Dalessandros Steaks

Dalessandro's 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 SteaksCheesesteaks$(215) 482-5407https://www.dalessandros.com600 Wendover StreetPhiladelphiaPAUS

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.

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

• Cheesesteaks
• Roxborough
• Pat's King of Steaks
• John's Roast Pork
• Philadelphia Food Culture

External Links

• Dalessandro's Official Website