A legendary cheesesteak institution in South Philadelphia, founded by Pat Olivieri and now owned by his great-nephew, Frank Olivieri.
Frankie Olivieri is the current owner of Pat's King of Steaks, a legendary cheesesteak establishment in South Philadelphia. He is the great-nephew of Pat Olivieri, the original founder. While famous for cheesesteaks,...
Last updated: 7/6/2026, 8:22:07 AM
Pat's King of Steaks is renowned as the originator and inventor of the steak and cheesesteak sandwich, a culinary icon in Philadelphia. Established in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, it has been continuously owned and operated by the Olivieri family for nearly a century. The restaurant operates 24/7 from its single, iconic location in South Philadelphia, offering a classic, no-frills experience.
Customer perception is mixed but generally acknowledges Pat's iconic status. Many visitors, especially tourists, come for the historical experience and photo opportunity. Some travelers praise the cheesesteaks as the 'best subs ever,' while others express significant disappointment, citing dry meat, unmelted cheese, bland flavor, and tough texture. The consensus often suggests that while it's a must-visit for the history, the actual food quality might not always live up to the hype, especially when compared to other cheesesteak establishments.
No Hungru reviews for Pat'S King Of Steaks yet. Taste it, share it, and claim the Restaurant Pioneer badge.
Help others discover what to order at Pat'S King Of Steaks
Your review helps others find the best dishes — and gets shared on Hungru.
Pat's King of Steaks is famous for its friendly rivalry with Geno's Steaks, located directly across the street, creating a popular 'cheesesteak challenge' for visitors. The establishment is considered a preservationist of an American culinary legacy, having invented the cheesesteak in 1930 when founder Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, grilled thinly sliced beef and onions on an Italian roll.
As Pat's King of Steaks is open 24/7, it is accessible at any time. However, being a popular tourist destination, it can experience crowds, especially during traditional meal times and weekends. Visiting during off-peak hours might offer a quicker experience.