Retro Roadmap’s Cheesesteak Pick: Joe’s on Torresdale!

Whenever we have out of town visitors we're often asked, "where should I go for the best Philly Cheesesteak?" and  finally now I have a recommendation for the Retro Roadmap types - Joe's Steaks on Torresdale Ave.

It's not centrally located, and parking can be a bit of a hassle since it's all street parking, but the old school style and tasty steak sandwiches make the trip worth it.
Joe's has been on my list for a long time, but the only time we usually indulge in a cheesesteak is as a celebratory meal when we've been away and are returning to Philly via plane. (Full disclaimer - when we're coming back from traveling, our eating habits have turned so bad and we're so distended from vacation eating that we figure it's a last hurrah before heading home to get back on the treadmill!)

But seriously these sandwiches, grilled in the front window of the shop that has been open since 1949 are delish. Retro Roadhusband can't wait to dive in:

Joe's used to be called by another name, but that was changed in 2013, and they've also now opened a 2nd location across from Johnny Brenda's in Fishtown. They did do a nice job with the "retro" aspect of that location (and Mod B digs the aqua/orange color combo, naturally) but to me nothing beats Authentic Vintage Charm.

What do I mean by that? Things like:

• The feel that this place has been around forever, and has history
• Counter seating at an old formica counter
• Small wooden booths
• Wall Box Jukeboxes (tho I'm not sure if they work or not)
• Rotary Pay Phone with Police Log atop
• Tiny bathroom that looks like it belongs in your grandmother's house, replete with over the top floral wallpaper, gold flecked vintage vanity and jade green sink!

They also serve milkshakes too, made with local Turkey Hill ice cream, but we were too full for one of those!

So while there are a lot more famous Cheesesteak Shops in the Philly area, and loads of unfamous ones, if you're wanting your steak wit (onions) and whiz (cheese whiz) and a legitimately retro vibe - eat at Joe's (on Torresdale.)