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 unexpected excitement to the meal’s start. However, things immediately improved upon entering Bar Jawn. The bartender was on point, selecting a “great beer” for me and setting a positive tone for the rest of the experience.
The Cheesesteak (with a Twist):
- The Upsell: I was presented with some upcharge options: $1 for fried onions (a must for any serious cheesesteak, in my opinion) and $2 for vodka sauce. With the bartender’s encouragement, I went all in.
- The Roll: The roll is a point of internal conflict. My initial impression is mixed, and I’m “still not sure how much or little I loved” it. This suggests it wasn’t a destructive role but wasn’t a standout feature.
- The Rest: While the review doesn’t explicitly detail the meat and cheese, the overall impression is very positive, mainly because of the vodka sauce.
- The Vodka Sauce Gamble: This is where things get interesting. Adding vodka sauce to a cheesesteak is unconventional, to say the least. However, in this case, it worked.
The Unexpected Star: Those “Soft and Amazing” Chips:
Initially dismissed as “interesting-looking,” the house-made potato chips” became a revelation. Described as “soft and amazing,” they were a highlight of the meal, so much so that they became the base for an impromptu “cheesesteak nachos” creation.
The “Drunken Cheesesteak” Aftermath:
The cheesesteak itself was so large that it provided the foundation for three separate meals:
- Cheesesteak Nachos: Half the cheesesteak meat, cheese, and sauce were enjoyed over the unexpectedly delicious house-made chips. This was a culinary triumph.
- Cheesesteak Halves (Meals 2 & 3): The remaining cheesesteak was divided into two halves, providing two more meals.
Overall:
Bar Jawn’s cheesesteak, particularly with adding vodka sauce, was a surprisingly delightful experience. The “drunken cheesesteak” (as the reviewer calls it, presumably referring to the vodka sauce) may be “one of the best things” the reviewer has eaten on his entire Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure. While the roll remains a question mark, the overall flavor combination, the generous portion size, and the unexpectedly delicious chips make this a memorable cheesesteak.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (A surprisingly great cheesesteak, with the vodka sauce being a significant highlight. The roll is the only potential weak point.)
Recommendations:
- To Diners: Be adventurous and try the vodka sauce! And don’t underestimate those house-made chips.
- To Bar Jawn: Keep doing what you’re doing with the vodka sauce and the chips!
Address: Bar Jawn 4247 Main St Philadelphia, PA
Review by Jim Pappas, Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure
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