Philadelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Among the city’s many culinary delights, one dish stands out as a quintessential Philly favorite: the cheesesteak. Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a crusty roll come together in perfect harmony, satisfying the cravings of locals and visitors alike. At the heart of this gastronomic phenomenon lies a legendary rivalry between two iconic establishments: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, traditions, and secrets behind these two famous cheesesteak places in Philadelphia.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak date back to the 1930s, when a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll. According to legend, a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s humble hot dog stand eventually evolved into Pat’s King of Steaks, a beloved institution that has been serving cheesesteaks since 1930.
The Rise of Geno’s Steaks
In the 1960s, a rival cheesesteak joint emerged across the street from Pat’s. Joey Vento, a former employee of Pat’s, opened Geno’s Steaks in 1966, with the goal of creating a cheesesteak that would surpass his former employer’s. Vento’s bold move sparked a rivalry that would become a defining feature of Philadelphia’s culinary landscape.
The Cheesesteak Showdown: Pat’s vs. Geno’s
So, what sets these two iconic establishments apart? The answer lies in their unique approaches to the classic cheesesteak recipe.
PAT’S KING OF STEAKS
Pat’s has remained committed to its original recipe, using thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and a crusty Amoroso roll. The steak is cooked on a sizzling grill, and the cheese is melted to perfection. Pat’s is known for its traditional cheesesteak, which features Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that has become an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
Pat’s Signature Moves
- Whiz Wit: Pat’s signature order, which features Cheez Whiz and onions.
- Steak Fries: Thick-cut fries cooked to a crispy perfection, often served alongside the cheesesteak.
GENO’S STEAKS
Geno’s, on the other hand, has taken a more modern approach to the cheesesteak. The steak is sliced thinner than Pat’s, and the cheese is melted using a proprietary blend of natural cheeses. Geno’s also offers a wider variety of toppings, including sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
Geno’s Signature Moves
- Steak with Provolone: Geno’s signature order, which features thinly sliced steak and melted provolone cheese.
- Free Toppings Bar: Geno’s offers a toppings bar with a variety of condiments and toppings, allowing customers to customize their cheesesteak experience.
The Verdict: Which Cheesesteak Reigns Supreme?
Ultimately, the decision between Pat’s and Geno’s comes down to personal preference. If you’re a traditionalist who appreciates the classic Philly cheesesteak experience, Pat’s is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more modern take on the dish, with a wider variety of toppings and a proprietary cheese blend, Geno’s is the better choice.
Insider Tips and Tricks
- Order like a Local: When ordering at Pat’s or Geno’s, use the local lingo. For example, “Whiz Wit” at Pat’s means “with Cheez Whiz and onions.”
- Be Prepared for a Crowd: Both Pat’s and Geno’s are popular tourist destinations, so be prepared for long lines and crowded seating areas.
- Try the Competition
While Pat’s and Geno’s are the most famous cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia, there are many other excellent establishments throughout the city. Some notable mentions include:
- Jim’s Steaks: A South Street institution that has been serving cheesesteaks since 1939.
- Steve’s Prince of Steaks: A family-owned cheesesteak joint with multiple locations throughout the city.
Conclusion
The rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks is a defining feature of Philadelphia’s culinary landscape. Whether you’re a traditionalist who appreciates the classic Philly cheesesteak experience or a modernist who prefers a more innovative approach, both establishments offer an unforgettable dining experience. So, the next time you find yourself in Philadelphia, be sure to stop by Pat’s and Geno’s to taste the legendary cheesesteaks for yourself.
| Establishment | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Pat’s King of Steaks | 900 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147 | (215) 468-1546 |
| Geno’s Steaks | 1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 | (215) 389-0659 |
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Philly cheesesteak connoisseur. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the legendary rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s is an experience you won’t want to miss.
What is the origin of the Philly cheesesteak rivalry?
The Philly cheesesteak rivalry is a long-standing competition between two iconic restaurants in Philadelphia: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. The rivalry is said to have begun in the 1960s, when Geno’s Steaks was opened by Joey Vento, a former employee of Pat’s King of Steaks. Vento’s decision to open a competing restaurant across the street from Pat’s sparked a heated rivalry that has continued to this day.
The rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s is fueled by their competing claims to be the originators of the Philly cheesesteak. Pat’s King of Steaks was founded in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, who is often credited with inventing the Philly cheesesteak. However, Geno’s Steaks claims that Joey Vento was the one who actually came up with the idea of adding cheese to the steak sandwich. Regardless of who actually invented the Philly cheesesteak, the rivalry between Pat’s and Geno’s has become an integral part of Philadelphia’s culinary culture.
