Best Philly Cheesesteak in VanPort
The Philly Cheesesteak is arguably the most debated American sandwich. A hamburger can have a million variations but Philly cheesesteaks have rules. Philadelphia might be the city of brotherly love but they’ll jump off in your you-know-what if you try to put a twist on their namesake sandwich. Some cheesesteak cork sniffers geographical gatekeep saying you can only get a proper Philly Cheesesteak back east. I say four-get-a-bout-et.
So what are the rules of a Philly Cheesesteak? It’s a sandwich made with thinly sliced ribeye, cooked on a griddle, and served on a long Italian hoagie roll. It’s commonly topped with melted cheese—traditionally Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese—and often includes sautéed onions. Some variations add peppers, mushrooms, or other toppings, though the cork sniffers say just meat, cheese, and onions.
So who makes the best Philly cheesesteak in the Vancouver/Portland area? We went to all the highest regarded eateries known for the best Philly handheld. Here’s how we rank them.
1. The Block
Portland – Downtown
.The Block is a food truck in Pioneer Square that has only two things to eat on their menu: A Reuben and a Philly Cheesesteak. The topping options are onions, peppers, mushrooms and cheese. With a menu like that you’d better be great or you won’t last long. This truck has been around since 1997 so they’ve got it right. I can count on two hands how many excellent places to get a Philly in VanPort. This is definitely one of them. INSIDER TIP: While you’re there, experience the Echo Chamber. It’s a specific point in the square on the Northwest corner that looks like a small amphitheater where the architecture creates a natural reverb or echo effect, making sounds like voices or claps resonate in an interesting way. It never fails to blow people’s minds.
2. Philly Bilmos Cheesesteaks
Vancouver – East
A good variety of sandwiches and sides but their cornerstone are Philly cheesesteaks. On my first visit I did take-out. The bun was very soggy when I got home, but I gave them another try and it was spot on. The meat has a really great flavor. Bilmos cost a few bucks more than most but they have plenty of fans who feel it’s worth it. I’m glad I gave them another try.
3. Steak Your Claim
Vancouver – East
Legit
Philly cheese steaks by the same owner as Magnolia Tavern next door. SYC takes pride in serving authentic East coast sandwiches. The Broad Street Bully is a great value at $10.50.
4. Grant’s Philly Cheesesteak
Portland – Northeast
They make a really good cheesesteak. Their peppers are a bit sweet. I don’t care for that but some people do. They have a couple of tables and chairs but it feels like a takeout place. The prices on their website and menu are extremely out of date. Their site states The Philly cheesesteak is $13.50. It’s currently $18.85. Plenty of parking.
5. Moore Food & Co
Portland – Central
Great Philly cheese steaks served on Amoroso’s rolls with American, Provolone, Swiss, or Kraft Cheese Whiz. I love it with grilled onions and hot peppers. Cool vibe in the covered seating area. Street parking is limited.
6. Bruchi’s Cheesesteaks & Subs
Vancouver – North
One of my favorite sub sandwich joints. Their Philly cheesesteak variations are fantastic. Perhaps not as traditional but I really like them. My go-to is the Pepper Steak (Steak topped with jalapeños, pepperoncinis, and melted white American cheese) and add pepperoni. The result is delicious. it taste so good. All the flavors are just working together. PRO TIP: Get the larger sandwich and save half for the next day. I find it’s just as fab the next day.
7. Steakadelphia
Portland – South Tabor
One of the better Philly cheesesteak joints in the territory. A few of the cheesesteak snobs I know hold Steakadelphia in high regard. I tried a one with pepper jack cheese, black olives and jalapenos. All the cheesesteaks come with onion. The end result is super tasty. I can’t put my finger on exactly what it is that makes it so delicious. It has a lot of flavor and I don’t think it’s just due to the jalapenos. The sauce was just a little bit of mayonnaise. The sandwich is not huge. I ate the whole thing for lunch. It’s a good size for that. The sandwich and my soda came to just under $20 before tip. There’s not much room inside but when weather permits outside seating is available. The street parking is a bit challenging.
8. Philadelphia’s Steaks & Hoagies
Portland – Sellwood
Philadelphia is one of the places cork sniffing cheesesteak enthusiasts mention when debating on where to find the best. I tried their Pepper Cheesesteak that has rib-eye, Swiss-American cheese, bell peppers and onions. The bread was moist and not too thick. The sandwich tasted good but I would have liked more flavor. If I go again I’ll try their Pizza Steak. The shop has a relaxed vibe. One guy was running the whole operation. They have a couple TVs. Unfortunately it conflicts with the classic rock played over the system. Street parking was ok but I’m sure it could be tough during peak hours. Philadelphia’s is a great choice if you’re in the area. If you’re a cork sniffer you might like Grant’s, Philly Bilmo’s or The Block too. INSIDER TIP: They sell a package of 6 hoagie buns.
9. Jersey Mike’s Subs
Both – Various
It’s a quality sandwich shop. I know it’s a chain but they still serve some of the best handhelds in the area. I always order the Philly cheesesteak. I haven’t been able to bring myself to order anything else there because it’s exquisitely delicious. Oftentimes the bread at deli joints are thick and stiff. This one is soft and moist. I don’t know what they season it with but it is wonderful. I can’t comment on their other offerings but their cheesesteak is a winner.
10. Steakadelphia
Portland – Beaverton
Their 2nd location is also one of the better Philly cheesesteak joints in the territory. A few of the cheesesteak snobs I know hold Steakadelphia in high regard. I ordered a Philly with pepper jack cheese, black olives and jalapenos. All the Phillies come with onion. The end result is super tasty. I can’t put my finger on exactly what it is that makes it so delicious. It has a lot of flavor and I don’t think it’s just due to the jalapenos. The sauce was just a little bit of mayonnaise. The sandwich is not huge. I ate the whole thing for lunch. It’s a good size for that. The sandwich and my soda came to just under $20 before tip.
11. Philadelphia’s Steaks & Hoagies
Portland – West Linn
Philadelphia is one of the places cork sniffing cheesesteak enthusiasts mention when debating on where to find the best. I tried their Pepper Cheesesteak that has rib-eye, Swiss-American cheese, bell peppers and onions. The bread is moist and not too thick. (They sell a package of 6 hoagie buns). The sandwich tastes good but I would have liked more flavor. If I go again I’ll try their Pizza Steak.
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