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The Best Cheesesteaks in Center City Philadelphia

February 18, 2025 By
PHILADELPHIA, PA—When it comes to Philly cheesesteaks, Center City Philadelphia offers a delicious mix of tradition and innovation right in the city’s heart. Whether you’re a local grabbing lunch or a visitor exploring the historic streets, these cheesesteak shops deliver the iconic sandwich with flair and authenticity.
 
Oh Brother Philly Cheesesteaks
 
From Old City gems to Rittenhouse Square standouts, here’s our guide to the best cheesesteaks in Center City, Philadelphia, as of February 2025. Let’s dig into the top cheesesteak restaurants that define downtown Philly’s food scene.

1. Cleavers

Modern Cheesesteaks in Rittenhouse
  • Location: 108 S 18th St, Rittenhouse Square
  • Why It’s Top: Cleavers redefines the Philly cheesesteak with a modern twist, offering customizable options for every palate. Their massive ribeye cheesesteaks are juicy, piled high, and served on a sturdy baguette-style roll that stands up to the hefty fillings. Choose American, Whiz, or provolone cheese and add extras like Sriracha aioli or portobello mushrooms. A self-serve beer wall with 20 craft taps seals the deal with a trendy vibe.
  • Standout Order: The classic cheesesteak with American cheese and fried onions—perfectly shareable if you’re not too hungry.
  • Why Center City Loves It: This polished yet approachable spot near Rittenhouse Square blends cheesesteak tradition with innovation, making it a hit for locals and tourists alike.

2. Sonny’s Famous Steaks

Old City’s No-Nonsense Cheesesteak Classic
  • Location: 228 Market St, Old City
  • Why It’s Top: A staple in historic Old City, Sonny’s Famous Steaks sits blocks from the Liberty Bell and has earned praise from GQ and The Inquirer for its straightforward approach. Thinly sliced ribeye is griddled fresh and tucked into a soft but crusty roll—a textbook Philly classic. Fast service and shorter lines than South Philly’s tourist traps make it a go-to.
  • Standout Order: The “Whiz Wit” (Cheez Whiz and onions)—a gold-standard cheesesteak that delivers every time.
  • Why Center City Loves It: Its prime Old City location offers a legit Philly cheesesteak experience without the Pat’s-Geno’s crowds.

3. Oh Brother Philly

Fresh Flavors in the Cheesesteak Game
  • Location: 206 Market St, Old City
  • Why It’s Top: Oh Brother Philly is a newer contender winning over Center City foodies with top-notch ingredients. Their cheesesteaks hit all the right notes, made with 100% ribeye, finely chopped, and paired with a seeded roll for a subtle crunch. The cheese (American or Whiz) melts evenly—no sloppy messes here. Bonus points for their burgers and shakes.
  • Standout Order: The classic cheesesteak with American cheese and caramelized onions—simple yet refined.
  • Why Center City Loves It: This local-owned spot in Old City feels like a neighborhood joint with a fresh, bold take on the classic.

4. Steve’s Prince of Steaks (Center City Location)

A Taste of Philly Tradition Downtown
  • Location: 41 S 16th St, between Sansom and Chestnut
  • Why It’s Top: Steve’s Prince of Steaks, a Philly institution from the Northeast, brings its signature style to Center City. Known for thick-sliced (not chopped) ribeye grilled to perfection, their cheesesteaks come on a custom roll from a secret local bakery. The cheese—often American or Whiz—melts into the meat for a rich, cohesive bite.
  • Standout Order: Cheesesteak with American cheese and fried onions—straightforward and executed flawlessly.
  • Why Center City Loves It: It’s a hearty dose of Philly cheesesteak heritage with plenty of seating for a quick downtown lunch.

5. By George! Pizza Pasta & Cheesesteaks

A Cheesesteak Gem in Reading Terminal
  • Location: 1200 Market St, Market East (inside Reading Terminal Market)
  • Why It’s Top: Hidden inside the iconic Reading Terminal Market, By George! Serves up no-frills cheesesteaks that hold their own. Thinly sliced steak, choice of cheese (Whiz, American, or provolone), and a fresh roll make for a solid sandwich. The bustling market atmosphere adds to its charm.
  • Standout Order: Cheesesteak with provolone and onions—a classic done right in a foodie haven.
  • Why Center City Loves It: It’s a quick, reliable option in one of Philly’s most beloved food hubs, perfect for a Center City bite on the go.

Why These Are the Best Cheesesteaks in Center City Philadelphia

These cheesesteak shops shine because they cater to Center City’s diverse crowd—office workers, tourists, and residents—while honoring Philly’s cheesesteak soul: quality meat, melty cheese, and a killer roll. Cleavers and Oh Brother Philly bring modern flair, Sonny’s and Steve’s stick to old-school roots, and By George! Thrives in the eclectic energy of Reading Terminal Market. Together, they offer variety and convenience—no South Philly trek required.
 
Craving the best Philly cheesesteak in Center City Philadelphia? These spots have you covered. Whether near Rittenhouse, Old City, or Market East, you’re just steps from a sandwich worth savoring. Got a favorite Center City cheesesteak spot? Drop it in the comments—we’re always up for a tasty debate!
Filed Under: Philadelphia Dining