Jims Steaks

Jim's Steaks

Address	400 South Street (original); multiple locations
Map	View on Google Maps
Neighborhood	South Street (flagship)
Phone	(215) 928-1911
Website	Official site
Cuisine	Cheesesteaks
Price range	$
Established	1939
Owner	Jim's Steaks Inc.
Hours	10 AM - 1 AM (varies by location)

Jim's SteaksCheesesteaks$(215) 928-1911https://www.jimssteaks.com400 South Street (original); multiple locationsPhiladelphiaPAUS

Jim's Steaks is a Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant chain with its flagship location at 400 South Street in the Queen Village neighborhood. Founded in 1939 in West Philadelphia, Jim's is consistently ranked among the top cheesesteak destinations in the city and is famous for the long lines that snake down South Street on busy nights. The distinctive Art Deco-style building and the experience of watching steaks grilled in the front window have made Jim's a Philadelphia institution for over eight decades.

History

Origins (1939)

Jim Colosimo opened the original Jim's Steaks in 1939 on 62nd Street in West Philadelphia:

Early years:

• 1939: Original location opens in West Philadelphia
• Post-war growth established reputation
• Known for quality meat and fresh ingredients
• Developed loyal neighborhood following

South Street Location (1976)

The iconic South Street location opened in 1976:

The building:

• Art Deco architecture from the 1930s
• Former shoe store converted to restaurant
• Distinctive black and white exterior
• Front window grill visible from street

The South Street location capitalized on the neighborhood's revival and became the flagship store.

Growth and Recognition

Jim's expanded and gained national recognition:

Milestones:

• 1980s: South Street becomes legendary destination
• 1990s-2000s: Featured in national food media
• Multiple locations opened across Philadelphia
• Consistent rankings among top cheesesteak spots

2022 Fire and Rebuilding

Tragedy struck in July 2022 when the South Street location was devastated by fire:

The fire:

• July 30, 2022: Fire breaks out overnight
• Historic building severely damaged
• Massive community outpouring of support
• Rebuilding announced within days

Recovery:

• Community fundraising efforts
• Commitment to restore original character
• Other Jim's locations continued operating
• Reopening planned with original recipes preserved

The fire highlighted Jim's importance to Philadelphia's cultural identity.

The Cheesesteak

Jim's Signature

Jim's cheesesteaks have distinct characteristics:

The meat:

• High-quality ribeye: Premium cut
• Thinly sliced: Consistent thickness
• Grilled fresh: Cooked to order
• Chopped on the grill: Traditional Philadelphia style

The process:

• Meat grilled on flat-top
• Cheese melted directly on meat
• Transferred to fresh Italian roll
• Assembled with toppings

Cheese Options

• Cheez Whiz - Classic Philadelphia choice
• American cheese - Melty and mild
• Provolone cheese - Sharper flavor

What Sets Jim's Apart

Distinctive elements:

• Consistent quality: Careful meat selection
• Fresh rolls: From local bakery
• Efficient service: Despite long lines
• Atmosphere: Watching your steak grilled

The South Street Experience

The Line

The South Street line is legendary:

• Lines often extend down the block
• Part of the authentic experience
• Late-night crowds after bar closing
• Weekend waits can exceed 30 minutes

The line contributes to anticipation and atmosphere.

The Building

The Art Deco building is iconic:

Features:

• 1930s architecture: Original details preserved
• Black and white facade: Distinctive appearance
• Large windows: Watch the grill action
• Neon signage: Classic look

Ordering

Jim's maintains efficient ordering:

The system: 1. Wait in line (moves steadily) 2. Watch steaks being grilled 3. Place order at counter 4. Pay and receive sandwich 5. Condiment station available

Menu

Cheesesteaks

Steak variations:

• Cheesesteak - With choice of cheese
• Cheesesteak with - Add fried onions
• Pizza steak - With marinara sauce
• Mushroom steak - With sautéed mushrooms

Other Items

• Cheese fries
• Regular fries
• Beverages
• Hoagies (some locations)

The menu remains focused on what Jim's does best.

Locations

South Street (Flagship)

400 South Street

• Original character and atmosphere
• Art Deco building
• Late-night hours
• Tourist and local favorite

Other Locations

Northeast Philadelphia:

• Different atmosphere
• Same recipes
• Local neighborhood focus

Additional locations:

• Serve the wider Philadelphia area
• Maintain quality standards
• Bring Jim's to more neighborhoods

The Cheesesteak Debate

Jim's vs. Pat's/Geno's

In the cheesesteak hierarchy, Jim's holds a unique position:

Jim's supporters argue:

• Better quality meat than tourist spots
• More authentic Philadelphia experience
• Art Deco atmosphere unmatched
• Local favorite over tourist destination

The reality:

• Many Philadelphians prefer Jim's to Pat's/Geno's
• Each restaurant has devoted fans
• Quality varies by day and time
• Personal preference ultimately decides

Where Jim's Fits

• Not a tourist trap: Despite South Street location
• Respected locally: Strong neighborhood support
• Middle ground: Between tourist spots and hidden gems
• Consistently ranked: Among top 3-5 citywide

Cultural Impact

South Street Anchor

Jim's has been central to South Street's identity:

• Draws visitors to the neighborhood
• Late-night destination
• Part of South Street's character
• Survived neighborhood changes

Media Recognition

Jim's has appeared in:

• Travel Channel food shows
• Food Network features
• National newspapers and magazines
• Social media (viral line videos)

Celebrity Visitors

Like other Philadelphia cheesesteak institutions:

• Politicians on campaign stops
• Athletes and entertainers
• Food critics and writers
• Travel show hosts

Tips for Visitors

Recommendations:

• Visit weekday lunch for shorter lines
• Late night for authentic atmosphere (and longer waits)
• Watch the grill while waiting—it's entertainment
• Have your order ready when you reach the counter
• Try Whiz wit for the classic experience

What to expect:

• Outdoor eating on South Street
• Casual, fast-paced service
• Cash moves faster (cards accepted)
• Messy eating—embrace it

See Also

• Cheesesteaks
• South Street
• Pat's King of Steaks
• Geno's Steaks
• Philadelphia Food Culture

External Links

• Jim's Steaks Official Website