Dalessandros Steaks
| Address | 600 Wendover Street |
|---|---|
| Map | View on Google Maps |
| Neighborhood | Roxborough |
| Phone | (215) 482-5407 |
| Website | Official site |
| Cuisine | Cheesesteaks |
| Price range | $ |
| Established | 1960 |
| Owner | D'Alessandro family |
| Hours | 11 AM - 10 PM (closed Sundays) |
Dalessandro's Steaks is a cheesesteak restaurant located at 600 Wendover Street in the Roxborough neighborhood of Philadelphia. Operating since 1960, Dalessandro's has earned a devoted following who consider it the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia, with fans willing to travel from across the city and beyond to this residential neighborhood location. Known for its generous portions, high-quality meat, and old-school atmosphere, Dalessandro's represents authentic neighborhood Philadelphia dining.[1]
History
Founding (1960)
The D'Alessandro family opened the original location in 1960:
Origins:
- Family-owned from the start
- Neighborhood-focused operation
- Served Roxborough and Manayunk communities
- Built reputation through quality
Building a Legend
Over decades, Dalessandro's grew from local secret to citywide phenomenon:
Growth:
- 1960s-1980s: Neighborhood favorite
- 1990s: Word spread beyond Roxborough
- 2000s: Featured in national media
- Present: Destination restaurant
Despite recognition, Dalessandro's has remained in its original location and maintained its character.
Family Tradition
The D'Alessandro family has operated the restaurant for over 60 years:
- Multiple generations involved
- Recipes and techniques passed down
- Resisted franchising offers
- Maintained quality standards
The Cheesesteak
What Sets It Apart
Dalessandro's cheesesteak is distinctive:
The meat:
- High-quality ribeye: Premium cut
- Generous portions: More meat than competitors
- Chopped on the grill: Traditional technique
- Perfect seasoning: Proprietary blend
The bread:
- Fresh Italian rolls: Crusty exterior
- Proper size: Balances the generous meat
- Holds together: Despite the quantity
The cheese:
- Cheese Whiz: Classic option
- American: Melty choice
- Provolone: Sharper flavor
The Preparation
Grilling process: 1. Ribeye sliced thin 2. Grilled on flat-top 3. Chopped with spatulas 4. Cheese melted on meat 5. Transferred to fresh roll 6. Served immediately
The speed and technique are perfected over decades.
Portion Size
Dalessandro's is known for generous portions:
- Significantly more meat than average
- Rolls sized to match
- Value for the price
- Plan your appetite accordingly
The Menu
Cheesesteaks
Main event:
- Cheesesteak - With choice of cheese
- Cheesesteak wit - With fried onions
- Pizza steak - With tomato sauce
- Mushroom steak - With sautéed mushrooms
Other Items
- Hoagies
- Chicken cheesesteak
- Fries
- Beverages
While other items are available, the cheesesteak is why people make the trek.
The Location
Roxborough Setting
Dalessandro's sits in residential Roxborough:
Neighborhood character:
- Working-class neighborhood
- Tree-lined residential streets
- Far from downtown tourist areas
- Requires intentional visit
The building:
- Corner location
- Classic cheesesteak shop appearance
- Indoor counter seating
- Not fancy—intentionally
Getting There
Transportation:
- By car: Most practical option
- SEPTA: Bus routes serve the area
- Parking: Street parking available
- Distance: 20+ minutes from Center City
The location ensures serious cheesesteak seekers only.
Proximity to Chubby's
Chubby's Steaks is located nearby, creating options:
- Two excellent cheesesteak shops in proximity
- Some visitors try both
- Friendly competition
- Each has devoted fans
The Experience
Atmosphere
Dalessandro's is no-frills authentic:
- Counter seating: Limited indoor space
- Simple decor: Focus on food
- Efficient service: Order, pay, eat
- Casual dress: Appropriate
Ordering
The process: 1. Enter and join the line 2. Study the menu (simple) 3. Order at the counter 4. Pay immediately 5. Wait for your order 6. Find a seat or eat standing
Crowds
Peak times:
- Lunch rush (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM)
- Dinner rush (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Weekends
Lines are common but move quickly.
Rankings and Recognition
Best Cheesesteak Debates
Dalessandro's consistently appears in top cheesesteak rankings:
- Philadelphia Magazine: Regular top finisher
- Local publications: Frequent #1 or #2
- National media: Featured in "best of" lists
- Food critics: Consistent praise
The Argument
When debating the best cheesesteak:
- Tourist spots: Pat's and Geno's
- South Philly insider: John's Roast Pork
- Northwest insider: Dalessandro's
Dalessandro's fans are fiercely loyal.
Why Locals Love It
- Far from tourist crowds
- Generous portions
- Consistent quality
- Authentic atmosphere
- Fair prices
Chubby's: The Neighbor =
Chubby's Steaks (5826 Henry Avenue) is nearby:
The relationship:
- Located within walking distance
- Both have devoted fans
- Friendly local rivalry
- Some visitors compare both
Differences:
- Similar quality level
- Slightly different styles
- Each has regulars who prefer it
- Both excellent choices
Tips for Visitors
Recommendations:
- Order the cheesesteak wit Whiz for classic experience
- Come hungry - portions are generous
- Visit off-peak hours for shorter wait
- Bring cash - faster (cards accepted)
- Try Chubby's too if you're making the trip
What to expect:
- Counter seating or standing
- Efficient, not leisurely, dining
- Casual neighborhood atmosphere
- Serious cheesesteak quality
Getting there:
- GPS the address
- Allow time (20+ minutes from Center City)
- Street parking available
- Worth the trip
See Also
References
- ↑ "Dalessandro's Steaks". Dalessandro's. Retrieved December 31, 2025