Voices & Impressions
Guestbook
“ Classic. Good cheesesteaks made the Philly way. Got the whiz wit. Hoagie bread (the most important part of a sandwich) was perfection. Cheese perfectly integrated throughout. There was available seating outside and the line wasn’t too long and moved fast. Great neighborhood too. Pairs well with scratch offs. ”
“ Welcome to the cradle of liberty — Philadelphia ???????? A city bursting with history, culture, and… one of the most iconic food rivalries in America The moment we arrived, we kicked off the ultimate Philly cheesesteak showdown — two legendary spots facing each other across the street Geno’s Steaks vs Pat’s King of Steaks Right in the heart of South Philly, both corners are filled with sizzling aromas, flashing neon lights, and hungry fans lining up for their favorite bite. Pat’s King of Steaks The original, old-school legend — where the cheesesteak was born! They’re super generous with the beef, but the cheese sauce is thinner, making it taste more like a “steak sandwich” than a true “cheesesteak.” If you’re a meat lover who prioritizes portion size over cheesiness, Pat’s will definitely hit the spot ”
“ If you come to Phildelphia, you have to visit Pat's Steaks. They claim to be the place that invented cheesesteaks, although there is some controversy about that locally. They do have very good cheesesteaks, but probably not the best in the area. It all comes down to the roll. They have a nice chewy roll that is crusty on the outside. They have four types of cheese, but my favorite is melted cheese whiz. If you want to sound local you can order a cheesesteak with cheese whiz and onions as a cheesesteak whiz-wit. ”
“ A true Philly cheesesteak, if I could ever imagine one. Knocked a Philly in Philly off my bucket list and it was all I imagined lol. Nothing fancy here, it’s true street food at its best. Steak WIT onions and cheese whiz. Outdoor seating only, no heaters so bundle up in winter or get Togo ”
Menu
Steak
Mushroom Pepper Cheesesteak
Soda
Cheese Fries
French Fries
About
Pat's King of Steaks
Welcome to Pat's King of Steaks, a culinary landmark nestled in the heart of South Philadelphia. This iconic establishment is not just a restaurant; it's a rite of passage for anyone visiting the City of Brotherly Love. Renowned for its classic cheesesteaks, Pat's holds a special place in the ongoing culinary rivalry with Geno's Steaks, just across the street.
As you approach Pat's, the sizzle of steak and the allure of cheesy goodness envelop you in a fragrant embrace. The first bite transports you directly to cheesesteak heaven. Here, the hoagie bread is not merely a vessel but a vital component, delightfully crusty on the outside yet perfectly chewy within. This balance is crucial, as many patrons like Cassie Smith will tell you that the perfection of the roll can make or break a sandwich.
What truly sets Pat's apart is its dedication to authenticity. The cheesesteaks are made “wit” or “witout” – a Philadelphia way of ordering with or without onions – featuring options for four types of cheese, with cheese whiz being the fan favorite. Diners, such as Mark B, appreciate how well the cheese integrates into the warm steak, resulting in a harmonious blend that is both hearty and satisfying.
The atmosphere at Pat's complements its legendary status. Outdoor seating provides a relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying a meal and soaking in the lively neighborhood. While dining outside may require a bundling up in the winter chill, it creates a unique sense of community and adds to the authentic street food experience, as noted by Jake Kiley.
Pat's King of Steaks is more than just a meal; it's an experience steeped in local history and love for food. With every cheesesteak served, you’re not just tasting a sandwich—you’re savoring a slice of Philadelphia’s soul. The bustling lines move quickly, making it easy for both locals and tourists to enjoy the rich flavors that have defined this city for generations.
So, whether you are a cheesesteak connoisseur or trying it for the first time, Pat's King of Steaks is an essential stop on your Philadelphia food journey. You'll leave not only satisfied but with a definitive answer to what Philly cheesesteaks are all about.
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