The Philadelphia Phillies are Pat’s King of Steaks.
Both franchises were established in South Philadelphia; each being the first of their kind. Pat’s was founded in 1930 by brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri, and is credited with the term “Wit or Witout” – spoken with a tongue-in-cheek Philadelphia accent. And the Phillies were established in 1883 – then known as the Philadelphia Quakers – and shortly after in 1890 becoming more commonly known as the Phillies.
Thinly sliced rib eye, cheese wiz, crisp-Italian rolls, and large-diced Spanish cut onions; a no-frills sandwich – and a no-frills baseball team. As blue-collar as it gets.
Yes, Pat’s is known as a tourist destination, but it’s the landing-place for many either before or after a day at Citizen’s Bank Park. Both the ballpark and Pat’s are known for their long lines, hot summer days, and a not-so scenic stretch of Philadelphia, but in the end, it’s all worth it. Whether the Phills lose, or you’re labeled as a tourist for asking for Swiss cheese on your cheesesteak… not to mention any names… ahem John Kerry, Pat’s King of Steaks is still worth the experience.