Ordering a cheesesteak in the heart of Philadelphia’s Italian market is one of the most intimidating dining experiences out there. Far from the glitz and polish of Center City, South Philly is a gritty, working-class neighbourhood where the battle for the title of the city’s best cheesesteak has been waged for nearly 50 years. Before finding your spot in line at either Pat’s King of Steaks (www.patskingofsteaks.com) or Geno’s Steaks (www.genosteaks.com), it is essential to put your game face on. The burly Italian men who run these joints haven’t a clue about customer service and can sense fear from a mile away. If you stammer in their presence, you’ll find yourself back at the end of the twice-wrapped-around-the-block line, embarrassed and hungry. Once it’s your turn to order, look the grease-stained man square in the eye and say with conviction, “I wanna steak wit Whiz.” You’ll be rewarded for your bravery with a heart attack-inducing steak sandwich topped with grilled onions and smothered in Cheez Whiz. See, it wasn’t that hard.     





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