You’re driving down Brevard Road in Asheville, and if you aren’t looking for it, you might just cruise right past a unassuming spot that holds the secret to one of the most underrated sandwiches in North Carolina. It’s called Mike's Philly Steak Plus. Honestly, it’s the kind of place that looks like a standard strip-mall eatery from the outside. But inside? That's where the magic happens.
Most people think you have to be in South Philly to get a decent cheesesteak. They think if the water isn't from the Schuylkill River, the bread won't be right. They're wrong.
Mike's Philly Steak Plus has quietly been dismantling that myth for years. It isn't just about the meat; it's about the "Plus" in the name. This isn't a one-trick pony. We are talking about a menu that spans from the greasy, glorious heights of a rib-eye sub to the unexpected punch of a lamb gyro.
Why the "Plus" in Mike's Philly Steak Plus Actually Matters
When you walk into a place like this, you expect a flat top. You expect the rhythmic clack-clack-clack of metal spatulas hitting the grill. You get that. But then you see the "Plus" side of things.
A lot of diners get confused by the variety. "Is it a sub shop? A gyro place? A wing joint?"
Basically, it's all of them.
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The menu is a bit of a wild ride. You’ve got your standard Philly Steak Sub starting around $7.99, which is a steal in 2026. Then, right next to it, you see the Beef Gyro in a pita. It’s a family-run vibe, and that usually means the recipes aren't coming out of a corporate manual. They’re coming from a kitchen that knows how to season meat properly.
I've seen people get heated about what belongs on a cheesesteak. In Asheville, Mike's doesn't gatekeep. You want mushrooms? Add them. You want banana peppers? They’ve got them. The Garden Salad actually has some life to it, too—tomatoes, green peppers, pickles, and those zesty banana peppers that give it a kick. It’s not just a sad pile of iceberg lettuce.
The Anatomy of a Real Asheville Cheesesteak
Let's get into the nitty-gritty of the food.
If you order the Philly Steak Sub, you’re getting beef that’s chopped on the grill—never pre-cooked. That’s the cardinal sin of sandwich making, and Mike avoids it. The meat is thin, tender, and carries that specific "grill-seasoned" flavor that only comes from a flat top that’s seen thousands of sandwiches.
The bread. Man, the bread.
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It’s an 8-inch sub roll that manages to be soft enough to soak up the steak juices but sturdy enough that it doesn't disintegrate halfway through your meal.
- The Philly: Traditionally comes with cheese, but you can go wild.
- The Chicken Philly: A lighter take, though "light" is a relative term when it's covered in melted white American cheese.
- The Gyro Platter: This is the sleeper hit. It comes with a garden salad, feta, pita, and a drink. It’s a lot of food.
Honestly, the Fried Chicken Sub is another one people overlook. It’s served with mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles. It’s a massive sandwich. If you’re a fan of the "everything on it" style, this is your go-to.
Common Misconceptions About Mike’s
People often mix this place up with the big national chains. Don't.
Jersey Mike’s is a massive corporation. Mike's Philly Steak Plus is a local Asheville staple at 589 Brevard Rd. They aren't the same thing. One is a franchise; the other is a local gem where the owner might actually be the one handing you your bag.
Also, the "Middle Eastern" influence on the menu isn't just an afterthought. The lamb and beef gyros are legitimately good. They use a blend that stays juicy, and the pita is usually toasted just enough to give it some structure.
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What You Need to Know Before You Go
Parking can be a bit of a nightmare. Let’s be real. If you’re heading there during the lunch rush, be prepared to circle the lot or park a little further away. It’s a popular spot for locals, and for good reason.
The hours are pretty standard: 11 AM to 9 PM most days. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch, but it also hits the spot for a heavy dinner after a long day.
They do offer vegetarian options, though. You can grab a Garden Salad or some of the sides. If you’re looking for a meat-free "cheesesteak," this might not be your primary destination, but for everyone else in the group, it's a win.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
- The Combo is King: Don't just buy the sub. The fries and drink add-on is usually the best value, and their fries are the crispy, salt-heavy kind that pair perfectly with a greasy sandwich.
- Check the Specials: Sometimes they have platters that aren't highlighted on the main board. Ask what's fresh.
- Bring an Appetite: The portions are generous. If you aren't a big eater, you might find yourself taking half a sub home.
- Call Ahead: If you're in a hurry, phone in your order. The grill takes time because they cook it fresh, and waiting 15 minutes in a small shop can feel like an eternity when you're hungry.
Mike's Philly Steak Plus is proof that you don't need a fancy interior or a massive marketing budget to be a community favorite. You just need a hot grill, good meat, and a menu that gives people exactly what they want—even if they didn't know they wanted a gyro with their cheesesteak.
To make the most of your next trip, try the Beef and Lamb Gyro wrap instead of the standard sub just once. The blend of spices and the cool crunch of the salad inside the wrap offers a completely different experience that most "cheesesteak" purists never even realize they’re missing.