Philly Cheesesteak

Philly Cheesesteak is one of Americas most classic sandwiches, originating from the city of Philadelphia. Its key ingredients are thinly sliced beef steak grilled or sautéed with onions, then topped with melted cheese. The mixture is served in a long Italian-style hoagie roll, creating a hearty and flavorful meal that has become one of the most popular fast-food items in the United States.

The Origins of Philly Cheesesteak

The story of the Philly Cheesesteak dates back to 1930, when brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri, Italian-American hot dog vendors in South Philadelphia, decided to try something new.

One day in the early 1930s, Pat grew tired of eating hot dogs for lunch. He decided to experiment by cooking thinly sliced beef with onions on the grill and placing the mixture inside an Italian roll.

Before Pat could even taste his new creation, a passing taxi driver caught the irresistible aroma from the grill, stopped his car, and offered to buy the sandwich for five cents.

After taking the first bite, the driver exclaimed, This sandwich is so much better than a hot dog! a simple statement that became the spark behind one of the most famous sandwiches in the world.

From Street Food to a Philadelphia Legend

Inspired by the taxi drivers reaction, the Olivieri brothers added the sandwich to their menu. Although it wasnt an immediate staple, it quickly gained popularity. In 1940, they opened a restaurant called Pats King of Steaks at the intersection of Ninth Street and Passyunk Avenue. The shop became the birthplace of the world-famous Philly Cheesesteak and remains in operation today.

Interestingly, the original version of the Philly Cheesesteak did not contain cheese. According to Herb Olivieri, Pats son, cheese was first added in March 1951 by Cocky Joe Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue branch. He introduced melted American cheese to the sandwich, which turned out to be a perfect complement.

The addition of cheese enhanced the sandwichs richness the creamy melted cheese seeping into the tender beef and warm bread created a balanced, indulgent flavor. From that point, the dish became known simply as the Cheesesteak, and its fame spread rapidly.

The Rise of a Culinary Rivalry

By the mid-1960s, the Philly Cheesesteak had become a beloved staple across the city. Numerous restaurants began serving their own versions, including Dalessandros Steaks in North Philly, Jims Steaks in West Philly, and Campos in Old City. Each establishment offered its unique twist from the choice of cheese and bread to the way the meat was seasoned.

In 1966, Joey Vento founded Genos Steaks, located directly across the street from Pats King of Steaks. Both shops were open 24 hours a day, fueling a friendly but intense rivalry that continues to this day.

This competition became legendary each restaurant installed bright neon signs to attract customers, earning the area the nickname Cheesesteak Vegas. Both claimed to serve the original and best Philly Cheesesteak, and their playful banter became part of local lore.

Philadelphians often take sides youre either on Team Pats or Team Genos. For visitors, trying both and comparing the flavors is considered a quintessential Philadelphia experience.

A Unique Ordering Culture

Ordering a Philly Cheesesteak in Philadelphia has its own language. Locals use shorthand like:

One whiz with a cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and grilled onions.

One provolone without a cheesesteak with provolone cheese but no onions.

Knowing the lingo isnt just helpful its part of the fun and authenticity of enjoying a true Philly experience.

The Role of the Perfect Roll

While the beef and cheese are the stars, the bread is equally vital. The sandwich traditionally uses a Hoagie Roll an Italian-style roll with a slightly crisp crust and soft interior. Its length and texture perfectly hold the fillings, keeping the melted cheese, onions, and beef together without falling apart or becoming soggy.

A Global Phenomenon

Today, the Philly Cheesesteak has earned global recognition. It is served in restaurants across major cities in the U.S. and around the world, particularly in American-style diners and sandwich shops. Many chefs continue to experiment, adding creative twists to cater to modern tastes from different cheeses and sauces to vegetarian alternatives while preserving the sandwichs authentic roots.

For those inspired to make their own Philly Cheesesteak at home, you can find premium ingredients at Rimping Supermarket, available at all branches.

You can find all ingredients for this dish at Rimping Supermarket.