Gooey Looies

Restaurant · Pennsport

Gooey Looies

Restaurant · Pennsport

1

231 McClellan St, Philadelphia, PA 19148

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Gooey Looies by Infatuation - Reviews
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Highlights

Generous cheesesteaks & hoagies, local favorite, cash only  

Featured in The Infatuation
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231 McClellan St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

gooeylooies.shop

$10–20 · Menu

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231 McClellan St, Philadelphia, PA 19148 Get directions

+1 215 334 7668
gooeylooies.shop

$10–20 · Menu

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Aug 7, 2025

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Gooey Looie's - Review - South Philly - Philadelphia - The Infatuation

"We’re sure if the Founding Fathers had a chance to bite into a cheesesteak from this South Philly sandwich spot, they would’ve added a “right to go to Gooey Looie’s every day” clause in one of those parchment scrolls. It’s one of those places where the steak is bursting with so much cooper sharp cheese that you can see the indents of the mounds of beef through the wrapper. It’s also a casual corner store that you can walk into every day and not have to deal with the hassle of a long line when trying to order. The Works here comes dressed up with pickles, onions, and peppers, and it’s the only way you should order it." - Candis R. McLean

https://www.theinfatuation.com/philadelphia/reviews/gooey-looies
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Rose Vasquez-Nelson

Google
The large sandwich is bursting with flavor and completely share. I got a small and hubby got the large and neither of us finished. Wonderful owners more than willing to help you firm up a decision on what to get. I’m stuffed with Gooey goodness. The patio seating on a wonderful 75° weather day was an added bonus .

Ron TazMan (OTazMan)

Google
Wow, a local deli that serves huge philly cheese steaks that are GREAT! Order large, either be hungry or share for $14. Talking to a local and she lives near another famous cheese steak place and drives here to get hers. She said also said ,"try their corn beef best in town."

Alex Song

Google
Authentic, local-style Philly cheesesteak — delicious and full of flavor. Just be aware: it’s cash only, so plan ahead!

KJ Sachs

Google
Craving a great tasting Italian hoagie with just enough kick and loads, and I mean LOADS, of meat? Look no further than the renowned deli in South Philly - Gooey Looie’s! They are also known for their fantastic and also bursting at the seams cheesesteaks. One is definitely enough to feed two people. There is no indoor seating (I think the stools are there more for waiting from r the order), but plenty of outdoor seating in the plaza. Or you can do what I did and bring it home. So…where is this iconic place of deliciousness? Tucked in Pennsport Plaza with its own parking off of McClellen Street and E. Moyamensing Avenue. In short, if you are visiting IKEA or any of the stores in the immediate area, plug Gooey Looie’s into your GPS for an amazing lunch. #trustkj

Matt Stephan

Google
Haven't been here in 11 years and I think it got even better. Steaks were great. What a place.

Jason Torres

Google
This place was suggested to me by my mom. She lives in Bristol and I live right here in south Philly and didn't even know about this place. Me and my sister got two mushroom cheese steaks and they were great. There was a lot of meat and toppings and they tasted great. The only downside was no sides for the steaks (ie- fries and such) but besides that I highly recommend this place. The help was extremely nice. The food was done quickly and even though I made a few stops on the way home they food was still hot when I got in the house.

Ruth Ann

Google
I just had my first authentic Philly cheesesteak at Gooey Looies, and it completely blew me away. If you’re craving a cheesesteak loaded with flavor and all the fixings, this South Philly spot is where you need to go. I got mine with provolone cheese, sautéed onions, and sweet peppers. The peppers had this perfect balance—slightly pickled but still fresh and firm when you bit into them. And let me tell you, the sandwich was massive—it felt like it weighed over a pound! I’m pretty sure if I had an extra hoagie roll on hand, I could’ve made another fully-loaded cheesesteak out of what they gave me. We showed up at 10:15, even though they don’t officially open until 10:30, and they were already open and ready to serve us. No waiting around—just straight to enjoying one of the best cheesesteaks I’ve ever had. Here’s what makes Gooey Looies stand out: High-quality Ingredients: The freshness is undeniable. The meat is tender, the bread is perfect, and every bite is packed with flavor. Huge Portions: They seriously don’t hold back. The cheesesteak is loaded with so much meat and cheese that you could easily make a second sandwich. Customizable Order: Whether you’re into onions, peppers, or provolone (like me), Gooey Looies lets you build your sandwich exactly how you like it. If you are visiting Philadelphia, skip other cheese steak spots and head straight to Gooey Looies. This is the real Philly cheesesteak experience.

