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Local picks in San Diego

Philly cheesesteaks

You want a real Philly cheesesteak without leaving the coast. It is not asking too much to find the right bread and the right melt in an American-style kitchen.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 1
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 2
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 3
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Cozy deli with a laid back, bright atmosphere and ample space for groups. Offers top notch craft beer alongside handmade Philly cheesesteak sandwiches that stand out for quality and flavor. Casual setting includes outdoor seating and a TV showing sports, creating a friendly, lowkey vibe.

Philly cheesesteaks here feature perfectly cooked meat, melted cheese, and a well-made bun. The Veggie Philly Cheesesteak also stands out as absolutely incredible.

Perfectly cooked meat, melted cheese, and a well-made bun create a Philly Cheesesteak that matches those found in Philadelphia. The Veggie Philly Cheesesteak also stands out as absolutely incredible.

People are saying

"This Philly cheesesteak sandwich is the best I've ever had."

"This Philly cheesesteak is the best American food I've ever had."

"This Philly Cheesesteak is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day until 6pm with $1 off select beers.

2

The deli is dog-friendly, allowing pets inside and on the patio.

3

Evan’s Deli & Brew offers high-quality meats and cheeses sourced from Philly.

02
Latitude 32 Pub House & Grill image 1

Old-fashioned local bar with spacious seating and plenty of TVs creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere where locals and newcomers mingle. Known for authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and ice-cold beer, it offers a genuine neighborhood vibe away from typical sports bars.

Philly Cheesesteaks with cheese wiz stand out as a signature item. The menu also features Hamburgers, Hot & Cold Subs, Grilled Cheese, and Tots.

Offers Philly cheesesteak sandwiches with cheese wiz that are spicy and flavorful. The traditional spicy Philly cheesesteak comes in half sandwich size and pairs well with sides like tots.

People are saying

"It's a great neighborhood bar with a warm, chill atmosphere."

"You have to try their cheesesteaks; they're amazing."

"I found the Philly Cheesesteak with cheese wiz to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not allow any kids at all, even on the patio.

2

They are closed on Tuesdays.

3

Expect difficulty finding the location when driving by.

03
Knockout Deli image 1

Deli with original gangster decor and Al Capone era pictures creates a cozy, welcoming vibe that feels like a down-home spot. Seating is comfortable and sleek, suitable for families, with a clean and modern layout. Atmosphere stays quiet and chill at times, offering a relaxed experience.

Philly Cheesesteak stands out with its rich flavor and authentic taste. Fresh ingredients shine in the cobb salad and California Club, both well-prepared and tasty.

Philly Cheesesteak here stands out for its rich flavor and satisfying taste. The sandwich combines classic ingredients with a well-balanced mix that delivers a memorable bite every time.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were the best I had in a long time."

"You have to try the American Food sandwiches; they're huge and amazing."

"I thought the Philly Cheesesteak was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited if driving to the deli.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Expect large portions; a sandwich can cost nearly $20 with extras.

04
The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli image 1

Small butcher shop with outdoor counter seating and a smoker trailer emitting strong aromas. Atmosphere feels like a casual bro hangout with high-quality meats and a focus on takeout sandwiches. Limited seating encourages quick visits, often with a wait for popular items.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with a flavorful roll, shaved steak, and subtle peppers and onions. Huge portions of double cheeseburgers and roast beef sandwiches come with fries and reasonable prices.

Meat melts in your mouth with well-balanced toppings and crispy, fluffy bread. The sandwich stands out as sensational and tremendously flavorful.

People are saying

"I thought the turkey sandwich was the best I'd ever eaten."

"I found the dry aged burger and tallow fries to be excellent."

"The Philly cheesesteak here is amazing and melt-in-your-mouth."

Good to know

1

The deli offers great quality meat and delicious sandwiches until 5 PM.

2

It's important to consider the wait time, which can easily be 40 minutes to an hour.

3

There isn't much seating at The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli.

05
Philadelphia Sandwich Company and Catering image 1

Small space filled with Philadelphia memorabilia and sports decorations creates a chill, old-school vibe. Inside seating only, with a TV often showing classic Eagles games. Offers authentic Philly cheesesteaks made with imported Amoroso rolls and a good meat-to-cheese ratio.

Philly cheesesteaks here are authentic and packed with full flavor. The breakfast style includes fried eggs for a hearty twist.

Philly cheesesteaks here are authentic and packed with full flavor. The breakfast style includes two fried eggs, adding a unique twist.

People are saying

"I loved my cheese steak sandwich with grilled onions and seasoned fries."

"I thought the American food, specifically the Philly cheesesteaks, were pretty good."

"I thought the Philly Cheesesteak was really good."

Good to know

1

$7 Philly cheesesteaks are available every day except Sunday from 4-8 pm.

2

Parking in front of the restaurant might be challenging, but there's space behind the plaza.

3

The sandwich prices range from $15-$17, but portions may be small.

06
Gaglione Bros Famous Steaks & Subs image 1

Cheesesteak shop atmosphere with rock and roll music and golf on TV creates an upbeat vibe. Guests often engage easily with staff, adding to the comfortable energy. A standout hot pepper bar and fresh garlic aroma enhance the experience.

Philly cheesesteaks here feature melty cheese, slices of steak, and toppings like onions and bell peppers. The sandwiches come with options like beef with mushrooms and grilled onions, plus a turkey club sandwich also stands out.

