SPRINGFIELD, PA - Johnny Paisano's (143 S State Rd, Springfield, PA) isn't just another cheesesteak joint; it's a testament to the culinary creativity of its namesake, Johnny. This isn't a place for a basic, run-of-the-mill cheesesteak. This is where you go when you want something more. My recent visit, part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, on a snowy Tuesday night, no less, confirmed that Johnny Paisano's is a destination worth seeking out. Johnny Paisano's (143 S … [Read more...]

PENNSYLVANIA—My recent visit to Wolf's Superior Sandwiches (4417 Pennell Rd, Aston, PA), part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, was a mixed bag. Inspired by the Eagles' Super Bowl victory, I ordered "The Eagle" cheesesteak, but I ended up with a serious case of order envy that overshadowed the experience. Wolf's Superior Sandwiches (4417 Pennell Rd, Aston, PA) The "Eagle" Cheesesteak: The Concept: "The Eagle" is a themed cheesesteak, presumably intended to … [Read more...]

DELAWARE - Claymont Steaks (3526 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE) is unique in my history. This isn't just another cheesesteak review; it's a trip down memory lane. This was the cheesesteak spot of my youth, a place tied to family memories and significant life events. But time changes things, and this visit, part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, left me with a bittersweet feeling. Claymont Steaks (3526 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE) The Nostalgia Factor: Claymont … [Read more...]

NEW JERSEY—Mama's Meatballs and Pizzeria (2673 Haddonfield Rd, Pennsauken Twp, NJ) has transformed, at least regarding its cheesesteak. My recent visit, part of the ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, revealed a significantly bigger sandwich than I remember, presenting advantages and challenges. Mama's Meatballs and Pizzeria The Changes: "Bigger is Better" Mantra? Mama's has adopted a "bigger is better" philosophy for their cheesesteak. This translates to a substantial … [Read more...]

NEW JERSEY - Cockadoodle Dan's Wings & Steaks (75 E Main St, Moorestown, NJ) offers a cheesesteak that, while enjoyable, falls just short of greatness. This review, part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, finds a sandwich with several positive attributes but with a few key areas that could be elevated to reach top-tier status.   Cockadoodle Dan's Wings & Steaks The Good: Seeded Roll: A definite plus! Cockadoodle Dan's starts with a seeded roll, a … [Read more...]

NEW JERSEY - While technically across the river in New Jersey, Lillo's Tomato Pies (2503 Marne Hwy, Hainesport, NJ) remains a serious contender in my Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure. This isn't just a pizza place that happens to serve cheesesteaks; it's a spot that puts thought and effort into its sandwich game. However, as always, there's room for refinement. The Strengths: Thick-Sliced Steak: Lillo stands out for its thickly sliced steak, a deliberate choice that emphasizes … [Read more...]

PHILADELPHIA, PA - Bar Jawn (4247 Main St, Philadelphia, PA) in Manayunk delivered a cheesesteak experience that was anything but predictable. From a parking-related pre-meal encounter to an unexpectedly delicious vodka sauce addition, this visit was a rollercoaster of emotions – and, ultimately, a very positive one. The adventure began before I entered the bar, with a "conversation" (as I'll diplomatically call it) with a parking authority representative. Let's say it added some … [Read more...]

PHILADELPHIA - Mama's Pizzeria (426 Belmont Ave, Bala Cynwyd, PA) delivers a cheesesteak experience about abundance. This isn't a delicate, nuanced sandwich; it's a hefty, flavor-packed cheesesteak that leans heavily on its cheese and meat. As part of the ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, this stop revealed a cheesesteak not for the faint of heart (or stomach). The Cheesesteak Breakdown Three-Legged Stool: The reviewer uses the analogy of a three-legged stool (roll, … [Read more...]

PHILADELPHIA - Dagwood's Pub (4625 Linden Ave, Philadelphia, PA), a Northeast Philly establishment, is already a place I hold in high regard. This visit, part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, reinforced that positive impression, though, as always, there's room for a cheesesteak to evolve. The Dagwood's Vibe: Dagwood's is more than just a place to grab a cheesesteak; it's a neighborhood spot. The couple beside me, sharing four appetizers, speaks volumes about the menu's … [Read more...]

PHILADELPHIA—Fishtown's Nut Hut Saloon (Frankford Ave & E Norris St, Philadelphia, PA) embraces its Philly roots with a strong local vibe. I stopped in for a cheesesteak as part of my ongoing Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure, and here's my take. The Atmosphere: Right off the bat, I loved the Philly motif. It's got that classic neighborhood bar feel – a good bartender, a good vibe, and a sense of genuine local character. The Cheesesteak: The Roll: The roll was a "big soft … [Read more...]