Alex Karayan

Google
Tip: place is actually in the plaza. The driving apps suck. Great steak n cheese that is loaded with meat. They use sweet peppers here and do not toast. Roll was ok. Got soggy quick. But definitely a shareable size for the price.

Nick S.

Yelp
The established is the heart of South Philly. The Cheese steak is Gooey & flavorful. If you ever find yourself in a predicament - do yourself a favor and head to Gooey Looie's
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Carmi A.

Yelp
The Philly cheesesteak KING huge hero bread stuffed with ribeye steak thinly sliced with white American cheese fried onions and peppers cooked into the meat
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Denis M.

Yelp
Check the review out on YouTube EMOORE45. I ordered the cheese steak with salt pepper fried onions light mayo and Ketchup. Simply amazing you can't go wrong with a cheese steak from Philadelphia i will differently be returning to try different items on the menu . I most say is was amazed because this is a small mom and pop shop that been around for years the lady at the counter was also very friendly
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Jason S.

Yelp
Great little place in south Philly a few minutes from I-95. Parking is a little tough. There is a small lot nearby. The SMALL steak is HUGE. $20 for a steak, coleslaw, and a drink. Cash only. I was there mid-afternoon and there was a line. Food came out fast. There was a picture of Babe Heffron and Bill Guarnere (101st Airborne) over the counter. When I said something, the entire group became incredibly friendly and shared a few stories about them.
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Jason L.

Yelp
This is as authentic of a cheesesteak ordering experience as you will get in Philly. Came here because i loved the name. The steak had pretty good flavor but it could have used more cheese in my sandwich. It wasn't really that gooey as I expected. Maybe I need to ask for double cheese next time. It's inside a market so it was hard to find at first. But the folks are nice and seems like a local place versus a touristy place. Except I was a tourist. I tend to go to places not as mainstream.
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N.J. R.

Yelp
Small inconspicuous friendly place. A Philly native recommended this place. The employees were very nice. They could tell this was my first visit and made my visit easy. The cooks were also helpful and polite. The cheesesteak was ok. Wasn't the best I had in Philly nor DC for that matter. But good. Would I leave the main city of Philly for here, no. Would I make a stop if I'm close by, yes. There isn't much seating in the place but plenty of outdoor tables and such.
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Cherie C.

Yelp
Tucked away in an adorable courtyard plaza, Gooey Looie's can be tough to find. But it's worth finding-- residual if you're really, really hungry. Prices are reasonable and portions are huge. The hoagie was packed with cold cuts. Husband loved it. The cheesesteak was HUGE. It's not greasy but not dry. It's a reliable cheesesteak. Bring cash. Staff are really nice. They have tables outside of the weather is good and you need to eat ASAP.
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Great B.

Yelp
Local spot beef steak piled heavy and high. Served with ketchup which was an interesting change. Great spot
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Diane R.

Yelp
Great little sandwich shop with parking. Finely chopped steak in a philly roll. Would have preferred more cheese but sandwich was good! Friendly employees and locals sitting outside. Great place to go on a nice day to eat outside.
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Anwar A.

Yelp
One of my favorite spots to get a sandwich and smuggle it in to Sixers game. Hefty sandwiches that is enough to share.

Big D.

Yelp
You would never guess this little delicatessen style store was located in a small very cool mall area with a parking lot in South Philly. I had a burger while my daughter had a chicken salad on Rye. I disagreed with the Rye choice and had a playful banter with the 2 woman workers who disagreed with me on "their" Rye bread. I enjoyed every second of the South Philly lingo talk and our lunch too. Two sandwiches , 2 chips , and a soda for under $20 bucks. (this price included our 10 cent plastic bag )
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John S.

Yelp
Authentic experience. We were visiting NYC and stopped here solely to grab a cheesesteak Philly Cheese Steak since it was on the way back home to DC. They have a sandwich shop in the back, and it operates like a mini market. You have a few guys in the back and taking orders - seems like the old school way of doing it. We got a large cheese steak with onions hot peppers, and it was real good. I think it could've used a bit of salt, but it was real good. I would've asked for extra cheese next time, and you can include things like mushroom, lettuce, tomato, etc. Definitely would recommend! The cheesesteak is enough for two.
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Qef J.

Yelp
Tried this based on reviews. Ordered a cheesesteak. The meat wasn't great at all. So disappointed. Actually tossed half of it out.
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Pranusha P.

Yelp
Went to this place to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak while passing through and was amazed by the small shop vibe. They had sandwiches and hoagies which essentially included the addition of lettuce and tomato. I had a cheesesteak and my cousin had the egg salad hoagie (pictured here). It was a no frills experience. No seating inside so we ate on some tables outside. I overall liked my cheesesteak but wished I could add on more than just sport peppers, such as a chipotle mayo. I would probably try a different spot if I was back in Philly. Bottom line: not the best cheesesteak I've had, but not the worst
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Daisy M.

