Visiting Philadelphia without eating a cheesesteak is like skipping the Liberty Bell—it’s just not done.
Whether you prefer ribeye sliced thin or chopped fine, with Whiz or provolone, everyone’s got an opinion about what makes the perfect one.
And in Philly, those opinions run deep.
The cheesesteak was born in the 1930s at a hot dog stand on 9th and Passyunk, where Pat Olivieri threw some beef on the grill, tossed it with onions, and changed the sandwich game forever.
Today, it’s a Philly icon, as much a part of the city’s culture as Rocky and Independence Hall.
So, here’s a look at the spots serving the best in town, each with its own take on the city’s most famous sandwich.
1. John’s Roast Pork
When South Philly locals tell you to check out the sandwich shop “near Ikea,” they’re probably pointing you toward John’s Roast Pork—arguably the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia.
Open since 1930, this iconic spot has been perfecting its craft for decades, earning a James Beard Foundation nod as an “American Classic” along the way.
The “Ultimate” cheesesteak at John’s is the kind of sandwich that sets the bar.
Twelve ounces of juicy, seasoned steak are layered with your choice of melty American or provolone cheese, all stuffed into a seeded roll from Carangi Baking Company.
The roll is a game-changer—it’s sturdy enough to hold the steak and cheese while soaking up every drop of flavor. And if you want to amp it up, toss on some fried long hots for a spicy kick.
While the cheesesteak steals the spotlight, John’s roast pork sandwich deserves its shoutout.
With tender pork, sharp provolone, and garlicky broccoli rabe, it’s a sandwich you have to give a go.
Just remember, John’s closes at 5 p.m., it’s cash-only, and the line is worth every second.
Where: John’s Roast Pork, 14 E Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA
2. Rocco’s Italian Sausages & Philly Cheese Steaks
There’s something undeniably Philly about grabbing a cheesesteak in a Home Depot parking lot, and Rocco’s Italian Sausages & Philly Cheese Steaks makes it worth the stop.
Known for serving up one of the best Philly cheesesteaks in Philly, this street food spot has built a loyal following with hearty sandwiches that deliver big on flavor.
Rocco Guardino, who started as a food vendor in New York, brought his operation to Philadelphia in 2006, and it’s been a hit ever since.
His cheesesteaks are packed with thick, juicy chunks of steak, melted American cheese, and caramelized onions—all stuffed into a soft roll that holds up perfectly under the weight of it all.
For the indecisive, the Rocco’s Special is a must-try.
This mash-up combines their signature cheesesteak with sweet or spicy Italian sausage for a sandwich that pulls no punches.
The certain charm of enjoying one of these foot-long beauties leaning against your car is pure Philly, and it’s as satisfying as it sounds.
Where: Rocco’s Italian Sausage & Cheese Steaks, 1491 S Delaware Ave, Philadelphia, PA
3. Café Carmela
Café Carmela might not have set out to be a cheesesteak destination, but sometimes greatness happens by accident.
This Northeast Philly spot, opened in 2020 by Anna Marie and Joe Maglio, has quickly earned its place in the conversation about the best cheesesteak in Philly.
The show’s star is Don Cheech’s Steak, a tribute to Joe’s father.
This sandwich is stacked with 12 ounces of thick, house-sliced ribeye, plenty of Cooper Sharp cheese, and perfectly fried onions, all tucked into a seeded roll from Carangi Bakery.
After gaining a loyal following, Café Carmela opened a second location in Huntingdon Valley in 2023, spreading their cheesesteak magic even further.
It’s proof that even a pandemic pivot can lead to something extraordinary—and Café Carmela’s cheesesteak is nothing short of that.
Where: Café Carmela, 2859 Holme Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
4. Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks
If you’re exploring Old City, Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks is exactly the spot you’d hope to stumble across.
Open since 1947, this family-run corner shop, just a short walk from the Liberty Bell, has been serving up cheesesteaks for generations.
It’s a place where the smell of sizzling ribeye hits you before you even spot the colorful awning—and it’s easy to see why some call it the best Philly cheesesteak.
Campo’s keeps it simple but doesn’t skimp on quality.
Their cheesesteaks are loaded with tender ribeye sliced against the grain and tucked into a perfectly soft roll from Liscio’s.
And those with dietary preferences have options covered—vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, you name it.
Grab a local Yards brew to wash it down, and you’re set.
And if you’re heading to a game, Campo’s cheesesteaks are ready for you at Citizens Bank Park and Wells Fargo Center, so you can enjoy a Philly classic without leaving the action.
