There’s far more to consider when choosing a cheesesteak than “Wit Whiz” or without. With close to 100 years of history, the Philadelphia staple is enjoying a new wave of popularity in NoVA. Thanks to that, our options range not only from the specialties of different regions of the Philly area but also to internationally inflected versions of the pub grub staple. Here are six we think you should try.
Bebop Korean-Mexican Grill
This duo of fusion restaurants offers not just a steak-and-cheese, but its Bronx-born cousin, the chopped cheese. But don’t expect the traditional shaved ribeye here. Instead, upgrade the sandwich with layers of sweet, garlicky Korean bulgogi. The subs are also flavored with spicy mayo and heat seekers can order their lunch extra spicy. 10730 Fairfax Blvd., Fairfax; 20630 Ashburn Rd., Ashburn
Celebrity Delly
The oversized sandwiches like Reubens and French Dips augur big things for the cheesesteaks here. Indeed, the Phillies on offer are stuffed to the brim and available in 10 different iterations. The OG features a full pound of ribeye, as well as onions and melted American cheese on a sesame-seeded roll. Fortunately, there’s a smaller “torpedo” option for those not prepared for the “full” $24 behemoth. 7263A Arlington Blvd., Falls Church
Filling Co. Gas & Grab
Inspired by the Sheetz and Wawas of the world, this local gas station chain has a focus on comfort food. There are three standard iterations of the cheesesteak on the menu, but devotees head to the Ashburn area for the flexibility of the offerings. The build-your-own option allows diners to add unusual ingredients including Rotel cheese sauce, bacon, banana peppers, and pizza sauce to the party. Multiple locations
Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
Have a favorite region for cheesesteaks? The rolls here come from Amoroso’s in Philly and are packed with provolone in North Philadelphia style, whiz like it’s done in South Philly, or white American cheese, the way it’s served in South Jersey. The $13 sandwich also comes with homemade fries, coleslaw, and a pickle. 697 Spring St., Herndon
Rai’s Pour House
This cult favorite Philly is available at multiple locations owned by the Kuhn family. The mania began at Rai’s Pizza in Sterling and has expanded to all Rai’s locations, as well as Sully’s Pour House in Herndon. Wherever you try it, the sandwich bursts with shaved ribeye. At Rai’s Pour House, the cheesesteak is available with whiz, provolone, or Cooper brand sharp American cheese, and served with housemade Old Bay chips on the side. 21430 Cedar Dr., Ste. 100, Sterling
Velocity Wings
There are currently eight locations of this local chain, but that just means more places to grab the All-American Cheese Steak. Along with a side of shoestring fries and a pickle, diners can expect a glut of finely sliced ribeye with sautéed onions, mushrooms, and provolone. If you ask for it without the lettuce, tomato, and mayo, we’ll understand. Multiple locations
Feature image courtesy Celebrity Delly
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