These Eateries Are Proof That Cheesesteaks Are Better In New Jersey
Sure, Philadelphia has a reputation for having the best cheesesteaks around, but we’d have to disagree. We’ve got several iconic cheesesteak spots and a few others that don’t get the attention they deserve. Try one at any of these restaurants and you’ll never feel the need to cross the Delaware for a sandwich again.
This local favorite is a legend. Television host and professional foodie Anthony Bourdain tried the cheesesteak here and proclaimed it the best in the area, beating out Philly by far. They've been serving the community since 1943 and now have a second location in Medford. Their sandwich is served on a Kaiser Roll (gasp!) but it's sure to make your mouth water. Rumor has it that they're getting a food truck and I can't wait to enjoy these steaks at fairs and festivals!
A Best of Philly award winner, Pennsylvania natives are constantly crossing the bridge for this cheesy steak sandwich. Founded in 1957, food critic Peter Genovese called Chick's a New Jersey food experience you must try before you die. The crowds and customers leaving with bags of cheesesteaks likely agree.
You can't go wrong with the cheesesteaks here. They've won multiple awards including the Trentonian's Reader's Choice Award. Their motto here is "size does matter." Where else can you get 17 inches of meat? Try the famous "Peter Piper" cheesesteak with green peppers, sweet peppers, roasted peppers, jalapeno peppers and hot peppers. If you're feeling adventurous, take the Big Bill's Cheesesteak Challenge - eat a large cheesesteak topped with fried onions, green peppers, mushrooms, extra cheese, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes and hot peppers in 20 minutes or less and it's free. Oh, you'll also need to down a drink and an order of cheese fries.
I first heard of this restaurant about a decade ago when my buddy from college said I absolutely had to try it. We made the drive down from Montclair and it didn't disappoint. They offer a variety of steak subs and their cheesesteaks have been featured on the Food Network.
South Jersey seems to reign supreme when it comes to cheesesteaks but you can grab a great one in Hoboken. Tony Baloney's also has a location in Atlantic City and they were the winners of Guy Fieri's Cheesesteak Challenge. If "Tony Baloney" sounds familiar, it's probably because their taco pizza is a local celebrity that recently gained national fame.
This list is only just the start. Where’s your favorite cheesesteak spot in New Jersey? Asking for a friend… For more delicious food in the Garden State, check out my list of Must Try Sandwiches in New Jersey.
