“One whiz wit,” barked a voice from the throng. Here at Pat’s King of Steaks, the air crackles with anticipation. It’s more than just a sandwich shop. It’s a Philadelphia institution. Pat’s King of Steaks sits at the crossroads of South 9th Street, Wharton Street, and East Passyunk Avenue. It’s a place where history, rivalry, and the aroma of sizzling steak collide.
Pat’s King of Steaks wasn’t always the cheesesteak mecca it is today. In 1930, brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri started with a humble hot dog stand. Legend has it that one day, tired of hot dogs, Pat sent Harry to fetch some beef. They grilled the thinly sliced steak with onions, creating a mouthwatering aroma that attracted a cab driver. He requested the “steak sandwich,” and for a mere ten cents, he became part of cheesesteak history. Pat’s King of Steaks was born.
The Olivieri brothers’ creation quickly gained popularity. They ditched the hot dogs and focused on what would become Philadelphia’s signature dish. By 1940, their hard work paid off. They opened a full-fledged restaurant at the same spot as their original stand. For decades, they toiled tirelessly, keeping Pat’s King of Steaks open 24 hours a day. They became local legends.
But the story of Pat’s King of Steaks isn’t just about the birth of the cheesesteak. It’s also about a family feud. Pat’s son Herbert and Harry’s son Frank eventually split the business, leading to legal battles over trademarks and family legacies. The rivalry added another layer to the Pat’s King of Steaks story.
The ordering process at Pat’s is an experience in itself. It’s a quick-fire exchange. You state the quantity, the cheese (Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American), and whether you want onions (“wit” or “witout”). It’s a Philadelphia tradition. The aroma of grilling steak fills the air. The sizzle of the meat on the griddle creates a symphony of sound. The anticipation builds as you watch your cheesesteak being assembled. The soft, crusty roll provides the perfect vessel for the thinly sliced ribeye, melted cheese, and optional onions.
Pat’s King of Steaks is more than just a place to grab a bite. It’s a taste of Philadelphia history. It’s a witness to family dramas. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a simple, yet iconic sandwich. So, next time you’re in Philadelphia, make a pilgrimage to Pat’s King of Steaks. Experience the legend.