The Best Cheesesteak in Every State — Eat This Not That

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By Ghuman

Introduction

Cheesesteaks are a classic American sandwich that has been around for decades. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Philly cheesesteak or you’re looking for something a little different, there’s a cheesesteak for everyone. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best cheesesteak in every state, so you can find the perfect sandwich no matter where you are. From classic Philly-style to unique takes on the classic, you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy your cheesesteak cravings. So, let’s get started!

The Best Cheesesteak in Every State — Eat This Not That

Cheesesteaks are a classic American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia. The combination of steak, cheese, and bread is a delicious treat that can be found all over the country. But which state has the best cheesesteak? We’ve rounded up the best cheesesteak in every state, so you can find the perfect sandwich no matter where you are.

Alabama: Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q

Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama is known for its award-winning barbecue, but they also serve up a mean cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a classic cheesesteak that will have you coming back for more.

Alaska: The Cheesesteak Factory

The Cheesesteak Factory in Anchorage, Alaska is the place to go for a classic Philly-style cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a delicious sandwich that will have you coming back for more.

Arizona: Philly’s Cheesesteaks & More

Philly’s Cheesesteaks & More in Phoenix, Arizona is the place to go for a classic Philly-style cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a delicious sandwich that will have you coming back for more.

Arkansas: The Cheesesteak Shop

The Cheesesteak Shop in Little Rock, Arkansas is the place to go for a classic Philly-style cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a delicious sandwich that will have you coming back for more.

California: The Cheesesteak Factory

The Cheesesteak Factory in Los Angeles, California is the place to go for a classic Philly-style cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a delicious sandwich that will have you coming back for more.

Colorado: Philly’s Cheesesteaks & More

Philly’s Cheesesteaks & More in Denver, Colorado is the place to go for a classic Philly-style cheesesteak. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a toasted hoagie roll. It’s a delicious sandwich that will have you coming back for more.

Conclusion

No matter where you are in the United States, you can find a delicious cheesesteak. From Alabama to California, these restaurants serve up the best cheesesteaks in the country. So the next time you’re in the mood for a classic sandwich, be sure to check out one of these restaurants for the best cheesesteak in your state.

There are few things more polarizing than sandwiches, particularly ones made famous by a city or region like cheesesteaks. The basic recipe is a crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside hoagie roll–ideally made that morning–chopped steak bits cooked on a griddle with onions and either American, provolone, or Whiz-style cheese. Adding peppers, mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise to a cheesesteak can spark some serious opinions and debate!

The upside for sandwich lovers is that every state in the U.S. now offers a version of the cheesesteak—and a lot of them are really amazing. These picks are based on rave reviews and personal experience. What they all have in common is the freshest ingredients, mostly local ownership, great vibes, and a loyal fan base. While all of these spots might not follow the traditional recipe, you won’t be disappointed (or hungry) after picking one up.

With those factors in mind, here is the definitive list of the best cheesesteaks, or the closest thing available, that you’ll find in every state. Plus, don’t miss 8 Worst Fast-Food Burgers to Stay Away From Right Now.

B&W Philly Steaks/Facebook

While you probably don’t think of ‘Bama as cheesesteak country, B&W offers a solid option with a Philly style cheesesteak with peppers, onions, mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, and mayo if you’re craving a fairly traditional version. Or, since you’re down South, try the BBQ version with BBQ sauce and shredded cheese.

Carl A./Yelp

Locals rave that this East Coast-style sandwich shop‘s “Bread-meat-cheese-topping ratio is always spot on,” and they offer multiple takes on the classic, including traditional style with just onions and cheese and unique takes with toppings like sundried tomatoes and avocado.

Forefathers Cheesesteaks/Facebook

Not only are the cheesesteaks at Forefathers, “Delicious as always,” but according to one reviewer, “Service was quick and the gentleman taking the order was nice. Well worth the money spent!” This local favorite offers a full selection of sandwiches, and has three locations to help you get your fix.

Rocky’s on Country Club LLC/Facebook

Opened by native Philadelphians, Rocky’s inspired raves for their authentic-style cheesesteaks just outside of Little Rock. After closing and reopening in a new location, they’re back to making their delicious mix of cheese, onions, and steak served with a side of marinara.

