Pat's Steaks - Philly's Original Cheesesteak Creators

There is a spot in Philadelphia that many folks consider the true beginning of something quite special, a sandwich that has become a legend. This place, Pat's King of Steaks, holds a unique position, actually credited with creating the very first steak sandwich and then, a bit later, the cheesesteak we all know. For nearly a century, this family-run establishment has been serving up its signature offering, keeping a long tradition going strong for generations of visitors and locals alike, you know.

It’s a place that has stayed put, very much rooted in its original spot at 9th and Wharton in Philadelphia. This isn't some big chain; it's the one and only location, a real landmark that has seen so many years pass by. The people who run it, the Olivieri family, have been there for almost 90 years, making sure that what you get today is pretty much the same as what folks enjoyed way back when. It's that kind of dedication that makes a spot truly special, in a way.

So, when you find yourself in that part of town, maybe just passing through the neighborhood, stopping by Pat's is something many people consider a must-do. It’s a chance to experience a piece of culinary history, to taste an original, a classic cheesesteak made the way it was meant to be. There’s a saying they have there at Pat's, a simple idea that seems to sum up their whole approach to what they do, basically.

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Table of Contents

• The Story of a Culinary First
• What Makes Pat's Steaks So Special?
• A Family's Enduring Legacy
• How Has Pat's Steaks Stayed True to Its Roots?
• Finding the Famous Spot
• Is There More to Pat's Steaks Than Just the Sandwich?
• The Pat's Steaks Experience
• Why Do People Keep Coming Back to Pat's Steaks?

The Story of a Culinary First

Back in 1930, a fellow named Pat Olivieri started a small place, offering hot dogs and other simple sandwiches to people passing by. It was a humble beginning, certainly, but something truly big was about to happen right there. One day, Pat had an idea that changed everything. He decided to put some very thin slices of steak onto a long roll, what many call a hoagie roll. This simple act, you know, created the steak sandwich, a new kind of food that quickly caught on with the local crowd. It was, in some respects, a moment of real inspiration.

The story goes that one of his taxi driver customers suggested adding some cheese to the steak sandwich. This addition, apparently, gave birth to the cheesesteak, a food item that would go on to gain fame far beyond the streets of Philadelphia. This single creation, very much a product of that time and place, set Pat's King of Steaks on a path to becoming a recognized name. It’s a bit of history you can taste, actually, when you enjoy one of their sandwiches.

For over 90 years, this spot has been known for being the actual originator and inventor of these sandwiches. It’s not just a claim; it’s a part of the establishment’s story, a piece of what makes it what it is. The place has truly become a Philadelphia institution, a spot where the very idea of a cheesesteak came to life. People come from all over just to experience this piece of culinary past, to see where it all began, as a matter of fact.

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What Makes Pat's Steaks So Special?

So, what exactly sets Pat's Steaks apart from other places that offer similar sandwiches? Well, part of it is that deep connection to its beginnings. This is the place where the whole concept of a steak sandwich and then the cheesesteak was brought into being. It’s not just a restaurant; it's a historical marker, a living museum of a food item that has become famous the world over. The feeling of eating a sandwich from the spot where it was invented carries a certain weight, you know, a sense of being part of something bigger.

The commitment to staying true to the original methods also plays a big part. For decades, the Olivieri family has kept the recipes and the way of doing things consistent. This means that the classic cheesesteak you get today is, in essence, the same one that people enjoyed many years ago. This kind of consistency builds a loyal following, because people know what to expect, and they know it will be good. It’s a very comforting thought, really, to find such steadfast quality.

Then there’s the simple fact of its longevity. Being in business for 95 years isn't just about selling sandwiches; it’s about weathering changes, staying relevant, and continuing to draw people in. The saying they have at Pat’s, "We're not the best because we are the oldest, We're the oldest because we're still the best," pretty much sums up their philosophy. It speaks to a belief that their long presence is a direct result of the quality they continue to offer, a bit like a badge of honor, actually.

A Family's Enduring Legacy

The story of Pat's Steaks is very much tied to the Olivieri family. They have owned and operated this place for a very long time, over 80 years, to be precise. This kind of continuous family ownership is quite rare these days, and it speaks volumes about their dedication to the business and to the product they create. It’s not just a job for them; it’s a family tradition, a heritage that has been passed down through the generations, you know.

This long-term family involvement means there's a personal touch to everything that happens at Pat's. From the way the food is prepared to the way customers are served, there's a sense of care that comes from having a deep connection to the establishment. It’s not just about making money; it’s about upholding a name and a reputation that has been built over decades. This personal commitment is, in some respects, what gives the place its unique character.

The fact that they have maintained their single location at 9th and Wharton, rather than expanding into multiple sites, also reinforces this sense of family legacy. It keeps the focus on that one special spot where it all began, preserving the original atmosphere and experience. This choice reflects a desire to keep things authentic, to maintain the essence of what Pat's is all about, rather than spreading themselves thin. It’s a very deliberate choice, basically, that shows their commitment.

How Has Pat's Steaks Stayed True to Its Roots?

Staying true to its beginnings is a big part of the Pat's Steaks story. One way they do this is by sticking to the original location. While many businesses might try to open up in different cities or neighborhoods, Pat's has kept its operations centered at 9th and Wharton in Philadelphia. This single spot, you know, helps maintain the historical feel and the connection to where the cheesesteak first came into being. It’s a tangible link to the past.

