We Tried All Cheesesteaks: 12 Failed the Test, But These 6 Nailed It

In the pursuit of the perfect cheesesteak, we tasted 18 variations, finding ourselves caught between disappointment and delight. From fast-food chains to iconic eateries, each cheesesteak had a story to tell. Some missed the mark, while a select few won our hearts (and stomachs). This journey highlights both the culinary missteps and the triumphs in the world of cheesesteaks, offering a detailed look at what makes a cheesesteak either fail or flourish.

Subway’s “Steak & Cheese”

A promising name doesn’t save this sandwich. Subway’s Steak & Cheese feels more like a microwave experiment gone wrong. The bread’s texture is off, and the steak lacks authenticity, leaving the taste buds yearning for more depth and flavor.

Despite efforts to mimic a classic, the cheese barely melts, clinging to the bread in an unappealing manner. A fast food chain limitation or just a missed opportunity? You decide. This iteration falls short, evoking more sadness than satisfaction in every bite.

Domino’s Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich

Domino’s, primarily known for its pizzas, ventures into cheesesteak territory but doesn’t quite hit the target. The sandwich suffers from a salt overload, overshadowing any potential beefy goodness.

Reduced to a bread holder, the cheese fails to melt harmoniously. It’s a pizza place trying to moonlight as a cheesesteak haven, yet the result is a lukewarm embrace. Packed with ambition but lacking execution, this sandwich leaves more to be desired in flavor and presentation.

Wawa (Outside of Philly)

Wawa, a beloved name in its home city, seems to falter once outside Philly. The cheesesteak, though a cult favorite to some, arrives tasting like a cafeteria offering rather than a local gem.

Nostalgia might draw fans, but the execution falls flat when held against true Philly standards. A tale of two cities, where distance from origin impacts quality.

Flavor lacks the punch one hopes for, and the bread doesn’t do much to salvage the experience. It’s a reminder that location sometimes makes all the difference.

Arby’s Fire-Roasted Philly

Arby’s, known for daring flavors, attempts the Philly classic with mixed results. The fire-roasted element introduces smokiness, but the chewy meat distracts from potential enjoyment.

Rubbery peppers only add to the letdown, leaving the sandwich struggling to find its footing in the realm of cheesesteak excellence. A culinary adventure that promises more than it delivers, leaving a taste that’s more unforgettable in disappointment than delight.

Could Arby’s have rethought its approach? Perhaps, but this attempt doesn’t roast up to the occasion.

Charley’s Cheesesteaks (Mall Version)

Charley’s Cheesesteaks, often a nostalgic mall escape, suffers from a sauce-heavy approach. While memories might be sweet, the sandwich’s sogginess is not.

Bread soaked beyond repair leaves little room for the flavors to shine. It’s a classic example of excess overshadowing potential authenticity.

For those seeking a quick fix, it might suffice. However, true enthusiasts might find their expectations unmet. A nod to simplicity might have been the route to cheesesteak greatness, but alas, this isn’t it.

Jersey Mike’s #17 Famous Philly

Jersey Mike’s takes a stab at the beloved Philly with its #17 Famous Philly. Despite a respectable effort, it misses the greasy allure that true cheesesteak lovers crave.

While the assembly is neat, the soul of a real cheesesteak seems absent. It’s a sandwich that plays by the rules but forgets the excitement of breaking them.

For those preferring a cleaner taste, it may appeal, but for others, it’s a reminder of what makes the authentic Philly so cherished.

Steak Escape

Steak Escape’s offering feels like an identity crisis in a bun. With mayo overpowering the experience, it struggles to assert itself as a true cheesesteak contender.

Seasoning seems an afterthought, and the steak’s potential is lost in a sea of condiments. It’s steak in name only, missing the heart of what makes this sandwich an icon.

A missed culinary opportunity, leaving fans pondering what could have been if balance and flavor harmony were given a chance to shine.

Quiznos

Quiznos, known for its toasted subs, fumbles with its cheesesteak. Lacking the necessary heat, the sandwich feels lukewarm, both in temperature and appeal.

Ingredients that should complement instead compete, leaving peppers limp and aftertaste funky. It’s a combination that promises more in theory than in execution.

Fans of the chain might appreciate the attempt, but true cheesesteak aficionados will find it wanting. A reminder that some classics require more than just a twist to truly satisfy.

Sheetz Cheesesteak

Sheetz offers a cheesesteak that feels more like a 2am choice than a lunchtime staple. Prefabricated vibes dominate the experience, lending itself better to spontaneous cravings.

