Jason Kelce’s Cheesesteak Favorites: A Philadelphia Tradition
Former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce recently shared his top cheesesteak recommendations during a football podcast, reflecting on his 13-year career with the team. As a seven-time Pro Bowl player, Kelce has deep roots in the city and its culinary scene.
A Taste of Nostalgia: Tony Luke’s
Kelce mentioned several popular spots like Dalessandro’s and Angelo’s but highlighted Tony Luke’s as his first cheesesteak experience, thanks to its convenient location near Lincoln Financial Field. “That was my go-to growing up; it was simply fantastic,” he reminisced.
Although the original Tony Luke’s location has closed, fans can still savor their famous cheesesteaks at the stadium when the Eagles face off against rivals like the Pittsburgh Steelers this Sunday. Since 2003, Tony Luke’s has operated a stand within Lincoln Financial Field.
The Rise of Tony Luke’s
Tony Luke’s began its journey in South Philadelphia back in 1992. Interestingly enough, cheesesteaks were not part of their initial menu offerings. “We started with roast beef, roast pork, and chicken cutlets—Italian specialties,” said owner Tony Lucidonio Jr., also known as Tony Luke Jr. This focus lasted only about six months before word-of-mouth propelled them into popularity.
In an unexpected twist for marketing success, Lucidonio created quirky commercials that strayed from traditional food advertising norms. “They were silly and somewhat amusing,” he recalled. These ads sparked conversations around town and helped elevate the restaurant’s profile.
Eagles Culture Intertwined with Culinary Heritage
The connection between Philadelphia sports culture and local cuisine is undeniable; both are integral to city identity. The original site where Kelce enjoyed his first cheesesteak underwent changes after Lucidonio parted ways with family members over franchising rights disputes but continues to thrive across various locations today—including franchises at Philadelphia International Airport and even international spots like Bahrain.
Lucidonio himself is an ardent Eagles supporter who showcased this passion in the film “Invincible” (2006), where he played a character embodying die-hard fandom for the team.
Cheesesteaks: More Than Just Meat and Cheese
While many associate Philly with its iconic cheesesteak sandwich, Lucidonio argues that roast pork deserves equal recognition as a quintessential dish of the city. The evolution of ingredients used in cheesesteaks varies widely across regions; however, some traditions remain steadfast among locals.
“Someone decided to add peppers to their sandwiches,” he noted dismissively while emphasizing that true Philadelphians stick to meat, bread, cheese—and optionally onions—when crafting their beloved sandwiches.
Crafting Perfection: The Art of Cheesesteaking
One distinguishing feature setting apart Tony Luke’s from other establishments lies in how they prepare cheese on their steaks—a technique designed for optimal flavor without overcooking meat quality. “Once you finish cooking steak,” explained Lucidonio about common practices elsewhere,” adding cheese afterward leads to overcooked meat while waiting for it to melt.”
Instead at his restaurant they flip it immediately after placing cheese atop so that melting occurs without compromising steak integrity—a method ensuring every bite is infused with cheesy goodness throughout rather than just sitting atop dry meat!
In terms of preferred cuts for making these sandwiches? Rib-eye reigns supreme according to him due largely because it’s flavorful yet fatty enough which enhances overall taste experience—even if healthiness isn’t exactly what one seeks when indulging!
As such deliciousness comes hand-in-hand alongside indulgence—“Cheesestakes aren’t healthy options by any means!” exclaimed Lucidonio candidly acknowledging reality behind this classic comfort food choice enjoyed by many fans alike!
As a skilled Content Writer with a focus on Politics and Tech, and a proficient Photographer, Priyanshu Kotapalli blends technical expertise with insightful analysis to create engaging digital content that resonates with diverse audiences.