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The Great Western Steak & Hoagie Co/Facebook

This fun and edgy sub shop doesn’t look like much, but they serve up some of the best subs with steak west of the Rockies. They’ve got the classic version, but many love upgrading with mushrooms, peppers, and a little tomato sauce.

Heather F./Yelp

According to 303 Magazine, Denver Ted’s Cheesesteaks is the cheesesteak spot recommended by locals and transplants from Philly. The casual restaurant offers a full bar and open kitchen, so you can watch all the cheese melting onto your sandwich. You can build your own, or try one of the shop’s specialty sandwiches, such as the Peyton, which adds pepperoni, marinara, and provolone.

Ray and Mike’s Deli

People drive across the tiny state for their cheesesteak fix at this tiny takeout deli that offers steak and cheese—with the works or without—or you can try the chicken version, we won’t tell.

RELATED: The Best Deli In Every State

James P./Yelp

Close enough to Philly and Jersey to know what a solid cheesesteak is supposed to be all about, Yatz’s has a “Very tasty cheesesteak and the people were great. I liked the thin roll because it still had good bread to crust ratio,” wrote Jim “The Cheesesteak Guy” on Google.

Lawrence P./Yelp

Established in 1958, this no-frills shop was opened by a baker from Philadelphia, “Sonny”, Sam Nigro, and has been featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives twice! You’ll find every variety of cheesesteak, a lot of Philly flavor, but be sure to bring cash—plastic is no good here.

Mr. G’s Steakout

With cheesesteak expertise back to the shops opening in 1981, this specialty sandwich shop promises a soulful take on the classic sammie. Their deluxe cheesesteak is packed with 100% Premium USDA Approved beef rib-eye steak and chopped together with onions. You can add mushrooms, and hot or sweet banana peppers if that’s your thing.

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Amanda K./Yelp

Yes, even on the Hawaiian islands you can find a decent cheesesteak. This butcher shop offers deli sandwiches and sausages, and their USDA Prime Ribeye cheesesteak, topped with provolone, house whiz, and onions is worth the visit.

The Cheesesteak Guy/Facebook

This food truck offers a classic Philly style cheesesteak with “real whiz” around the Boise and Meridian areas. They pride themselves on shipping in authentic Amoroso rolls from Philly, so you know these sandwiches are serious. Follow their Facebook page to find out where they’re parked!

Mark D./Yelp

Head over to the Lincoln Square neighborhood in Chicago to Monti’s if you’re craving a classic Philly cheesesteak that combines the best of both cities with rolls from Amoroso in Philly and rib-eye from the Midwest.

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Hoagies and Hops

This brew-friendly spot ships in their rolls from Liscio’s in South Jersey serves killer cheesesteaks and hoagies. You’ll find cheesesteaks and a selection of Pennsylvania-inspired sandwiches – like the Zern’s, with sliced ring bologna and house Red beet pickled egg—and specials every night of the week. And if you want something a smidge healthier, try their cheesesteak inside a whole deli pickle!

PepperJax Grill/Facebook

This small Midwestern “custom made Philly cheesesteak” chain offers solid cheesesteaks, plus bowls and loaded fries at family-friendly prices. With steak, chicken pork—and even veggie options—there’s something for everyone.

Faafouina T./Yelp

Look, Kansas is pretty far from cheesesteak country, but cheesesteaks are for everyone and locals love this little shop for their cheesesteaks and Philly fries. “Philly sub was absolutely fantastic! And the flavors! So cheesy and delicious!” raved one reviewer on Google.

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Jason H./Yelp

Philly-born owner Barry Washington overcame a lot of obstacles to open up his sandwich shop, and it shows in the “craft and care” put into every order, according to locals.

Manami V./Yelp

To be honest, I’d probably pick a muffaletta or po’ boy while in Louisiana, but if you’re hankering for a cheesesteak in the bayou, locals swear by this local spot that creates “made to order Phillys with the flavor of the South.”

Bennett’s Sandwich Shop/Facebook

This New England-based chain is proud of its “famous” steak and cheese, and with good reason. It’s one of the best around, featuring all-natural shaved sirloin, onions, and provolone cheese. Spicy fans should try the “wicked” version made with spicy Sriracha and hots.

