The cheesesteak: a Philly icon, dripping with cheesy goodness and savory steak, a sandwich that has captivated taste buds for generations. What started as a humble creation in the heart of Philadelphia has now spread across the nation, finding its way onto the menus of various fast food chains. But can the quick-service world truly capture the magic of an authentic cheesesteak? The quest for the perfect fast food cheesesteak has led us to embark on a delicious journey, comparing and contrasting offerings from several major chains, ultimately crowning the ultimate champion of the fast food cheesesteak realm.
A Bite of History
Before diving into the fast food fray, let’s take a quick trip back to the beginning. The cheesesteak, as the story goes, was born in the early twentieth century at Pat’s King of Steaks in Philadelphia. Legend says that a taxi driver requested a steak sandwich, and Pat Olivieri, the owner, decided to add some grilled onions. A cheese slice was added later, completing the iconic trifecta: steak, onions, and cheese. The cheesesteak soon became a local favorite, and it wasn’t long before other establishments started offering their versions of this delectable creation.
The Fast Food Phenomenon
The appeal of the cheesesteak is undeniable. Its savory flavor, satisfying texture, and relative simplicity make it a natural fit for the fast food world. As fast food chains expanded their menus to cater to diverse tastes, the cheesesteak became a popular addition, offering a heartier and more flavorful alternative to burgers and fries. The fast food cheesesteak provided convenience and accessibility, bringing a taste of Philadelphia to customers across the country, albeit with varying degrees of success.
Our purpose here is to explore this world of readily available cheesesteaks, evaluating several major chains to determine which delivers the most satisfying and authentic experience. We’ll look at taste, texture, ingredient quality, value for money, and, to some degree, the sandwich’s faithfulness to the classic Philly cheesesteak.
Judging the Contenders: The Criteria
To ensure a fair and thorough assessment, we’ve established a set of criteria to evaluate each fast food cheesesteak. These criteria will serve as our compass, guiding us through the maze of meat and cheese:
- Taste: This encompasses the overall flavor profile. Does the steak have a rich, savory taste? Is the cheese flavorful and complementary? Do the onions (and any other additions) enhance the overall experience? A truly great cheesesteak is a symphony of flavors working in perfect harmony.
- Texture: The texture is just as crucial as the taste. The bread should be soft yet sturdy, able to hold its contents without falling apart. The steak should be tender and juicy, not tough or dry. The cheese should be melted and gooey, providing a satisfyingly smooth contrast to the other ingredients.
- Ingredients Quality: The quality of the ingredients can make or break a cheesesteak. Is the beef freshly prepared or processed? Is the cheese genuine or a processed substitute? Fresh, high-quality ingredients are essential for creating a truly exceptional cheesesteak.
- Value for Money: Price is always a factor, especially when it comes to fast food. Does the cheesesteak offer good value for its cost? Is it worth the price, considering the quality and quantity of the ingredients?
- Authenticity: How closely does the fast food cheesesteak resemble a traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak? While we acknowledge that some chains may aim for a different interpretation, authenticity will still be considered, especially when evaluating chains that claim to offer a “Philly” cheesesteak.
- Accessibility: The widespread availability of the offering matters. This takes into account the general accessibility to each chain across geographical locations.
The Cheesesteak Lineup: A Chain-by-Chain Breakdown
Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter: the reviews. We’ll examine each chain individually, providing a detailed assessment based on our established criteria.
Charleys Philly Steaks: A Dedicated Approach
Charleys Philly Steaks is a chain that specializes in cheesesteaks, a fact that immediately raises expectations. Charleys has built its reputation on attempting to deliver an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
The first bite reveals a reasonably tender, thinly sliced steak, cooked on a flat top grill. The cheese, typically white American or provolone, melts nicely, providing a creamy texture. The onions, when added, are caramelized and sweet, adding a pleasant contrast to the savory steak. The bread is usually a decent hoagie roll, although its quality can vary depending on the location.
In terms of taste, Charleys generally delivers a satisfying cheesesteak. The steak is flavorful, and the cheese complements it well. However, some may find the steak a bit bland, lacking the robust beefy flavor found in some higher-end cheesesteaks.
