Some of the best steak subs in Virginia come from small counters with paper menus, busy grills, and lines that start before lunch. These are not trendy new spots chasing the latest food fad.
They are old-school shops that have fed neighborhoods for decades, from Alexandria and Arlington down to Norfolk, Newport News, Virginia Beach, and Richmond. If you love chopped steak, melted cheese, and a soft roll that can barely hold it all together, this list is for you.
Save it for your next road trip, or send it to the friend who always argues about where the best cheesesteak in the state really is.
1. Al’s Steak House, Alexandria, VA
Steak gets the spotlight at this Mount Vernon Avenue counter, and it has for generations. The meat is tenderized and diced before it hits the grill, which gives every bite a texture that sets it apart from thin-shaved versions.
The menu covers a wide range of cheesesteaks with toppings, plus hot and cold subs, burgers, chicken wings, onion rings, and fries. A Chicken Philly Sub is there for anyone skipping beef, and the Mini Steak and Cheese works well when you want a smaller bite.
Portions run generous. The 12 Steak and American Cheese is a classic choice for first-timers who want to understand why this shop has such a loyal following.
The space is basic and casual, with a historic, old-times character that matches its long run in the neighborhood. Breakfast is also served, and doors open at 9 AM on weekends.
Plan ahead on Friday and Saturday afternoons and evenings, when the crowd peaks. Street parking is free but can be tricky to find, so a Sunday morning visit is the calmest option.
2. Mario’s Pizza House & Grill, Arlington, VA
Since 1957, Mario’s has been the answer to late-night hunger on Wilson Boulevard. On Fridays and Saturdays, the kitchen stays open until 2:30 AM, which makes it a rare find in Arlington.
Square pies get plenty of attention here, but the grilled steak subs have their own long-running fan base. Recipes are family secrets, and the toppings come piled on deep.
Chicken wings and Old Bay Fries round out the order nicely. There is also a full vegetarian menu for mixed groups.
Dessert comes with a twist. A Carvel ice cream counter shares the space, along with nostalgic treats that feel straight out of another era.
Seating is limited to picnic tables out front, and there is no restroom, so most people grab their food to go. Friday nights and Saturday evenings bring the biggest rush, while weekday mornings stay quiet.
Parking is usually easy, which is a small miracle in this part of town.
3. Philly Style Steaks & Subs, Norfolk, VA
Sports fans will spot the decor first. Team memorabilia covers the walls at this Tidewater Drive counter, giving the room a fun, neighborhood clubhouse look.
The real draw is the Philly Special, a straightforward build with steak, cheese, and grilled onions. It is the order that keeps longtime customers coming back, some for more than 20 years.
Burgers and other subs are on the menu too. For something different, Cheesesteak Fries turn the shop’s signature flavor into a side dish worth sharing.
Prices stay friendly, usually $10 to $20 per person. Service is counter-only, so you order up front and grab a seat or head out.
Expect a wait during busy stretches, especially Wednesday through Saturday afternoons. The shop closes at 8 PM and stays closed on Sundays, so time your craving accordingly.
4. Rick’s Cheese Steak Shop, Newport News, VA
Ask around the Peninsula about steak and cheese, and Rick’s comes up fast. This Jefferson Avenue shop has been around so long it feels like part of the street itself.
The cheesesteaks arrive hot, with tender meat and a generous helping of cheese. Hoagies, hot dogs, and burgers fill out the rest of the menu.
One standout is the Maryland Cheese Steak with Baby Shrimp, a combo you will not find at most sub counters. Chili Cheese Fries and Mozzarella Sticks make easy add-ons.
A quick tip from the regulars’ playbook: if you want peppers, ask for them cooked. Otherwise they may come straight from the jar.
Hours run late, until 11 PM most nights and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. There is table seating and a kids’ menu, so families fit right in.
Sunday afternoons and weekend evenings bring the biggest crowds.
5. Zero’s Subs Oceanfront, Virginia Beach, VA
For plenty of families, a beach trip to Virginia Beach is not official until someone grabs a Zero’s grinder. The brand first opened here back in the 1960s, and the oceanfront shop keeps that tradition going.
Steak fans should look for the Grub Steak & Cheese Oven Baked Sub. The oven-baked style gives the roll a toasty finish that sets it apart from griddle-only shops.
Other favorites include the Jersey Italian Monster, El Cubano, and a grilled Pastrami & Cheese. Gluten-free sub rolls are available, a helpful touch for anyone with dietary needs.
The vibe stays laid-back, with dine-in seating, outdoor tables, and a dog-friendly policy inside and out. Free parking is usually easy to find.
Weekday afternoons, especially Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, are the busiest times. Saturday mornings tend to be calmer if you want a quick pre-beach lunch.
6. Mr Submarine – Drive Thru Only, Richmond, VA
A line of cars spilling toward West Broad Street is a normal sight here. Mr Submarine is drive-thru only, and Richmond drivers happily wait their turn.
The good news is that the line moves quickly. The same grill master has been cooking for over 25 years, and that experience shows in how fast orders come out.
The Philly Cheese Steak is the headliner. Steak and cheese subs come stuffed, often topped with crisp lettuce and fresh tomatoes for a Richmond-style finish.
Other options include a Grilled Chicken Sub, the classic Italian cold, and gyros. Fries come in hearty portions too.
Hours are shorter than most fast-food spots. It closes at 6 PM on most days, 8 PM on Thursday and Friday, and stays closed on Sundays.
Weekday afternoons are peak time, so an early evening run is your best bet.
7. Classics Sandwiches & Subs, Richmond, VA
Patience pays off at this Williamsburg Road shop. Every sub is made to order, so it may take a minute longer than a typical sandwich counter.
That extra time goes into a toasted roll and a steak and cheese sub with a balanced mix of onions, cheese, and peppers. The shop also serves steak-um style steaks, a nostalgic pick for anyone who grew up on them.
Classics has been in business for over 40 years. The small space carries that history with vintage pictures and decor that give it a decades-old charm.
Beyond steak, the Italian Sub is a solid choice. Signature limeades are a house specialty and pair nicely with a hot sandwich.
This is strictly a weekday lunch spot, open 10 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday. Free parking makes the stop easy, and there is a kids’ menu for little ones.
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