If you’re in Philly for DIA, here are five cheesesteak spots you definitely won’t want to miss.
Sunday, June 26th through Thursday, June 30th, thousands upon thousands of clinical and pharmaceutical professionals will descend on the Philadelphia Convention Center for DIA, and every one of them will be wondering the exact same thing: who makes the best Philly cheesesteak in the city?
Of course, everyone know’s about Pat’s and Geno’s, but there are plenty of other incredible (and less hectic) options just waiting to be uncovered. And while virtually every cheesesteak within the city limits will be superior to foreign imposters, it’s important to remember that not all of these delicious sandwiches are created equal. Here are five incredible cheesesteaks you definitely shouldn’t miss while you’re in town for DIA 2016.
Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks
First up on our list is Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagies & Cheesesteaks, located right next to the 12th st. entrance of Philadelphia’s world-famous Reading Terminal Market. It also has the added benefit of being literally across the street from the Convention Center. Order “The Franklin” for a unique take on the Philly classic — a well-chopped steak with both American and cream cheese melted throughout.
Location: Reading Terminal Market - A & 8
Price: $11.34
Sonny’s Famous Cheesesteaks
Next up is Sonny’s Famous Cheesesteaks— although it’s not quite as close as Carmen’s, its Old City location (Market St. b/t 2nd and 3rd) is still a pretty easy walk from the conference. Sonny’s is known for its fresh, healthier take on the classic cheesesteak recipe, though that’s a pretty relative statement — they fry the meat in its own juices instead of oil.
Location: 228 Market Street
Price: $9
John’s Roast Pork
Most of the city’s best steaks come from South Philly, and John’s Roast Pork, a small shack tucked away between shopping plazas, is renowned as one of the city’s top spots. What makes John’s so special? A deliciously crusty, seeded roll. Originally opened in 1930, it’s gained a great deal of recognition over the past decade or so, and even received a James Beard Award for America’s Classics.
Location: 14 Snyder Avenue
Price: $9.75
Ishkabibble’s
Opened in 1979, Ishkabibble’s has been serving up delicious cheesesteaks and chicken cheesesteaks since South Street’s hippy days. Hailed by many as the home of the original chicken cheesesteak, Ishkabibble’s is all about giving power back to the people, allowing customers to call the shots when it comes to toppings — unlike some other establishments that will literally kick you out of line if you don’t order correctly (ahem, Pat's).
Location: 337 South Street
Price: $9
Jim’s Steaks
No “best-of Philly cheesesteaks” list would be complete without Jim’s Steaks— while there are now multiple locations, you really have to visit the original on South Street for the full experience. Don’t be intimidated by the line, as it usually stretches out the door and around the corner onto 4th St — the guys behind the grill are pretty good at what they do, so the line moves quickly. Besides, it’s definitely worth the wait.
Location: 400 South Street
Price: $9.75
We hope you found this guide helpful on your quest for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience — and if you’re looking for help improving the efficiency and efficacy of your clinical trial recruitment strategy, be sure to stop by Booth 2250. We’ll explain how cutting-edge digital marketing techniques can significantly reduce enrollment costs while simultaneously generating more qualified patient leads for your investigator sites — and we’ll happily dole out additional cheesesteak advice as needed, no extra charge!
