If you’re on the hunt for the best Philly cheesesteak in Deptford, you’re in for a mouthwatering journey. This iconic sandwich, born in Philadelphia, has won the hearts of steak and cheese lovers across the country. But while Philly may be its birthplace, Deptford, NJ, boasts some incredible spots that serve up cheesesteaks just as good—if not better—than those found in the City of Brotherly Love.
Whether you’re a local chowhound, a visitor driving through, or just in the market for the perfect blend of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and clean hoagie roll, this is your definitive guide to discovering the best Philly cheesesteak spot in Deptford.
We’ll delve into the creation of an amazing Philly cheesesteak, how to obtain them, and why restaurants like Johnny Longhots Deptford and other locals’ favorites must be on your list of places to visit. So, let’s embark on a delicious adventure and discover the best Philly cheesesteak Deptford has to offer!
What Makes a Great Philly Cheesesteak?
Before we dive in on where to get the best Philly cheesesteaks in Deptford, it’s wonderful to know what makes a great Philly cheesesteak. Here are the basics:
1. The Steak
A good Philly cheesesteak has thinly sliced ribeye beef, seared to perfection. The beef should be tender, juicy, and well-seasoned so that the rich, beefy flavor is evident. Some steakhouses slice the steak into very fine pieces, others into thin slices—either way, it should be melt-in-your-mouth tender.
2. The Cheese
Classic cheesesteaks come with Cheez Whiz, American, or Provolone. Cheez Whiz gives a gooey, creamy texture, while American cheese gives a mild, melty goodness. Provolone, on the other hand, gives a sharper, more defined taste. The cheese should be melted throughout, enveloping the steak in a creamy, savory glaze.
3. The Roll
A fresh, soft, but slightly crusty hoagie roll is required. The roll should be strong enough to hold all the wonderful fillings without getting soggy. The best places use bread from top-rated local bakeries so there is a just-baked, great taste.
4. The Toppings
Even though a classic cheesesteak is simple, there are many add-ons that most restaurants offer like fried onions, mushrooms, peppers, or hot cherry peppers. The combination of these add-ons can make the sandwich truly greater than fantastic.
Where to Get the Best Philly Cheesesteak in Deptford
So now that we know just how wonderful a cheesesteak needs to be, let us discover where some of the greatest restaurants in Deptford are where one can have a cheesesteak!
1. Johnny Longhots Deptford – A Local’s Choice
If you happen to ask around in Deptford for the best Philly cheesesteak, you find that one name keeps popping up more than any other – Johnny Longhots Deptford. Renowned for its authentic cheesesteaks and pizzas, this is a well-loved place.
What Sets Johnny Longhots Apart?
- Uses high-grade ribeye steak for each bite packed with intense beefy flavor.
- Offers a few options of cheese to put on your cheesesteak: the classic Cheez Whiz, American, and Provolone.
- Their baked rolls are the ideal container for their rich cheesesteaks.
- They also offer great pizza, so it’s a leading option for someone seeking a pizza shop near me in Deptford.
2. Gaetano’s of Deptford
Another place you have to go to is Gaetano’s, famous for its cheesesteaks stuffed to the brim and homemade bread. They don’t hold back on portions, so look forward to a hearty sandwich full to the max with taste.
Why Visit Gaetano’s?
- Their steak is cut very thin so that every bite is filled with meaty flavor.
- Their cheese melts to perfection, providing the ideal creamy texture.
- They offer a variety of toppings, so you can construct your sandwich exactly as desired.
3. Philly’s Phatties – A Secret Treasure
Philly’s Phatties is one of the lesser-known spots in the Deptford area, but those who have discovered it sing the praises of their real cheesesteaks.
What Makes Them Special
- They use top-grade ingredients, bringing freshness with each bite.
- They bring an extra layer of deliciousness with onion and pepper combinations.
- Their toasting of bread is pure perfection, with a little crunch that gives that extra kick.
The Ultimate Cheesesteak Experience – How to Get It Right
Having found the ultimate Philly cheesesteak in Deptford, here are the ways to get it to the letter:
1. Order It Like a Local
If you want to be a cheesesteak connoisseur, you must order it like a native Philadelphian. Instead of saying, “Can I have a cheesesteak with onions and Cheez Whiz?” try this:
- “Whiz wit” – Cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions.
- “Whiz witout” – Cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz but no onions.
- For American or Provolone cheese, just replace “Whiz” with your preferred cheese!
2. Pair It with the Perfect Side
A cheesesteak alone is great, but with the right side, it’s even greater. Try these pairings:
- Fries with Cheese – Cheesy, gooey goodness that is a nice complement to the sandwich.
- Onion Rings – Golden, crisp rings are a welcome crunch.
- A Cold Soda – Root beer or Coke will cleanse your palate of the richness of the cheesesteak.
3. Try a Pizza and Cheesesteak Combo
Since Johnny Longhots Deptford and other spots also serve amazing pizza, why not order a slice to accompany your cheesesteak? The combination of pizza and steak is a delight that you won’t regret.
Why Deptford is a Hidden Gem for Cheesesteaks
While Philly is famous for the cheesesteak, Deptford is now a destination point for some of the best versions of this iconic sandwich. The local steakhouses and pizza shops in my neighborhood in Deptford have perfected the technique of making cheesesteaks that hold their own against those from Philadelphia.
The quality ingredients, the freshly baked rolls, and the attention to detail give Deptford an underrated experience for cheesesteak enthusiasts. From the simple Whiz wit to a unique twist with additional toppings, Deptford has a little bit for every cheesesteak enthusiast.
Conclusion
Finding the best Philly cheesesteak in Deptford is a quest you should embark on. With great places like Johnny Longhots Deptford, Gaetano’s, and Philly’s Phatties, you don’t have to travel to Philly to have a great, tasty cheesesteak.
If you’re craving the perfect blend of steak, cheese, and a fresh hoagie roll, head to one of these top-rated eateries and indulge in one of the most beloved sandwiches in America. And if you’re looking for something extra, don’t forget to try a slice of pizza from one of the top pizza shops near me in Deptford—because nothing pairs better with a cheesesteak than a great pizza! So, what’s stopping you? Get on out and buy yourself a delicious Philly cheesesteak today!