Lunch at Jake's Philly Steaks

By Lennie Ambrose Tue., Sep. 28 2010 at 1:15 PM

Categories: On the Menu

For years I've heard coworkers sing the praises of Jake's Philly Steaks, and for one reason or another, I've been unable to join them for lunch trips to the Chimney Rock sports bar. Why, oh why, have I wasted my life until now? All other lunch breaks have been pointless.

I've never been to Geno's and I've haven't had the pleasure to partake in Pat's (in fact, I have not stepped foot in the state of Pennsylvania), so I can't tell you how authentic the cheesesteaks at Jake's are. Whatever they are, though, they're delicious.

Since it was my first time, I stuck with what I assume they do best, a Philly steak. On the menu it is listed as having grilled onions and provolone, but I have watched enough Travel Channel specials on "Great Food to Eat at Places You've Never Been Before But Want to Visit" or whatever, to know you can also order them with Cheez Whiz. I did that. Maybe it was just my imagination, but I felt like when I asked for the Whiz, the guy taking the order gave me a little knowing nod. I also may be making that up. The menu also says that the French fries are homemade, as is the coleslaw and the potato salad. I chose the fries.

The hoagie roll was crunchy on the outside, chewy on the inside and piping hot. The steak was tender and flavorful, and the onions were piled on. Although I will admit that the picture of the Whiz on the sandwich looks slightly like cat vomit, it didn't taste that way. The fries were very tasty, maybe not Lola good, but still spot-on.