Top 15 Cheesesteaks Across Philadelphia, Ranked
Philly cheesesteaks aren’t just sandwiches—they’re a cultural institution, a proud symbol of Philadelphia’s identity, and a story passed down through generations.
Born in the heart of the city, they combine thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned beef with gooey, melted cheese, all nestled in a warm, slightly crisp roll that holds everything together.
As a native Philadelphian, I’ve spent years on a personal quest to find the ultimate version, exploring every corner and sampling countless neighborhood favorites. Each spot has its loyal fans, and the debates over “who’s best” can get as heated as an Eagles playoff game. Ready to taste tradition?
1. Jim’s Steaks on South Street: The People’s Champion
Standing in line at Jim’s, I always feel like I’m part of something special. The aroma hits you half a block away, pulling you toward those iconic black and white tiles and the sizzling grill visible from the street.
Their “Whiz Wit” (cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions) achieves a perfect harmony that’s hard to beat. The meat is sliced just right—not too chunky, not too fine—and the cheese distribution is consistently spot-on.
Fun fact: Jim’s walls are covered with photos of celebrities who’ve made the pilgrimage to this South Street institution. After one bite, you’ll understand why this place has earned its reputation as the best overall cheesesteak experience in the city.
2. Dalessandro’s Steaks: Roxborough’s Finest
My first visit to Dalessandro’s changed my understanding of what a cheesesteak could be. Tucked away in the Roxborough neighborhood, this unassuming spot serves up meat so finely chopped it creates an almost velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
The cheese doesn’t sit on top of the meat—it becomes one with it. Those authentic Amoroso rolls provide the perfect vessel: soft enough to bite through easily but sturdy enough to hold everything together without getting soggy.
The line often stretches out the door, but regulars know it moves quickly. Cash only and worth every penny, Dalessandro’s represents the perfect neighborhood cheesesteak that locals try to keep to themselves.
3. John’s Roast Pork: The James Beard Award Winner
Don’t let the name fool you! While John’s Roast Pork earned its reputation with, well, roast pork, their cheesesteak might be the hidden gem of South Philly. The crusty seeded roll (sourced from Carangi Bakery) provides a textural contrast that elevates everything.
What makes John’s special is balance. Every bite delivers the perfect ratio of tender ribeye, sharp provolone, and those slightly charred onions. No element overwhelms another.
Earning a James Beard Foundation “American Classic” award is no small feat for a sandwich shop. Open since 1930, John’s maintains old-school methods, closing when they sell out. My tip? Go early and prepare for cheesesteak enlightenment.
4. Angelo’s Pizzeria: The Baker’s Touch
Angelo’s broke all the rules and created something magical. Owner Danny DiGiampietro bakes his own rolls daily, giving his cheesesteaks a foundation that’s impossible to duplicate elsewhere. The bread has that perfect crackly exterior while remaining pillowy inside.
Fresh-sliced ribeye sizzles on the flat-top before your eyes, developing those crispy edges beef lovers dream about. I once waited 90 minutes in the rain for Angelo’s, and I’d do it again tomorrow without hesitation.
Recently crowned #1 in the region by Philadelphia Magazine, this South Philly spot proves that innovation within tradition can create something extraordinary. Just remember they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays, and prepare for a wait that’s absolutely worth it.
5. D’Alessandro’s: The Neighborhood Staple
Walking into D’Alessandro’s feels like stepping into a time capsule of authentic Philly. The no-frills counter service and straightforward menu board speak volumes: they’re focused on the food, not the fanfare.
Their cheesesteak features a generous portion of chopped beef that maintains its juiciness without making the roll soggy. The American cheese melts perfectly throughout, creating that gooey texture that defines comfort food.
What I appreciate most about D’Alessandro’s is their consistency. Whether you visit on a busy Saturday night or a quiet Tuesday afternoon, the quality never wavers. For many locals, this spot represents the quintessential neighborhood cheesesteak—reliable, satisfying, and deeply rooted in the community.
6. Barclay Prime: The $140 Luxury Experience
Barclay Prime’s cheesesteak is the rebel of this list—a high-society interpretation that somehow maintains its Philly soul. Served in a ritzy Rittenhouse Square steakhouse, this $140 indulgence arrives with a split of champagne.
Wagyu beef, foie gras, truffled cheese whiz, and a housemade brioche roll create a symphony of luxury that shouldn’t work as a cheesesteak but absolutely does. The first time I tried it (for a special anniversary), I was prepared to dismiss it as overpriced gimmickry.
Instead, I found myself savoring every decadent bite. Is it traditional? Not even close. Is it an unforgettable culinary experience that honors the spirit of a cheesesteak while elevating it to new heights? Absolutely.
7. Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop: Nostalgic Diner Vibes
Joe’s captures something special—that mid-century American diner experience complete with spinning stools and authentic milkshakes. Their cheesesteaks maintain that same nostalgic quality while staying relevant to modern tastes.
The meat is chopped medium (not too fine, not too chunky) and seasoned just enough to enhance its natural flavor. What surprised me most was their vegetarian option that actually satisfies, using seitan that mimics the texture of traditional beef remarkably well.
The Fishtown location brings this Northeast Philly institution to a new neighborhood without losing its charm. Joe’s proves that sometimes the best cheesesteak experience isn’t just about the sandwich—it’s about the entire atmosphere that transports you to a simpler time.
8. Max’s Steaks: North Philly’s Giant-Sized Legend
Max’s doesn’t just serve cheesesteaks—they serve monuments to excess that somehow maintain quality despite their intimidating size. Featured in the movie “Creed,” this North Philly institution gained national attention, but locals have treasured it for decades.
