Michelin Finally Tastes the Cheesesteak — But Philly Isn’t Swallowing the Verdict Whole

PHILADELPHIA — When the Michelin Guide arrived in Philadelphia for the first time this November, the city’s fine-dining elite were hoping for stars. But for the rest of the city, the real judgment wasn’t about tasting menus, wine pairings, or chefs with tweezers—it was about the cheesesteak.

In its inaugural Pennsylvania guide, Michelin weighed in on Philadelphia’s most sacred culinary icon, awarding Bib Gourmand honors—reserved for “excellent food at a great value”—to three cheesesteak institutions: Angelo’s Pizzeria, Dalessandro’s, and Del Rossi’s Cheesesteak & Pizza Co.

For a city where cheesesteak allegiances are as fiercely defended as sports loyalties, this global recognition landed with a mix of pride, annoyance, and classic Philly skepticism.

A Sandwich Finally Goes Global

For decades, the cheesesteak has been treated as Philly’s cultural identity—equal parts food, ritual, and battleground. Its elevation to Michelin’s curated list felt, to many, like long-overdue validation: the humble sandwich of chopped beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese was suddenly sharing space with French tasting menus and omakase counters.

But the celebration was brief.

Within minutes, the locals did what they do best: argue that the judges got it wrong.

Dalessandro’s Sparks the Biggest Debate

The inclusion of Dalessandro’s in Roxborough drew the strongest backlash. While the shop has long been considered a classic, many Philadelphians argue that its quality has slipped in recent years—even as the lines have grown thanks to TikTok and tourism.

“Great for visitors, mid for locals” was the general chorus online.

Angelo’s: The Safe, Deserving Pick

South Philly’s Angelo’s Pizzeria, known for its house-baked bread, quality beef, and “no phone orders, cash only” gruffness, received the most widespread approval. Locals consider it one of the few spots that consistently meets the hype.

Its selection was seen as inevitable—and for many, the only choice Michelin absolutely couldn’t afford to miss.

Del Rossi’s: The Sleeper Hit

The wildcard pick was Del Rossi’s in Northern Liberties. While less famous nationally, it earned praise from Michelin for its seeded homemade rolls and balanced sandwich style. The choice surprised many locals, but pleasantly so: it was a nod to neighborhood shops that quietly excel outside the tourist map.

Philly’s Real Problem? Outsiders Making the Call

The friction was never just about which shops were included—it was about who was doing the ranking.

The idea of a French tire company parachuting in and declaring a verdict on a food Philadelphians have been fist-fighting about for decades struck many as absurd. Cheesesteaks are personal. Cultural. Passed down through families, neighborhoods, and late-night adventures.

Michelin could put its stamp on the map, but no global guide could ever settle a debate that has raged for generations.

Lines Will Grow, Opinions Won’t Change

While the Michelin Bib Gourmand badge is almost guaranteed to boost lines at all three shops, it has settled nothing. In Philly, the “best” cheesesteak is determined not by inspectors but by:

• where you grew up
• where your dad ate
• where your best friend refuses to eat
• and which spot you swear tastes different on game days

In a city defined by hard opinions, the Michelin verdict is just another outsider’s take.

And in Philadelphia, the only judgment that really matters is still your own—and maybe the guy behind you in line.