Where: Campo’s Philly Cheesesteaks, 214 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA
5. Saad’s Halal
Saad’s Halal stands out for taking a refreshingly unique approach in a city filled with cheesesteak options.
Found on a corner of West Philly, this unassuming spot has been a go-to since 1997, offering a menu packed with Lebanese flavors and, yes, one of the best cheesesteaks Philadelphia has to offer.
Saad Alrayes started with a food cart in the 1980s, driven by a mission to bring halal options to Philly’s growing Muslim community.
Fast forward, and Saad’s is now a neighborhood institution that balances tradition with Philly flair.
The cheesesteak here is everything you want: juicy slices of seasoned halal beef and perfectly caramelized onions.
Want to get creative? Load it up with mushrooms, peppers, pickles, or go all-in on extra cheese.
But for something completely different, their chicken and fish versions offer a fresh spin on the Philly staple.
What makes Saad’s special isn’t only the food—it’s the care behind it.
Every sandwich is made with intention, from the caramelized onions to the fresh roll toasted just right.
Just remember that they close for Islamic prayer times and during Ramadan, so plan ahead—it’s worth it.
Where: Saad’s Halal, 4500 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA
6. Café y Chocolate
Café y Chocolate doesn’t try to be like the other cheesesteak spots in South Philly—it’s doing its own thing and doing it well.
Run by Maricela Tellez and Arturo Lorenzo, this café has been serving up bold Mexican-inspired dishes since 2011.
But it’s their cheesesteak a la Mexicana that’s got people talking and earning a spot in the conversation for the best cheesesteak Philadelphia offers.
This isn’t your standard cheesesteak—it’s better.
The foundation is a buttery, toasted Portuguese roll slathered with smoky chipotle mustard.
From there, it’s loaded with thin strips of steak sautéed with serrano peppers and onions, then topped with a gooey mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
And just when you think it can’t get better, they crown it with fresh pico de gallo, which adds a pop of heat and brightness.
While the cheesesteak steals the spotlight, Café y Chocolate is the kind of place you’ll want to linger.
Between the spiced Mexican hot chocolate and brunch plates inspired by Tellez’s roots in Puebla, it’s a spot that feels warm, welcoming, and a little addictive.
Where: Café y Chocolate, 1532 Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA
7. Max’s Steaks
Max’s Steaks has been holding it down in North Philly for decades.
This neon-lit spot in Nicetown is known for its no-frills attitude, legendary cheesesteaks, and, yes, a little bit of Hollywood fame.
Whether it’s Michael B. Jordan learning the meaning of “jawn” in Creed or a cameo in This Is Us, Max’s has become as iconic as the cheesesteaks it serves—easily earning its place among the top cheesesteaks in Philly.
The Giant is exactly what it sounds like—a massive sandwich stacked with 100% sirloin instead of the usual ribeye.
And if you want to take things up a notch, the attached bar serves up daiquiris that locals swear by.
From the sizzling grill to the conversations at the bar, Max’s feels like Philly through and through.
Where: Max’s Steaks, 3653 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
8. Dalessandro’s
Dalessandro’s in Roxborough has been perfecting its cheesesteaks since 1960, and it shows.
This spot has grown from a neighborhood hangout to a destination for anyone looking for Philly’s best cheesesteak, and it’s all about attention to detail.
The steak here is finely diced—smaller than what you’ll find at most spots—seasoned just right and held together with melted cheese that ties everything together. I
The texture, flavor, and balance are spot-on, to the point where they create a cheesesteak that feels classic and unique.
But what really sets Dalessandro’s apart is the toppings.
Sure, mushrooms and onions are great, but their variety of peppers steals the show.
Roasted green peppers, crushed hot peppers, and sweet banana peppers take the sandwich to the next level—and they’re all included, so go wild.
Lines are a given here, but the team has the process down to a science.
You’ll be sinking your teeth into one of Philly’s best cheesesteaks before you even have time to second-guess the wait.
Where: Dalessandro’s, 600 Wendover St, Philadelphia, PA
Why These Philly Cheesesteaks Stand Out
Philly’s cheesesteak scene is as competitive as its sports fans, and these spots are the real MVPs.
John’s Roast Pork is where locals swear by the seeded rolls and perfectly cooked steak.
Rocco’s has the charm of grabbing a cheesesteak in a parking lot.
Café y Chocolate’s spicy twist proves there’s still room for creativity in a city full of purists, and Dalessandro’s? Let’s just say their finely chopped steak and endless topping options never disappoint.
These are the places you’re bound to hear about—and for good reason.
Oh, and we thought you might want to check out the best Italian restaurants in Philadelphia. It’s packed full of hidden gems you’ll wish you tried sooner.
