OLD CITY. What started as a small mom-n-pop grocery back in the 1940s has evolved into one of the signature places on Market to enjoy a Philly Cheesesteak. Is it the best in town? You be the judge. Just know that you're not going to find to find a friendlier place to enjoy the city's signature sandwich. If grilled rib-eye topped with provolone and onions doesn't strike your fancy, don't fret: They also serve up great hoagies and even a few vegetarian options.

ROXBOROUGH. Modest signage announcing "Steaks Beer-Hoagies" and the simple redbrick facade in no way prepare you for what this Roxborough treasure has in store. Indeed, those in the know claim that Dalessandro's may serve up the area's top cheesesteak ­ there's just something special about the way they cram fried onions, seasoned steak and American cheese into those tasty hoagie rolls. What else sets this place apart from those closer to Center City? Well, at Dalessandro's you can chase your cheesesteak with a cold brew.

SOUTH PHILLY. One of many places billed as Philly's "Best," Geno's certainly has its fair share of devotees on the south side of town. Begun in 1966 by fella named Joe Vento, this 24/7, take-out-only joint has the art of serving cheesesteaks down to a science. That is to say, at the first window, order your sandwich. Without prompting, indicate American, provolone or Cheese Whiz and whether or not you want onions. Pay, pick up your order, and move down to the next window for a drink. And just in case you're curious, you really shouldn't leave town without trying the Cheese Whiz variety.

SOUTH STREET. It's best to know your P's and Q's before visiting this South Street cheesesteaker, where the grillmen take their choice top round very seriously. At Jim's, all steaks come with onions (that's just how they come, simple as that); subsequent "extras" range from "Whiz" and provolone to roasted bell peppers and mushrooms. Hoagies, soups, salads and even a few breakfast items round out the menu. Even if you're not in Philly, you can still enjoy a bite from Jim's ­ They'll send a sandwich wherever FedEx delivers in the US.

ST. JOSEPH'S. Home of the "Belly Filler," Larry's has been doing top-notch eats since 1956 ­ You might say that they've just about perfected the art. From hoagies to grinders, all of their creations are guaranteed fresh and flavorful for up to 10 hours. And while you can go for any of a number of ingredients (ham, meatball, tuna, turkey), if this is your first time, it's probably best to stick with a tried-and-true steak and onion smothered in American cheese. Seafood, Stromboli, pizzas and wings are also available if, for some reason, you have something other than sandwiches on your mind.