The Pat's vs. Geno's Cheese Steak Debate

Geno's

My sandwich from Pat's

SB's sandwich from Pat's

So when SB and I were on our way from Philly back to the city, we decided to stop by Pat's for a Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. Since we were already in the general area and I have never had an authentic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, we thought the 40 minute detour was absolutely worth it. After discussing with our friends, who are Philly natives, it was decided that Pat's was "The Place" for me to have my first authentic sandwich. I couldn't wait! I had heard so much about this famous sandwich, and we were both starving!

When we got there, there was a huge line that wrapped around the place. So the expectations were definitely set high. I couldn't help but notice that right across the street was another Cheesesteak place: Geno's. (It may have to do with the fact that Geno's is bedazzled with about a million flashing neon lights, with all the colors of the rainbow. You couldn't miss it if you were blind! )The line however, at Geno's didn't seem as long as Pat's so I definitely thought that we were at the right place. You know what people say about restaurants, go where the lines are. SB has been going to Pat's for years and his excitement was palpable. He told me that there has been a rivalry between Pat's and Geno's for years. Over a sandwich - who would have thought! Each place has their loyal patrons and it is clear that the loyalties run deep.

As we were waiting in line I noticed a sign that explained the exact science of ordering your sandwich. (1) What kind of steak (2) "wit or wit-out" means with or with out onions (3) what kind of cheese (4) if you mess up - go back to the end of the line! When it is your turn you MUST be ready to order. I have to be honest - when I read the sign I started sweating a little from the pressure. The nervousness got to me as I looked behind me to see the line growing by the minute. I almost delegated the task to SB.

SB ordered his sandwich "wit" and Whiz and added some ketchup. I had mine "wit," American cheese and peppers. I thought it was pretty good but it wasn't AMAZING for me. I don't know what I was expecting, but I suppose after all the hype I was expecting to be knocked of my seat and that just didn't happen. I frankly thought the steak needed a little more salt. Maybe next time around I need to go with Cheese Whiz. SB loved his though. He finished his and half of mine! Hahaha! I don't know how he stays so in shape! LOL

As we were leaving Pat's, SB says to me "I think we need to get a sandwich from Geno's, too. I have never had it and we need a comparison. We can take it for the road." I literally burst out laughing! He is too funny! Well, we ended up getting another sandwich for "the road." Hahaha!

We ordered this one with the Whiz and onions as well. I think the main difference between the 2 places are that the steak that Geno's uses is cut slightly thicker and is piled neatly on top of each other like cold cuts vs. Pat's that's just thrown together and probably looks more like a traditional Philly Cheesesteak sandwich. I have to say, I liked Geno's a little better! It's salty, juicy, meaty and simply delicious! I just thought the meat was better seasoned. Although, in all fairness I have to add that it's not an exact comparison because the toppings were slightly different. Maybe Cheese Whiz is just the way to go! Maybe it has nothing to do with the meat! I mean if you're going to be bad - might as well be bad all the way! :) So if you guys ever go, go with the Whiz whether you get it at Geno's or Pat's!!! I'm no Cheesesteak virgin anymore!

It has definitely inspired me to come up with my version of the cheesesteak sandwich!

Happy eating!!

J