It's hard to imagine the food history of Philadelphia without the impactful presence of the famous cheesesteak. Pat Olivieri, a vendor who initially worked with hotdogs, might have forever changed the course of the city's culinary saga back in 1930. Instead of his daily sandwich, he opted for a chopped steak one on an Italian roll. Cheese was later added to the equation, and Pat's King of Steaks has set the bar for the modern cheesesteak since then.

There is a possibility that Olivieri wasn't the actual creator of the cheesesteak, but the combination of beef, fried onions, and cheese, whether it's real or Cheez Whiz, has been a constant favorite. This sandwich isn't limited to Philadelphia though. You can savor these delights from London to Sao Paolo to Dubai, with many different versions fitting varied dietary preferences.

Among the city's cheesteak scene, Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, with their stunning neon signage, are big players. Nestled in a vibrant corner bang in between Asian and Mexican culinary spots along Washington Avenue and the bustling Passyunk Avenue business district of South Philly, these 24/7 stands are go-to spots for any occasion. Ordering Whiz Wit (Cheez Whiz with fried onions) is the recommended way to embrace the original experience.

Angelo’s pizzeria-sandwich shop, known for their impeccable queues, prepares your cheesesteak in a deliciously baked seeded roll with a perfect balance of rib-eye and cheese, Cooper Sharp ideally, along with fried onions. Don't be deterred if you have to wait, it's definitely worth your time.

Known for its red, blue, and green awning, Campo's, near the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall has a culinary heritage dating back to 1947. They have expanded their menu to accommodate a variety of dietary needs including vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free. They even have outlets at Philly’s sports venues, extending their reach to sports enthusiasts.

For those who enjoy the finer things in life, Barclay Prime offers a $140 cheesesteak of epic proportions. Served with wagyu beef, Cooper Sharp cheese, on a homemade sesame roll, and accompanied by an exquisite half bottle of champagne, it’s as soothing on the stomach as it is demanding on the pocket.

Jim’s South Street, a city favorite, survived a devastating electrical fire in 2022, only to reopen with renewed vigor in May 2024. They added seating in the former Eyes Gallery right next to their establishment, creating an eye-catching mosaic mural by Isaiah Zagar as a backdrop for cheesesteak-seekers.

Defying its name, John’s Roast Pork does a masterful job at preparing its "ultimate" cheesesteak. Their version starts with a fresh, crusty roll filled with finely cut beef loin tails. Topped with your choice of cheese, this classic sandwich truly represents Philly on a platter.

In search of some heat, try this Indian-style reinvention of the traditional cheesesteak at Little Sicily Pizza II. Located in a strip mall under I-95, this version would surely set your taste buds tingling.

Finally, in a gastropub setting with craft cocktails and beer, Triangle Tavern offers Italian and Philly classics including a vegan twist on the beloved cheesesteak, using locally made seitan and homemade "Whiz". This sandwich has proven its adaptability, satisfying diverse palates while retaining its Philadelphia roots.