Foodie Friday: Philadelphia Cheesesteak

When you think of must-try foods in Philadelphia, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Probably the cheesesteak, right? I can’t really visit Philadelphia without having a cheesesteak–in fact, I was a vegetarian for five years at one point and “broke veg” by eating a cheesesteak there. In any case, it’s almost a rite of passage.

This greasy, messy, delicious invention can be found in spots all over the City of Brotherly Love, but enthusiasts will likely tell you to choose between one of three places: Pat’s, Geno’s, or Jim’s. Personally, I don’t really care–a cheesesteak is a cheesesteak. All I ask is that it’s made with American cheese, not whiz.

There are several varieties of cheesesteaks–beef, chicken, and veggie. The traditional sandwich is beef with cheese (your choice of American, cheddar, or whiz) and onions on a hoagie roll. These days, other toppings, such as peppers, pizza sauce, mushrooms, etc. are popping up at various places, but if it’s your first time trying one, I’d go with the traditional for the most authentic experience.