Hey guys! Craving an authentic Philly Cheesesteak but stuck in Allentown, PA? No worries! You don't have to drive all the way to Philly to get your hands on a delicious, cheese-dripping, steak-filled sandwich. Allentown has some amazing spots that serve up cheesesteaks that can rival the best in the City of Brotherly Love. Let's dive into the best Philly Cheesesteaks in Allentown, PA, and find your new go-to spot!

Why Allentown's Cheesesteaks are a Must-Try

Allentown might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of Philly Cheesesteaks, but trust me, the local restaurants here have truly mastered the art. These aren't just any sandwiches; they're a culinary experience. From the perfectly seasoned steak to the gooey, melted cheese and the soft, chewy rolls, every element comes together to create a symphony of flavors. Plus, you often find unique twists and local ingredients that make Allentown's cheesesteaks stand out. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, trying a Philly Cheesesteak in Allentown is a must. The cheesesteaks here often feature locally sourced ingredients, adding a unique touch that you won't find anywhere else. Local beef, freshly baked rolls from nearby bakeries, and regional cheese varieties contribute to a distinct Allentown flavor profile. Many chefs in Allentown also put their own spin on the classic recipe, experimenting with different seasonings, toppings, and cheese combinations. This results in a diverse range of cheesesteaks that cater to various palates. You can find everything from traditional cheesesteaks with just steak, cheese, and onions to more adventurous creations with mushrooms, peppers, and specialty sauces. One of the best things about enjoying a cheesesteak in Allentown is the relaxed atmosphere. You can find great cheesesteaks in cozy diners, family-owned restaurants, and lively sports bars, each offering a unique vibe. This makes it easy to find a spot that suits your mood, whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. Supporting local Allentown restaurants also means supporting the community. These establishments often contribute to local events, charities, and initiatives, helping to keep Allentown vibrant and thriving. When you choose to eat at a local cheesesteak spot, you're not just enjoying a delicious meal; you're also investing in the local economy and helping to sustain the community. So, next time you're craving a Philly Cheesesteak, skip the drive to Philadelphia and explore the fantastic options right here in Allentown. You might be surprised at what you discover!

Top Cheesesteak Spots in Allentown

Alright, let's get to the good stuff – the places where you can find the best Philly Cheesesteaks in Allentown. I’ve scoured the city and handpicked some top contenders that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Get ready to drool!

1. Johnny's Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks

Johnny's Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks is a local favorite that prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Their cheesesteaks are packed with thinly sliced steak, perfectly melted cheese (choose from provolone, American, or Wiz), and served on a fresh Amoroso roll. Don't forget to add onions – it's the Philly way! Johnny's has been serving up delicious cheesesteaks for over a decade, earning a loyal following of locals who swear by their authentic taste and generous portions. What sets Johnny's apart is their commitment to using only the finest ingredients. The steak is sourced from local farms, ensuring freshness and quality. The cheese is carefully selected to provide the perfect melt and flavor. And the rolls are delivered daily from a traditional Philadelphia bakery, guaranteeing an authentic Philly experience. The atmosphere at Johnny's is casual and welcoming, making it a great spot to grab a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The staff is friendly and always ready to offer recommendations or customize your cheesesteak to your liking. Whether you're a cheesesteak purist or prefer to experiment with toppings, Johnny's has something for everyone. In addition to their classic cheesesteaks, Johnny's also offers a variety of specialty options. Try the mushroom cheesesteak for a savory twist, or the pepper cheesesteak for a bit of heat. They also have a chicken cheesesteak for those who prefer poultry over beef. And don't forget to add a side of their crispy, golden fries or onion rings to complete your meal. Johnny's is not just a place to get a great cheesesteak; it's a place to experience a taste of Philadelphia right here in Allentown. The combination of high-quality ingredients, authentic techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for any cheesesteak lover. So, next time you're craving a Philly Cheesesteak, head over to Johnny's and see for yourself why it's one of the best in town. You won't be disappointed!

