Introduction
Craving a grilled Philly cheesesteak sandwich? You’re not alone! This classic comfort food, with its savory blend of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and perfectly caramelized onions (and peppers, if you like!), is a perennial favorite. But finding the *perfect* grilled Philly cheesesteak sandwich near you can be a challenge. This guide will help you locate the best options, explore DIY grilling tips, and even discover some exciting variations on this beloved sandwich.
Finding Your Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Near You
Utilizing Online Search
* **Google is Your Friend:** Use specific search terms like “best Philly cheesesteak near me,” “grilled cheesesteak restaurant [your city/town],” or “[your neighborhood] cheesesteak delivery.”
* **Review Sites:** Explore websites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews to read customer feedback and ratings. Pay attention to comments about the quality of the steak, cheese, and bread.
* **Restaurant Websites:** Many restaurants have online menus and ordering options. Check their websites to see if they offer a grilled Philly cheesesteak and what ingredients they use.
* **Social Media:** Look for local food bloggers or groups on Facebook or Instagram that discuss and review restaurants in your area.
Beyond the Search Engines
* **Ask Around:** Talk to friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations. Word-of-mouth can be a valuable resource.
* **Explore Local Markets and Food Trucks:** Many farmers markets and food truck gatherings feature vendors specializing in unique and delicious sandwiches, including Philly cheesesteaks.
* **Consider Delivery Apps:** DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and other delivery apps offer a wide selection of restaurants that may serve grilled Philly cheesesteaks.
DIY Grilled Philly Cheesesteak: Grill Like a Pro!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cheesesteak
* **Steak:** Thinly sliced ribeye is the classic choice, but sirloin or flank steak can also work.
* **Cheese:** Provolone and Cheese Whiz are traditional options, but American cheese, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar can be delicious.
* **Bread:** Amoroso rolls are authentic, but any sturdy hoagie roll will do.
* **Onions (and Peppers):** Thinly sliced onions are a must. Green bell peppers are a popular addition.
* **Oil:** Vegetable or canola oil for grilling.
* **Seasoning:** Salt, pepper, garlic powder.
Step-by-Step Grilling Instructions
1. **Prepare the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. **Slice and Season the Steak:** Slice the steak very thinly against the grain. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. **Caramelize the Onions (and Peppers):** In a skillet or on a grill-safe pan, sauté the onions (and peppers) in oil until softened and caramelized.
4. **Grill the Steak:** Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
5. **Chop and Mix:** Chop the grilled steak into smaller pieces using a spatula. Mix it with the caramelized onions and peppers on the grill.
6. **Add the Cheese:** Place slices of cheese on top of the steak mixture and let it melt. You can also add Cheese Whiz directly.
7. **Assemble the Sandwich:** Scoop the steak and cheese mixture onto the hoagie roll.
8. **Serve Immediately:** Enjoy your delicious grilled Philly cheesesteak!
Grilled Philly Cheesesteak Variations
* **Pizza Cheesesteak:** Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a pizza-inspired twist.
* **Mushroom Cheesesteak:** Sauté mushrooms along with the onions and peppers.
* **Spicy Cheesesteak:** Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
* **Chicken Cheesesteak:** Substitute the beef with thinly sliced grilled chicken breast.
* **Surf and Turf Cheesesteak:** Add grilled shrimp to the classic beef cheesesteak.
Conclusion
Whether you’re searching for the best grilled Philly cheesesteak sandwich near you or looking to create your own masterpiece at home, this guide provides the tools and information you need. From utilizing online resources to mastering grilling techniques, you can satisfy your cheesesteak cravings in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to find your perfect combination. Happy grilling and bon appétit!
