By JA Williams Jr

1. Barry’s Steaks (Roxborough)
Barry’s Steaks has become the benchmark for many cheesesteak lovers in Northwest Philadelphia. Customers consistently praise its flavorful ribeye, fresh rolls, generous portions, and friendly service. The Cooper Sharp cheesesteak is a favorite among regulars, and many reviewers appreciate enjoying a top-tier sandwich without the long waits found elsewhere. One of Philadelphia’s best-kept cheesesteak stories is that owner Barry McGuinn spent 22 years making cheesesteaks at Dalessandro’s, beginning in 1967 under founder Bill Dalessandro, before opening Barry’s in 1989. Many locals believe Barry brought the techniques that helped make Dalessandro’s famous with him, creating a direct connection between two of Roxborough’s legendary steak shops.
barrysteaks.com

2. Mt. Airy Deli (Mt. Airy)
A neighborhood favorite for decades, Mt. Airy Deli is known for oversized sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and creative cheesesteak options. Reviewers praise the generous portions and quality bread while many returning customers appreciate the friendly neighborhood atmosphere. Beyond the traditional cheesesteak, specialty sandwiches like the Salmon Cheesesteak have built a loyal following. Customers consistently describe Mt. Airy Deli as one of the best sandwich shops in Northwest Philadelphia and a destination worth visiting whether you’re ordering a classic steak or one of its signature creations.

3. Gilben’s Bakery (Cedarbrook)
Gilben’s has quietly built a reputation as one of Northwest Philadelphia’s hidden gems. Customers regularly praise its cheesesteaks for their flavorful meat, buttery rolls, and generous portions. While best known as a neighborhood bakery, reviewers frequently recommend stopping in for both sandwiches and desserts. Many loyal customers appreciate the consistent quality and hometown feel that has kept Gilben’s popular for years. Its combination of fresh baked bread and satisfying cheesesteaks makes it a favorite among Cedarbrook and West Oak Lane residents.

4. Chubby’s Steaks (Roxborough)
Located directly across from Dalessandro’s, Chubby’s has earned a passionate following of its own. Reviewers often compliment the fresh bread, plentiful portions, full-service dining room, and the convenience of avoiding long lines. Many locals say they actually prefer Chubby’s seasoning and overall flavor profile. While opinions vary, the restaurant continues to receive praise for its welcoming atmosphere and classic Philadelphia cheesesteak experience, making it one of the city’s most respected cheesesteak destinations.

5. Dalessandro’s Steaks (Roxborough)
Dalessandro’s remains one of Philadelphia’s most iconic cheesesteak destinations. Visitors from around the world line up daily for its finely chopped ribeye and overflowing sandwiches. Reviewers praise the generous portions, fresh ingredients, and decades-long reputation. Although some longtime locals believe other shops have caught up in recent years, Dalessandro’s remains a Philadelphia institution and continues to be one of the city’s most recognized cheesesteak destinations.

6. McNally’s Tavern (Chestnut Hill)
Although famous for the legendary Schmitter rather than a traditional cheesesteak, McNally’s has been a Chestnut Hill institution for generations. Reviewers consistently praise the tavern’s welcoming atmosphere, quality ingredients, and unique signature sandwich. The Schmitter combines steak, cheese, grilled salami, tomatoes, fried onions, and McNally’s special sauce into one unforgettable creation. Its history and originality make it one of Northwest Philadelphia’s most celebrated sandwich destinations.

7. Sunshine Sandwich Shop (Roxborough)
Sunshine Sandwich Shop has become one of Roxborough’s fastest-rising sandwich destinations. Customers praise its fresh ingredients, creative menu, and well-seasoned cheesesteaks. Many reviewers describe the restaurant as an underrated neighborhood gem with consistently friendly service and quality food. As word continues to spread, Sunshine has quickly earned a reputation as one of the area’s best places for both classic and specialty sandwiches.

8. Takka Grill & Shrimpies (West Oak Lane)
Takka Grill & Shrimpies has earned a loyal following by combining classic cheesesteaks with a diverse menu of seafood and grilled favorites. Reviewers appreciate the generous portions, flavorful seasoning, and fresh ingredients. Customers frequently mention that the restaurant consistently delivers satisfying meals at reasonable prices. Its cheesesteaks have quietly become a favorite among West Oak Lane residents looking for quality without leaving the neighborhood.

9. Peter’s Steaks & Hoagies (Germantown)
Peter’s Steaks & Hoagies has served Germantown residents for years with dependable cheesesteaks and hoagies. Customers praise the generous portions, affordable prices, and consistent quality that have helped the shop become a neighborhood staple. Reviewers often mention friendly service and fresh ingredients, making Peter’s a reliable destination for a traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak without the crowds found at more famous locations.

10. Pagano’s Steaks & Hoagies (Cedarbrook)
A Northwest Philadelphia institution, Pagano’s has been serving cheesesteaks and hoagies for generations. Reviewers consistently praise the oversized sandwiches, hearty portions, and neighborhood tradition that have made Pagano’s a local landmark. While opinions on consistency vary, its loyal customer base continues to return for the classic Philadelphia flavors and family-owned atmosphere that have defined the restaurant for decades.