Cheesesteak Trail Stops

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Founded in 1930, Pat Olivieri invented the cheesesteak in 1933 by grilling beef scraps meant for hot dogs, forever changing Philly's culinary landscape. grilled uncapped with Cheese Whiz.

Launched in 1966 directly across from Pat’s by Joey Vento, if nothing else it sparked the legendary rivalry between the two of the more touristy spots.

Opened in 1980 in Northeast Philly, it rose to fame through grilling razor-thin sliced ribeye “Whiz-WIt” or “Whiz-Wit-out”. 

 Established in 1976 on vibrant South Street, it has endured decades of neighborhood evolution while perfecting the classic cheesesteak with cheese Whiz.

Started in 1934 in South Philly, this pork specialist expanded cheesesteak prowess with its ultra-thin beef and American cheese.

Operating since 1960 in Roxborough, it elevated the sandwich with premium ribeye, slow-caramelized onions, and unwavering quality focus.

Donkey’s Place: Founded in 1946 in Camden, NJ, by Bob Lucas, it innovated the "Donkey" cheesesteak with marinara, peppers, and a Kaiser roll twist.

Began in 1975 in Maple Shade, NJ, gaining Food Network fame for its gigantic, finely chopped loin steak topped with american cheese served from an iconic, quirky building.

Leo’s Steak Shop: A Northeast Philly family staple since the 1960s, it thrives on feather-light shaved beef, american cheese and neighborhood-secret authenticity.

Gaetano’s: Emerged in the 1970s in Willingboro, NJ, pioneered the often duplicated, overstuffed seasame seed roll, chopped ribeye and Cooper Sharp american cheese