Thursday, October 1, 2026
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In Philadelphia, the cheesesteak isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re craving a classic “whiz wit” or a modern twist, these standout spots deliver some of the best bites in the city.
For one night only, Skinny Joey’s and Dolce have teamed up to collaborate on a National Cheesesteak Day offering served exclusively at Dolce Italian. The partnership pairs a classic Skinny Joeys cheesesteak with a specialty cocktail crafted by the hosting restaurant. Reservations are available online.
1437 Chestnut St., dolceitalianrestaurant.com
This fan-favorite joint is more recent in terms of cheesesteak namesakes in Philly, but it quickly acquired a cult following after opening in 2019. Their core sandwich boasts ribeye steak, Cooper Sharp American cheese (their signature choice) and fried onions, but there are also additions available like Whiz, Provolone and long hots. What sets this spot apart is what holds the sandwich together — all their bread is baked in-house daily, and if they run out of bread, they run out of cheesesteaks entirely for the day.
736 S. 9th St., angelosphl.com
As you can tell by the name, John’s original focus when it opened in 1930 was not cheesesteaks, but this venue has grown into a must-try for many locals and visitors on that front. They keep their version “old-school” and simple with thin-sliced ribeye (paper-thin, not heavily chopped), American cheese or sharp provolone, grilled onions and salt/ pepper seasoning. Those who want to round out their experience should also add a roast pork sandwich to their order—this spot won a James Beard Award for its namesake.
14 E. Snyder Ave., johnsroastpork.com
Originally founded in 1939 in West Philadelphia as Jim’s Steaks, this locale moved to its famous South Street location in 1976. In 2022, a fire severely damaged the building, forcing a long closure, but the brand reopened back up in 2024. Their core offering is comprised of thinly sliced ribeye and classic options like cheese whiz, American, Provolone and fried onions—and be sure to use the traditional Philly ordering style when here: aka “Whiz wit” (Whiz + onions), “Provolone wit”, or “American wit.”
An interesting way to experience Jim’s is actually by ordering a sandwich while across the street at Milkboy South Street (401 South St). Their Jim’s menu item comes right from the famous joint and runs made-to-order for $20, with fries as an option for an additional $5.
400 South St., jimssouthstreet.com
Campo’s is one of the oldest family-run cheesesteak spots in the city, and it's known for serving up a classic cheesesteak with 100% rib-eye steak and your choice of cheese. Some variations of the sandwich here include the “Heater” (buffalo sauce, jalapeños and jalapeño cheddar), “The Works” (loaded with peppers, onions, mushrooms and provolone), the “Flyers Ice Steak” (with a cream cheese and tomato twist), plus some gluten-free and vegan options.
While at Campo’s, locals can also score Visit Philadelphia and Victory Brewing Company’s brew crafted in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. The crisp ale pays tribute to the many historic firsts born in Philadelphia, and it also marks a milestone for both organizations, with each celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
214 Market St., camposdeli.com
This spot has been nationally recognized for decades and even landed a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its sandwiches. Their signature bite features fresh-cut ribeye, all the typical cheese options, fried onions and tons of add-ons (including a self-serve pepper bar with mild to very hot options), but most importantly, cheese is mixed into the meat, not laid on top here.
600 Wendover St., dalessandros.com
Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop’s cheesesteak isn’t just about tradition—it’s about dialing everything up a notch. Their signature is made with house-made truffle cheese whiz, which adds a rich, savory partnership for its meat and its fries.
630 South St., woodrowsandwich.com
Typically a comfort-food stop, this popular spot is offering a Braised Short Rib Cheesesteak for a limited time in honor of the occasion. Available now through March 27, the $29 creation features slow-braised short rib glazed in a rich, reduced dark stock, topped with truffles, caramelized onions, and garlic butter, then finished with melted French raclette cheese (served on bread from Sarcone’s Bakery). Availability will be limited each day, with just five orders offered Monday through Thursday and 20 available this Friday.
509 S 2nd St., thetwistedtail.com
This pick is for all the plant-based fans in Philly. HipCityVeg offers a classic vegan version of the bite with grilled vegan steak, oyster mushrooms, grilled onions, vegan mozzarella cheese and organic ketchup on a long roll.
Various locations, hipcityveg.com/philadelphia