The commitment to the original recipes and methods is another way they preserve their roots. They specialize in making true and authentic Philly cheesesteaks, using the techniques and ingredients that have been successful for so long. This dedication to tradition means that visitors can experience a sandwich that tastes much like it did when Pat Olivieri first started serving them. There’s a certain comfort in that consistency, really, knowing that some things don’t change too much.

Even the look of the place, with its distinct green metal siding and simple sign, speaks to its long history. It’s a modest exterior that, in a way, hints at the culinary excellence found inside. This unpretentious appearance is part of its charm and helps keep the focus on the food and the experience, rather than on flashy presentation. It’s very much about the substance, as a matter of fact, and less about superficial elements.

Finding the Famous Spot

If you're looking to visit Pat's Steaks, you'll find it right at a well-known intersection in South Philadelphia. It sits where South 9th Street, Wharton Street, and East Passyunk Avenue all come together. This specific corner has become a bit of a landmark itself, partly because Pat's has been there for so many years. It’s a place that many people seek out when they are in the city, you know, a real destination for those who appreciate good food and history.

The location is also notable because it sits directly across the street from a well-known rival, Geno's Steaks. This setup has created a friendly competition over the years, adding another layer to the experience of visiting this particular part of Philadelphia. People often visit both spots to compare, making the trip to this intersection even more of an event. It’s a very lively area, especially when the weather is nice, basically.

Being open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas, means that Pat's is ready to serve whenever the craving hits. Whether it’s a late-night snack or an early morning bite, the doors are almost always open. This constant availability makes it a convenient stop for many, allowing people to fit a visit into their schedules whenever it suits them. It’s quite a commitment to customer service, really, to be open so often.

Is There More to Pat's Steaks Than Just the Sandwich?

While the cheesesteak is undoubtedly the main attraction, Pat's Steaks offers a bit more than just that one famous sandwich. They also specialize in creating authentic East Coast subs and hoagies, providing other options for those who might want something a little different. This wider selection means that there’s a choice for various tastes, though most people come for the signature item, you know, the one that made them famous.

For those who can't make it to the physical location, Pat's also has an online store. This allows people from far away to get a piece of the Pat's experience, perhaps by ordering merchandise or other items that represent the brand. It’s a way for the establishment to connect with its fans beyond the city limits, making its presence felt across different areas. This kind of reach is quite important in today's world, actually, for a well-known name.

Beyond the food, Pat's also engages with the community through news and events. They encourage people to check their page for updates or follow them on social media, keeping everyone informed about what's happening. This interaction helps build a stronger connection with their loyal following and keeps the spirit of the place alive and current. It’s a way of being present in people's lives, very much so, even when they aren't physically at the counter.

The Pat's Steaks Experience

Visiting Pat's Steaks is often described as a unique experience, a real taste of Philadelphia culture. The modest building, with its recognizable green metal siding and straightforward "Pat's" sign, might seem simple from the outside. However, this plain appearance, in a way, hides the culinary excellence that waits inside for every visitor. It’s a place where the focus is clearly on the food and the tradition, rather than on elaborate decorations or fancy settings, you know.

The atmosphere at the corner of 9th and Passyunk Avenue is often lively, with people lining up at all hours to place their orders. There's a certain energy that comes from being at such a well-known spot, especially one that has been serving customers for so many years. It’s a place where you can feel the history, where generations of people have stood in the same spot, waiting for their turn to enjoy a classic sandwich. This shared experience creates a sense of community, actually, among those who visit.

Ordering a cheesesteak at Pat's often involves knowing exactly what you want and how to ask for it, which is part of the fun for many. It's a quick process, reflecting the fast-paced nature of a popular food stand. This efficiency means that even with a crowd, you usually don't have to wait an incredibly long time to get your hands on a freshly made sandwich. It’s all part of the tradition, very much so, of how things are done there.

Why Do People Keep Coming Back to Pat's Steaks?

People keep returning to Pat's Steaks for a variety of reasons, many of them tied to the establishment’s long history and its reputation. The simple fact that it’s the place where the cheesesteak was invented holds a strong pull for many. It’s like visiting a historical site, but one where you can also enjoy a truly iconic meal. This connection to the past, you know, makes each visit feel a bit more meaningful than just grabbing a quick bite.

The consistent quality of the food is another big draw. For over 90 years, the Olivieri family has maintained a standard that keeps people coming back for more. Knowing that you can always expect a certain level of taste and preparation builds a lot of trust and loyalty among customers. This reliability is a key factor in why Pat's has been able to thrive for so long, and it's a very important part of their enduring appeal, basically.

Beyond the food itself, there's the whole experience of being at Pat's. It's a place that embodies a piece of Philadelphia, a spot that has become a legend in its own right. The lively atmosphere, the friendly rivalry across the street, and the simple, straightforward approach to food all contribute to a visit that feels authentic and memorable. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a moment of connection to a beloved city and its culinary heritage, actually.

This article has explored Pat's Steaks, covering its origins as the inventor of the steak and cheesesteak sandwich, its long history under the Olivieri family, and its enduring presence at its single Philadelphia location. We discussed what makes Pat's unique, including its commitment to tradition and its consistent quality over many decades. The article also touched on how to find this famous spot, its operating hours, and the broader experience of visiting, including its offerings beyond the signature sandwich and its engagement with the community. Finally, we looked at the reasons why people continue to be drawn back to this Philadelphia institution, highlighting its historical significance and the overall atmosphere it provides.