Philly’s Original Cheesesteak Story
For 75 years, Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop has grilled authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks and soda‑shop classics right on Girard Avenue, serving Fishtown and beyond.
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1949 — Roots in Northeast Philadelphia
The story starts in a small corner shop in Northeast Philly. Samuel “Chink” Sherman opened what would become one of the city’s most iconic cheesesteak spots, serving just one item: grilled steak sandwiches, with or without onions. No frills—just hot, thin-sliced ribeye cooked to order. Locals lined up for the flavor and simplicity, and the shop became a staple of Philadelphia’s growing cheesesteak culture.
Taste TraditionJoe Groh: From Prep Kid to Pit Boss
Joe Groh started working at the shop as a teenager, peeling onions and slicing meat in the basement. He didn’t just learn the process—he lived it. After years of working behind the scenes, Joe took over the business in 1999. His commitment to the original recipe and quality hasn’t changed. Joe’s story reflects what makes the shop special: real food, made right, by someone who cares.
Visit Us1999 — Legacy Handed Down
When Joe became the owner in 1999, he stayed true to the roots of the shop—serving real Philly cheesesteaks, no shortcuts. He kept the same equipment, techniques, and recipes, including the original 1949 formula for ribeye steak, grilled onions, and Amoroso rolls. Under Joe’s leadership, the shop expanded to Fishtown and introduced easy online ordering, pickup, and delivery, all while staying deeply Philly.
Explore MenuA Welcoming Name, Same Legendary Taste
In 2013, the shop changed its name to Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop—a decision that brought the brand into the future while honoring the past. Though the name evolved, nothing else changed: same recipe, same crew, same grill. Joe’s added hand-spun milkshakes, classic egg creams, and soda shop-style service, making it one of the most welcoming and authentic cheesesteak spots in Philly.
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