Crafting the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak: The Art of Authenticity and Franchising Expansion
Explore the journey of Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks, from a regional favorite to a national franchise bringing authentic Philly cheesesteaks to new markets. Learn about the key ingredients and franchising considerations that make these cheesesteaks stand out.
Photo by Noah Cote on Unsplash
The Journey of Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks
Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks originated from the homesick cravings of Philadelphians like founders Bob and Andrea Levey in Southern California. What began as a nostalgic pursuit has now evolved into a successful 20-unit franchise with a diverse fan base. Known for their commitment to authenticity, Philly’s Best has become a go-to destination not only for ex-pats yearning for a taste of home but also for enthusiastic West Coast foodies.
The Quest for Authenticity
In the words of Bob Levey, authenticity is the cornerstone of Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks’ success. Customers seek genuine experiences, whether it's in Thai cuisine, Brooklyn pizza, or a traditional Philly cheesesteak. By focusing on replicating the original Philadelphia sandwich experience on the West Coast, Philly’s Best tapped into a market hungry for true-to-origin flavors.
The Ingredients That Matter
One of the defining factors of an authentic Philly cheesesteak lies in its ingredients. Philly’s Best sources its rolls from Amoroso’s Baking Co. in Philadelphia, a crucial element that sets their cheesesteaks apart. Freshly sliced onions, white American cheese (opting for creaminess over Cheez Whiz), and imported ingredients from the East Coast form the foundation of their signature dish.
Franchising and National Expansion
With aspirations to bring the authentic Philly cheesesteak experience nationwide, Philly’s Best is eyeing new markets like Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. The brand's success in Southern California has laid the groundwork for expansion, catering to the East Coast diaspora seeking a taste of home. By maintaining quality ingredients and a commitment to tradition, Philly’s Best aims to become the benchmark for Philly cheesesteaks beyond Philadelphia.
The Franchise Vision
While Philly’s Best is celebrated for its authenticity outside of Philadelphia, the prospect of opening a location in the birthplace of the cheesesteak has crossed Bob Levey’s mind. However, finding the right franchisee is paramount to maintaining the brand's standards. Levey's confidence in his product is unwavering, believing that his cheesesteaks can rival any in Philadelphia and South Jersey, given the right partnership.