I can’t believe not a single person has recc’d John’s Roast Pork. I’ve lived here my whole life and it’s legit the most consistently flavorful and massive steak I’ve ever had. If you go with two people, one gets a steak the other gets roast pork with prov and greens and you split both. They have among the best of each kind of sandwich, and I think this really is the only thing that could give one shop any kind of “edge” over another. Dalessandros is good but I grew up around there and it really isn’t the same since they changed ownership. It’s not bad, and it’s a nice experience, but I don’t think it’s worth the hike if you’re not going out that way anyway. I think Chubby’s might be better at this point but I would have considered that insane to say 20 years ago. Steve’s actual meat is the best quality IMO but I think John’s Roast Pork is better; it’s a little more incapacitating. Also worth trying: literally any pizzeria, corner store, or lunch truck in the city! If you’re fine with American cheese, it’s generally all the same shit and you won’t get upcharged! The trucks will even add ketchup for you. Also, worth trying from them, a bacon egg and cheese on a long roll. (Yes you absolutely want “salt pepper ketchup!”) Rocco’s Italian Sausage by either South Philly Home Depot sells a weird cheesesteak that has mozzarella but is damn good if you’re in the mood for something different. I reccomend getting it with peppers. Joe’s in NE or Fishtown is good, and as someone else said, they DO have good milkshakes. Jims is also good, Unquestionably the best “tourist” steak, but also a good steak in its own right. Do NOT get Pats and Genos unless it’s 3am and you are VERY drunk, and have literally no other option. Even then you might not be drunk enough to chew through the piece of adamantine gristle that there is a 1/3 chance you will encounter. Bottom line, p much any of these places will give you a good version of this (let’s be honest) kinda abominable, but incredibly delicious sandwich. Go to whatever’s closest! It’s more authentic the more convenient it is! And if you get provolone, let it sit in the wrapper for five minutes cause it takes longer to melt!