Best Cheat Meals in Philadelphia

Your ultimate guide to guilt-free indulgence in Philadelphia

92345
Total Reviews
4.5
Avg Rating
$ - $$$$
Price Range
18
Cuisines

Top Cheat Meal Spots

Pat's King of Steaks

(15678 reviews)
$
Cheesesteaks

The original home of the cheesesteak since 1930. Order 'wit' or 'witout' onions.

Cheesesteaks Historic 24/7 Iconic
1237 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147
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John's Roast Pork

(12345 reviews)
$
Sandwiches

James Beard Award winner known for roast pork and cheesesteaks. The spinach is a must-add.

Sandwiches Award-Winning Local Favorite Worth the Wait
14 Snyder Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
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Reading Terminal Market

(25678 reviews)
$$
Food Hall

Historic market with multiple vendors. DiNic's roast pork and Beiler's donuts are must-tries.

Food Hall Historic Multiple Options Tourist Spot
51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
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Federal Donuts

(8765 reviews)
$
Donuts & Chicken

Famous for hot donuts and fried chicken. The Strawberry Lavender donut is worth the calories.

Donuts Fried Chicken Local Chain Worth It
1219 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
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Franklin Fountain

(9876 reviews)
$$
Ice Cream

Old-fashioned ice cream parlor. The Mt. Vesuvius sundae is an epic cheat day treat.

Ice Cream Historic Dessert Worth the Wait
116 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Zahav

(11234 reviews)
$$$$
Israeli

James Beard Award-winning Israeli restaurant. The pomegranate lamb shoulder is legendary.

Israeli Fine Dining Award-Winning Special Occasion
237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, PA 19106
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Tony Luke's

(13456 reviews)
$
Cheesesteaks

Famous for cheesesteaks and roast pork. The Italian roast pork with broccoli rabe is a must-try.

Cheesesteaks Sandwiches Local Chain Late Night
39 E Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
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Jim's Steaks

(14321 reviews)
$
Cheesesteaks

South Street institution known for cheesesteaks. The whiz wit is a classic choice.

Cheesesteaks Historic South Street Late Night
400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
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Local Tips for Philadelphia

Cheesesteak Etiquette

Know how to order: specify cheese type ('whiz,' 'American,' 'provolone') and 'wit' or 'witout' onions!

Market Timing

Reading Terminal Market is less crowded on weekdays - avoid peak lunch hours.

Cash Only

Many iconic spots are cash-only, including Pat's and Geno's - come prepared!

Food Neighborhoods

South Philly is cheesesteak central, but don't miss the Italian Market area for more local gems.

Walk it Off

Philly is very walkable - perfect for trying multiple spots in one day!