The Philadelphia cheesesteak, a culinary icon that has gained international recognition, is a staple of the city’s culture and identity. The question of what was the first cheesesteak place in Philly has sparked debates and discussions among locals and food enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Philly cheesesteak, explore its origins, and identify the establishment that is widely recognized as the first cheesesteak place in Philly.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has a rich and fascinating history that spans over eight decades. The dish is believed to have originated in the 1930s, when South Philadelphia was a thriving hub of Italian and Irish immigrants. The story goes that a hot dog vendor, Pat Olivieri, began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers. The addition of melted cheese, specifically Cheez Whiz, was introduced later, allegedly by a customer who asked Olivieri to add some cheese to his steak sandwich.
The Evolution of the Cheesesteak
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has undergone significant transformations, with various establishments putting their own spin on the classic dish. The cheesesteak gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, with restaurants and eateries throughout the city serving their own versions of the sandwich. Today, the Philly cheesesteak is a beloved culinary icon, with over 300 cheesesteak joints in the Philadelphia area alone.
Key Ingredients and Preparation Methods
The traditional Philly cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll. The cheese, typically Cheez Whiz or provolone, is melted to perfection, adding a creamy and rich texture to the sandwich. The preparation methods may vary, but the essence of the dish remains the same – a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Pat’s King of Steaks: The Alleged First Cheesesteak Place in Philly
Pat’s King of Steaks, located at the intersection of 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue in South Philadelphia, is widely recognized as the first cheesesteak place in Philly. Established in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, the restaurant has been serving cheesesteaks for over 90 years. Pat’s King of Steaks has become a cultural institution, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to taste the authentic Philly cheesesteak.
A Rival Claim: Geno’s Steaks
Geno’s Steaks, located directly across the street from Pat’s King of Steaks, also claims to be the original cheesesteak place in Philly. Founded in 1966 by Joey Vento, Geno’s has been a long-time rival to Pat’s, with both establishments vying for the title of the best cheesesteak in the city. While Geno’s is a relatively newer establishment, it has gained a loyal following and is often mentioned alongside Pat’s as one of the top cheesesteak places in Philly.
Comparison of Pat’s and Geno’s
Both Pat’s and Geno’s offer an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, with high-quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. However, the two establishments have distinct differences in terms of atmosphere and service. Pat’s is often described as a no-frills, old-school eatery, while Geno’s is seen as a more modern and tourist-friendly establishment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there may be debates and discussions about the first cheesesteak place in Philly, Pat’s King of Steaks is widely recognized as the original establishment that started the cheesesteak phenomenon. With its rich history, traditional preparation methods, and high-quality ingredients, Pat’s remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the authentic Philly cheesesteak. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Philly cheesesteak is an culinary icon that is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
- Pat’s King of Steaks: 900 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
- Geno’s Steaks: 1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Note: The information provided in this article is based on historical records and may be subject to interpretation. The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved culinary icon, and its origins may be shrouded in mystery and debate. However, one thing is certain – the Philly cheesesteak is a delicious and unforgettable culinary experience that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
What is the origin of the Philly cheesesteak?
The origin of the Philly cheesesteak is a topic of much debate, with several establishments claiming to be the birthplace of this iconic dish. However, the most widely accepted story is that the Philly cheesesteak was invented by a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in the 1930s. According to legend, Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers, who would often ask for the steak to be topped with cheese.
As the story goes, a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to his steak sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually grew into a full-fledged restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, which is still operating today and is widely considered to be the original home of the Philly cheesesteak. Over time, the dish gained popularity and spread throughout the city, with other restaurants and eateries developing their own unique variations on the classic recipe. Today, the Philly cheesesteak is a beloved staple of Philadelphia cuisine, and its origin story remains an important part of the city’s culinary history.
Who is credited with popularizing the Philly cheesesteak?
Pat Olivieri is often credited with inventing the Philly cheesesteak, but it was his business partner, Harry Olivieri, who is credited with popularizing the dish. Harry Olivieri took over the restaurant after Pat’s retirement and began to aggressively market the Philly cheesesteak to a wider audience. He introduced the now-famous “Whiz wit” ordering system, which allows customers to customize their cheesesteaks with cheese and onions.
