Few foods are as synonymous with a city as the cheesesteak is with Philadelphia. This iconic sandwich, with its perfect blend of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and optional toppings all nestled in a long roll, has become not just a local favorite but a national culinary treasure.
The Origins of the Cheesesteak
A Humble Beginning
The story of the Philadelphia cheesesteak begins in the 1930s, during the depths of the Great Depression. Pat and Harry Olivieri, two brothers who ran a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia, decided to try something new one day. They grilled some thinly sliced beef and put it on an Italian roll. A passing cab driver caught a whiff of the delicious aroma and asked to try the sandwich. He was so impressed that he suggested the brothers should stop selling hot dogs and focus on these steak sandwiches instead.
The Addition of Cheese
Initially, the Olivieri brothers’ creation didn’t include cheese. It wasn’t until the 1940s that cheese became a standard part of the sandwich. According to local legend, one of Pat’s employees, Joe “Cocky Joe” Lorenza, was the first to add provolone cheese to the steak sandwich. The combination was an instant hit, and the Philadelphia cheesesteak as we know it today was born.
Pat’s vs. Geno’s: The Great Rivalry
No discussion of the Philadelphia cheesesteak’s history would be complete without mentioning the famous rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. Pat’s, founded by Pat Olivieri, claims to be the originator of the cheesesteak. Geno’s, opened in 1966 by Joey Vento directly across the street from Pat’s, quickly became a formidable competitor. This rivalry has not only helped to cement the cheesesteak’s place in Philadelphia’s culinary landscape but has also become a tourist attraction in its own right.
Anatomy of a Perfect Cheesesteak
The Bread
A great cheesesteak starts with the right bread. Traditionally, this means a long, crusty Italian roll that’s soft on the inside. The roll needs to be sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy meat and melted cheese without falling apart, but not so tough that it overwhelms the filling. Many Philadelphia bakeries specialize in rolls specifically designed for cheesesteaks.
The Meat
The heart of any cheesesteak is, of course, the steak itself. Traditionally, the meat used is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. The key is to slice the meat very thinly against the grain, which helps to ensure tenderness. Some establishments use a deli slicer to achieve paper-thin slices, while others partially freeze the meat to make it easier to slice by hand.
The Cheese
While the original cheesesteak used provolone, today there are several cheese options commonly available:
- Provolone: A sharp, tangy Italian cheese that complements the beef well.
- American cheese: Mild and melts easily, creating a creamy texture.
- Cheez Whiz: A processed cheese sauce that’s become a popular option, especially among tourists.
The choice of cheese is often a matter of personal preference, and debates over the “best” cheese for a cheesesteak can be as heated as the Pat’s vs. Geno’s rivalry.
Optional Toppings
While purists might argue that a true cheesesteak needs nothing more than meat and cheese, many people enjoy additional toppings. Common options include:
- Fried onions
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Hot or sweet peppers
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
The Art of Preparing a Cheesesteak
Cooking the Meat
The preparation of a cheesesteak is a spectacle in itself. The thinly sliced beef is typically cooked on a large flat-top grill. As the meat cooks, it’s chopped and turned with metal spatulas, creating a sizzling symphony that’s music to any cheesesteak lover’s ears. The goal is to cook the meat quickly, ensuring it remains juicy while developing a slight crust.
Adding the Cheese
The method of adding cheese varies depending on the type used. For sliced cheeses like provolone or American, the cheese is typically laid on top of the meat while it’s still on the grill, allowing it to melt slightly. If using Cheez Whiz, it’s usually applied directly to the roll or drizzled over the meat after it’s been placed in the roll.
The “Wit” or “Witout” Question
When ordering a cheesesteak in Philadelphia, you’ll likely be asked if you want it “wit” or “witout.” This local lingo refers to whether you want fried onions on your sandwich. “Wit” means with onions, while “witout” means without. It’s a small detail, but it’s part of the authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak experience.
Assembling the Sandwich
Once the meat is cooked and the cheese is melted, the final step is to scoop the mixture into the waiting roll. This is often done with a swift, practiced motion that ensures an even distribution of meat and cheese throughout the sandwich. Any additional toppings are added at this point before the sandwich is wrapped and served.
Beyond the Basics: Cheesesteak Variations
While the classic cheesesteak will always have its place, creative chefs and home cooks have come up with numerous variations over the years:
The Chicken Cheesesteak
For those who prefer poultry or are looking for a slightly healthier option, the chicken cheesesteak has become a popular alternative. It follows the same basic preparation method as the beef version but uses thinly sliced chicken breast instead.
The Veggie Cheesesteak
Vegetarian and vegan versions of the cheesesteak have also gained popularity in recent years. These might use plant-based meat substitutes or grilled vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, and onions as the main filling. Vegan cheese alternatives complete the sandwich for those avoiding dairy.
The Hoagie-Steak Hybrid
Some shops offer a combination of a cheesesteak and a hoagie (another famous Philadelphia sandwich). This version might include traditional hoagie toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and Italian dressing along with the steak and cheese.
