atmosphere I've encountered.
Christian: I dont even know where to start about Dalessandro's. This is by far my favorite cheesesteak place. The prices are dirt cheap, the people who work and eat there are extremely friendly, their hoagies are enormous, I could go on all day. Dalessandro's has a really special kind of charm to it as well. It is a very tiny, family owned business that is not in a very populated or easily accessable part of the city. That said, it doesn't have the same luck with tourists that Campo's or Geno's/Pat's enjoys. That's just it though. Because of this, Dalessandro's has been around for decades because of their superior product and the droves of people like myself that keep going back there. Did I also mention that they always have banana peppers and ketchup on the counter ready to go? Or that their cheesesteak has outstanding quality meat, a delicious roll, and cheese (provolone or American) that compliments the steak well? Apparently I just did. Do yourself a favor and eat at Dalessandros. You'll be happy you did.
Matt: This is my personal favorite. Great combo of high quality steak, crisp and tasty roll, and American cheese melted in the steak. The onions and mushrooms also add to the quality flavor of the steak. If you want peppers, they have them out for all to share and pass around. It is not at all flashy; it's just a friendly place, with a friendly atmosphere.
Chubby's Cheesesteaks
Henry Avenue (across the street from Dalessandro's) Philadelphia, PA
Also located in Roxborough is Chubby's Cheesesteaks. Chubby's is distinguished by its vertical illuminated sign and is another one of the lesser known cheesesteak places. Much like Geno's and Pat's in South Philly, Chubby's enjoys a close rivalry with Dalessandro's, although the latter one does much more business. Regardless, Chubby's is a fine place to go for a delicious cheesesteak.
Andrew: Go here when Dalessandro's closes early. Acceptable, but nowhere near their neighbor.
Christian: N/A
Matt: N/A
Henry Avenue (across the street from Dalessandro's) Philadelphia, PA
Also located in Roxborough is Chubby's Cheesesteaks. Chubby's is distinguished by its vertical illuminated sign and is another one of the lesser known cheesesteak places. Much like Geno's and Pat's in South Philly, Chubby's enjoys a close rivalry with Dalessandro's, although the latter one does much more business. Regardless, Chubby's is a fine place to go for a delicious cheesesteak.
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Andrew: Go here when Dalessandro's closes early. Acceptable, but nowhere near their neighbor.
Christian: N/A
Matt: N/A
To be honest, our discovery of Franzone's was a bit of an accident. We had heard of this great cheesesteak place in the Norristown area (Pudge's) but had no luck finding it the first time so we ended up at Franzone's simply because it was late and it was open. Boy were we shocked! Franzone's is right off the side of Route 202 North and has outstanding food! The cheesesteak is cheap and enormous and their pizza is simply phenomenal. It was so good that The Eagle Report went out its way one night just to get a pizza from Franzone's. Franzone's is not in the best location and is semi difficult to get to but believe us when we say their pizza is worth it. If you are going to Franzone's parking can be kind of tricky since it is off of a one-way street. The best thing to do is to drive up a block to Route 23, turn left and then make the first right and there is ample parking behind the restaurant. Take it from us though, do NOT use their bathrooms.
Andrew: They put more whiz on a sandwich than anyone! Their pizza is also worth the trip.
Christian: The cheesesteak was pretty good but the pizza is definitely what Franzone's is and should be known for. The crust is crunchy with a sweet sauce and not too much cheese. Most certainly one of the best pizzas I have ever tasted and that is no exaggeration.
Matt: N/A
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Andrew: They put more whiz on a sandwich than anyone! Their pizza is also worth the trip.
Christian: The cheesesteak was pretty good but the pizza is definitely what Franzone's is and should be known for. The crust is crunchy with a sweet sauce and not too much cheese. Most certainly one of the best pizzas I have ever tasted and that is no exaggeration.