Their two-foot “Giant” cheesesteak could easily feed three people, but I’ve watched plenty of determined customers tackle them solo. The beef is juicy, the cheese abundant, and the roll somehow manages to hold everything together against all odds.
What makes Max’s special is how it captures authentic neighborhood character. The no-nonsense counter service, the bulletproof glass, the late-night hours—this is real Philadelphia, unfiltered and unapologetic. For the full experience, add sweet peppers and hot sauce.
9. Triangle Tavern: Vegan Innovation
Who says vegans can’t enjoy Philly’s signature sandwich? Triangle Tavern proves plant-based cheesesteaks can stand proud alongside their meaty counterparts. Their seitan-based creation fooled even my carnivore friends during a blind taste test!
The housemade vegan “Whiz” achieves that creamy, savory quality that’s essential to a proper cheesesteak experience. The seitan offers the right chew and absorbs the flavors from the grill just like traditional beef.
Beyond the impressive vegan options, Triangle Tavern delivers old-school Italian bar vibes that transport you to 1970s South Philly. The dimly lit interior, checkered tablecloths, and vintage beer signs create the perfect backdrop for enjoying this revolutionary take on Philadelphia’s culinary icon.
10. Campo’s: The Inclusive Cheesesteak Haven
Operating since 1947, Campo’s embraces tradition while ensuring everyone can enjoy a proper cheesesteak regardless of dietary restrictions. Their classic version hits all the right notes—quality meat, melty cheese, perfect roll—but their inclusive menu truly sets them apart.
I brought my gluten-sensitive cousin here, and she nearly cried at her first bite of a cheesesteak in years. The gluten-free roll maintained integrity without crumbling, while their vegan and dairy-free options satisfy with surprising authenticity.
Located near Independence Hall, Campo’s could easily coast as a tourist trap. Instead, they maintain quality while innovating, proving that dietary restrictions shouldn’t mean missing out on Philly’s signature dish. Their buffalo chicken cheesesteak variation deserves honorable mention too!
11. Pat’s King of Steaks: The Original Innovator
There’s something magical about ordering a cheesesteak at the very spot where the sandwich was invented in 1930. Pat’s maintains that straightforward, no-frills approach that defined the original—thin-sliced ribeye on a crusty roll with cheese of your choice.
Yes, tourists flock here for photos and the experience. But beneath the landmark status lies a genuinely good cheesesteak that follows the same recipe that started a culinary revolution. The meat portion is generous, and the onions are perfectly caramelized.
I recommend visiting late at night when the lines are shorter and you can appreciate the history without the crowds. Pat’s isn’t just selling sandwiches; they’re selling the origin story of Philadelphia’s most famous culinary creation. That alone makes it worth experiencing at least once.
12. Geno’s Steaks: The Neon-Lit Rival
Directly across from Pat’s stands its flashy, neon-drenched rival—Geno’s. Their 24/7 operation ensures you’re never without cheesesteak access, and their distinctive slicing technique (slightly thicker than most) creates a different textural experience.
The rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s defines South Philly culture, with families divided in their loyalty for generations. Geno’s tends to serve a “wetter” cheesesteak, with more juice from the meat creating a messier but flavorful experience.
While some critics find the cheese distribution less integrated than other spots, Geno’s delivers consistent quality that’s maintained their position in the cheesesteak pantheon. The photo opportunity alone—those dazzling lights against the night sky—adds an element of Philly theater to your dining experience.
13. Cleavers: Center City’s Creative Contender
Cleavers brings cheesesteak innovation to Center City with creative combinations that expand the boundaries of tradition. Their massive portions satisfy even the heartiest appetites—I’ve never finished one without contemplating a nap afterward.
Their “Wit’ Wiz” follows tradition beautifully, but don’t miss their specialty options. The Chicken Bacon Ranch transformed my friend from cheesesteak skeptic to enthusiast in one bite. While recent visits revealed occasional inconsistency with cheese distribution, their quality ingredients and freshly baked rolls still deliver satisfaction.
The modern, sleek interior offers a different vibe from South Philly’s traditional spots. Cleavers proves that cheesesteaks can evolve beyond their humble origins while maintaining the soul that makes them special.
14. Sonny’s Famous Steaks: Old City’s Market Street Favorite
Sonny’s strategic location near Independence Hall could have made it just another tourist trap. Instead, they’ve earned respect from locals by focusing on quality ingredients and proper technique.
Their cheesesteaks feature generous toppings—sometimes bordering on too generous. During my last visit, the peppers and onions slightly overshadowed the excellent meat. Still, the overall flavor profile delivers that authentic Philly experience visitors seek.
What makes Sonny’s special is their welcoming approach to cheesesteak newcomers. The staff patiently explains ordering etiquette without the intimidation factor found at some traditional spots. Their outdoor seating offers prime people-watching on bustling Market Street, adding an urban energy to your cheesesteak experience.
15. Cosmi’s Deli: The Hidden South Philly Gem
Tucked away on 8th Street, Cosmi’s remains the local secret that cheesesteak aficionados whisper about. This unassuming deli counter produces one of the most balanced, satisfying cheesesteaks in the city without any fanfare or flashy gimmicks.
The seeded roll provides a textural contrast that elevates every bite. Their meat-to-cheese ratio achieves that elusive perfect balance, while the chopping technique ensures flavor in every mouthful without turning the meat to mush.
What I love most about Cosmi’s is how it represents the neighborhood deli tradition that’s increasingly rare. Beyond cheesesteaks, their hoagies deserve recognition too. When friends ask where to find an authentic, under-the-radar cheesesteak experience away from tourist crowds, Cosmi’s is always my first recommendation.