Yelp
The best customer service! Everyone was extremely patient and delightful! Food was fresh and delicious. Two people can share a large cheesesteak. My kids had the cold deli sandwich! They ate it up! Parking is available which is very convenient.
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Charles T.

Yelp
Prepare your treasure maps for this stop, we had a heck of a time finding it. Much like a treasure hunt though, when you find it...you'll feel far richer than you did before! I went with Cooper Sharp/wit', my son got a cooper sharp/without, and my other son and daughter got cheeseburgers. Gooey Looie's is tucked inside of a little area that looks like a mix of apartments and commercial rental units, but from nearly all sides except the parking lot it looks like a bunch of nothing. When we finally found this one we were very happy and excited to check it out. This is not your typical tourist trap location with a ton of lights and lines down the block. There were a few guys playing touchscreen gambling games and a few employees and that was that. It was...wonderful. When taking this steak in my hands it was like someone gave me a dumbbell. Very heavy steak sandwich and you could smell it through the bag. This was a more finely chopped steak than some in the area, depending on what you like that's either a good or bad thing. For me personally, I like both styles so I was happy one way or another. There was a ton of cheese on this steak to match the ton of meat. The bread was very solid, not ripping or falling apart at all. The onions were a small dice (which I love) and were cooked perfectly. All in all this was a really solid sandwich. I can't speak about the burgers but both my son and daughter said they enjoyed them. In the ballpark of $30 for two steaks and two burgers, great price in my opinion. This goes without saying...Gooey Looie's in Philly - Didn't Suck! Check out our TikTok video on the visit here - https://www.tiktok.com/@didnt_suck/video/7030547731957468422?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6964066589928343046
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Ryan B.

Yelp
I'm sorry, I forgot to review this spot when I took the pic! Easily a top 5 Philly Cheesesteak spot to hit when you come to town. It's been a few years, but Gooey Looie's was a banger, one of the few spots I wasn't just resoundingly disappointed in. Like, my buddy and I walked from cheesesteak shop to cheesesteak shop & were just repeatedly bummed out, fortunately we found this gem to save the trip! My buddy ordered from Pat's & Gino's & I just wanted to tell him not to lmao Oregon Steaks were bad as well, Sonny's was good. I need to get back to grab an Angelo's Pizzeria cheesesteak...someday, but currently in Central America, so, yeah Edit! I knew I reviewed it! Weird it showed up blank because it's been five years ::eye roll::
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Que J.

Yelp
First stop in my philly adventure and this place didn't let down whatsoever!!! Honestly don't ever care to try another place! The food was so fresh cheesy delicious and all at a good price! Place is cash but does have an atm. Service was quick and definitely didn't feel rushed and all the guys were cool.
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Chef Daniel B.

Yelp
It was ok....basic.There was mot an immense amount of flavor in the meat.Unfortunately there is not a lot to say here. My colleague and myself was not too thrilled.
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Robert L.

Yelp
The food is always outstanding! There's always a line, but they seem to knock out that line very fast. The ambience is a very nice setting! Unfortunately there's no seating inside there so you have to get your sandwich waiting in line and then you can leave. Everything about the sandwiches is fabulous! Their prices are also very good! They never disappoint!

J G.

Yelp
Echoing other reviewers... not huge flavor but very meaty and super hot. Could use more cheese/whiz and some extra grease (I know but why get cheesesteak that isn't greasy?) A few points off for cash only and lack of seating. But fair location if you're going up or down 95 and need a quick bite.
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Ian M.

Yelp
Not the best cheesesteak by any means, but still good. I thoroughly enjoyed it but don't think I'd go back again cuz there are better places not too far. I appreciated that they had sweet peppers, and I'm pretty sure this is the only place that ever actually gave me extra ketchup when I asked for it. Ketchup galore and that was perfect. A bit messy - gooey, you might say - as it should be. But yeah don't come here thinking you're getting the definitive experience, and bring cash or be ready to pay the ATM fee. Funny cute little shop. Annoying that map apps don't seem to understand where the location is as it lead us down the tiniest little alley behind the shop instead of into the parking lot.
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Marquita M.

Yelp
South Philly staple and one of the best cheesesteaks you can find. Some say they put too much meat in their sandwiches but I say they're giving you your moneys worth. I wish they delivered!
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Renee D.