The texture is generally good, although the steak can sometimes be a bit dry if overcooked. The quality of the ingredients is decent, although it’s clear that Charleys is operating on a budget. For the price, Charleys offers a reasonable value. It’s not the cheapest fast food option, but it provides a solid cheesesteak experience for the cost. In terms of authenticity, Charleys comes closer than most fast food chains, attempting to replicate the classic Philly cheesesteak.
Penn Station East Coast Subs: A Regional Favorite
Penn Station East Coast Subs, a regional chain with a strong presence in the Midwest and Southeast, offers a different take on the cheesesteak. Penn Station focuses on freshly grilled subs, with the cheesesteak being one of their most popular offerings.
The Penn Station cheesesteak features steak, grilled onions, provolone cheese, and, often, mushrooms, bell peppers and banana peppers, served on a toasted roll. The steak is typically thinly sliced and grilled to order.
The taste is where Penn Station really shines. The toasted roll adds a satisfying crunch, while the grilled steak, onions, and peppers create a flavorful and aromatic combination. The provolone cheese adds a sharp, tangy element that complements the other flavors.
The texture is also excellent, with the toasted roll providing a sturdy base for the juicy steak and melted cheese. The quality of the ingredients appears to be relatively high, with fresh vegetables and flavorful steak. Penn Station’s cheesesteak is generally considered a good value for the money, offering a generous portion size and high-quality ingredients. While not a direct replication of the classic Philly cheesesteak, Penn Station’s version is a delicious and satisfying variation.
Jersey Mike’s Subs: The Cold Cut King Enters the Ring
Jersey Mike’s Subs, known primarily for its cold cut sandwiches, also offers a grilled cheesesteak. While cheesesteaks might not be their main focus, their widespread popularity and commitment to quality ingredients make them a worthy contender.
The Jersey Mike’s cheesesteak features steak, grilled onions, peppers (optional), and white American cheese, served on their signature rosemary parmesan bread. The steak is cooked to order, and the sandwich is “Mike’s Way” with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, unless otherwise specified.
The taste is generally good, although it may not be as bold or flavorful as some of the other cheesesteaks on this list. The rosemary parmesan bread adds a unique flavor and texture, although it may not be to everyone’s taste. The quality of the ingredients is generally high, consistent with Jersey Mike’s overall commitment to quality.
The texture is good, with the soft bread and tender steak creating a pleasant mouthfeel. The value is decent, although Jersey Mike’s tends to be slightly more expensive than some other fast food options. In terms of authenticity, Jersey Mike’s doesn’t attempt to replicate the classic Philly cheesesteak. It’s a more modern and customized version, incorporating their signature ingredients and preparation style.
Beyond the Big Names: Regional Gems and Honorable Mentions
While we’ve focused on some of the major national and regional chains, there are countless other fast food establishments that offer cheesesteaks. Local pizza shops, smaller regional chains, and even some burger joints may have their own unique takes on this classic sandwich. These establishments often offer a more authentic or specialized experience, using higher-quality ingredients or unique preparation methods. Exploring these local gems can be a rewarding experience for any cheesesteak enthusiast.
The Verdict: Crowning the Champion (and the Standouts)
After carefully evaluating each contender based on our established criteria, it’s time to declare a winner and highlight some standouts.
For Best Overall, the title goes to Penn Station East Coast Subs. Their combination of flavor, texture, ingredient quality, and value makes them a clear winner. While not a traditional Philly cheesesteak, their unique variation is undeniably delicious and satisfying.
For Most Authentic, the crown goes to Charleys Philly Steaks. While not perfect, Charleys comes closest to replicating the classic Philly cheesesteak experience in a fast food setting. Their focus on using similar ingredients and preparation methods earns them this distinction.
For Best Value, the award goes to a local independent cheesesteak maker. They offer a decent sized steak sandwich at a reasonable price which makes it a good value for money.
Final Thoughts: The State of the Fast Food Cheesesteak
The world of fast food cheesesteaks is a diverse and ever-evolving landscape. While no chain has perfectly replicated the magic of a truly authentic Philly cheesesteak, many offer delicious and satisfying variations that are worth trying. The key is to find a chain that prioritizes quality ingredients, flavorful preparation, and a satisfying overall experience. The quest for the perfect fast food cheesesteak is a personal journey, and the best way to find your favorite is to try them all and see which one reigns supreme in your own taste buds.
Now it’s your turn. What’s your favorite fast food cheesesteak? Let us know in the comments below!
