If you want to start a fight in Philadelphia, don't talk about politics. Just ask three people who makes the best cheesesteak. You’ll get four different answers and a lot of shouting. But while the tourists are busy lining up at Pat’s or Geno’s, the locals—and a certain basketball legend—have always known that Larry's Steaks and Hoagies Philadelphia is where the actual soul of the city lives.
Honestly, it’s not just about the meat and bread. It's about the "Belly Filler."
The Mamba Connection: Why Kobe Never Forgot Larry’s
When Kobe Bryant was dominating the NBA in Los Angeles, he wasn't dreaming of Hollywood sushi. He was dreaming of 54th Street. Larry's Steaks, specifically the location right across from Saint Joseph’s University in Wynnefield, was his home base.
The story goes that whenever the Black Mamba was back in town to play the Sixers, he’d make a beeline for Larry’s. He didn't just eat there; he had them ship the steaks across the country to California. Think about that for a second. One of the greatest athletes in history, with personal chefs at his beck and call, was getting frozen Philly steaks mailed to his door because nothing else hit the spot.
Walk into the shop today and you’ll see the "Kobe Corner." It's a tribute to a guy who was basically family there. They even have a "Kobe Special" on the menu (fried onions, mayo, salt, and pepper). It’s simple. It’s Philly. It’s perfect.
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What to Order at Larry's Steaks and Hoagies Philadelphia
If it’s your first time, don't overthink it. But also, prepare your stomach. The portion sizes here aren't for the weak of heart.
The Belly Filler
This is the heavyweight champion. It’s a two-foot cheesesteak. Two. Feet. It’s designed to feed a small family or one very determined, very hungry college student from St. Joe’s. The meat is chopped fine but not pulverized into mush, and they don't skimp on the Cooper Sharp if you ask for it.
The Detroit Style Cooper Sharp Steak Pizza
This is a newer obsession for the regulars. It’s thick, it’s square, and it’s loaded with loin tail steak. The edges get that crispy, caramelized cheese crust that makes Detroit style so addictive. Honestly, it’s a weird hybrid that shouldn't work, but it absolutely does.
The Hoagies
You’ve got to try the Italian. While everyone talks about the steaks, Larry’s knows their way around a cold cut. The bread—which is the make-or-break factor for any Philly sandwich—is always fresh. It has that slight crunch on the outside but stays soft enough to soak up the oil and vinegar without disintegrating.
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The Two Faces of Larry’s: 54th St vs. Girard Ave
It’s worth noting that Larry’s isn't just one single shop. You’ve got a few different vibes depending on where you go.
- The Original/Classic (2459 N 54th St): This is the Kobe spot. It’s got that "neighborhood staple" feel. It’s right near the university, so expect a lot of students and late-night energy. It’s the Official Cheesesteak of the Philadelphia 76ers for a reason.
- The Girard Location (920 W Girard Ave): Situated in North Philly, this spot is a beast of its own. It’s a bit more "takeout-heavy" but the quality is remarkably consistent. Some locals swear the fries are better here, though that’s a debate for another day.
- Rising Sun Ave: This location (6400 Rising Sun Ave) has its own cult following, particularly for the "Lawncrust" sandwich and their deep-dish steak pizzas.
The Truth About the Experience
Look, let’s be real. Larry’s isn't a five-star white-tablecloth establishment. It’s a Philly steak shop.
The service can be fast-paced. Sometimes the line is out the door. Occasionally, a delivery driver might be having a rough day. But that’s part of the charm. If you want a sanitized, corporate experience, go to a chain. If you want a steak that tastes like it was made by someone who’s lived in the city their whole life, you come here.
One thing people get wrong? They think you have to get Whiz. While Larry’s will gladly give you the "Whiz Wit," many long-timers go for the American or the Cooper Sharp. It melts into the meat differently, creating a creamy texture that doesn't overwhelm the flavor of the steak itself.
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Why It Still Matters in 2026
In a world where everything is becoming "upscale" and "artisanal," Larry’s remains stubbornly itself. It’s a community hub. On any given Tuesday, you’ll see construction workers, doctors from the nearby hospitals, and students all standing in the same line.
They also offer a 100% no-pork menu for many of their items, making it an inclusive spot for the diverse North and West Philly communities. It’s one of the few places where the "authentic Philly" label isn't just a marketing gimmick—it’s the reality of the daily grind.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- Bring Cash: Though they take cards and apps now, having cash just makes everything move faster in a busy Philly shop.
- The Hot Sauce: It’s actually hot. If you aren't a spice head, get it on the side. Don't ruin your two-foot sub by being overconfident.
- Parking: At the 54th Street location, parking can be a nightmare during school hours. Be prepared to circle the block or walk a bit.
- Check the Specials: Sometimes they run deals on the Kobe Special or slice combos that aren't always front-and-center on the digital menus.
Larry's Steaks and Hoagies Philadelphia isn't just a place to eat; it's a piece of the city's history. Whether you’re there for the Kobe nostalgia or just to challenge yourself with a Belly Filler, you're getting the real deal. Skip the tourist traps and head to where the locals (and the legends) eat.
To make the most of your trip, try hitting the 54th Street location during a Sixers away game—the energy in the neighborhood is unmatched, and it's the perfect time to grab a Kobe Special and see why this place has survived the test of time. You can check their latest hours on their official site or through the Slice app before heading out to ensure they aren't sold out of the Detroit style steak pizza.