Cheesesteaks!

I'm sure everyone has seen a "Philadelphia Cheese Steak" listed on a menu from time to time. Well, now you get to try the real thing! All steaks are not created equal though, so it is wise to consider the options! And I also advise having CASH for these places. I don't think any of them take credit cards-- better to be safe.

Pat's King of Steaks (at the intersection of 9th and Wharton, and Passyunk! You'll most likely want to take a cab)-- many people believe Pat's is the best. And then, some people (who like cheesesteaks in general) hate Pat's. Things to keep in mind-- there is a certain way of ordering that is fun to learn. Read the posted signs and listen to the people in front of you when they order. Also, observe that there is one line for steaks and one line for fries and drinks. Split up and get through both lines faster! Getting your steak with cheese whiz may be the classic way to go, but it makes ME sick. I like mine with provolone cheese and no onions. My order would sound like this (money in hand), "Provolone without, please!" Condiments (ketchup, mustard, and delicious peppers) are available for you to fix up yourself at a little kiosk on the sidewalk. Seating is outside, but you are covered by a roof so you won't get rained on.

Geno's Steaks (across from Pat's on 9th Street)-- Geno's, with its neon flames and brightly lit celebrity photographs-- is a formidable rival for Pat's. The ordering system is fairly similar (two windows), and seating is also outside under an awning. I mean, I can't really recommend one of the other. They're both open 24 hours, and when you hop out of the cab, you can pick whichever one you like... or both!

Those are the two everyone knows about. Here are a few other popular places:

Jim's Steaks at 4th and South Streets

Tony Luke Jr's at 118 S 18th Street, not far from Rittenhouse Square. You can see some of the reviews on the linked page. There is an original Tony Luke's on Oregon Avenue, but it is WAY south of center city, and unless you were a real cheese steak fanatic, I don't think anyone would be making the trip.

There are many websites dedicated to Philly cheesesteaks and where to get the best one, etc. Put "Philadelphia Cheesesteaks" into your google search engine if you want to know more!