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South Street Steaks

This restaurant keeps it simple, pick your size (small or large), pick your meat (steak or chicken), and choose your cheese (American, provolone, or whiz) and the sandwich makers will hook you up. You can also try the “misteak challenge” and attempt to polish off five pounds of cheesesteak in return for a gift card and a photo on the Wall of Shame.

MK B./Yelp

Known locally as simply Rondo’s, this old school spot hasn’t been updated or changed in decades because when you make big, tasty subs for under $7, you don’t need to fix what isn’t broken. The cheesesteak is hearty, cheesy, and served on perfect crunchy on the outside soft on the inside bread—you really can’t ask for more.

Karim J./Yelp

The midwest might not be known for cheesesteaks, but they know a good hoagie and this takeout spot has a classic cheesesteak with American or provolone cheese. The lunch meat special with Polish ham is also worth every delicious bite.

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Frank From Philly Cheesesteak
Frank From Philly & Andrea Pizza/Facebook

This takeout joint serves several types of cheesesteaks and a few other sandwiches in the same wheelhouse, and if your. hunger pangs are screaming, you can get a New York-style slice on the side.

Rachel L./Yelp

“Friendly staff, great food. Best Philly cheesesteak in South hands down,” is how one local describes this humble counter-service spot on Google. You can also pick up a Polish sausage, and many reviewers note that the portions are not small.

PhillyTime/Facebook

This sandwich shop also ships in the famous Amoroso rolls that are a key component to an authentic Philly-style cheesesteak, and the menu starts with a naked cheesesteak (literally just steak and cheese) and ends with creative options like Teriyaki and blackened styles.

RELATED: The Best Cheesecake in Every State

Pickle Barrel – Billings Station/Facebook

This locally loved chain (one reviewer said “the cheesesteak is the best sandwich on the planet”) has a mile-long menu of specialty sandwiches, including some out West-style cheesesteaks—additions include Jack cheese and BBQ sauce.

Randy R./Yelp

While Nebraska is probably known for big slabs of steak, this simple grill is serving up some of the best cheesesteaks in the Midwest. They started out selling their well-seasoned beef and chicken sandwiches at the state fair and opened this location in 2010. You can pick from one of their sauces—like atomic, bbq and Thai—to customize your hoagie.

POP’S Philly Steaks/Facebook

You can score about anything you want in Las Vegas, and Philly-style cheesesteaks are no exception. This Vegas institution serves a variety of Philly cheesesteaks including simple varieties with whiz, American, or provolone, and creative creations featuring bacon and Swiss and pepperoni pizza toppings. You can also order an Italian ice!

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Bennett’s Sandwich Shop/Facebook

This New England-based chain serves one of the best traditional hoagies around, featuring all-natural shaved sirloin, onions, and provolone cheese. Try the Buffalo chicken-style if you’re craving something different.

Yuqing T./Yelp

With the close proximity to Philly, New Jersey has some of the best (some say better than Philly) cheesesteaks in the country. It’s hard to choose a favorite, but we’re going with Anthony Bourdain on this one. Order at the register at Donkey’s Place and sit at the bar waiting for your slab chopped beef on a poppy seed roll topped with a big handful of onions.

Russ M./Yelp

This modest sub shop serves New York-style bagels and hoagies all the way out in New Mexico, and if locals are to be believed, you’ll get a solid cheesesteak served with a smile. “Bread was nice and soft too. Best cheesesteak I have had in New Mexico,” wrote one on Google.

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Fedoroff’s Roast Pork/Facebook

Federoff’s has won praise and accolades for years for having the best cheesesteak in New York, and has been featured on numerous food television shows. The counter-service spot serves up loaded hoagies piled with steak and cheese perfectly mixed. Don’t sleep on the roast pork sandwich either.

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The Stanley/Facebook

A great cheesesteak in North Carolina takes a little work, but it’s worth it. The Stanley’s James Beard-nominated Chef Paul Verica debuted a cheesesteak pop-up last year and they’ve been selling out ever since. You can get the Philly native’s take on the sandwich, but only if they have the right bread delivered. Follow their social media, or call to find out when you can get your next fix.

Magic H./Yelp

This warm, jovial sub shop offers all your hoagie faves, like a classic Italian or a turkey/bacon/swiss, but their loaded, well-priced Philly style cheesesteak is why we’re visiting—that and the friendly staff.