2. The Cheesesteak Factory

The Cheesesteak Factory is another strong contender in Allentown's cheesesteak scene. Known for their customizable options, you can build your own cheesesteak exactly how you like it. Choose your cheese, add your favorite toppings (like peppers, mushrooms, or even pizza sauce), and enjoy! The Cheesesteak Factory prides itself on offering a wide array of options to cater to every taste. Whether you're a traditionalist who prefers the classic steak, cheese, and onions, or an adventurous foodie looking to try something new, you'll find plenty to love here. The restaurant uses high-quality steak, thinly sliced and grilled to perfection, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite every time. The cheese selection includes classic options like provolone, American, and Wiz, as well as more unique choices like pepper jack and mozzarella. With so many cheeses to choose from, you can create a truly personalized cheesesteak that perfectly matches your preferences. What really sets The Cheesesteak Factory apart is their extensive toppings menu. You can add everything from sautéed mushrooms and peppers to crispy bacon and tangy pickles. They even offer specialty sauces like pizza sauce, buffalo sauce, and BBQ sauce, allowing you to create a truly unique and unforgettable cheesesteak. The atmosphere at The Cheesesteak Factory is casual and lively, making it a great spot to grab a quick lunch with friends or a fun dinner with family. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help you navigate the menu and create the perfect cheesesteak. They also offer online ordering and delivery, making it easy to enjoy their delicious cheesesteaks from the comfort of your own home. In addition to their build-your-own cheesesteaks, The Cheesesteak Factory also offers a variety of signature creations. Try the Philly Special, which comes loaded with steak, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and your choice of cheese. Or go for the Pizza Cheesesteak, topped with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. No matter what you choose, you're sure to be satisfied with the generous portions and delicious flavors. So, if you're looking for a customizable and delicious cheesesteak experience in Allentown, be sure to check out The Cheesesteak Factory. With their wide array of options and friendly atmosphere, it's a must-visit for any cheesesteak lover.

3. Philly's Italian Water Ice & Ice Cream

Don't let the name fool you – Philly's Italian Water Ice & Ice Cream also serves up some mean cheesesteaks! This place combines the best of both worlds: a refreshing dessert and a savory cheesesteak. Their cheesesteaks are simple but delicious, focusing on quality ingredients and classic flavors. Philly's Italian Water Ice & Ice Cream has been a beloved Allentown institution for years, known for its refreshing water ice, creamy ice cream, and surprisingly delicious cheesesteaks. It's the perfect spot to cool down on a hot summer day with a sweet treat, or to warm up with a hearty cheesesteak during the colder months. What sets Philly's apart is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients in everything they make. Their water ice is made with real fruit, their ice cream is rich and creamy, and their cheesesteaks are packed with tender steak and melted cheese. The cheesesteaks here are simple but satisfying, focusing on classic flavors and perfectly executed preparation. The steak is thinly sliced and grilled to perfection, the cheese is melted to gooey perfection, and the rolls are soft and chewy. You can choose from a variety of cheeses, including provolone, American, and Wiz, and add your favorite toppings like onions, peppers, and mushrooms. The atmosphere at Philly's is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot to bring the kids for a treat or to grab a quick lunch with friends. The staff is friendly and welcoming, always ready to offer recommendations or help you customize your order. In addition to their cheesesteaks, water ice, and ice cream, Philly's also offers a variety of other snacks and treats. Try their soft pretzels, their crispy fries, or their delicious milkshakes. And don't forget to check out their seasonal specials, which often feature unique flavors and creations. Philly's Italian Water Ice & Ice Cream is more than just a place to get a sweet treat or a savory snack; it's a place to create memories and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The combination of delicious food, friendly atmosphere, and affordable prices makes it a must-visit for anyone in the Allentown area. So, next time you're craving a cheesesteak, water ice, or ice cream, head over to Philly's and see for yourself why it's been a local favorite for so many years. You won't be disappointed!

What Makes a Great Philly Cheesesteak?

Okay, so what exactly makes a Philly Cheesesteak great? It's not just about throwing some steak and cheese on a roll. There are a few key elements that elevate a cheesesteak from good to amazing.

