National Cheesesteak Day (March 24)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

National Cheesesteak Day, observed on March 24th each year, celebrates one of America’s most iconic sandwiches.

This day honors the delicious combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a soft roll, a creation that has become synonymous with Philadelphia’s culinary culture.

Whether you’re a purist who sticks to traditional ingredients or someone who enjoys a creative twist, this holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge.

Stick around to learn more about the history, fun facts, and ways to celebrate this mouthwatering wacky March holiday.

When is the Holiday?

National Cheesesteak Day takes place annually on March 24th, giving food lovers a reason to enjoy this beloved sandwich.

Who Invented It?

The cheesesteak’s origins trace back to Pat Olivieri, a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor in the 1930s.

According to legend, Pat decided to grill some thinly sliced beef on his cart and placed it inside a roll.

A passing cab driver caught the scent and requested one for himself.

Word spread quickly, leading Olivieri to open Pat’s King of Steaks, now an iconic cheesesteak spot in Philadelphia.

The History of the Holiday

The origins of the day are unclear, but it is believed to have started as a grassroots celebration by cheesesteak lovers.

Over time, local restaurants and food brands embraced it, using the holiday to showcase unique takes on the sandwich.

The holiday likely gained momentum thanks to the intense rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, both of which have been serving cheesesteaks for decades.

The media has helped fuel the rivalry, making it a key part of Philadelphia’s food culture.

As cheesesteaks gained popularity across the U.S., so did the enthusiasm for celebrating them. Today, the holiday is widely recognized, with restaurants offering special deals, food challenges, and even themed events to honor the sandwich’s history.

Top 5 Facts About National Cheesesteak Day

  1. The Great Rivalry: Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are Philadelphia’s two most famous cheesesteak vendors, located just across the street from each other.
  2. Cheese Controversy: The original cheesesteak didn’t include cheese. Cheese Whiz, American, and provolone are now the most popular options.
  3. A Philly Staple: Over 1.2 million cheesesteaks are sold annually in Philadelphia alone.
  4. Beyond the Bun: Cheesesteak-inspired dishes include egg rolls, pizza, and even dips.
  5. Tourist Attraction: Visitors from around the world travel to Philadelphia just to experience an authentic cheesesteak.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Visit a Cheesesteak Spot: Whether in Philly or elsewhere, support a local restaurant serving up cheesesteaks.
  • Make Your Own: Experiment with different meats, cheeses, and toppings to craft your perfect version at home.
  • Host a Cheesesteak Party: Set up a DIY cheesesteak bar with a variety of toppings, cheeses, and sauces for guests to create their own sandwiches.
  • Cheesesteak Eating Contest: Organize a fun challenge to see who can eat the most cheesesteaks in a given time.
  • Take a Cheesesteak Tour: If you’re in Philadelphia, take a food tour and sample cheesesteaks from different renowned spots to determine the best.
  • Share on Social Media: Post photos or videos of your cheesesteak creations using #NationalCheesesteakDay.
  • Try a New Twist: Opt for a vegetarian or seafood-based cheesesteak variation to shake things up.

Related Recipes for the Holiday

  • Philly Cheesesteak Sliders – A mini version of the classic sandwich, perfect for parties and easy to make in large batches.
  • Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers – A low-carb take on the traditional cheesesteak, with all the flavors packed inside a roasted bell pepper.
  • Philly Cheesesteak Dip – A creamy, shareable appetizer loaded with seasoned beef, cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers, served with toasted bread or chips.
  • Vegan Philly Cheesesteak – A plant-based twist using seitan and dairy-free cheese, mimicking the flavors and textures of the original.
  • Philly Cheesesteak Calzone – A fusion between a cheesesteak and an Italian classic, featuring a crispy, golden crust filled with steak, cheese, and onions.
  • Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak – A spicy alternative using shredded buffalo chicken and melted provolone inside a toasted hoagie roll.
  • Philly Cheesesteak Pizza – A delicious pizza topped with seasoned steak, caramelized onions, peppers, and gooey melted cheese.

**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**

Links to Resources

  • Flat-Top Griddle – The best way to cook steak for an authentic cheesesteak experience, ensuring even heat distribution and that perfect sear.
  • Cheesesteak Seasoning Blend – A spice mix to perfect your homemade cheesesteak, packed with classic Philly-style flavors.
  • Philly Cheesesteak Hat – Show off your love for cheesesteaks with a fun and stylish hat featuring iconic Philly cheesesteak branding.

Related Holidays

Pin it!

Share this post about National Cheesesteak Day on Pinterest!