Gourmet Interpretations
High-end restaurants have also put their spin on the humble cheesesteak, creating upscale versions that might use premium cuts of beef, artisanal cheeses, or unique toppings. While these may stray from tradition, they showcase the versatility of the cheesesteak concept.
The Cultural Impact of the Cheesesteak
A Symbol of Philadelphia
The cheesesteak has become more than just a popular food item; it’s a cultural icon that represents Philadelphia to the world. It’s often featured in movies and TV shows set in the city, and visiting a famous cheesesteak shop has become a must-do for many tourists.
Community and Controversy
The cheesesteak has also been at the center of community discussions and even controversies. The famous “speak English” sign at Geno’s Steaks sparked debates about immigration and cultural identity. On a lighter note, politicians visiting Philadelphia often make highly publicized stops at cheesesteak shops, with their ordering technique scrutinized by locals.
Economic Impact
The popularity of the cheesesteak has had a significant economic impact on Philadelphia. Cheesesteak shops provide jobs and attract tourists, contributing to the local economy. The sandwich has also inspired merchandise, from t-shirts to cookbooks, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Cheesesteak Tourism
Famous Shops
While Pat’s and Geno’s may be the most famous, Philadelphia is home to numerous renowned cheesesteak shops. Other popular spots include:
- Jim’s Steaks
Website: https://jimssouthstreet.com
Address: 400 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 - Tony Luke’s
Website: https://tonylukes.com
Original location address: 39 E. Oregon Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19148 - John’s Roast Pork
Website: https://johnsroastpork.com
Address: 14 East Snyder Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19148 - Dalessandro’s Steaks
Website: https://dalessandros.com
Address: 600 Wendover Street, Philadelphia, PA 19128 - Steve’s Prince of Steaks
Website: https://stevesprinceofsteaks.com
Original location address: 7200 Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19149
These are some of the most popular and highly-rated cheesesteak shops in Philadelphia, each with their own loyal following and unique take on the classic sandwich. Many locals and visitors make it a point to try cheesesteaks from multiple shops to compare and find their personal favorite.
Cheesesteak Tours
The cheesesteak’s popularity has given rise to food tours focused specifically on this iconic sandwich. These tours take participants to several famous cheesesteak shops, allowing them to compare different styles and find their personal favorite.
Festivals and Competitions
Philadelphia hosts several food festivals that feature cheesesteaks prominently. There are also cheesesteak eating competitions, where contestants try to consume as many sandwiches as possible in a set time limit.
Making Cheesesteaks at Home
While nothing quite compares to getting a cheesesteak from a famous Philadelphia shop, many people enjoy making their own versions at home. Here are some tips for recreating this classic sandwich in your own kitchen:
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Meat: Ribeye is traditional, but top round can work well too. Freeze the meat slightly to make it easier to slice thinly.
- Bread: Look for long, crusty rolls. If you can’t find authentic Philadelphia rolls, a crusty French baguette can work as a substitute.
- Cheese: Choose based on your preference. Provolone, American, or even Cheez Whiz can work.
Cooking Tips
- Slice the meat as thinly as possible against the grain.
- Use a large, flat griddle or skillet to cook the meat.
- Cook the meat quickly over high heat, chopping it with spatulas as it cooks.
- If using sliced cheese, place it on top of the meat while it’s still on the griddle to melt slightly.
- Toast the roll lightly for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade cheesesteaks immediately while they’re hot. Wrap them in foil to keep them warm and to make them easier to eat. Don’t forget to provide plenty of napkins!
The Future of the Cheesesteak
As food trends come and go, the Philadelphia cheesesteak has remained a constant favorite. However, like all culinary traditions, it continues to evolve:
Health-Conscious Adaptations
With increasing awareness of health and dietary concerns, we’re likely to see more variations that cater to different dietary needs. This might include leaner meat options, whole grain rolls, or plant-based alternatives.
Fusion Creations
Chefs are always looking for new ways to innovate, and the cheesesteak provides a great base for fusion creations. We might see more international flavors incorporated into cheesesteak-inspired dishes in the future.
Artisanal Ingredients
As the farm-to-table movement continues to grow, we may see more cheesesteak shops sourcing high-quality, local ingredients. This could lead to seasonal variations and unique regional interpretations of the classic sandwich.
Conclusion
The Philadelphia cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings in Depression-era Philadelphia to its current status as a national culinary icon, the cheesesteak has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers around the world.
Whether you prefer yours “wit” or “witout,” with provolone or Whiz, from Pat’s or Geno’s (or any of the other excellent shops in Philadelphia), there’s no denying the simple pleasure of biting into a well-made cheesesteak. It’s a taste of Philadelphia history, a satisfying meal, and a cultural experience all rolled into one. So the next time you find yourself in the City of Brotherly Love, be sure to indulge in this iconic sandwich.
And if you can’t make it to Philadelphia, why not try your hand at making one at home? With the right ingredients and a little practice, you can bring a taste of Philly to your own kitchen. Just remember, no matter how you slice it (or chop it), the Philadelphia cheesesteak will always be a true American classic.
