Dalessandros Steaks: Difference between revisions
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'''Dalessandro's Steaks''' is a cheesesteak restaurant | '''Dalessandro's Steaks''' is a cheesesteak restaurant at 600 Wendover Street in the '''Roxborough''' neighborhood of Philadelphia. Since opening in '''1960''', it's built a devoted following that swears it serves the '''best cheesesteak in Philadelphia'''. People travel from across the city and beyond just to reach this residential neighborhood spot. The generous portions, high-quality meat, and old-school vibe make it exactly what authentic neighborhood Philadelphia dining looks like.<ref name="dalessandros-official">{{cite web |url=https://www.dalessandros.com |title=Dalessandro's Steaks |publisher=Dalessandro's |access-date=December 31, 2025}}</ref> | ||
== History == | == History == | ||
| Line 24: | Line 24: | ||
=== Founding (1960) === | === Founding (1960) === | ||
The '''D'Alessandro family''' opened | The '''D'Alessandro family''' opened their original location in '''1960'''. It was family-owned from day one, focused on serving the Roxborough and Manayunk communities. They built their reputation through quality, nothing else. | ||
=== Building a Legend === | === Building a Legend === | ||
What started as a local secret turned into a citywide phenomenon over the decades. During the '''1960s-1980s''', it was just a neighborhood favorite. By the '''1990s''', word spread beyond Roxborough. The '''2000s''' brought national media attention. Today it's a destination restaurant. | |||
Even with all that recognition, Dalessandro's stayed put. Same location. Same character. | |||
=== Family Tradition === | === Family Tradition === | ||
The D'Alessandro family has | The D'Alessandro family has run the place for over 60 years now. Multiple generations involved, recipes and techniques passed down through the family. They've turned down franchising offers. Quality standards never wavered. | ||
== The Cheesesteak == | == The Cheesesteak == | ||
| Line 57: | Line 40: | ||
=== What Sets It Apart === | === What Sets It Apart === | ||
A lot sets this sandwich apart from the rest. | |||
'''The meat:''' | '''The meat:''' They use '''high-quality ribeye''', a premium cut that's significantly better than what competitors use. '''Generous portions''' means way more meat than average. They '''chop it on the grill''' the traditional way, with a '''proprietary blend''' of seasoning that hits just right. | ||
'''The bread: | '''The bread:''' Fresh Italian rolls with a crusty exterior and proper size. The roll actually holds together despite all that meat piled on it. | ||
'''The cheese:''' | '''The cheese:''' '''Cheese Whiz''' for the classic option, '''American''' if you want something melty, or '''Provolone''' for a sharper flavor. | ||
=== The Preparation === | === The Preparation === | ||
The process itself is simple but perfected over decades: | |||
1. Ribeye sliced thin | 1. Ribeye sliced thin | ||
2. Grilled on flat-top | 2. Grilled on flat-top | ||
| Line 85: | Line 59: | ||
6. Served immediately | 6. Served immediately | ||
That technique, done fast and right, is what matters. | |||
=== Portion Size === | === Portion Size === | ||
Dalessandro's is known for '''generous portions''' | Don't come unprepared. Dalessandro's is known for '''generous portions'''. The meat-to-bread ratio is significantly different from anywhere else. They size the rolls to match. You're getting real value for your money. Plan your appetite accordingly. | ||
== The Menu == | == The Menu == | ||
| Line 100: | Line 69: | ||
=== Cheesesteaks === | === Cheesesteaks === | ||
The main event: '''Cheesesteak''' with your choice of cheese. '''Cheesesteak wit''' comes with fried onions. '''Pizza steak''' has tomato sauce. '''Mushroom steak''' gets sautéed mushrooms. | |||
=== Other Items === | === Other Items === | ||
They also serve '''hoagies''', '''chicken cheesesteak''', '''fries''', and '''beverages'''. | |||
But let's be honest. The cheesesteak is why you're making the trip. | |||
== The Location == | == The Location == | ||
| Line 119: | Line 81: | ||
=== Roxborough Setting === | === Roxborough Setting === | ||
Dalessandro's sits in '''residential Roxborough''' | Dalessandro's sits in '''residential Roxborough''', not downtown. Working-class neighborhood, tree-lined streets, far from the tourist areas. You have to actually want to go there. | ||
The building's a corner location with classic cheesesteak shop looks. Indoor counter seating. It's not fancy. That's intentional. | |||
=== Getting There === | === Getting There === | ||