Fares A./Yelp

Fact: Some of the best quick meals in the U.S. are available at convenience stores. The cheesesteak at M&S is no exception. What you lose in ambiance you get in a fantastic sandwich packed high with hickory-smoked beef bacon, cheese, mayo, peppers, mushrooms, and seasoned, grilled onions.

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Landis T./Yelp

Self-described as “a slice of Philadelphia,” this family-owned restaurant serves up cheesesteaks, Italian hoagies, East Coast pizza, and more. They bake their Italian bread fresh in-house, and ship in hot cherry peppers from back East, so you know they’re serious about their sandwiches.

Grant’s Philly Cheesesteaks/Yelp

With two locations, these takeout spots are known for the most authentic cheesesteaks in town. They ship buns and peppers in from Philadelphia, and most always have Whiz on hand.

Alana D./Yelp

Honestly, if you’re heading to Philly, you owe it to yourself to do a cheesesteak crawl with a few friends. But after you’ve stood on the street at Pat’s or Genos, head to this spot, made famous in the film Creed (Tessa Thompson shows Michael B. Jordan exactly how to eat the city’s favorite sandwich). Get a huge sirloin shave steak on an Italian roll and congratulate yourself for making good choices.

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Keri K./Yelp

This easy-going spot has a little something for everyone—hoagies, pizza—but it’s the steak subs that stand out. With fifteen topping combos, from steak and onion to mushroom, chili and onions, you’re sure to find just the right gut-busting sandwich. Don’t skip the crispy onion rings!

George M. Yelp

Piled sky high with shaved steak, locals rave about the sandwiches at Geo’s Philly Steak Grill. “The cheesesteaks here are absolutely amazing! French fries are always cooked to perfection,” wrote one.

Douglas R./Yelp

This spot does a few things, and they do them well, according to local reviewers. “Can’t recommend this place enough! Cheesesteak is excellent, tons of flavor and the perfect amount of meat,” wrote one.

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Lindy B./Yelp

This casual gyro spot is a hidden gem, according to locals. You can get your Greek specialties, but the menu also boasts a nine-inch Philly with tender beef sliced thin, grilled with onions and peppers, and topped with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.

R&B’s Steak and Fries

While Texas is a long way from Philly, we’re not surprised at the quality of the cheesesteaks at this food truck. The cheesesteaks are served with perfectly grilled Texas ribeye on a fresh Amoroso roll topped with deliciously melted cheese.

DP Cheesesteaks St. George/Facebook

A local counter chain with a modern vibe, this cheesesteak restaurant offers a deep menu of creative options, such as the cream cheese cheesesteak and the cravable Philly blue, which is a classic style sandwich with bleu cheese sauce and gorgonzola crumbles.

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Al’s French Frys

Foodies on review sites and Reddit swear by this cool retro spot serving burgers, fries, and most importantly, a killer-loaded cheesesteak. Piled high with pepper, onions, and mushrooms – add jalapenos for some heat – this sandwich is so satisfying.

 

Alexandra R./Yelp

Philly natives will get the reference in this cheesesteak shop’s name, and everyone else will when they head into this Eagles-themed space. “I haven’t found a good cheesesteak since moving here two years ago, the wait is finally over,” wrote one local foodie.

Tres’ House of Cheesesteaks

Chef and owner Tremain Battle brought a taste of Philly out West with a food truck that serves an old-school cheesesteak, creative takes like the pizza steak, as well as burgers and loaded fries.

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philly cheesesteak
Shutterstock

Since 1993, this homey spot has created cheesesteaks for using delicious Amoroso bread from Philadelphia and growing fresh vegetables in their onsite garden.

Cheesesteak Rebellion/Facebook

If you’re in Milwaukee, you’re pretty much guaranteed a great, meaty sandwich. Cheesesteak Rebellion lives up to its name with really unique takes on the Philly classic like the Cajun surf and turf cheesesteak and more. Bring quarters, this place is packed with vintage arcade games!

Merlin O./Yelp

This Tripadvisor-loved American restaurant serves up a classic style cheesesteak with a full ¼ of shaved steak, mixed with American cheese and grilled onions. Like the restaurant’s Friday-only lobster roll, it’s a solid, satisfying sandwich.

Plus, don’t miss The Best Seafood Restaurant in Every State.



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