Yelp
Now that I'm working in South Philly it's given me a chance to explore the food scene here because it's not a part of town that I have ever frequented. So when a hoagie craving hit I was overwhelmingly directed to Gooey Looie's and so glad I was. My last hoagie was an epic fail (see my last weeks review of Fairmount Grill), this on the other hand was major redemption. I went with corned beef hoping and praying it would be lean, thinly cut and savory and it was. The sheer volume of meat was pure delight and I devoured that sandwich. Can't wait to try the Jewish Deluxe, Italian and Turkey. I really wish they would add chicken cheese steaks to their menu.

Haley C.

Yelp
Quick and easy. Good cheesesteaks and a load of tastykake selections to choose from. Would definitely go back.
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Steven B.

Yelp
Soaking wet sub roll. Nothing on the sandwich. Cash only so they can make another couple dollars off of you at their ATM. No where to sit
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Phil H.

Yelp
Cheesesteak was good but not exceptional .. would stop by if in neighborhood but wouldn't travel out of way
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Denice L.

Yelp
Small convenience store with a griddle in the back. We found this spot on Yelp because the other cheesesteak place didn't live up to the taste. We ordered a large cheesesteak with cheese, peppers and mushrooms. It was enough for two people to share and we shared until it was all gone. Hot and fresh with all the fixings. If ever in Philly again, we will stop by. One thing they only accept cash!!

Christopher C.

Yelp
Cash only. Only reason I didn't give 5 stars is due to cash only. I would pay the 50 cent cred card fee on top of order price for convenience. I came prepared so had cash. But they have atm onsite for unprepared. Ordered full size Italian Hoagie. Did not disappoint. Was incredibly big and flavorful for the 12ish dollar price. Easily feed two people. Yes, I ate it all by myself...I will visit again in future
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TA W.

Yelp
The Goat. But, they make you type more. These people need to get out more. Their typical Philly attitude goes into each Cheesesteak and hoagie. So, come get told off and made to feel, ya know, full of that work. GooeyLooey, I will always come back for another two. One no onion...
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Dana V.

Yelp
old school, huge, delicious steaks and hoagies can't beat it, not a tourist trap, family business, a REAL cheesesteak
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Daniel L.

Yelp
Yes love the their sandwiches. Huge and the staff is A+. My favorite is their tuna hoagie. Big enough to share.
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Sydni J.

Yelp
It wasn't the best place and some of the workers were pretty rude. I felt somewhat unsafe here as a Black woman but this was recommended by others so I wanted to try. It was pretty disappointing.
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William H.

Yelp
4.4 stars but didn't match up with the reviews. Finally found this hidden mini grocery store. Only American or provolone options, it was very hot (temp) but tasteless. Would not recommend.
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FoodJunkie J.

Yelp
Hey Yelpers-- It's Hoagie Tyme!!!!!!!!!! I had to drop a review for Gooey Looie's, because they're MVP's in the sandwich game. Order ahead or when you arrive. Pull out your sneakers and walk or go for drive (BARS--hahahaha)!!!!! JUST GO!!!!!!!!! Peace and Mayo, Food Junkie J
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Markiesa B.

Yelp
We came here on our way to Philly because my brother recommended this spot. It's actually like a bodega store. We order in the back of the store and with me being a first time I didn't know where to start. My brother said to order a cheese Philly all the way which meant everything on it. While waiting around because that place is small and tight I brought some Carmel popcorn in a tub which turned out to be good. Anyways the place is cash only too. When we got back to the hotel we opened up our Philly which we got a large one probably 12 inch in size. Everything looked good except they put ketchup and pickles on the sandwich which is unheard of to me. Sandwich still tasted good I would just opt out of ketchup and pickles next time
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Kathryn K.

Yelp
Came here after a recommendation from an uncle as we argued about the best philly cheesesteak. My family and I are notorious for going around finding the best one, unfortunately this wasn't it. Just had a basic Philly cheesesteak nothing special. If you're in the area and you don't want to drive any further by all means give them a try. They are cash only so keep that in mind oh, I believe there wasn't atm a call and check before. Luckily we were able to put our order in over the phone which I can't say for many other places. This made it a breeze on a cold day to run in and out

Rashonda G.

Yelp
Haven't had their hoagies in years. Still very good and fresh. Staff was very nice at the counter. Food was made quickly also. Today's lunch was a great choice.
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Dean Q.

