In the heart of Philadelphia lies a culinary icon that has tantalized taste buds for decades – the Philly cheesesteak. A symphony of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and soft, fluffy bread, this delectable sandwich has become synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love. But how did this savory delight come to be, and what makes it so beloved by locals and visitors alike? Your favorite sub shop is here this month with the answers!

Origins of the Cheesesteak

The story of the Philly cheesesteak traces back to the early 20th century, specifically to a modest hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. Legend has it that in the 1930s, Pat Olivieri, the owner of the stand, decided to try something new with his grilled steak. He slapped some steak slices onto a hoagie roll and added some grilled onions, creating what would later become known as the Philly cheesesteak.

Word of this mouthwatering creation spread quickly, and soon, Olivieri’s stand was drawing crowds eager to sink their teeth into his flavorful concoction. As the popularity of the cheesesteak soared, rival vendors began popping up across Philadelphia, each offering their own spin on the classic recipe.

The Cheese Debate

One of the defining features of the Philly cheesesteak is its gooey, melted cheese. While the original version featured simple sliced American cheese, variations abound, with provolone and Cheez Whiz emerging as popular alternatives. The choice of cheese can spark heated debates among aficionados, with each camp fiercely defending their favorite.

Cultural Icon

Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has transcended its humble origins to become a cultural icon. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and travel guides, cementing its status as a must-try culinary experience for visitors to Philadelphia.

Locals take their cheesesteaks seriously, with many having their go-to spots and secret preferences for toppings and cheese. Ordering a cheesesteak in Philly is an art form in itself, with a unique lexicon of terms used to customize each sandwich to perfection.

Nadeau’s Subs 

What are you craving for dinner? Rest assured, our sub shop has a little bit of everything to satisfy your tastebuds. To discover all of our food options, check out our online menu or stop in and dine with us today!

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