Matt: N/A
Pudge's
1530 DeKalb Pike in DeKalb Shopping Center Blue Bell, PA
Pudge's is a very low-key restaurant. Located off of Route 202 (locally known as DeKalb Pike) in Blue Bell it is tucked away in the DeKalb shopping center along with a used video game store and the DeKalb Produce Market. Pudge's does not even have a sign that lights up at night. Despite all these handicaps, Pudge's has a loyal following throughout the area. Pudge's claim to fame is the size of their cheesesteaks. They are enormous and packed full of meat. If you have the appetite, Pudge's also offers delicious beer battered onion rings. Despite the seedy shopping center it calls home, Pudge's is a place that many people in nearby Norristown go for lunch and is definitely a place worth going to for anyone who enjoys a cheesesteak.
1530 DeKalb Pike in DeKalb Shopping Center Blue Bell, PA
Pudge's is a very low-key restaurant. Located off of Route 202 (locally known as DeKalb Pike) in Blue Bell it is tucked away in the DeKalb shopping center along with a used video game store and the DeKalb Produce Market. Pudge's does not even have a sign that lights up at night. Despite all these handicaps, Pudge's has a loyal following throughout the area. Pudge's claim to fame is the size of their cheesesteaks. They are enormous and packed full of meat. If you have the appetite, Pudge's also offers delicious beer battered onion rings. Despite the seedy shopping center it calls home, Pudge's is a place that many people in nearby Norristown go for lunch and is definitely a place worth going to for anyone who enjoys a cheesesteak.
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Andrew: Your heart will hate you for eating here, but your stomach will thank you. A delicious, worthwhile challenge.
Christian: Oh Pudge's. This was the only place where I felt like I was going to die on the spot while eating there. Their cheesesteaks are simply enormous and not that bad at all. The quality of meat wasn't as good as some other places, but they do load up on it in addition to the onions and cheese. It is definitely worth the little bit extra you pay when you eat there. Pudge's is also a low key place, which I really admire. It is located in a dumpy strip mall and is really easy to miss. Yet people have been coming here for decades and are extremely loyal. The two times I've been there, they seemed to be short staffed so you may have a bit of a wait ahead of you should you decide to tackle a Pudge's. What's remarkable to me is that we just got the regular. They have a large which is supposedly twice as big. Yikes!
Matt: The biggest steak I get is at Pudge's. The meat is decent quality, and the roll is big enough for all the meat they put in it. Overall, a pretty good steak.
Campo's
214 Market Street Philadelphia, PA
Located a mere two blocks away from Penn's Landing, Campo's is located in the heart of Old City. Campo's is a family owned business that has three generations working everyday. They get a fair share of tourists given its location but it is also a hotspot for many locals as well. They have been featured on the Food Channel and are the exclusive supplier of cheesesteaks and hoagies to the Wachovia Center and Spectrum for Phantoms, Flyers, and Sixers games.
Andrew: A little pricey, but the steak holds its own. Go with a friend, order a cheesesteak and an Italian hoagie, and share.
Christian: I absolutely love this place. The cheesesteaks and hoagies are phenomenal, the people working are incredibly nice, and they also offer a vast array of other Philly treats such as soft pretzels and Tastykakes. What I really love about Campo's is their bread and the quality of steak used. They used sliced ribeye for their cheesesteaks (believe me, you can tell the difference) and they use this delicious, hearty bread for all their sandwiches. My only real gripe about Campo's is that it is a little pricey and their cheesesteaks are smaller than what'd you get elsewhere. All that aside, Campo's is fantastic.
Matt: N/A
214 Market Street Philadelphia, PA
Located a mere two blocks away from Penn's Landing, Campo's is located in the heart of Old City. Campo's is a family owned business that has three generations working everyday. They get a fair share of tourists given its location but it is also a hotspot for many locals as well. They have been featured on the Food Channel and are the exclusive supplier of cheesesteaks and hoagies to the Wachovia Center and Spectrum for Phantoms, Flyers, and Sixers games.
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Andrew: A little pricey, but the steak holds its own. Go with a friend, order a cheesesteak and an Italian hoagie, and share.
Christian: I absolutely love this place. The cheesesteaks and hoagies are phenomenal, the people working are incredibly nice, and they also offer a vast array of other Philly treats such as soft pretzels and Tastykakes. What I really love about Campo's is their bread and the quality of steak used. They used sliced ribeye for their cheesesteaks (believe me, you can tell the difference) and they use this delicious, hearty bread for all their sandwiches. My only real gripe about Campo's is that it is a little pricey and their cheesesteaks are smaller than what'd you get elsewhere. All that aside, Campo's is fantastic.