Yelp
Not sure if it's really a secret anymore but I'm shocked how it seems like no one talks about Gooey Looie's when it comes to the discussion for "Best Cheesesteak in Philly". This small sandwich joint/corner store is tucked away in a nondescript shopping plaza in Pennsport so I could see how those not from the neighborhood (like myself) pass it by. The guys at the counter are polite but cut to the chase and quickly assemble your order. The sandwiches here are massive so it's impressive how fast your food comes out. We got a cheesesteak and the Jewish deluxe hoagie. Even with a group of 4, we couldn't manage to finish our food. The ribeye for the cheesesteak here is chopped pretty fine (a la Dalessandro's) so if that's not your style, maybe consider other places. But the sandwich weighed like 2 pounds and was very melty and well seasoned. The hoagie was just as loaded. Not my favorite Jewish hoagie but for sure worth the cost of admission. If you want to avoid lines at the usual suspects and still get a cheesesteak (or any other sandwich) that can last at least 2 meals, I highly suggest you come here.

Lorrie W.

Yelp
This place is HARD to find! It's in a little strip mall... The cheesesteaks are the BEST! They put Pat's and EVERYONE else to shame! If I'm traveling anywhere in the Rt. 95 corridor of Philly, my car knows it's way there (with a little help from GPS)

Richard K.

Yelp
Richard Kedanis Great hoagie. Consistently good for years. You can make two hoagies from one of theirs, too.
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Nini E.

Yelp
Quick service & extra thick hoagies! If you call ahead, they'll have it ready and waiting for you. I believe cash only still. Would recommend the Italian and roast beef hoagie, as well as the cheesesteak.
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Marcia T.

Yelp
There truly are no words to describe this gem of a spot. For the locals for sure. I'm a "TampaDelphian" now, but whenever I come home, this is the FIRST place I go to after getting a rental. I would give it 10s if I could. Don't sleep on this spot, check it out and you won't be disappointed.
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Shareef W.

Yelp
Had the opportunity to have a banging hoagie from Gooey Louie's recently and let me be the one to tell yall....still is DELICIOUS. Honestly I didn't even know I would had the privilege as soon as I did again because my grandma picked up the hoagie without my knowledge cause she got herself one and brought me one. So I just have to say its been awhile I had a hoagie from here and they've hadn't lost their touch at all. Still made with love. Had a Italian which was very fresh, roll soft and right amount of bite, meats delicious, and seasoned perfect. I love extra mayonnaise on my hoagies and cheesesteaks but like I mentioned before my grandmother ordered without my knowledge and she doesn't say "extra mayonnaise" but the normal amount was still so good. That mayo was one of the highlights too cause you know that hoagie mayo is different from regular mayonnaise, it's too perfect. This hoagie had that. So good I may get another one this upcoming week. That's how good my hoagie was. 4stars all day! Can't go wrong cheesesteak or hoagie either way
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Aaron M.

Yelp
Absolutely AMAZING! Best Philly Cheese steak of MY LIFE! The guys are very nice and helpful. I was a tourist so I asked alot of questions. Never had ketchup on a PCS but they were right.
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Bummy D.

Yelp
Place is hard to find you have to go inside the small plaza as the store is hidden. The sandwich is HUGE can be shared for family. Worth going to the place:) I will definitely come back!
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Derrell S.

Yelp
Love this place! I used to live in South Jersey and used to come across the bridge to get these. Now that I live in Charlotte, I brought a few back and shared with my then girlfriend..now wife. She had never been to Philly or had an authentic steak. She was in love! Lol I mean smashed the whole thing can't wait to get back and take her there!
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Damian W.

Yelp
Food 3.0/5.0 Service 2.0/5.0 Value 3.5/5.0 Decor 2.0/5.0 Overall 3.0/5.0 Not sure why this place is so highly rated. The cheesesteaks were just okay. Located in a neighborhood center; location initially confused me a bit.
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Tricia T.

Yelp
Gooey Looie's is legitttt. I went to Dickinson Park nearby with some friends and we decided to get sandwiches from here. This place is cash only but someone at the park overheard us googling to find a nearby ATM and said that there's one right there at the shop and another close by. Husband went to pick up our sandwiches so I don't have the full experience of being at the place to speak to... BUT OH MAN. I am from South Jersey and I love a good hoagie. Philly is a city of sandwiches so there are many good ones to choose from but the hog I got from Gooey Looie's might be my favorite so far. I ordered the American, large size, and bae did me a solid and got extra mayo and cheese on it. It came with some kind of spicy pepper on top that I picked off because that's not my style. Otherwise, it was delicioussss. It was staaaacked with meat (very fresh tasting meat) and almost impossible to get a solid bite with all flavors at once. But still. It was a great sandwich. I ate half of it at the park and we packed the other half in the cooler for later. This might be my favorite American Hoagie in the city so far. That said, I docked a star because it's 2021 and there's still a pandemic out there so cashless payments need to be an option. Side note: menu photos shared might be old but my husband confirmed they are accurate.