Saad’s Halal Restaurant

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This West Philly classic has garnered the reputation of serving massive cheesesteaks that are unapologetically beefy, flavorful, and have an unforgettable aroma beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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Chubby's

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Chubby’s in Roxborough takes pride in the “cut” of its steak. Not chopped to oblivion, not left as big slabs, but cut to the perfect in-between, so that the beef is as flavorful as possible. Chubby’s is open for delivery and pickup; order online or call.

Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies

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Many claim Dalessandro’s in Roxborough has the best cheesesteak in the area, and it’s not hard to see why. Rolls are packed with finely chopped rib-eye, the cheese is mixed in just right, and the onions are kept chunky for maximum flavor. Call ahead — or wait in line — to place your order.

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Angelo's Pizzeria

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Of course, you know Angelo’s for their pizza — but a cheesesteak here is a particularly beautiful thing with so many options. Whether you go with Cooper Sharp, provolone, or Whiz; with chicken or beef; or choose a hoagie cheesesteak with all the requisite toppings, you can’t go wrong. Remember: Angelo’s only does cash and takeout. There’s now an offshoot location, backed by Bradley Cooper, in New York.

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Woodrow's Sandwich Shop

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South Street sandwich shop Woodrow’s deviates from the classic, with a modern cheesesteak worth trying. The Woodrow’s Whiz Wit combines shaved rib-eye, caramelized onions, cherry-pepper mayo, and a unique house-made truffle Whiz. Order pickup or delivery online.

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Max's Steaks

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Already beloved for its huge sandwiches, Max’s Steaks in North Philly got a major visibility boost when Tessa Thompson showed Michael B. Jordan how to eat Philly’s favorite sandwich in the Rocky spinoff Creed. You can order online, and night owls take note: Max’s is open late every day.

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Jim’s Steaks

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Don’t call it a comeback — but after a fire shut down operations for a few years, this iconic cheesesteak spot is better than ever. Come to this cash-only establishment where their hearty cheesesteaks have been sold without fried foods since 1939. Bonus: View some restored works of Magic Gardens artist Isaiah Zagar while visiting the post-fire expansion.

Ishkabibble's (multiple locations)

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This iconic yellow-and-pink storefront on South Street has been serving cheesesteaks since 1979, and at a second, much bigger location just two blocks up the street. It’s no wonder Ishkabibble’s expanded: The cheesesteaks are executed perfectly — chopped and packed to just the right ratio — and the cheese fries rock too. You can call or order online.

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John's Roast Pork

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Many point to John’s cheesesteak as the very best in Philadelphia for its straightforward simplicity. The sandwich is heavy with seasoned beef cooked to order. And the cheese? Sharp provolone works surprisingly well. John’s Roast Pork has pretty much perfected the art of the sandwich. Call for pickup.

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Sonny's Famous Steaks

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Sure, Sonny’s is a bit cleaner-looking than many of the other shops on this list. But it’s just as authentically Philly. The friendly service, a great product, and manageable lines make Sonny’s Famous Steaks a solid choice for an Old City lunch. Grab a seat on the sidewalk out front or order takeout or delivery online.

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Joe's Steaks + Soda Shop

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A classic dating back to 1949, Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop has closed its original shop in Northeast Philly but lives on in Fishtown, continuing to provide fantastic seared-to-order rib-eye steaks and milkshakes in flavors like strawberry or mint chocolate chip. Order online for pickup or delivery.

Café Carmela

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This family-owned restaurant in Northeast Philly has grown a loyal following for its impressive cheesesteaks made with tender ribeye steak. From a traditional cheesesteak made with Cooper Sharp to specialty menu items, like their buffalo chicken version, they have become a local favorite.

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Donkey’s Place

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Worth a trip across the river, a Donkey’s Place cheesesteak is a bit of a surprise. You won’t find the traditional long roll here, but a poppy seed Kaiser roll overflowing with meat, your choice of cheese, and seasoned onions. They offer delivery, but you should eat in person for the experience they’ve been serving since 1943.

Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks

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Skinny Joey’s, owned by “Skinny Joey” Merlino, serves a classically good cheesesteak, but the differentiator is the bread. Ribeye, chicken, buffalo chicken, and all other variations are served on fresh seeded rolls from Aversa Bakery, with just a hint of a crunch when you bite in. Stop by before a Phillies or Eagles game for a treat for all senses.

Oh Brother (multiple locations)

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You’ve probably tried Oh Brother’s burgers, but the cheesesteaks are worth your while. Oh Brother mixes new flavor combinations while remaining loyal to the classic style: the Mediterranean and French onion versions are a lot of fun, but the simple chicken cheesesteak, with choice of the usual cheeses and onions, seeded roll or not, is a great light option that won’t bust your belly.