Are Geno's and Pat's cheesesteaks "just for tourists" as someone told me when I was in Philly?

Question

I was in Philly recently and told someone that I went to Geno's for supper. He responded by saying, "Oh, places like Geno's and Pat's are just for tourists. The REAL cheesesteaks can be found at x, y, and z locations."

Was this guy being a pompous asshole? Or was he giving good advice as to where I can find Philly's best?

Answer 1

Everyone in Philly has his own favorite place to get a cheesesteak. Many swear by Pat's or Geno's

Personally, I'm not crazy about Pat's or Jim's (another famous one on South Street) -- but like Geno's food well enough. However, a lot of people are upset about Geno's since he declared that they will only sell to English speakers.

My favorite is a Pizza place at 430 South. Their cheesesteak with mushrooms is excellent -- but their pizza steak is incredible.

Answer 2

I think the guy is a pompous ******. Everyone does have their famous cheesesteak, whether it be Pat's, Geno's or another neighborhood favorite.

In a way, Pat's and Geno's are a tourist destination, but I wouldn't call it "just for tourists". A lot of people go there at 3 am for a cheesesteak, whether they be tourists or locals, both drunk and sober.

Answer 3

Pompous asshole. I love Pat's and Geno's and I've lived in Philly all my life. Tourists love them, but so do natives.

Answer 4

You can get good cheesesteaks at many places. Geno's, Pat's and others are just more popular and serve more tourists.

to correct the last answer, Geno's has a sign asking customers to 'please order in English'. I - personally - supported that decision and anytime I'm in Philly I plan to patronize his business.

Answer 5

Hi, Pat's and Geno's are not just for tourists, it's for anyone who enjoys a nice cheese steak anytime.

Answer 6

Geno's steaks are the best and I live here in Philly. So no they aren't just for tourists. Hope you enjoyed it though.