Why Philadelphia is the Home of the Best Cheesesteaks in the World

The Case for Philly Cheesesteaks

If you’re thinking about iconic American foods, you might immediately consider things like hamburgers or hotdogs. However, there’s another dish that can give them a run for their money: the Philly cheesesteak. This mouthwatering creation is a sandwich composed of thinly sliced beefsteak, a choice of cheeses, and grilled onions all tucked inside of a long baguette. The sandwich is traditionally served with ketchup, hot sauce, or mayo, depending on personal preference. But how did Philly become the home of this oh-so-delicious dish, and why are the cheesesteaks here better than anywhere else? Let’s take a closer look.

History of the Philly Cheesesteak

The origin story of the Philly cheesesteak stems from the early 20th century in South Philadelphia. It’s said that one day a hotdog vendor named Pat Olivieri decided to cook up some sliced beef to feed himself for lunch. He tucked the beef into a baguette and covered it with some onions. A cab driver soon smelled the aroma and asked for one, and the rest is history. The sandwich became an instant sensation throughout the city, and various local shops began offering their own versions. Philly became the home of the cheesesteak, and it’s been an enduring symbol of the city ever since.

The Best Cheesesteaks in Philly

Given the city’s long history with the cheesesteak, it comes as no surprise that Philadelphians take their sandwich very seriously. There are plenty of options to choose from, but a few spots stand out above the rest.

One of the most famous cheesesteak spots in Philly is Pat’s King of Steaks, the originator of the dish. Located just south of South Street, Pat’s has been serving up cheesesteaks since 1930. Another popular spot is Geno’s Steaks, located directly across from Pat’s. Geno’s is known for their generous portions of meat and cheese, as well as their unique ordering system. Jim’s Steaks is another local favorite, with multiple locations throughout the city. They’re a bit more liberal with things like ketchup and mayo, so they’re a great choice for those who like to customize their sandwich.

The Secret to the Perfect Cheesesteak

So what sets Philly cheesesteaks apart from other cities’ interpretations of the dish? It all comes down to the details. First and foremost, the ingredients must be high-quality. The meat should be sliced as thinly as possible, with a good ratio of fat to give the sandwich its signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. The cheese is just as important. While some shops will offer a variety of options like American, provolone, and Cheez Whiz, any true Philly native will tell you that provolone is the only way to go. And don’t forget about the bread. The baguette should be fresh and soft, with just the right amount of chewiness.

Another key factor in a great cheesesteak is the cooking style. The meat and onions should be grilled to perfection, with a bit of char on the outside for flavor. The cheese should be melted just enough to create a gooey texture without overpowering the other flavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Philly cheesesteaks are not just any ordinary sandwich. They’re a culinary icon steeped in history and tradition. With the right combination of meat, cheese, and bread, along with a cooking style that’s been perfected over the years, it’s no wonder that Philadelphians swear by their cheesesteaks. So if you’re ever in the City of Brotherly Love, be sure to stop by one of the many local spots and give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.