If you are in Philadelphia and are non vegetarian, there is one thing that you must have: a Philly cheesesteak. This sandwich made with meat, cheese (including cream cheese) and all sorts of things from onions to mushrooms without forgetting peppers, in a soft Italian bread is to die for. There are variations, so if you do not like beef, you can have chicken. If you are vegetarian, you can get some impossible meat (although they probably use the same grill to cook it).
So, I had to have one, but, as Jodi is vegetarian, we decided not to go to Geno’s or Pat’s but instead to Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagie at the Reading Terminal Market so she had plenty of choices for lunch.
The last time we went, it was located in a different area. So we queued up as there was a line, but I admit that they were quite efficient to make it move. At some point, we could also see them putting the thinly sliced frozen meat on the grill, shredding it and mixing it with various toppings as you can see in this video.

After I ordered (the friendly cashier who was probably an owner asked me where I was from and made a joke about me not ordering French fries), they gave me a game card that they will call when my sandwich would be ready.

Card at Carmen’s Famous Hoagie in Philly

Five minutes later, we were trying to find a seat in a market that was surprisingly packed. After we sat, I unwrapped the sandwich as if it was a precious heirloom. I immediately found that there seemed to be more bread than meat. It was good, but that imbalance bread/meat was a bit disappointing. I would have known, I would have ordered it with an additional portion of meat!

Still, my craving was satisfied. I stand by my previous post: Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagie is good, but not as good as others.

Enjoy (I still did)!

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Carmen’s Famous Italian Hoagie - 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Cheesesteak at Carmen’s Famous Hoagie in Philly

I Just Want To Eat!