Philly's Iconic Cheesesteak: Pat's vs. Geno's in America
5 min read
21 Jul 2024
Philadelphia, famously known as the City of Brotherly Love, holds another claim to fame: the battle of the cheesesteaks. When it comes to iconic American sandwiches, none stand taller than the Philly cheesesteak. At the forefront of this culinary rivalry for decades are Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks. Both proudly assert their status as the purveyors of the best cheesesteak in town, and the competition between them has become as legendary as the sandwich itself.
1. Pat's King of Steaks: The saga of the Philly cheesesteak began in the 1930s when Pat Olivieri, the founder of Pat's King of Steaks, made a culinary discovery that would change the food scene forever. Experimenting at his hot dog stand, Pat decided to place some beef slices on a roll. The result was nothing short of extraordinary, giving birth to the Philly cheesesteak. Today, Pat's is a cherished Philly institution. Their cheesesteak remains true to its roots, featuring thinly sliced ribeye steak, cooked to perfection on a flat-top grill, and adorned with your choice of Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese. The whole ensemble is lovingly embraced by an Italian roll, a symbol of simplicity and charm.
2. Geno's Steaks: A stone's throw away from Pat's, you'll find Geno's Steaks, an equally formidable contender in the cheesesteak showdown. Founded by Joey Vento in 1966, Geno's is known for its bold flavors and larger-than-life personality. Geno's cheesesteak is reminiscent of Pat's in many ways, featuring thinly sliced, tender ribeye steak. What sets Geno's apart is the sheer audacity of its flavors and the option to add extra toppings like peppers, mushrooms, or onions to your sandwich. Their commitment to boldness is evident in every bite.
3. The Rivalry: The rivalry between Pat's and Geno's is not just a battle of flavors but also a friendly neighborhood feud. What adds spice to this rivalry is the fact that both establishments are open 24/7, ensuring that you can satiate your cheesesteak cravings at any hour. Conveniently situated across the street from each other, it's the classic 'East vs. West' Philly battle that has persisted for decades. While locals have their loyalties firmly in place, tourists often find themselves caught in the midst of this delectable cheesesteak showdown.
4. The Ordering Process: For newcomers to Pat's and Geno's, it's important to understand the intricacies of ordering. At Pat's, you begin by stating your choice of cheese ('Whiz wit' or 'Provolone wit'), followed by specifying whether you desire onions. Geno's, however, prefers you to place your cheese order first and then proceed to add any extras. Navigating this ordering system with finesse can elevate your cheesesteak experience to a new level of satisfaction.
5. The Atmosphere: Beyond the cheesesteaks themselves, Pat's and Geno's offer unique dining atmospheres. Pat's exudes a slightly retro and nostalgic charm with its iconic neon signs and classic diner vibes. Geno's, in contrast, is known for its vibrant, colorful exterior and a more contemporary dining ambiance. Both establishments attract a diverse crowd, blending locals and tourists, making them ideal spots for some captivating people-watching.
6. The Verdict: The age-old question remains: Who truly crafts the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia, Pat's or Geno's? As you might expect, the answer varies depending on personal preference. Some swear by Pat's for its unwavering simplicity and commitment to authenticity. Others are drawn to Geno's for its fearless approach to flavors and the opportunity to customize their sandwich with a range of delectable extras. The only way to definitively settle this friendly debate is to sample both establishments and form your own verdict. After all, the Philly cheesesteak experience is about more than just the destination; it's about the journey, the flavors, and the unforgettable culinary adventure.
In conclusion, when you find yourself in the City of Brotherly Love, indulging in a cheesesteak is practically a rite of passage. Whether you opt for 'Whiz wit' at Pat's or choose to enhance your experience with mushrooms or peppers at Geno's, you're guaranteed to savor a delicious slice of Philly's culinary heritage. The friendly rivalry between Pat's and Geno's only enhances the allure of this iconic American sandwich, ensuring that the Philly cheesesteak retains its rightful place in the hearts and stomachs of Philadelphians and food enthusiasts from around the world.
