22 Pennsylvania Cheesesteaks, One Clear Champion

Pennsylvania cheesesteaks are a simple joy. Soft bread, sizzling beef, and melted cheese create instant comfort.

While Philadelphia still sets the pace, other towns have learned the craft and added their own flair. Some lean classic with provolone and onions, others experiment with sauces and peppers. Wherever you land, each bite is a reminder of why this sandwich remains king.

Here are 22 shops that deliver, with one name rising above them all.

1. John’s Roast Pork

This South Philly institution may be known for pork, but its cheesesteak dominates conversation. The bread comes seeded, crusty, and warm. Beef cooks to tenderness, layered with cheese that melts into every crevice. Onions balance the richness, creating harmony bite after bite.

Regulars often argue it’s the best in the city. After one sandwich, you’ll understand why their loyalty runs deep.

2. Angelo’s Pizzeria South Philly

Angelo’s builds its reputation on bread. Rolls bake daily in-house, ensuring unmatched freshness and chew. Meat arrives juicy, layered generously with bubbling provolone or whiz. Onions and peppers round out the flavor.

Every sandwich feels built with care rather than speed. That attention sets Angelo’s apart in a crowded cheesesteak world.

3. Dalessandro’s Steaks

In Roxborough, Dalessandro’s piles meat high. Chopped beef sizzles with onions on a hot griddle, filling the air with aroma. The roll cradles it all without collapse. Cheese melts fully, binding the steak together.

Lines often wrap around the block. Patience pays off with one of Philly’s most balanced cheesesteaks.

4. Chubby’s Steaks

Across from Dalessandro’s, Chubby’s offers friendly rivalry. Their cheesesteaks feature sliced rather than chopped beef, creating a heartier texture. American, provolone, or whiz complete the options. Long rolls soak up the juices.

Fans claim the steak’s richness shines brightest here. Chubby’s proves there’s more than one path to cheesesteak glory.

18. Steve’s Prince Of Steaks

Steve’s favors large, thin-sliced beef cooked quickly. The sandwich arrives long and lean, almost regal in appearance. Cheese spreads evenly throughout. Fried onions add sweetness without overpowering.

Their “prince” title feels earned. It’s a lighter style but still deeply satisfying.

6. Jim’s South St.

Jim’s black-and-chrome storefront glows on South Street. Inside, sizzling steak perfumes the air. Rolls arrive soft yet sturdy, filled to the brim. Cheese blends smoothly, binding the steak and onions.

The vibe matches the sandwich: lively, bold, and unpretentious. Jim’s remains a favorite for visitors and locals alike.

7. Ishkabibble’s

This South Street spot has been slinging cheesesteaks since the 1970s. Their rolls stay warm, meat chopped fine, cheese gooey and rich. Toppings can include mushrooms or peppers for variety. Pair it with their famous Gremlin drink.

The playful name matches the fun spirit. Ishkabibble’s keeps cheesesteaks approachable and delicious.

8. Tony And Nick’s Steaks

Originally Tony Luke’s, this shop continues its legacy under new branding. Thick rolls hold hefty portions of ribeye. Cheese flows generously, onions sweeten the mix. The result feels hearty yet balanced.

Known for consistency, they remain a top contender. Locals still whisper Tony Luke’s, but the flavor speaks for itself.

9. Pat’s King Of Steaks

Pat’s claims to have invented the cheesesteak in 1930. Their sandwich keeps it simple: thin beef, grilled onions, and whiz. The roll is soft but strong enough to hold.

Tourists flock here, but regulars still swear by it. Pat’s is history you can eat.

10. Geno’s Steaks

Across from Pat’s, Geno’s glows with neon. Their steaks use sliced ribeye, cooked tender. Cheese options range from whiz to provolone. Rolls hold up well, staying crisp.

The rivalry fuels debate, but Geno’s loyalists won’t budge. It’s tradition wrapped in bread and cheese.

11. Sonny’s Famous Steaks

In Old City, Sonny’s offers a cleaner style. Their beef chops fine, absorbing flavor. Cheese melts evenly, onions integrate fully. The result is smooth, balanced, and deeply satisfying.

Sonny’s appeals to those who prefer precision over flash. It’s cheesesteak craft at its finest.

12. Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop

Woodrow’s takes a modern twist. Their truffle whiz adds unexpected depth. Rolls stay fresh, beef juicy and tender. Onions caramelize, offering sweetness against the savory cheese.

This is not tradition, but innovation. Woodrow’s shows cheesesteaks can evolve without losing heart.

13. Philip’s Steaks

Located on West Passyunk, Philip’s operates from a classic walk-up window. Beef cooks fresh to order. Cheese drapes the sandwich perfectly. Rolls stay soft and pliable.

Philip’s feels timeless. The no-frills approach highlights steak, bread, and cheese in perfect sync.

14. Campo’s

Family-run since 1947, Campo’s sits near Independence Mall. Their cheesesteaks feel classic but carefully crafted. Provolone, onions, and ribeye dominate the flavor. Rolls stay chewy and resilient.

Tourists visit for location, but locals return for taste. Campo’s bridges history and flavor effortlessly.

15. Max’s Steaks

In North Philly, Max’s serves towering cheesesteaks. Rolls stretch over two feet. Meat and cheese pour out with every bite. Onions caramelize richly, adding sweetness.

The sandwich is overwhelming but unforgettable. Eating here is both meal and event.

16. Cosmi’s Deli

Cosmi’s may look like a corner deli, but its cheesesteaks rival the giants. Rolls arrive seeded and crisp. Steak comes finely chopped, cheese melted smooth. Toppings feel optional but elevate.

The unassuming setting hides brilliance. Cosmi’s proves greatness doesn’t require neon lights.

17. Gooey Looie’s

True to its name, Gooey Looie’s loads sandwiches until they burst. Cheese drips into every layer. Rolls barely contain the filling. Steak feels rich and indulgent.

It’s messy, but worth every napkin. Gooey Looie’s delivers excess with pride.

18. Delco Steaks

Based in Delaware County, this newer shop has built a cult following. Their rolls come from Liscio’s Bakery. Beef quality stands out, tender and flavorful. Cheese choices include sharp provolone for boldness.

They represent the next generation of cheesesteak makers. Delco blends tradition with youthful energy.

10. Mama’s Pizzeria

Mama’s in Bala Cynwyd is known for hefty sandwiches. Their cheesesteaks feel almost like casseroles on rolls. Cheese stretches dramatically with each bite. Steak cooks juicy and plentiful.

Mama’s might overwhelm some, but loyal fans crave the abundance. It’s cheesesteak comfort on a grand scale.

20. Cleavers

In Center City, Cleavers adds polish to the classic. Their menu includes gourmet takes with unique toppings. Rolls stay fresh, meat seared perfectly. Cheese melts into every bite.

The result feels elevated but not pretentious. Cleavers attracts both purists and adventurers.

21. By George! Pizza, Pasta & Cheesesteaks

Inside Reading Terminal Market, By George! feeds hungry crowds daily. Cheesesteaks here come fast, hot, and reliable. Rolls remain soft, fillings generous. Beef cooks quickly but retains flavor.

The bustle of the market adds charm. Eating here feels like part of Philly’s heartbeat.

22. Shank’s Original

This waterfront shop dates back decades. Cheesesteaks remain central, with juicy beef and melty cheese. Rolls hug the filling tightly. Onions add sweetness and depth.

Shank’s embodies tradition with a scenic twist. Few places marry history and waterfront views so well.