Philly Cheese Steaks

Saturday I was in Philly with Polly to watch Peter compete in the Frostbite Regatta. After the race we decided it wouldn't be right to leave without having a cheese steak. Once we found the spot in South Philly ( at the intersection of Passyunk and

9th St

) we were faced with a choice Pat's or Geno's? Pat's is the older more established place and Geno's is the upstart only getting into business in 1966 to Pat's 1930. Pat's has a plaque from the City and Geno's does not. It appears that Geno's is trying to attract the crowds by putting up Police and Fire Badges. Pat's had no such civic mindedness. The decision was made more by fate than choice as my 16 year old jumped on the Pat's line while I was at the ATM (neither accepts credit cards). As both lines appeared equal and we had no bias opting for the more "old school" establishment seemed to make sense. After about a 20 minute wait we stepped up to the counter and placed an order according to the specific instruction Wit - Whiz, Wit- American - Wit Out. We then asked for Fries (why not go all the way?) and drinks but were dismayed to discover that was an equally long line. Faced with the thought of cold sandwiches we skipped the fries and the drinks and sat across the street to enjoy. (There is a business selling drinks near Pats if someone wants it) The steaks were OK. Very greasy and not so cheesy loaded with salt or possibly MSG. Probably just the thing during or after a good bender.
I would say when I return to these environs I will try Geno’s. I believe you get the same basic product but they are much cleaner, more organized and appear to not use "rudeness" as their selling point. So in the battle between Pat's and Geno's - Geno's wins and we didn't even eat there. Pat's basically beat them selves. No matter for you Pat's enthusiasts - Pat's as is Geno's is open 24/7 365 with an ever present line. Regardless of anything if you are in Philly you should give Pat's or Geno's a try - probably best after many cocktails!