By car is most practical. SEPTA bus routes serve the area if you're taking transit. Street parking is available. You're looking at 20+ minutes from Center City, so factor that in. | |||
Location means only serious cheesesteak seekers show up. | |||
=== Proximity to Chubby's === | === Proximity to Chubby's === | ||
'''Chubby's Steaks''' is | '''Chubby's Steaks''' is nearby, giving you options. Two excellent cheesesteak shops within reasonable distance of each other. Some visitors try both. They're friendly competitors. Each has its own devoted fans. | ||
== The Experience == | == The Experience == | ||
| Line 156: | Line 99: | ||
=== Atmosphere === | === Atmosphere === | ||
This is '''no-frills authentic'''. Counter seating with limited indoor space. Simple decor that focuses on the food. Service is efficient: order, pay, eat. Come dressed casual. | |||
=== Ordering === | |||
Here's how it works: | |||
1. Enter and join the line | 1. Enter and join the line | ||
2. Study the menu (simple) | 2. Study the menu (it's simple) | ||
3. Order at the counter | 3. Order at the counter | ||
4. Pay | 4. Pay right then | ||
5. Wait for your order | 5. Wait for your order | ||
6. Find a seat or eat | 6. Find a seat or stand and eat | ||
=== Crowds === | === Crowds === | ||
Expect lines during lunch rush (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) and dinner rush (6 PM - 8 PM). Weekends get busy too. But they move fast. | |||
== Rankings and Recognition == | == Rankings and Recognition == | ||
| Line 186: | Line 120: | ||
=== Best Cheesesteak Debates === | === Best Cheesesteak Debates === | ||
Dalessandro's | Dalessandro's keeps showing up in '''top cheesesteak rankings'''. Philadelphia Magazine lists it as a regular top finisher. Local publications frequently rank it #1 or #2. National media includes it in "best of" lists. Food critics praise it consistently. | ||
=== The Argument === | === The Argument === | ||
When | When locals argue about the best cheesesteak, a few names come up. Tourist spots point to Pat's and Geno's. South Philly insiders champion John's Roast Pork. Northwest insiders pick Dalessandro's. | ||
Dalessandro's fans are fiercely loyal about it. | |||
Dalessandro's fans are fiercely loyal. | |||
=== Why Locals Love It === | === Why Locals Love It === | ||
Far from tourist crowds. Generous portions. Consistent quality every single time. Authentic atmosphere. Fair prices. That's the formula. | |||
== Chubby's: The Neighbor == | |||
''' | '''Chubby's Steaks''' (5826 Henry Avenue) operates nearby, creating an interesting dynamic. Both shops have devoted fans who prefer theirs. There's a friendly local rivalry. Some visitors make both stops. | ||
Similar quality level. Slightly different styles. Both excellent choices. Regulars have their preference. | |||
== Tips for Visitors == | == Tips for Visitors == | ||
''' | '''What to order:''' | ||
* '''Order the cheesesteak wit Whiz''' for classic experience | * '''Order the cheesesteak wit Whiz''' for the classic experience | ||
* '''Come hungry''' | * '''Come hungry''' because portions are generous | ||
* '''Visit off-peak hours''' for shorter | * '''Visit off-peak hours''' for shorter waits | ||
* '''Bring cash''' | * '''Bring cash''' though cards work too | ||
* '''Try Chubby's too''' if you're making the trip | * '''Try Chubby's too''' if you're making the trip | ||
'''What to expect:''' | '''What to expect:''' | ||
* Counter seating or standing | * Counter seating or standing room | ||
* Efficient, not leisurely, dining | * Efficient, not leisurely, dining | ||
* Casual neighborhood atmosphere | * Casual neighborhood atmosphere | ||
| Line 244: | Line 155: | ||
'''Getting there:''' | '''Getting there:''' | ||
* GPS the address | * GPS the address | ||
* Allow | * Allow 20+ minutes from Center City | ||
* Street parking available | * Street parking available | ||
* Worth the trip | * Worth the trip | ||
Latest revision as of 17:40, 23 April 2026
| 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 at 600 Wendover Street in the Roxborough neighborhood of Philadelphia. Since opening in 1960, it's built a devoted following that swears it serves the best cheesesteak in Philadelphia. People travel from across the city and beyond just to reach this residential neighborhood spot. The generous portions, high-quality meat, and old-school vibe make it exactly what authentic neighborhood Philadelphia dining looks like.[1]
History
Founding (1960)
The D'Alessandro family opened their original location in 1960. It was family-owned from day one, focused on serving the Roxborough and Manayunk communities. They built their reputation through quality, nothing else.