What is the difference between Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteaks?
One of the main differences between Pat’s and Geno’s cheesesteaks is the type of cheese used. Pat’s King of Steaks uses a blend of Cheez Whiz and provolone cheese, while Geno’s Steaks uses a blend of provolone and mozzarella cheese. Additionally, Pat’s cheesesteaks are typically made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, while Geno’s uses a thicker cut of steak.
Another difference between the two restaurants is the atmosphere. Pat’s King of Steaks has a more old-school, no-frills atmosphere, with a counter where customers can order and pick up their cheesesteaks. Geno’s Steaks, on the other hand, has a more modern and flashy atmosphere, with neon lights and a large outdoor seating area. Despite these differences, both restaurants are known for serving high-quality cheesesteaks that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Which restaurant is considered the “original” Philly cheesesteak joint?
Pat’s King of Steaks is widely considered to be the “original” Philly cheesesteak joint. Founded in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, Pat’s has been serving cheesesteaks for over 90 years. The restaurant has been family-owned and operated for three generations, and it is still located at its original location on the corner of 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia.
Pat’s King of Steaks has been recognized by numerous food critics and organizations as the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak. The restaurant has also been featured on numerous food and travel shows, including “Man v. Food” and “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” While Geno’s Steaks may dispute Pat’s claim to be the original, there is no denying that Pat’s has a rich history and a loyal following among cheesesteak enthusiasts.
How do I order a cheesesteak at Pat’s or Geno’s?
Ordering a cheesesteak at Pat’s or Geno’s can be a bit intimidating for first-time visitors. At both restaurants, customers are expected to order quickly and efficiently, using a specific lingo that is unique to the Philly cheesesteak culture. To order a cheesesteak at Pat’s or Geno’s, start by saying “Whiz wit” or “Provolone without.” This will indicate whether you want your cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions (whiz wit) or without (provolone without).
If you want to customize your cheesesteak, you can add additional toppings such as hot peppers, mushrooms, or ketchup. However, be warned that ordering a cheesesteak with ketchup is considered a faux pas by some Philly cheesesteak purists. At Pat’s, you can also order a “pizza steak,” which is a cheesesteak with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Regardless of how you order your cheesesteak, be sure to have your money ready and be prepared to move quickly to the pick-up counter.
Can I get a cheesesteak at Pat’s or Geno’s if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, both Pat’s and Geno’s offer options for customers with dietary restrictions. At Pat’s, you can order a cheesesteak without cheese or with a gluten-free roll. Geno’s also offers a gluten-free roll option, as well as a vegetarian cheesesteak made with grilled portobello mushrooms.
However, it’s worth noting that both Pat’s and Geno’s are traditional Philly cheesesteak joints, and their menus may not be as accommodating to customers with severe dietary restrictions. If you have a severe food allergy or intolerance, it’s best to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm that they can accommodate your needs. Additionally, be aware that both restaurants are cash-only, so be sure to have cash on hand.
Are there other good cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia?
Yes, there are many other excellent cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia beyond Pat’s and Geno’s. Some popular alternatives include Jim’s Steaks, Steve’s Prince of Steaks, and Dalessandro’s Steaks. Each of these restaurants has its own unique take on the classic Philly cheesesteak, and they are all worth trying if you’re looking for a delicious and authentic cheesesteak experience.
One of the benefits of trying other cheesesteak joints is that you may be able to avoid the long lines and crowds that are often found at Pat’s and Geno’s. Additionally, you may be able to find more unique and creative cheesesteak options, such as buffalo chicken cheesesteaks or vegan cheesesteaks. Regardless of where you go, be sure to come hungry and be prepared for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Can I get a cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia?
Yes, it is possible to get a cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia. Many restaurants across the United States and around the world offer their own versions of the Philly cheesesteak. However, be aware that these cheesesteaks may not be entirely authentic, and they may not capture the same spirit and flavor as a traditional Philly cheesesteak.
If you’re looking for a authentic Philly cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia, consider trying a restaurant that is owned and operated by a Philadelphia native or a restaurant that uses high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. You can also try making your own cheesesteaks at home using a recipe from a reputable source. Regardless of where you get your cheesesteak, be sure to enjoy it with a side of fries or a soft pretzel for a truly authentic experience.