I know this is cliched, but where's the best place in Center City to get a Philly cheese steak?

Actually the best cheesesteaks are not in Center City but in Sotuh Philly. My favorite is Geno's. Others swear by Pat's. Both are at 9th and Passyunk at the south end of the Italian Market. The other popular place for cheesesteaks is Jims Steaks in Center City at 4th and South.

oops, make that "South" Philly

Most definitely PAT'S!

When I was stationed at the Navy Yard (1971-1972) there were two great places, but I'll bet neither stand today.

On the base, a place we navy called "Blind Mans" - run by Pennsylvania Association for the Blind (or similar) - made all kinds of sandwiches, soups, subs, and of course cheese-steaks.

Off-base, on Packer Avenue, was a place named "Celibris" .... or something similar.

Does any of the Philly readers know if either of these still stand, especially "Celebris"? I used to drive back up to Philly after being transferred to Bainbridge MD for a sub or pizza. Thanks.

Geno's, without doubt.

Public TV had a great documentary on a few weeks ago devoted to classic American sandwiches, and a large segment was devoted to the Pats' vs Genos' debate. A very interesting show if you're into this kind of stuff!

Question to you true Philly Cheesesteak aficianados out there... I was once told by a Philly native that a true cheese steak sandwich is not complete until you put ketchup on it. Is that true? Or, was his statement just hyperbole about his personal preference? It just seemed like such an unusual topping for it that I didn't believe him.

Second, I've seen them served with provolone, and with cheese whiz. Which is the "official" cheese to use?

I always put ketchup on cheesesteaks... not sure if it is "official" or not.

Thanks, guys, I'll be sure to stop by Geno's, Pat's, or Jim's when I'm in Philly!

Big Money D- A true Philly Cheese is about the meat and the bread; anything else (oinions, peppers, ketchup, type of cheese etc) is personal preference and does not make it any more or less authentic. Although I really have only run into "Cheese wiz" on a cheesesteak in Philly, so maybe cheesewiz is as "uniquely Philly" as you can get.

To the question about Celebree's yes, it is still there! Although the navy yard is no longer.Due to the obvious closing and then a recent fire.
The city is planning on making a townhome community there now.

As for the best Cheesesteaks, Pat's or Geno's hands down!

Thank you, "luvthebeach" - I'll assume that "Celebree's" is the correct spelling and look it up - may be making a trip to Philly this month and will go out of my way for one of their steaks or pies.

If in Phila - skip Pat's & Geno's - over-hyped - Jim;son South Street is much better.

If in the suburbs- the better options are Pudge's (Whitpain Twp - Montgomery County just north of Norristown) and Mama's in Bala Cynwyd (just west of the city).

I just went to Jim's on Saturday - the cheesesteaks were fantastic!