Matt: N/A
Steve's Cheesesteaks
Corner of 7th Street and South Street Philadelphia, PA
One of the lesser known cheesesteak options throughout Philly is Steve's Cheesesteaks at the corner of 7th and South Streets, just a few blocks down Jim's Steaks. Steve's has an eye-catching red and white awning out front and a very friendly staff to boot. Steve's is never as crowded as some of the other places we reviewed and we are not sure if it has the same kind of loyalty that others enjoy. To be honest, we ended up there after seeing a ridiculous line at Jim's, which we believe is probably how Steve's gets a lot of business. Steve's is a place with a family atmosphere to it and definitely worth a visit.
Andrew: N/A
Christian: It is hard for me to say anything bad about Steve's. We went there after seeing an insane line at Jim's. While there we had our meal and had a nice discussion with the owner about veggie cheesesteaks and sports. He and his wife are excellent people who we must have talked to for about forty minutes after we had finished our meal. It's hard to get that kind of friendly and intimate atmosphere at a Jim's or Geno's. The cheesesteak itself was simply average. Amoroso roll, decent meat, cheese was nothing you can't get anywhere else. Kind of troubling was that they did not offer peppers or ketchup for the cheesesteaks. If you are looking to go to Jim's but don't feel like waiting in line, definitely give Steve's a try.
Matt: N/A
Corner of 7th Street and South Street Philadelphia, PA
One of the lesser known cheesesteak options throughout Philly is Steve's Cheesesteaks at the corner of 7th and South Streets, just a few blocks down Jim's Steaks. Steve's has an eye-catching red and white awning out front and a very friendly staff to boot. Steve's is never as crowded as some of the other places we reviewed and we are not sure if it has the same kind of loyalty that others enjoy. To be honest, we ended up there after seeing a ridiculous line at Jim's, which we believe is probably how Steve's gets a lot of business. Steve's is a place with a family atmosphere to it and definitely worth a visit.
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Christian: It is hard for me to say anything bad about Steve's. We went there after seeing an insane line at Jim's. While there we had our meal and had a nice discussion with the owner about veggie cheesesteaks and sports. He and his wife are excellent people who we must have talked to for about forty minutes after we had finished our meal. It's hard to get that kind of friendly and intimate atmosphere at a Jim's or Geno's. The cheesesteak itself was simply average. Amoroso roll, decent meat, cheese was nothing you can't get anywhere else. Kind of troubling was that they did not offer peppers or ketchup for the cheesesteaks. If you are looking to go to Jim's but don't feel like waiting in line, definitely give Steve's a try.
Matt: N/A
Jim's Steaks
Corner of 4th Street and South Street Philadelphia, PA
If Pat's and Geno's are the most popular cheesesteak destinations in Philly, then Jim's Steaks would also have to be considered as one of the more popular places. If you go on a Saturday or Sunday, it is not uncommon to see a line out the door stretching around the corner of the building. Jim's has the benefit of being on South Street and four blocks from Penn's Landing. With an attractive black marble exterior and cheesesteaks made right in front of you, Jim's Steaks is a great experience for any cheesesteak lover.
Andrew: If you have an hour to kill, go to Jim's. The long wait makes the food taste that much better; big upstairs dining area is a plus.
Christian: I had a bit of a problem when I went there. Mainly that the guy working there and myself got into an argument over whether he had given me proper change. It was clear that he hadn't. I was owed 2 dollars and a couple cents and I was only holding silver, no bills. Eventually the guy said "I'm not going to argue with you," and gave me correct change. That is sort of the attitude you'll get at Jim's. The people there are not very friendly nor do they seem to like anyone very much. I'll say this though, they are always very busy so I don't expect them to be rays of sunshine. Also, they make a pretty damn good cheesesteak. Nice and greasy, the way God himself eats them. Out of the "big three", I'd pick Jim's.
Matt: Many Philly natives find this place a little too "touristy," but they make a good steak. They make a pretty good size steak with very good steak. I always get whiz here and they put just the right amount on. They use the classic Amoroso's roll, which is always good. If it's not crowded, Jim's has a good atmosphere, right on 4th and South.
