A visit to Philadelphia is incomplete without indulging in the city’s iconic dish—the Philly cheesesteak. This sandwich, rich in flavor and history, has been a symbol of the city’s culture for decades. But knowing how to properly order a Philly cheesesteak is essential to fully experience its glory. Whether you’re ordering from Geno’s Steaks or Pat’s King of Steaks, mastering the cheesesteak lingo, ingredients, and ordering etiquette will help you get the best version of this famous sandwich.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of ordering a Philly cheesesteak, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local trying to refine your cheesesteak game.
What Is a Philly Cheesesteak?
The Philly cheesesteak is a simple yet mouthwatering sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. Traditionally, it’s made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and served on an Amoroso roll. The typical cheeses include Cheese Whiz, Provolone, or American cheese, with the option of adding grilled onions.
The debate over which cheesesteak variation is the best is a heated one among locals. While some purists insist on sticking to Cheese Whiz, others favor the more traditional Provolone. If you want to explore regional variations, check out this detailed breakdown of the ultimate Philly cheesesteak recipe to understand how different regions have adapted this classic sandwich.
But before we dive into the detailed instructions on how to order your cheesesteak, let’s get into the essential elements that make this sandwich unique.
The Essential Elements of a Philly Cheesesteak
When you walk into a Philly cheesesteak shop, there are several important components to consider. Each element—from the steak to the bread—plays a crucial role in making the perfect cheesesteak.
The Steak
The most important part of any Philly cheesesteak is, of course, the steak. Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak uses thinly sliced ribeye cooked on a griddle. This cut of beef is prized for its marbling, which gives it a rich flavor and tender texture when cooked. The steak is often finely chopped on the grill, creating bite-sized pieces that meld perfectly with the melted cheese.
While some people opt for alternative meats, such as chicken, true Philly cheesesteak purists stick with beef. If you’re curious about trying different versions, there are variations like the easy chicken Philly cheesesteak recipe that substitute chicken for beef, offering a lighter but equally delicious take on the classic sandwich.
The Cheese
Choosing the right cheese for your cheesesteak is critical. The three most common options are:
- Cheese Whiz: This is the go-to choice for many cheesesteak lovers, especially at Geno’s Steaks. It’s a processed, gooey cheese that melts perfectly into the steak, creating a rich, creamy bite.
- Provolone: For those who prefer a less processed option, Provolone is a favorite. It has a mild, tangy flavor that complements the steak without overpowering it.
- American Cheese: Another popular option, American cheese melts well and offers a mild, creamy texture.
Choosing your cheese is one of the first decisions you’ll make when ordering a cheesesteak. While Cheese Whiz is often considered the most iconic choice, it’s all about personal preference. If you’re interested in how to best incorporate cheese into your cheesesteak at home, this guide on cheesesteak tips will give you the details you need.
The Bread
The bread is the unsung hero of the Philly cheesesteak. Without a good roll, the sandwich would fall apart under the weight of the steak and cheese. The gold standard for Philly cheesesteak rolls is the Amoroso roll, which is soft enough to absorb the juices from the steak, yet sturdy enough to hold everything together without becoming soggy.
Some cheesesteak shops may use other types of bread, but if you’re looking for the most authentic experience, stick with a hoagie roll similar to the Amoroso roll.
How to Order a Philly Cheesesteak: The Lingo
Once you’ve figured out what type of cheesesteak you want, it’s time to learn the ordering lingo. In Philadelphia, ordering a cheesesteak isn’t as simple as saying “one cheesesteak, please.” You need to be ready with your order and speak the local language, especially when visiting the city’s famous cheesesteak joints.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Wit: This means with grilled onions. If you want onions on your cheesesteak, you say “wit.”
- Witout: If you prefer your cheesesteak without onions, say “witout.”
- Cheese options: After you specify “wit” or “witout,” you’ll choose your cheese. For example, if you want a cheesesteak with onions and Provolone, you’d say, “Provolone wit.”