The sandwich hovers in a space where convenience trumps excellence, resulting in a taste that’s more functional than flavorful.

For those in search of a true cheesesteak, this might not satisfy, but for those in the throes of late-night hunger, it serves as a passable option. A testament to the power of timing over taste.

Sonic’s Philly Cheesesteak

Sonic’s venture into the Philly cheesesteak arena is intriguing but falls short. Texture issues and cheese that feels sourced from a vending machine detract from its promise.

While the attempt is bold, the execution leaves much to be desired. A sandwich that exists more in concept than in culinary reality.

For those curious about Sonic’s take, it’s an experience worth trying, but not one that will necessarily convert purists. A bold concept that needs refining.

Penn Station East Coast Subs

Penn Station East Coast Subs champions the grill but misses the mark on flavor. The cheesesteak ends up flat, offering more forgetfulness than impact.

Despite a promising grill technique, the sandwich fails to captivate the palate, leaving a sense of missed opportunity in its wake.

For those passing by, it might satisfy a basic craving, but for those seeking the quintessential cheesesteak experience, it lacks the necessary punch. A tale of potential unfulfilled.

Cheesesteak Factory (random pop-up food truck)

The Cheesesteak Factory pop-up truck offers a greasy mess that disappoints rather than delights. With no seasoning to speak of, the sandwich struggles to tell its story.

Grease dominates, leaving a trail of dissatisfaction and longing for more finesse. It’s a reminder that pop-up doesn’t always equate to quality.

Adventurous eaters might find the experience memorable, but not necessarily for the right reasons. A culinary escapade that needs more seasoning and less shine.

Pat’s King of Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)

Pat’s King of Steaks stands as a beacon of cheesesteak perfection. Thin-sliced beef dances with gooey Cheez Whiz, wrapped in a soft roll that supports without overshadowing.

As the original, it sets the standard, offering a taste that resonates with authenticity and tradition. It’s a reminder of why cheesesteaks hold such a cherished place in the culinary world.

For those visiting Philly, a stop at Pat’s is a rite of passage, a moment of flavor that resonates long after the last bite.

Geno’s Steaks (Philadelphia, PA)

Geno’s, a stone’s throw from Pat’s, offers a cheesesteak that captures the spirit of Philly. Its vibrant energy mirrors the city’s heartbeat, with flavors that speak volumes.

The sandwich marries beef and cheese effortlessly, creating a symphony of taste that delights the senses. It’s a beacon for those seeking authenticity and a touch of local charm.

For visitors, the experience at Geno’s is more than a meal; it’s a connection to the city’s culinary soul. A must-visit for cheesesteak enthusiasts.

John’s Roast Pork (Philadelphia, PA)

John’s Roast Pork offers a cheesesteak that’s a well-guarded secret, now shared with the world. The sesame roll provides a unique twist, enhancing the juicy steak and sharp provolone.

What was once a local gem is now a celebrated taste experience that draws food lovers near and far. It’s a sandwich that tells a story with every bite.

For those in the know, John’s stands as a testament to the innovation and tradition that define Philly’s culinary landscape.

Tony Luke’s (Philadelphia, PA)

Tony Luke’s captures the essence of a great cheesesteak with its well-balanced flavors. Juicy beef and well-cooked onions make for a delightful combination, held together by bread with a perfect bite.

The experience is both satisfying and memorable, showcasing why Tony Luke’s is a staple in the Philly cheesesteak scene.

For those seeking a blend of tradition and taste, this sandwich offers a fulfilling journey through flavors that just click. A culinary staple that continues to impress.

Dalessandro’s (Philadelphia, PA)

Dalessandro’s is a haven for those who love their steak chopped fine and cheese plentiful. Every bite is an indulgent mix of textures and flavors that delight the senses.

The patience required in line is rewarded with a sandwich that stands as a testament to cheesesteak greatness. It’s a local favorite for good reason.

For those who appreciate a hearty meal with soul, Dalessandro’s delivers on all fronts, offering a taste that resonates with true cheesesteak passion.

Boo’s Philly Cheesesteaks (Los Angeles, CA)

Boo’s brings a slice of Philly to Los Angeles with surprising authenticity. The Amoroso roll provides that crucial crunch, while the filling offers the comforting taste of home for East Coast transplants.

Despite the distance, Boo’s manages to capture the essence of a true Philly cheesesteak, making it a beloved spot for those yearning for a familiar flavor.

For cheesesteak aficionados on the West Coast, Boo’s is a delightful find, serving up a taste that bridges the gap between coasts seamlessly.