The real best of Philly
June 24, 2007 by jfew

The line coming out the door of Tat's Deli on any weekday around the lunch hour is a testament to the delcious cheesesteaks inside. Available in 8- and 12-inch sizes, Tat's cheesesteaks are authentic and delicious, while offering a wide variety of cheeses and variations on the original.

On Friday, I paid my first visit to this Pioneer Square institution. I ordered the Pizza Steak, a steak, mozarrella and marinara sauce concoction broiled in the Tat's oven on an Italian roll. The tender seasoned steak really breaks through flavorwise.

Lines aside, the service is fast and friendly. They seem to recognize their regulars and are pretty open to substitutions ("Don't see it? Ask!" their menu invites).

A tip: avoid the fries. They're limp and greasy. Even the hungriest patron will be sated by the 8-inch sandwiches, which is already a huge portion. (I can't imagine being hungry enough for the 12-inch sandwich!) Better to save room for your favorite variety of Tastykakes, the east coast's answer to Hostess snacks.