Jaxx Steaks Taproom: A Solid Cheesesteak in South Philly

Jaxx Steaks Taproom (242 Wharton St, Philadelphia, PA) delivers a delicious cheesesteak that hits all the right notes, making it a worthwhile stop on any Philadelphia cheesesteak adventure. This review, part of the larger Philadelphia Cheesesteak Adventure project, finds Jaxx offering a solid, well-rounded sandwich, though perhaps lacking a single, defining characteristic to elevate it to legendary status.


The Components of a Good Cheesesteak: Jaxx Steaks Taproom gets the fundamentals right:

  • The Roll: The review doesn’t explicitly rave about the roll, but the absence of criticism suggests it’s a perfectly acceptable and likely good-quality foundation for the cheesesteak.
  • The Meat: The meat is “delicious,” indicating quality and proper preparation.
  • The Cheese: The cheese is also described as “very good.”
  • Harmony: “Everybody played nice together,” meaning the ingredients are well-proportioned and work harmoniously, creating a balanced and enjoyable cheesesteak.
  • The Onions: The onions were cooked properly.

Beyond the Sandwich: The Taproom Experience: Jaxx Steaks Taproom offers more than just a cheesesteak:

  • Inside Seating: A comfortable indoor dining area.
  • Beer Selection: As a taproom, Jaxx provides a selection of beers to accompany your cheesesteak.
  • Amenities: The presence of TVs and bathrooms adds to the convenience and comfort of the experience.
  • Friendly Service: “nice people” suggests a welcoming atmosphere.

While the cheesesteak is undeniably good, it lacks a single standout feature – a “star” – to make it truly memorable. This isn’t necessarily a negative; it simply means the cheesesteak is a solid, well-executed example of the classic Philly style without a particular gimmick or unique element that sets it apart from the (very) crowded field of competitors.

Overall:

Jaxx Steaks Taproom offers a delicious, well-made cheesesteak in a comfortable setting. It’s a reliable choice for a satisfying cheesesteak experience, particularly if you’re in the area (South Philly, near Wharton St). While it might not have a single, instantly recognizable “signature” element, its overall quality and balance make it a worthy contender.

Rating: (4 out of 5 stars)

Recommendations:

  • To Diners: If you’re looking for a well-executed, classic Philly cheesesteak in a comfortable setting, Jaxx Steaks Taproom is a good option.
  • To Jaxx: Consider developing a signature element – a unique topping, a special sauce, a particular way of preparing the meat – to help the cheesesteak stand out even further.

Address:

Jaxx Steaks Taproom 242 Wharton St Philadelphia, PA