Building a Legend
What started as a local secret turned into a citywide phenomenon over the decades. During the 1960s-1980s, it was just a neighborhood favorite. By the 1990s, word spread beyond Roxborough. The 2000s brought national media attention. Today it's a destination restaurant.
Even with all that recognition, Dalessandro's stayed put. Same location. Same character.
Family Tradition
The D'Alessandro family has run the place for over 60 years now. Multiple generations involved, recipes and techniques passed down through the family. They've turned down franchising offers. Quality standards never wavered.
The Cheesesteak
What Sets It Apart
A lot sets this sandwich apart from the rest.
The meat: They use high-quality ribeye, a premium cut that's significantly better than what competitors use. Generous portions means way more meat than average. They chop it on the grill the traditional way, with a proprietary blend of seasoning that hits just right.
The bread: Fresh Italian rolls with a crusty exterior and proper size. The roll actually holds together despite all that meat piled on it.
The cheese: Cheese Whiz for the classic option, American if you want something melty, or Provolone for a sharper flavor.
The Preparation
The process itself is simple but perfected over decades:
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
That technique, done fast and right, is what matters.
Portion Size
Don't come unprepared. Dalessandro's is known for generous portions. The meat-to-bread ratio is significantly different from anywhere else. They size the rolls to match. You're getting real value for your money. Plan your appetite accordingly.
The Menu
Cheesesteaks
The main event: Cheesesteak with your choice of cheese. Cheesesteak wit comes with fried onions. Pizza steak has tomato sauce. Mushroom steak gets sautéed mushrooms.
Other Items
They also serve hoagies, chicken cheesesteak, fries, and beverages.
But let's be honest. The cheesesteak is why you're making the trip.
The Location
Roxborough Setting
Dalessandro's sits in residential Roxborough, not downtown. Working-class neighborhood, tree-lined streets, far from the tourist areas. You have to actually want to go there.
The building's a corner location with classic cheesesteak shop looks. Indoor counter seating. It's not fancy. That's intentional.
Getting There
By car is most practical. SEPTA bus routes serve the area if you're taking transit. Street parking is available. You're looking at 20+ minutes from Center City, so factor that in.
Location means only serious cheesesteak seekers show up.
Proximity to Chubby's
Chubby's Steaks is nearby, giving you options. Two excellent cheesesteak shops within reasonable distance of each other. Some visitors try both. They're friendly competitors. Each has its own devoted fans.
The Experience
Atmosphere
This is no-frills authentic. Counter seating with limited indoor space. Simple decor that focuses on the food. Service is efficient: order, pay, eat. Come dressed casual.
Ordering
Here's how it works:
1. Enter and join the line 2. Study the menu (it's simple) 3. Order at the counter 4. Pay right then 5. Wait for your order 6. Find a seat or stand and eat
Crowds
Expect lines during lunch rush (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM) and dinner rush (6 PM - 8 PM). Weekends get busy too. But they move fast.
Rankings and Recognition
Best Cheesesteak Debates
Dalessandro's keeps showing up in top cheesesteak rankings. Philadelphia Magazine lists it as a regular top finisher. Local publications frequently rank it #1 or #2. National media includes it in "best of" lists. Food critics praise it consistently.
The Argument
When locals argue about the best cheesesteak, a few names come up. Tourist spots point to Pat's and Geno's. South Philly insiders champion John's Roast Pork. Northwest insiders pick Dalessandro's.
Dalessandro's fans are fiercely loyal about it.
Why Locals Love It
Far from tourist crowds. Generous portions. Consistent quality every single time. Authentic atmosphere. Fair prices. That's the formula.
Chubby's: The Neighbor
Chubby's Steaks (5826 Henry Avenue) operates nearby, creating an interesting dynamic. Both shops have devoted fans who prefer theirs. There's a friendly local rivalry. Some visitors make both stops.
Similar quality level. Slightly different styles. Both excellent choices. Regulars have their preference.
Tips for Visitors
What to order:
- Order the cheesesteak wit Whiz for the classic experience
- Come hungry because portions are generous
- Visit off-peak hours for shorter waits
- Bring cash though cards work too
- Try Chubby's too if you're making the trip
What to expect:
- Counter seating or standing room
- Efficient, not leisurely, dining
- Casual neighborhood atmosphere
- Serious cheesesteak quality
Getting there:
- GPS the address
- Allow 20+ minutes from Center City
- Street parking available
- Worth the trip
See Also
References
- ↑ "Dalessandro's Steaks". Dalessandro's. Retrieved December 31, 2025