Pat's King of Steaks, Philadelphia

Pat's King of Steaks (also known as Pat's Steaks) is a Philadelphia restaurant specializing in cheesesteaks. This is the original shop founded in 1930 by brothers Pasquale ("Pat") and Harry Olivieri, who are credited with the creation of the cheesesteak. Harry's grandson, Frank, now owns the joint.

According to the family story, one day, the brothers, who had previously sold hot dogs, decided to try something different for lunch. Pat sent Harry to the market to get some inexpensive steak, which they thinly sliced and then grilled along with some chopped onions. The aroma attracted a regular customer, cabdriver, who asked to try the novelty. The brothers called it a steak sandwich, which would later evolve into the modern cheesesteak.

As of 1976, this Philly staple has been ever so popular with the hungry fans of Rocky Balboa. In the movie, this lively spot is where Tony Gazzo brings Rocky to grab a bite to eat. Decades on, Pat’s is still going strong and even has a memorial plaque fixed on the cement advising that “On this spot stood Sylvester Stallone filming the great motion picture Rocky. Nov. 21, 1975”.

Note the proper ordering sequence: after asking for a variety you want – the available varieties include Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese, as well as plain (no cheese) – say "wit" or "wit-out" (i.e. 'with' or 'without' onions), a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Philadelphia accent.