Corner of 4th Street and South Street Philadelphia, PA
If Pat's and Geno's are the most popular cheesesteak destinations in Philly, then Jim's Steaks would also have to be considered as one of the more popular places. If you go on a Saturday or Sunday, it is not uncommon to see a line out the door stretching around the corner of the building. Jim's has the benefit of being on South Street and four blocks from Penn's Landing. With an attractive black marble exterior and cheesesteaks made right in front of you, Jim's Steaks is a great experience for any cheesesteak lover.
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Andrew: If you have an hour to kill, go to Jim's. The long wait makes the food taste that much better; big upstairs dining area is a plus.
Christian: I had a bit of a problem when I went there. Mainly that the guy working there and myself got into an argument over whether he had given me proper change. It was clear that he hadn't. I was owed 2 dollars and a couple cents and I was only holding silver, no bills. Eventually the guy said "I'm not going to argue with you," and gave me correct change. That is sort of the attitude you'll get at Jim's. The people there are not very friendly nor do they seem to like anyone very much. I'll say this though, they are always very busy so I don't expect them to be rays of sunshine. Also, they make a pretty damn good cheesesteak. Nice and greasy, the way God himself eats them. Out of the "big three", I'd pick Jim's.
Matt: Many Philly natives find this place a little too "touristy," but they make a good steak. They make a pretty good size steak with very good steak. I always get whiz here and they put just the right amount on. They use the classic Amoroso's roll, which is always good. If it's not crowded, Jim's has a good atmosphere, right on 4th and South.
Geno's Steaks
1219 South 9th Street Philadelphia, PA
Geno's Steaks is far and away the most popular cheesesteak place in the city. With it's enormous flashy sign and continuous publicity, Geno's has an enormous following and is a must stop for tourists and locals alike. Geno's is often seen as the hallmark cheesesteak location. It is located in the Italian Market, it is open 24 hours everyday, and it is always packed no matter what time you go. Geno's owner Joey Vento created quite a controversy a few years ago with his now notorious sign declaring that his business will not serve anyone who does not speak English. Vento is very passionate about this issue, as it is on their webpage along with his interview on Good Morning America. Politics aside, Geno's is still one of the big boys of the Philadelphia cheesesteak scene and is likely to remain as such for a long time.
| Meat | 4.5 | Prices | 2.5 | Final Score: 4.9375 |
| Cheeses | 6 | Quality/Speed | 5 | |
| Bread | 7 | Atmosphere | 3 | |
| Condiments | 7 | Parking | 3 | |
| Beer | 0 | Dining Space | 6 | |
| Cleanliness | 7 |
Christian: Politically, I think Vento is a huge jerk. However even if I agreed with Vento's assertion that everyone should speak his language (which he doesn't even speak that well I might add), I wouldn't eat at Geno's anyway. What is the point of going to a place that has simply average cheesesteaks that you always have to wait in a long line for, drive all over the place looking for parking, deal with pushy New Yorkers who cut in line, and then get told to go to the back of the line if you don't have money in hand and know what you want? Not only that, their sign is flat out offensive. Is this a cheesesteak place or a nightclub? The sign is indicative of the way Geno's operates. They are all about flash and cheap publicity. They can get their TV appareances on Philadelphia-related shows, their owner can parade around on the national circuit whining about something that's not that big of a deal, and they can have their obnoxious sign with their obnoxious customers who have never even tried some of the better places. That's all fine and good. I refuse to waste my time at this place. Once was enough.
Matt: Well let me first just address the steak itself: decent rolls, a couple a slabs of bad steak and too small. The corner of 9th and Passyunk is full of tourists who do not know any better. I guess you have to try this place once, but you will see why you will not want to go back if you try it.