Under Harry Olivieri’s leadership, Pat’s King of Steaks became a beloved institution in Philadelphia, attracting visitors from all over the city and beyond. The restaurant’s popularity was further boosted by its appearance in local newspapers and magazines, which helped to spread the word about the delicious Philly cheesesteak. Today, Pat’s King of Steaks is still family-owned and operated, and it remains one of the most popular destinations for cheesesteak enthusiasts. The restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods has helped to maintain its reputation as the premier spot for authentic Philly cheesesteaks.
What is the difference between Pat’s and Geno’s, two famous Philly cheesesteak places?
Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are two of the most famous Philly cheesesteak establishments in Philadelphia, and they are located right across the street from each other. While both restaurants serve delicious Philly cheesesteaks, there are some key differences between the two. Pat’s King of Steaks is generally considered to be the more traditional of the two, with a focus on using high-quality ingredients and adhering to the original recipe.
In contrast, Geno’s Steaks is known for its more modern take on the classic Philly cheesesteak. The restaurant offers a wider variety of toppings and condiments, and its cheesesteaks are often cooked to a slightly sweeter and more caramelized finish. Additionally, Geno’s has a more extensive menu, with options such as burgers, salads, and milkshakes. Ultimately, the choice between Pat’s and Geno’s comes down to personal preference, as both restaurants offer unique and delicious interpretations of the Philly cheesesteak.
How do you order a Philly cheesesteak like a local?
Ordering a Philly cheesesteak like a local requires a basic understanding of the “Whiz wit” system, which was introduced by Pat’s King of Steaks. When you order a cheesesteak, you will be asked if you want it “Whiz wit” or “provolone without.” “Whiz” refers to Cheez Whiz, a type of cheese spread that is commonly used on Philly cheesesteaks. “Wit” means “with onions,” so if you order a cheesesteak “Whiz wit,” you will get a steak topped with Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions.
If you prefer a different type of cheese, such as provolone or American, you can order your cheesesteak “provolone without” or “American without,” respectively. You can also customize your cheesesteak with additional toppings, such as hot peppers or mushrooms. When ordering, it’s customary to use the local lingo, so don’t be afraid to order your cheesesteak “Whiz wit” or “provolone without” like a true Philadelphian. Just remember to order quickly and confidently, as the lines at popular cheesesteak joints can be long and the cashiers may be moving quickly.
What is the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak?
The type of cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference, but the most traditional options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and American. Cheez Whiz is a popular choice because it melts well and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the steak. Provolone is another common option, as it has a mild, smooth flavor that complements the steak without overpowering it.
American cheese is also a popular choice, as it melts well and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Some cheesesteak enthusiasts also prefer to use a combination of cheeses, such as a blend of provolone and mozzarella or a mix of Cheez Whiz and shredded cheese. Ultimately, the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak is the one that you enjoy the most, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different options to find your perfect combination.
Can you get a good Philly cheesesteak outside of Philadelphia?
While it’s difficult to replicate the exact experience of getting a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, it is possible to get a good Philly cheesesteak outside of the city. Many restaurants and eateries across the United States and around the world offer their own versions of the Philly cheesesteak, using a combination of traditional ingredients and local flavors.
However, it’s worth noting that the quality and authenticity of Philly cheesesteaks can vary greatly depending on the location and the chef. Some restaurants may use lower-quality ingredients or alter the traditional recipe in ways that compromise the flavor and character of the dish. If you’re looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience outside of Philadelphia, try to find a restaurant that uses high-quality ingredients and adheres to traditional cooking methods. You may also want to ask locals for recommendations or read reviews to find the best Philly cheesesteak spots in your area.
How has the Philly cheesesteak evolved over time?
The Philly cheesesteak has undergone significant changes and evolution since its invention in the 1930s. One of the main ways in which the dish has evolved is in terms of the types of cheese used. While Cheez Whiz was originally the most popular cheese option, other types of cheese such as provolone, American, and mozzarella have become increasingly popular in recent years.
In addition to changes in cheese options, the Philly cheesesteak has also evolved in terms of the types of meats and toppings used. Some restaurants now offer chicken cheesesteaks, veggie cheesesteaks, and other variations on the classic recipe. The cooking methods used to prepare Philly cheesesteaks have also changed over time, with some restaurants using grills or broilers to cook the steak instead of traditional flat-top grills. Despite these changes, the core elements of the Philly cheesesteak remain the same: thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a crusty roll, all combined to create a delicious and satisfying meal.