Geno's, Pat's, and Jim's Steaks - three landmark eateries - are the true South Philly Meccas for cheesesteak connoisseurs. If you've never had a cheesesteak, we strongly recommend putting it on your to-do list, and when you're in town, you must have the cheesesteak experience. Tell 'em Fred sent you, and make sure you have plenty of napkins at hand - this sandwich is not for the faint of heart! This meltingly good gourmet sandwich originated sometime in the 1930's, and you can tell the genuine article because the chopped shaved beef is cooked on a flattop griddle. The easiest way to shave the sirloin paper-thin is to ask your butcher to do it for you; otherwise, to simplify slicing, freeze it for an hour or so to firm it up.
