Jazmin Li
If you're looking to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak, you're in luck! Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) offers a variety of options for travellers to indulge in this local delicacy. While some claim that the airport food courts do not serve the real thing, others swear by certain spots within the airport that offer delicious and memorable cheesesteak experiences. So, whether you're just passing through or have a few hours to spare, read on to discover the best places to satisfy your cheesesteak cravings at PHL.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport? | Yes, you can get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport. |
| Where can I get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport? | Tony Luke's in Terminal F, Local Tavern, and Geno's Steaks in the B/C connector food court. |
| How much time is needed to get a cheesesteak outside the airport? | 4 hours is plenty of time to get a cheesesteak outside the airport. |
| Are there any other options outside the airport? | Pat's, Geno's, Leo's, and Donkey's Bar are some popular options outside the airport. |
| Are there any other food recommendations at the airport? | Soft pretzels from Philly Soft Pretzels in Terminal A-East or Philly Pretzel Factory in Terminal F. |
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What You'll Learn
Tony Luke's in Terminal F is a popular choice
If you're looking for a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport, Tony Luke's in Terminal F is a popular choice. With over 40 years of experience serving cheesesteaks in South Philadelphia, Tony Luke's is a household name in Philly. Its most popular location is in South Philadelphia, but it also has a presence at the airport, bringing the city's signature sandwich to travellers.
Tony Luke's is often recommended by locals as the best place to get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport. Liz Jeneault, a Philadelphia local and VP of Marketing at Faveable, said, "Tony Luke's is hands down the best place to grab a Philly cheesesteak at the Philadelphia International Airport!" The restaurant has also been dubbed "the real taste of South Philly" and is known for its classic Philly cheesesteaks.
Tony Luke Jr. and his family first started serving food in the 1990s through food trucks and Italian takeout. They eventually found their niche in making the classic Philly cheesesteak, opening their first physical restaurant in 1992. Their second location at the airport offers a junior version of their famous cheesesteak, which is a great option for those who want to indulge without worrying about the calories.
While some may argue that you need to travel to South Philly for the "real thing", Tony Luke's at the airport provides an authentic taste of Philadelphia for those with layovers or connecting flights. In fact, Philadelphia International Airport celebrates Cheesesteak Week annually, recognising the city's iconic sandwich. During this week, various restaurants selling cheesesteaks are featured, and guests can sample different cheesesteaks and enjoy related activities.
So, if you're craving a Philly cheesesteak and find yourself at the Philadelphia Airport, Tony Luke's in Terminal F is definitely worth considering. You can indulge in the city's signature sandwich without even leaving the airport!
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Local Tavern is highly recommended by a Philly visitor
Local Tavern is highly recommended by Greg Freeman, a Philly visitor and author of Southern Editions. He mentions that the restaurant promised to serve him in 15 minutes or less, which was perfect for him as he had a plane change at the Philadelphia airport and wanted to have a quick dinner. Local Tavern also offers a vast selection of beer on tap and has super-friendly service.
While Local Tavern seems like a great option, some other places in the Philadelphia airport serve good cheesesteaks. Tony Luke's, located in Terminal F, is one of the most recommended places to get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport. It is a household name in Philly, and its most popular location is in South Philadelphia. Owing to overwhelming demand, they opened a second location at the airport, bringing the city's signature sandwich to travellers. Liz Jeneault, a Philadelphia local and VP of Marketing at Faveable, says, "Tony Luke’s is hands down the best place to grab a Philly cheesesteak at the Philadelphia International Airport!".
Geno's Steaks, located in the B/C connector food court, is another famous cheesesteak purveyor with a shop at the airport. However, some locals do not highly regard it. If you have more time, you could also try Pat's, which is not too far from the airport.
If you are looking for other Philly foods to try at the airport, you can grab a soft pretzel from Philly Soft Pretzels in Terminal A – East or Philly Pretzel Factory in Terminal F.
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Geno's is a tourist trap, but it has an airport location
If you're looking to try an "official" cheesesteak in Philadelphia, you might not have enough time to leave the airport and come back if you want to go to any of the legitimate spots. However, Genos, a tourist trap with locations on Passyunk near the airport, has a location in the B/C connector food court in the airport. So, if you're looking to try Genos, you can do so without even leaving the airport!
