Few things spark a friendlier fight in Arizona than the question of who makes the best cheesesteak. Transplants from back east swear their favorite spot tastes just like home, while longtime locals defend the shops they have loved for decades.
From Tucson counter joints to a Scottsdale deli that only takes cash, the state is packed with places serving hot, cheesy sandwiches worth the debate. Here are eight spots that keep Arizonans talking, comparing, and occasionally disagreeing over lunch.
1. Frankie’s South Philly Cheesesteaks, Tucson, AZ
Ask around Tucson about the top cheesesteak in town and this Ina Road spot comes up fast. Described as a casual eatery with a Philadelphia-style menu, it turns out cheesesteaks, hoagies, hot wings, and fried sides in a clean, easygoing setting.
The signature South Philly Cheesesteak leans into tradition, and pairing it with mushrooms, onions, and peppers is a popular move. Fried green beans and the Philly Tots give the sides menu a little personality beyond the usual.
There is a bar area and the space works well for watching sports or grabbing a quick solo lunch. Hours run Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 8 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM, with free parking and no reservations needed.
2. Philly’s Finest, Tucson, AZ
Transplants who grew up eating cheesesteaks near the real thing tend to hold high standards, and this Speedway Boulevard shop has won some of them over. It keeps things straightforward with cheesesteaks, salads, and other comfort eats in a large open space.
The Original Cheesesteak is the headliner, and there is a Tuesday beef cheesesteak special worth planning around. A combo that adds fries and a drink keeps the value in check, and the portions are generous.
College students file in for the fast counter service and cozy, quiet vibe. Sweet tooths can finish with brownies or cookies.
Hours are Monday through Wednesday 10 AM to 3 PM and Thursday through Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM, closed Sunday, so check the clock before you go.
3. Hogie House Sandwiches, Tucson, AZ
Longevity means something in the sandwich world, and this Speedway sub shop has been part of Tucson’s food scene for decades. It carries a vintage vibe and specializes in cheesesteaks and other steak sandwiches.
Chewy bread does the heavy lifting here, holding generous portions of meat, cheese, and fresh vegetables. The steak and cheese with grilled jalapenos is a favorite order, and the Original Italian Hogie rounds out the menu.
It is a relaxed, quick-service kind of place with counter ordering, outdoor seating, and dogs welcome outside. That mix makes it easy to swing by whether you are eating in or grabbing takeout.
Open Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 9 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 7 PM, with plenty of free parking and no reservations required.
4. Proper Meats + Provisions, Flagstaff, AZ
Not every cheesesteak on this list comes from a dedicated sandwich shop. In downtown Flagstaff, this butcher and deli builds its hot sandwiches on the strength of Arizona-raised meats, poultry, and cured products.
The cheesesteak sits alongside a big lineup that includes Italian Beef, a French Dip, a Brisket Sando, and a Fried Chicken Po’ Boy. With the quality of the meat at the heart of the operation, the sandwiches carry real weight.
The spot sits right on East Route 66, which makes it an easy stop for anyone passing through the mountain town. Free wi-fi and a quick-visit setup suit travelers.
Hours are daily 7 AM to 6 PM, and it draws its biggest crowds on weekend afternoons.
5. Philly’s Famous – Chandler, Chandler, AZ
Bread can make or break a cheesesteak, and this family-owned Chandler counter takes that seriously by using Amoroso rolls, the same style you find in Philadelphia. That soft, chewy texture is a big reason people from back east say it tastes like home.
The Philly Cheese Steak and Cheese comes with soft bread, seasoned steak, and a red sauce that sounds unexpected but wins folks over. The Italian Hoagie is another solid pick.
Set in a strip mall, the shop keeps a cozy, casual feel with fast service and a serves-local-specialty reputation. It is a favorite for a quick solo lunch.
Hours run Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 8 PM, closed Sunday. Parking is free and easy.
6. Forefathers Cheesesteaks, Tempe, AZ
Industrial design and a fun Philly-leaning vibe set the tone at this Tempe stop, where the counter turns out cheesesteaks loaded with toppings, plus soups and salads. The seasoned steak comes cooked to order with soft bread and cheese that does not overpower the sandwich.
You can go big with the Cheesesteak Large or keep it manageable with the Mini Cheesesteak, and the wiz option gets a nod for tasting legit. Portions are generous, which helps justify the price.
There is plenty of seating, outdoor tables, and a family-friendly, group-ready feel that draws college students and out-of-towners alike. It leans trendy without losing the casual counter setup.
Hours are Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 8 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 3 PM.
7. Casella’s Italian Delicatessen, Scottsdale, AZ
Bring cash to this Scottsdale spot, because this longtime family-owned deli keeps things old-school in more ways than one. The cash-only counter serves hot and cold Italian subs in a laid-back setting with personal service.
The cheesesteak is simple and satisfying, built with perfectly seasoned meat on fresh hoagie rolls. Ordering it with the works is the way to go, and homemade sides like pasta salad round out the plate.
Finish with a cannoli or cookies for a proper deli send-off. Prices stay reasonable, which adds to the neighborhood charm.
Hours are Monday through Friday 11 AM to 5 PM and Saturday 11 AM to 3 PM, closed Sunday. It is a quick-visit stop with free parking and free wi-fi.
8. Corleone’s Philly Steaks & Pizza, Phoenix, AZ
A Godfather theme sets this Camelback Road spot apart before you even taste anything, and the decor leans hard into its Philly roots. The menu pairs thin-crust pizzas with Philly cheesesteaks, so you do not have to choose just one comfort food.
Soft bread, tender meat, and gooey cheese anchor the cheesesteaks, and the fries earn their own fans. The Original with bell peppers and mushrooms is a popular build, and cheese wiz with mushrooms is another well-loved combo.
Look beyond the sandwiches to the Cheese Steak Fries, Little Joey’s Cheesteak Hoagie, and Pizza Steak. The no-nonsense approach keeps the focus on the food.
Hours are Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 8 PM, with outdoor seating and dogs welcome outside.
Enjoyed this story?
Add Fast Food Club as a preferred source to see more of our reporting on Google.