Pat's King of Steaks
1237 Passyunk Avenue Philadelphia, PA
Basically across the street from the bright and flashy Geno's Steaks is the not-so-fancy Pat's King of Steaks. Pat's has enjoyed enormous success for many of the same reasons as Geno's. Its location in the Italian Market as well as feeding off of the Geno's spillover (and vice versa) has helped enormously. Pat's is largely considered to be the father of the Philadelphia cheesesteak with roots dating back to 1930. Although Pat's does not have an exciting look to it, it is open 24 hours everyday and many of the locals and many tourists alike flock there for their cheesesteak fix as well as some of their famous cheese fries. If you go to Pat's, do not forget the lingo. First you say the cheese you want, followed by "wit" if you want onions and "wit-out" if you do not. Pat's is very serious about this and is a favorite of cheesesteak lovers everywhere.
| Meat | 7 | Prices | 3 | Final Score: 5.9895 |
| Cheeses | 6.5 | Quality/Speed | 7 | |
| Bread | 7 | Atmosphere | 8.5 | |
| Condiments | 6 | Parking | 3 | |
| Beer | 0 | Dining Space | 7 | |
| Cleanliness | 6 |
Christian: Compared to Geno's, Pat's King of Steaks is like heaven. Even though they have the same ridiculous problems as Geno's when it comes to long lines, difficulty parking, and nonsense rules; it's hard to hate the fathers of the Philly Cheesesteak. Besides, the people there have made it explicitly clear they don't care what language you speak. My one experience at Pat's was a pretty good one. The people there were friendly for the most part, it doesn't have an obnoxious sign (I'm looking at you, Geno's), and it really is fun how they have their own lingo (I prefer a wit-whiz myself). When I was there I heard a lot of people, many of which with midwestern or southern dialects practicing how to order and telling their kids what to say. It really was fun to watch and there was a lot of laughing and teasing to boot. All in good fun of course. The cheesesteak itself was decent. I wasn't really impressed either way. Pretty small for what you pay for. Pat's is still the godfather of cheesesteaks regardless and is worth a visit just for that.
Matt: Pat's has a nicer atmosphere that is more family oriented than its counterpart across the street. It also has a better steak, but that doesn't mean much when you compare it to Geno's. It is just an average steak, with average meat and decent rolls, nothing special.
Tony Luke's
Various locations, we went to the Citizens Bank Park location Philadelphia, PA
Along with Rick's, Tony Luke's also has a location in Ashburn Alley at Citizens Bank Park. Tony Luke's has various locations around the city and was also featured on the Food Network's Throwdown with Bobby Flay. According to many avid Tony Luke's eaters, the cheesesteaks are just one of the delicious items they have to offer. We have been told that their pulled pork sandwich is also worth a taste in addition to a cheesesteak of course. Besides seeing the Phillies, a common site at CBP is walking around Ashburn Alley and seeing many people sinking their teeth in a delicious product purchased at Tony Luke's.
Andrew: A little disappointing. Meat was not up to par with the rest of the sandwich.
Christian: Boy was this a let down. I kept hearing good things about Tony Luke's and when I finally tried one I was really bummed. The cheesesteak was lukewarm and the meat looked like, and tasted like rubber. I hope Tony Luke's is better at making other foods, because their cheesesteak was lousy. At least the CBP location had some beer on tap. Too bad the only kind they had was Bud Light. I would give them extra points for having beer on tap but dock a few at the same time for it being so lousy.
Matt: Well I cannot say too much good about Tony Luke's; not enough meat, cheese not totally melted, and below average rolls. They have other good sandwiches, but the cheesesteak is not one of them
Rick's Philly Steaks
Reading Terminal Market and Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA
Rick's Philly Steaks has the benefit of having locations in two of the most popular destinations in the city: Reading Terminal Market and the home of the Phillies, Citizens Bank Park. Rick's claims itself to be part of the Pat's King of Steaks family and does very well for itself at both Reading Terminal and CBP. Although its future at Reading Terminal Market seems cloudy as the owners of the Market have opted to fill its cheesesteak void with Tony Luke's, Rick's is worth trying whether you're sightseeing in Center City or catching a Phillies game in South Philly. For this review, we ate at the CBP location.
Andrew: Best steak at the ballpark, if you can stomach big-league prices.
Christian: Compared to the half of a Tony Luke's I had at the Phillies game, the half of Rick's that I ate at the same game was pretty good by comparison. Lets put it this way. The Rick's cheesesteak was hot and the brown stuff inside sort of tasted like steak. I wasn't really expecting a whole lot out of Rick's but as I ate it I liked it more and more. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat at Rick's or bypass all the other great food at Reading Terminal Market to eat there, but if I'm at a Phillies game and I want something quick and easy, I'd eat there again. Much like Tony Luke's, Rick's offers Bud Light.