The Roll

The roll is the foundation of any great cheesesteak. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without falling apart, but also soft and chewy enough to provide a pleasant texture. An Amoroso roll is the gold standard in Philly, and many of the best cheesesteak spots in Allentown use them or a similar type of roll. The roll should be slightly crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, providing the perfect balance of texture and flavor. A good roll will also be able to absorb the juices from the steak and cheese without becoming soggy, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Many cheesesteak aficionados believe that the roll is just as important as the steak and cheese, and for good reason. A subpar roll can ruin an otherwise perfect cheesesteak, while a great roll can elevate it to new heights. So, when you're judging a cheesesteak, pay close attention to the quality of the roll. Is it fresh? Is it sturdy? Is it chewy? If the answer to all of these questions is yes, then you're off to a good start. In addition to the type of roll, the way it's prepared is also important. Some cheesesteak spots lightly toast their rolls before adding the steak and cheese, which adds a bit of extra crunch and helps to prevent sogginess. Others prefer to leave the roll untoasted, allowing it to absorb more of the juices from the steak and cheese. Ultimately, the best way to prepare the roll is a matter of personal preference. But no matter how it's prepared, the roll should always be fresh, high-quality, and able to stand up to the weight of the ingredients.

The Steak

The steak needs to be thinly sliced and cooked perfectly. It should be tender, juicy, and flavorful. Overcooked or dry steak is a big no-no! The quality of the steak is paramount. Look for places that use high-quality cuts of beef, like ribeye or sirloin. The steak should be thinly sliced against the grain to ensure tenderness and ease of chewing. Many cheesesteak spots use a specialized meat slicer to achieve the perfect thickness. Once the steak is sliced, it needs to be cooked properly. The best cheesesteak cooks know how to get a nice sear on the outside of the steak while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This is often achieved by cooking the steak on a flat-top grill with a bit of oil or butter. The steak should be seasoned simply with salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavors of the beef to shine through. Some cheesesteak spots also add a bit of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor. The key is to avoid over-seasoning the steak, as this can mask the taste of the beef. The steak should be cooked to medium-rare or medium, depending on your preference. Overcooked steak will be dry and tough, while undercooked steak will be chewy and unappetizing. The perfect cheesesteak steak is tender, juicy, and cooked to perfection. In addition to the cooking method, the amount of steak is also important. A good cheesesteak should be packed with steak, but not so much that it's impossible to eat. The steak should be evenly distributed throughout the roll, ensuring that every bite is filled with meaty goodness. So, when you're judging a cheesesteak, pay close attention to the quality and preparation of the steak. Is it tender? Is it juicy? Is it cooked properly? If the answer to all of these questions is yes, then you're one step closer to finding the perfect Philly Cheesesteak.

The Cheese

The cheese is what brings everything together. Provolone, American, or Wiz are the classic choices. Provolone offers a slightly sharp and tangy flavor, American is creamy and mild, and Wiz (aka Cheez Whiz) is a gooey, processed cheese sauce that's a guilty pleasure for many. The cheese should be melted evenly over the steak, creating a luscious, cheesy blanket that coats every bite. Many cheesesteak spots offer a variety of cheese options, allowing you to customize your cheesesteak to your liking. In addition to the classic choices, you might also find options like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cheddar cheese. The key is to choose a cheese that complements the flavor of the steak and adds to the overall cheesesteak experience. The cheese should be melted perfectly, without being too runny or too clumpy. It should be evenly distributed throughout the cheesesteak, ensuring that every bite is cheesy and delicious. Some cheesesteak spots use a specialized cheese melting technique, such as steaming the cheese or using a cheese melting lamp, to achieve the perfect melt. The amount of cheese is also important. A good cheesesteak should have plenty of cheese, but not so much that it overwhelms the other ingredients. The cheese should be balanced with the steak and the roll, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. So, when you're judging a cheesesteak, pay close attention to the quality and preparation of the cheese. Is it melted properly? Is it flavorful? Is there enough of it? If the answer to all of these questions is yes, then you're well on your way to finding the perfect Philly Cheesesteak.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! Your guide to finding the best Philly Cheesesteaks in Allentown, PA. Don't be afraid to explore these spots and try out their unique takes on this classic sandwich. And remember, the best cheesesteak is the one that tastes best to you! Happy eating, guys!