Pat’s claim to fame is that its founder, Pat Olivieri, invented the steak sandwich in 1930. Since then, Pat’s has grown from a little stand at the southern end of South Philly’s Italian Market to one of the most famous cheesesteak shops in the world, albeit still in the same location (and still the only location).
Countless celebrities, politicians, musicians and athletes flock to Pat’s anytime they’re in Philadelphia. And if you want to taste a famous Philly cheesesteak, it’s easy to see why.
Pat’s is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but no matter when you go, you will always find someone ahead of you in line. There’s no need to worry, however, as the line always moves fast.
Just be sure that you know how to order properly by the time you get to front of line (see right). Employees and patrons frown on unnecessary delays caused by last minute indecisiveness.