We know about authentic cheesesteaks from deep personal experience – Daryl is a Philly native and Mindi moved to the city in 2003. Over our combined decades as Philadelphia locals, we ate our fair share at ball parks, late at night, when we experienced cheesesteak cravings and even for special occasions. When the Phillies won the World Series in 2008, walking down to Pat’s for a cheesesteak was a special experience that we remember fondly.
Today, we eat cheesesteaks every time we return to Philly, both at famous cheesesteak stands and at newer spots. And, now that we’re no longer living in the city, we’ve learned to appreciate this world class sandwich more then ever. Read on to discover our picks for the best cheesesteak spots in Philly.
1. Angelo’s Pizzeria (Bella Vista)
Our house was located just two blocks from Sarcone’s Deli which is where Danny DiGiampietro opened Angelo’s Pizzeria in 2019. Since the shop now sells some of the best pizza in the city, it’s a good and bad thing that we moved – good for our health and bad that we can’t enjoy pies every week. Angelo’s also sells excellent hoagies and, equally important, wonderful cheesesteaks.
The rolls at Angelo’s are great which is no surprise considering the shop’s close family ties to Sarcone’s Bakery which is located just a few doors south; however, Angelo’s rolls are baked darker and crispier to good effect. But it’s not just the seeded rolls that that are top notch here. This seemingly humble pizza shop fills its cheesesteaks with thinly sliced rib-eye steak and loads them with cheeses that include cooper sharp, American, provolone, Cheez Whiz and long hot whiz. Fried onions are optional but recommended.
Pro Tip
Be aware that Angelo’s Pizzeria doesn’t have seating, doesn’t take credit cards and often has a long queue. In other words, bring cash and be prepared to wait for you cheesesteak. Sure, you can try to call to place an order but we don’t recommend doing that unless you’re ordering food for a party.
Angelo’s Pizzeria is located at 736 S 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States.
