Philadelphia is synonymous with cheesesteaks. This iconic sandwich, a local delicacy crafted with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, has become a cultural staple. Whether you’re a lifelong Philadelphian or a tourist passing through, indulging in a classic cheesesteak is a must-do experience. The competition for the title of “best cheesesteak” is fierce in this city, with local spots perfecting their recipes over generations. From traditional joints that have been around for decades to newer establishments putting a modern spin on the sandwich, the cheesesteak scene in Philadelphia offers something for everyone.
Below is a curated list of the top 12 cheesesteak restaurants in Philadelphia, where you can savor the best the city has to offer. These restaurants have been rated based on customer reviews, quality of service, and overall satisfaction. Each location promises to deliver a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, so grab a napkin and dive in!
1. Pat’s King of Steaks
Address: 1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Location: South Philly
Phone: (215) 468-1546
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Total Ratings: 1,237 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Pat’s is the original and remains one of the best! The classic cheesesteak done right.”
- “Always a must-visit when I’m in Philly. Fast, delicious, and never disappoints.”
2. Geno’s Steaks
Address: 1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Location: South Philly
Phone: (215) 389-0659
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Total Ratings: 1,204 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Love the crispy rolls and generous portions of meat at Geno’s.”
- “Iconic spot with great service. Never had a bad sandwich here.”
3. Jim’s Steaks South Street
Address: 400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Location: South Street
Phone: (215) 928-1911
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Total Ratings: 975 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Best cheesesteak on South Street, hands down!”
- “The meat is always flavorful, and the onions are caramelized to perfection.”
4. John’s Roast Pork
Address: 14 E Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Location: South Philadelphia
Phone: (215) 463-1951
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Total Ratings: 1,502 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “John’s is a hidden gem! Their cheesesteaks are top-notch, and the roast pork is unbeatable.”
- “The perfect balance of flavor, quality, and portion size. Worth every penny!”
5. Steve’s Prince of Steaks
Address: 7200 Bustleton Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19149
Location: Northeast Philly
Phone: (215) 338-0985
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Total Ratings: 875 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “A classic! The meat is juicy, and the cheese is perfectly melted.”
- “One of the best in the Northeast. Always consistent and delicious.”
6. Tony Luke’s
Address: 39 E Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
Location: South Philly
Phone: (215) 551-5725
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Total Ratings: 1,032 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks are phenomenal. Always cooked to perfection!”
- “Great spot for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.”
7. Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies
Address: 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA 19128
Location: Roxborough
Phone: (215) 482-5407
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.9/5)
Total Ratings: 890 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Amazing cheesesteaks with generous portions. You won’t leave hungry!”
- “One of my top spots in Philly. The rolls are always fresh, and the meat is tender.”
8. Cleavers
Address: 108 S 18th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Location: Rittenhouse Square
Phone: (215) 515-3828
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7/5)
Total Ratings: 743 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “A modern twist on the classic cheesesteak. Great flavors and cool atmosphere.”
- “The cheesesteaks are massive, and they have awesome toppings!”
9. Phillips Steaks
Address: 2234 W Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Location: Southwest Philly
Phone: (215) 755-4820
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Total Ratings: 680 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Phillips has some of the best late-night cheesesteaks in Philly!”
- “Old-school spot with consistently great cheesesteaks.”
10. Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks
Address: 214 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Location: Old City
Phone: (215) 923-1000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)
Total Ratings: 550 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Amazing cheesesteaks right in the heart of Old City. A must-visit!”
- “Perfect blend of cheese, meat, and fresh rolls. Always a great meal.”
11. Shank’s Original
Address: 901 S Columbus Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Location: Penn’s Landing
Phone: (215) 218-4000
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.8/5)
Total Ratings: 410 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “The roast pork sandwiches are legendary, but the cheesesteaks are equally incredible!”
- “Super friendly staff and amazing food. One of my favorite spots in the city.”
12. Max’s Steaks
Address: 3653 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19140
Location: North Philadelphia
Phone: (215) 229-9048
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)
Total Ratings: 775 reviews
Customer Comments:
- “Max’s is a staple in North Philly. Huge cheesesteaks with unbeatable flavor.”
- “Best cheesesteaks in this part of town, and the atmosphere is always lively.”
A Look at Philadelphia’s Cheesesteak Tradition
The Philadelphia cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich – it’s a cultural experience. Invented in the early 20th century, the cheesesteak quickly became a beloved food throughout the city. Over the years, Philly’s love for the sandwich has grown, leading to fierce debates about who serves the best one. Each restaurant offers a slightly different take, with variations in meat, cheese, and bread. Some places add onions, peppers, or mushrooms, while others stick to the basics of beef and cheese.
What sets the Philadelphia cheesesteak apart is the combination of thinly sliced beef (often ribeye), the perfect roll, and melted cheese. While “Cheez Whiz” is a favorite topping for many, others opt for provolone or American cheese. The bread is equally important – most of the top cheesesteak shops use fresh rolls from local bakeries, ensuring the perfect texture and flavor.
Whether you’re grabbing a cheesesteak for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, the options in Philadelphia are endless. From famous landmarks like Pat’s and Geno’s to hidden gems like John’s Roast Pork and Dalessandro’s, there’s a cheesesteak for every palate. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, one thing is for sure – Philly’s cheesesteaks are legendary, and these top 12 spots are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