Make sure to know your order ahead of time, especially when visiting busy spots like Pat’s or Geno’s. If you’re new to this, don’t worry—just keep it simple, and you’ll fit right in. And if you’re curious about other toppings and how they play into cheesesteak culture, check out more about how to customize your cheesesteak here.
Famous Philly Cheesesteak Joints: Geno’s vs. Pat’s
No discussion of Philly cheesesteaks would be complete without mentioning the rivalry between Geno’s and Pat’s. These two iconic cheesesteak shops have been competing for decades, and each has its own loyal following. But what sets them apart?
- Geno’s Steaks: Located at the intersection of 9th and Passyunk, Geno’s is known for its bright neon lights and flashy presentation. Here, Cheese Whiz is the most popular cheese, although they also offer Provolone and American.
- Pat’s King of Steaks: Just across the street from Geno’s, Pat’s claims to have invented the Philly cheesesteak in the 1930s. Pat’s also offers Cheese Whiz, Provolone, and American, but many customers prefer Provolone for its classic taste.
While these two are the most well-known cheesesteak shops, they aren’t the only ones in town. Other great options include Tony Luke’s and Jim’s Steaks, each offering their own take on the Philly cheesesteak. For a more detailed comparison between these shops, visit this guide on Philly cheesesteak rivals.
Avoiding Common Cheesesteak Ordering Mistakes
If you want to order your cheesesteak like a local and avoid holding up the line, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t overcomplicate it: Stick with the traditional cheeses and toppings. Adding extras like lettuce or tomato isn’t part of the classic Philly cheesesteak experience.
- Be concise: Philly cheesesteak shops are busy, and the workers appreciate customers who know what they want. Practice your order before you get to the counter.
- Know the lingo: Use “wit” or “witout” when specifying onions. This will help speed up the ordering process and make you look like a pro.
By following these simple rules, you’ll have your cheesesteak in hand before you know it!
How to Customize Your Cheesesteak
Although the traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with ribeye steak, cheese, and onions, many shops offer the option to customize your sandwich with additional ingredients. Here are some popular add-ons:
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a savory, earthy flavor to the sandwich.
- Peppers: Some people like to add sweet or hot peppers for a bit of spice and crunch.
- Ketchup or mayo: While not traditional, these condiments are sometimes requested.
It’s important to note that too many additions can take away from the authenticity of the sandwich. The classic Philly cheesesteak is a simple sandwich, and sometimes less is more.
For more ideas on how to customize your cheesesteak or create a new variation at home, check out this recipe for Philly cheesesteak stuffed peppers.
FAQs: People Also Ask
Here are some commonly asked questions about ordering a Philly cheesesteak:
- What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
- It depends on your personal preference. Cheese Whiz is the most iconic, but many people prefer the sharper taste of Provolone.
- Can you get a cheesesteak without onions?
- Absolutely! Just order it “witout” to skip the onions.
- What’s the difference between a cheesesteak and a steak sandwich?
- A cheesesteak is always served with cheese (usually Cheese Whiz, Provolone, or American), while a steak sandwich may not have cheese.
- Is it okay to add extra toppings like lettuce or tomato?
- While it’s possible, adding lettuce or tomato isn’t part of the traditional Philly cheesesteak. Most locals stick to the basics—steak, cheese, and onions.
For more detailed FAQs and expert tips on making your own Philly cheesesteak at home, read our guide on what makes a Philly cheesesteak special.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of ordering a Philly cheesesteak is a must for anyone visiting Philadelphia or looking to embrace its culinary culture. From choosing the right cheese to learning the lingo, you’ll now be able to confidently walk into any cheesesteak shop and order like a local. Whether you prefer your cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz and onions or a simpler Provolone witout, following the tips in this guide will ensure that you get the perfect sandwich every time.
So next time you’re in Philadelphia, make sure you stop by Geno’s, Pat’s, or one of the other legendary cheesesteak joints and enjoy this timeless dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some of the creative variations like chicken or even stuffed peppers for a fresh twist on the classic.
Happy eating!