Robyn's Culinary A.
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Chickie’s & Pete’s – Philadelphia Airport
October 29, 2025
What’s a trip to Philly without a cheesesteak? Like flying to Paris and skipping the Eiffel Tower — it just isn’t done. So naturally, I made my way to Chickie’s & Pete’s, the original spot everyone swears by.
Chris, my server, greeted me with a grin that could sell sunshine. They buzzed behind the counter with that practiced rhythm — quick, cheerful, and just chaotic enough to prove you’re in a real Philly joint. Ask for something and bam! — it materializes before you even finish your sentence.
They recommended “The Classic” Philly Cheesesteak, loaded with mushrooms and onions. When it hit the table, it was love at first sizzle. The sandwich was piping hot, cheese gloriously gooey and stretching like it had something to prove. Suddenly, the mountain of napkins they brought made perfect sense — this was not a polite sandwich; this was a roll-up-your-sleeves-and-dive-in situation.
The first bite was pure comfort: juicy, tender beef seasoned just right, with a whisper of garlic that lingered like a good secret. The onions had character — cooked just long enough to bring out flavor and attitude, but not so long they turned soft or brown. Even the bun held its ground, soft yet sturdy enough to carry the load like a true Philly hero.
To wash it all down, I tried their Donut Hard Cider from Ship Bottom Brewery in Swarthmore, PA (5.5% ABV). It’s basically fall in a glass — crisp apples, a swirl of cinnamon, a touch of sugar, and just enough cardamom to make you want to wear flannel. The finish was warm, sweet, and cozy, like dessert disguised as a drink.
The sounds of sizzling beef, clinking glasses, and the faint hum of airport travelers made for the perfect Philly soundtrack. The air smelled of toasted bread and melted cheese — a fragrance that should honestly be bottled and sold at duty-free.
By the end, I was full, happy, and maybe a little emotional. This wasn’t just a sandwich — it was a Philly initiation, and I passed with flying colors (and greasy fingers).