Few sandwiches have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of Americans quite like the cheesesteak sub. This iconic Philadelphia creation is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol, a point of pride, and a must-try for food lovers everywhere. But how did this delectable combination of steak, cheese, and bread come to be? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering origins of the cheesesteak sub!
The Birth of a Legend: 1930s Philadelphia
The cheesesteak’s story begins in South Philadelphia in the 1930s, a time when the city was bustling with immigrant communities and vibrant street food culture. The tale often credited with the invention starts with Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, who one day decided to cook up some beef from the butcher for his own lunch. He placed the cooked meat into an Italian roll, creating an impromptu sandwich. As the story goes, a passing cab driver, intrigued by the tantalizing aroma, asked for one as well. After tasting it, he suggested that Olivieri should start selling these steak sandwiches instead of hot dogs.
Encouraged by the positive feedback, Pat Olivieri, along with his brother Harry, began selling steak sandwiches from their hot dog stand. This simple but delicious creation quickly became popular among locals, leading to the establishment of Pat’s King of Steaks in 1930, which still operates today and is a pilgrimage site for cheesesteak aficionados.
Adding the Cheese
Initially, the sandwich was just steak and onions on a roll. The introduction of cheese, which seems indispensable today, came later. The credit for this creamy addition often goes to either Pat Olivieri’s nephew, Pat Jr., or a manager at Pat’s named Joe “Cocky Joe” Lorenza, depending on which version of the story you believe. By the 1940s, the addition of melted cheese, particularly Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American, had become a standard part of the sandwich, transforming it into the cheesesteak we know and love.
The Rivalry: Pat’s vs. Geno’s
No story of the cheesesteak would be complete without mentioning the legendary rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. Located directly across the street from each other, these two establishments have been vying for the title of best cheesesteak in Philadelphia for decades. Geno’s was founded in 1966 by Joey Vento, who claimed to have perfected the sandwich with his own twist. This friendly competition has only fueled the cheesesteak’s fame, drawing tourists and locals alike to sample and compare.
Find Delicious Food Options at Veneto Ristorante!
Whether you’re craving a cheesesteak sub or something else, rest assured that we have plenty of delicious food options here at Veneto. To browse all of our menu options, check out our online menu, order online, or stop in for a bite to eat!
