PENNSYLVANIA – 39 North Taproom and Grille (110 S MacDade Blvd, Glenolden, PA) is a Delco (Delaware County) spot that proves you can’t judge a cheesesteak by its cover. As part of my Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure and a participant in March Cheesesteak Madness, 39 North delivered a surprisingly delicious cheesesteak that overcame initial visual doubts.
Let’s be honest: the cheesesteak at 39 North failed the eye test. The presentation wasn’t its strong suit. However, this is a classic case of “don’t judge a book by its cover.”
The Taste Test: A Redeeming Experience:
- The Meat: The meat was the star of the show. Tender, juicy, and flavorful, it was a pleasure to eat. This highlights the importance of quality ingredients and proper cooking.
- The Roll: 39 North uses a Corropolese roll, a well-respected local bakery known for its Italian bread. The role collapses “nicely around the meat,” suggesting a good texture that complements the filling without being too bulky.
- The Cheese and Onions: This is where the cheesesteak could improve. The reviewer notes needing “more from the cheese and fried onions,” indicating that these components lacked quantity or flavor intensity.
- The Price: It was a great price at $14.
The Overall Experience:
Despite the initial visual impression and the desire for more cheese and onions, the meat and roll quality ultimately made this a satisfying cheesesteak. The friendly service (with a shout-out to the unnamed bartender) added to the positive experience.
A Note on the Beer Choice:
The reviewer’s choice of “garage beer” (in honor of the Eagles) was a mistake. This suggests that 39 North likely offers a better selection of beers that would pair more effectively with the cheesesteak.
Rating: (Based on the provided review, and accounting for the “failed eye test” but good taste, a rating of 3.8 to 4.2 out of 5 stars seems appropriate.) I’ll go with 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendations:
- To 39 North: Consider amping up the cheese and onion game! A bit more of both could elevate this cheesesteak to the next level.
- To Diners: Don’t be put off by initial appearances. The meat’s flavor and the roll’s quality make this cheesesteak worth trying. Skip the “garage beer” and explore their other beverage options.
Address:
39 North Taproom and Grille 110 S MacDade Blvd Glenolden, PA
39 North Taproom and Grille in Glenolden proves that a great cheesesteak isn’t always about perfect aesthetics. While the initial visual impression might not be the most impressive, the quality of the meat, the well-chosen roll, and the flavorful onions (when present in sufficient quantity) combine to create a surprisingly delicious cheesesteak experience. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best food is found in unexpected places and that judging solely on appearance can lead you to miss out on a hidden gem. It is a worthy contender in March Cheesesteak Madness.
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