While Genos is considered a tourist trap, it is still possible to get an authentic Philly cheesesteak at the airport. Tony Luke's, located in Terminal F, is a top cheesesteak contender and a household name in Philly. It brings the city's signature sandwich to the airport, so you can indulge in a delicious cheesesteak without even leaving the airport. Locals agree that Tony Luke's is the best place to get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport, and it is known as "the real taste of South Philly."
In addition to Tony Luke's, there are other options for getting a great cheesesteak at the Philadelphia Airport. Local Tavern, for example, ranks highly as having one of the best Philly cheesesteaks at the airport, and they promise to serve you in 15 minutes or less!
If you do have some extra time, you could also easily go to the source by taking a taxi or rideshare to a South Philly cheesesteak place like Donkey's Place in Camden, NJ, or Leo's just south of the airport in Folcroft. These spots are not far at all—within a 30-minute drive from the airport. However, when you factor in the time needed to get through airport security, you might be taking a risk.
So, while Genos is indeed a tourist trap, it is convenient for travellers passing through the Philadelphia Airport who want to try a cheesesteak without leaving the airport. For those with more time, there are also other highly recommended cheesesteak options both within and outside the airport.
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Leo's, just south of the airport, is recommended by locals
If you're looking for a cheesesteak in Philadelphia Airport, locals recommend Tony Luke's in Terminal F. It's a well-known name in Philly, and you can get the city's signature sandwich at the airport.
However, if you have some time to spare and want to venture out, Leos, just south of the airport in Sharon Hill, is also recommended by locals. It's not far from the airport at all—less than a half-hour trip. Of course, you'll need to factor in time to get through airport security on your return, so if you're tight on time, this option may not be the best.
If you're looking for other options near the airport, there's also Donkey's Bar in nearby Camden, New Jersey, which is also within a half-hour trip from the airport. Locals recommend staying away from the more touristy spots like Pat's and Geno's.
If you'd prefer to stay in the airport, Local Tavern is another option that ranks highly for having one of the best Philly cheesesteaks.
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If you have 4 hours, take a taxi to a South Philly cheesesteak place
If you have four hours to spare during your layover in Philadelphia, you can take a taxi to a South Philly cheesesteak place to get an authentic taste of the city. While there are some options available at the airport, they are considered tourist traps and don't offer the same quality as the spots loved by locals.
One of the most popular cheesesteak places in South Philly is Pat's King of Steaks, which is located at the south end of 9th Street. It's often mentioned in travel guides and has impressive shop fronts with neon lights, but it tends to be crowded. If you want to avoid the long lines, there are other great options nearby. One option is Angelo's, which is known for its delicious seeded rolls and tender meat. Another popular choice is Jim's on South Street, which has been serving quality cheesesteaks since 1939. It's easily accessible and located on a busy street with plenty of other restaurants and bars. If you're looking for something different, try Woodrow's, which is a new shop that has already gained a cult following. Their cheesesteak features a unique cherry pepper mayo that blends perfectly with the rich truffle wiz and sweet caramelized onions.
If you're willing to go a bit further, you can find even more highly-regarded cheesesteak spots. Donkey's Bar in nearby Camden, NJ, and Leo's, just south of the airport in Folcroft, are both excellent choices that are still within a 30-minute drive from the airport.
So, if you have four hours, taking a taxi to a South Philly cheesesteak place is definitely worth it to get a true taste of Philadelphia. Remember to keep an eye on the time and allow for potential delays, especially when returning through airport security.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can get a cheesesteak at the Philadelphia airport. Tony Luke's, located in Terminal F, is a popular choice.
Yes, there are a few other options for cheesesteaks in the airport, including Geno's Steaks in the B/C connector food court and Local Tavern. However, some locals argue that the airport options are not the "real thing".
If you have time, you can take a taxi or rideshare to South Philly for a more authentic cheesesteak experience. Popular options include Pat's, Geno's, Jim's Steaks, and John's Roast Pork.
