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It stands at the heart of Philadelphia’s culinary heritage Pat’s King of Steaksa landmark synonymous with the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
Frank Olivierichef and owner, traces the origins of this beloved sandwich to an unlikely moment, when his Uncle Pat got bored with his every day hot dog fare and improvised with a ribeye topping.
“One day my Uncle Pat was so tired of eating hot dogs that he said to Grandpa, ‘Go to the butcher and see what ribeye toppings he has and bring them back and we’ll make that sandwich we always like to make,'” Olivieri told the host Shawn Walchef With California BBQ Media. This sandwich, cooked on the same open counter as hot dogs, became what we now know as the Philly Cheesecake.
For Frank Olivieri, building connections and fostering hospitality is a family tradition that runs deep at Pat’s King of Steaks. Inspired by his uncle’s outgoing nature, Frank emulates Pat’s approach of connecting with Philadelphia’s elite and Hollywood stars – all while promoting the company. Olivieri explains: “I found a way to let the company work for me, rather than me working for the company.”
Philadelphia’s legendary hospitality is evident in the enduring legacy of Pat’s King of Steaks. Despite the infamous weather, loyal customers brave the elements to enjoy their iconic cheesesteaks. “Hospitality is somewhere between going to the French Laundry and that hot dog place in Chicago where the women are yelling at you all the time,” Olivieri laughs.
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