Matt: N/A
Various locations, we went to the Citizens Bank Park location Philadelphia, PA
Along with Rick's, Tony Luke's also has a location in Ashburn Alley at Citizens Bank Park. Tony Luke's has various locations around the city and was also featured on the Food Network's Throwdown with Bobby Flay. According to many avid Tony Luke's eaters, the cheesesteaks are just one of the delicious items they have to offer. We have been told that their pulled pork sandwich is also worth a taste in addition to a cheesesteak of course. Besides seeing the Phillies, a common site at CBP is walking around Ashburn Alley and seeing many people sinking their teeth in a delicious product purchased at Tony Luke's.
| Meat | 2 | Prices | 3 | Final Score: 4.59 |
| Cheeses | 4 | Quality/Speed | 5 | |
| Bread | 6 | Atmosphere | 10 | |
| Condiments | 3 | Parking | 9 | |
| Beer | 4 | Dining Space | 10 | |
| Cleanliness | 8 |
Andrew: A little disappointing. Meat was not up to par with the rest of the sandwich.
Christian: Boy was this a let down. I kept hearing good things about Tony Luke's and when I finally tried one I was really bummed. The cheesesteak was lukewarm and the meat looked like, and tasted like rubber. I hope Tony Luke's is better at making other foods, because their cheesesteak was lousy. At least the CBP location had some beer on tap. Too bad the only kind they had was Bud Light. I would give them extra points for having beer on tap but dock a few at the same time for it being so lousy.
Matt: Well I cannot say too much good about Tony Luke's; not enough meat, cheese not totally melted, and below average rolls. They have other good sandwiches, but the cheesesteak is not one of them
Rick's Philly Steaks
Reading Terminal Market and Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA
Rick's Philly Steaks has the benefit of having locations in two of the most popular destinations in the city: Reading Terminal Market and the home of the Phillies, Citizens Bank Park. Rick's claims itself to be part of the Pat's King of Steaks family and does very well for itself at both Reading Terminal and CBP. Although its future at Reading Terminal Market seems cloudy as the owners of the Market have opted to fill its cheesesteak void with Tony Luke's, Rick's is worth trying whether you're sightseeing in Center City or catching a Phillies game in South Philly. For this review, we ate at the CBP location.
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Andrew: Best steak at the ballpark, if you can stomach big-league prices.
Christian: Compared to the half of a Tony Luke's I had at the Phillies game, the half of Rick's that I ate at the same game was pretty good by comparison. Lets put it this way. The Rick's cheesesteak was hot and the brown stuff inside sort of tasted like steak. I wasn't really expecting a whole lot out of Rick's but as I ate it I liked it more and more. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat at Rick's or bypass all the other great food at Reading Terminal Market to eat there, but if I'm at a Phillies game and I want something quick and easy, I'd eat there again. Much like Tony Luke's, Rick's offers Bud Light.
Matt: N/A
The Grading Criteria
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Food: -Quality of meat (taste, freshness, how is it chopped, etc)* -Availability of cheeses (points for whiz, provolone is second)** -Quality of bread (fresh baked is usually the best, Amoroso's is good too)* -Quality/Availabilty of condiments (especially onions, mushrooms, peppers, sauces)** -Availability of beer (includes availability, variety; on tap > bottle > can)*** |
Establishment: -Prices (are the prices reasonable for what you get)* -Quality/Speed of service (are the worker friendly, did we get our food fast?)** -Atmosphere (are the fellow patrons friendly, is it a pleasant place to be)* -Availability of parking (was it easy to find a place nearby to park)** -Ample dining space (did we have to eat standing up or was there a booth/table to sit at)** -Cleanliness (especially restrooms)** |
Do you agree with us? Do you think our brains are clogged with cheeze whiz to have ever said such things about your favorite cheesesteak place? Well sound off! Send us an email at: theeaglereport@gmail.com and tell us what YOU think. Also, do not hesitate to tell us if there is a cheesesteak place you like that we did not mention.
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