Melty cheese covers slices of steak topped with onions and bell peppers in the Philly cheesesteak. The sandwich is perfect and satisfying, often called legendary and a labor of love.

People are saying

"The bread here is excellent, really top quality."

"This Philly Cheesesteak is the best I've ever had."

"This American food, the Philly cheesesteak, was the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge during busy times.

2

The portions of the sandwiches are large.

3

Expect to pay around $15 for a sandwich.

07
Good bar image 1
Bar & grill

Dark, divey bar with local live music and an outside food truck creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music balances well with conversation, and energy builds late at night. Regulars enjoy cold, refreshing beer and standout bar food like Philly cheesesteaks and fish tacos.

Buffalo wings match the original Buffalo style and taste authentic. The Philly cheesesteak features delicious meat but has only one or two slices of American cheese, which some find lacking.

Philly cheesesteak sandwiches feature delicious meat and come with one or two slices of American cheese. They receive consistent praise for their flavorful taste, though some find the cheese amount light.

People are saying

"The food at this bar is tasty and beautifully presented."

"The Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches here are amazing and delicious."

"The Buffalo wings are the real deal, just like in Buffalo."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 PM to 6 PM with food and drink specials.

2

Karaoke is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting at 10 PM.

3

The bar hosts trivia nights most Wednesdays at 8 PM.

08
Steak N Fries image 1
American restaurant

Mom and pop shop offers authentic Philly cheesesteaks with customizable toppings and freshly made ingredients. Warm, inviting atmosphere feels like visiting family, with a cute, cool vibe. Fries come in generous portions, complementing the sandwiches well.

Philly cheesesteaks here feature well-seasoned meat and generous portions. Loaded fries also stand out as a popular choice.

Authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwiches feature well-seasoned meat and generous portions. Varieties of these delicious sandwiches come from a local family-run spot known for its excellent flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I thought the Philly Cheesesteak was excellent and delicious."

"I found the best Philly cheesesteak, it's authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

You can customize your sandwich with any or no toppings.

2

They offer a student discount for meals.

3

Everything is freshly made to order.

09
Big Jim's Roast Beef image 1

Small sandwich shop with outdoor sidewalk seating creates a homey, simple atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with kind staff and a hole-in-the-wall vibe. Popular for high-quality roast beef sandwiches that draw fans of East Coast style subs.

Grilled cheese pairs with tomato bisque for a classic combo. Subs like buffalo chicken and Philly cheesesteak offer hearty, satisfying options.

The Philly cheesesteak here varies in quality. The Pepper Steak stands out as a notable option, while the classic Philly cheesesteak tends to be just average and not often reordered.

People are saying

"These onion rings are crispy and delicious."

"I had the best roast beef sandwich, it was wicked awesome."

"This Philly Cheesesteak was possibly one of the best in town."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all seating is outside on the sidewalk.

2

Parking in Pacific Beach can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portions for the price, making it a good value.

10
Giorgino's image 1
Restaurant

Casual restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and a small bar area offers a family-like vibe and a cozy, chill atmosphere. Groovy music plays softly while Food Network airs on TV during events. Known for authentic Philly cheesesteaks, it attracts those seeking a relaxed spot with a local feel.

Philly cheesesteaks feature seasoned meat and a good cheese ratio, with some sandwiches like pesto fired and meatball also available. Tater tots come out very good, while grilled cheese uses basic American cheddar.

Seasoned meat and a good cheese ratio create a balanced Philly cheesesteak. The bread is perfectly baked and the sandwich is not greasy.

People are saying

"I've never had a cheesesteak sandwich this good."

"I loved the American food, especially the Philly cheesesteaks."

"I thought this Philly Cheesesteak was the best I had ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open for dinner a few days a week and closes at 7 pm.

2

Expect a wait during lunchtime as it can get busy.

3

At $14 per sandwich, the portion size may not meet expectations.

11
Carnivore Sandwich image 1

Bright, minimal, and modern deli with a community-oriented atmosphere and chill vibe. Offers all-day breakfast and Chicago-style sandwiches with large portions and high-quality ingredients. Small indoor seating complements nice outdoor tables, creating a cozy and friendly environment.

Club sandwich stands out with solid flavors. The breakfast burrito packs roast beef, hash browns, and egg. Chili cheese fries and Philly cheesesteak add hearty, classic American tastes.

The sandwich features corned beef with cheese, served with spicy peppers on request. It resembles a corned beef cheese sandwich more than a traditional Philly cheesesteak.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, with generous portions and great pricing."

"The American Food here, especially the sandwiches and chili, is excellent."

"I found their Philly Cheesesteak delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Chicago-style hot dogs and sandwiches.

2

There is both indoor and outdoor patio seating.

3

The prices are very reasonable.

12
Charleys Cheesesteaks image 1

Sandwich shop offers flavorful meat and melted cheese in its sandwiches, with crispy, soft fries that are well-seasoned. The atmosphere feels quiet with few customers during off-peak times.

Philly cheesesteak stands out with its satisfying flavor and delicious taste. Cajun fries come with a small amount of seasoning and feel overpriced.

The Philly cheesesteak offers a really satisfying taste with a notable flavor that some find better than those in Philadelphia. The portion of meat is smaller than expected for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is really amazing and fantastic."

"The sandwich here had really flavorful meat."

"I found the American Food, specifically the cheesesteak, to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Food handlers do not wear hairnets, which is a hygiene concern.

2

Food handlers rub their noses and faces while preparing food.

3

Food handlers do not wash their hands after handling cash.

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