Phillies Cheesesteaks & More now open in University City

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Photo by Holly Fann

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Photo by Holly Fann

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Phillies Cheesesteaks & More recently opened at 6800 Olive, in a small shopping plaza in University City that's less than a two-minute drive from the Delmar Loop. Those expecting a traditional “steak wit” Philly-style cheesesteak may be surprised by the construction of Phillies' sandwiches, though all of the classic elements and flavors are present. 

Owner Mel Harlston serves up six variations, available as half or whole sandwiches. Three chicken options include a classic chicken Philly, a Buffalo chicken Philly, and a version with teriyaki chicken. Two beef varieties include classic steak and an A1 Philly bathed in steak sauce. Finally, the vegetarian Philly is loaded with sautéed mushrooms and an avocado spread.

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Photo by Holly Fann

Photo by Holly Fann

All of the sandwiches are served on a hoagie-style bun, baked fresh daily by Fazio’s on The Hill, and topped with the same combination of sautéed green peppers, onions and a blend of melted cheese. (Just like a traditional Philly cheesesteak, the sandwiches are a wonderfully drippy mess and require you assume the time-honored stand-and-lean eating approach to avoid a catastrophic wardrobe fail.)

Photo by Holly Fann

Phillies fries are the perfect means to wipe up wayward drops of melty sandwich cheese. They're coated in a light seasoned batter and can be ordered loaded, with either the classic beef or classic chicken sandwich toppings. The menu also includes chicken nuggets with various dipping sauces and a few specialty lemonades. 

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Photo by Holly Fann

Phillies makes one other unexpected but delectable item: funnel cakes. Crisp and golden brown on the outside and warm and soft on the inside, the ropes of sweet dough are dusted with powdered sugar and topped with a choice of crushed Oreos or drizzled with caramel or hot fudge.

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Photo by Holly Fann

Phillies' staffers (L to R): Jon, Baltimore, Sean, Krissi

Before Harlston opened the restaurant this fall, his takes on the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich were a favorite among friends and family, who urged him to open his own place. When he mentioned the concept to Sean Hall, former general manager and corporate trainer at Drunken Fish, Hall encouraged him to move forward with the idea. The two spent months planning, with Harlston eventually hiring Hall as general manager.

The entire staff is welcoming, affable, and warm. Krissi, who works the counter, is helpful and patient with those making multiple special requests. And when an exceptionally fussy customer put in their order, Jon, one of the line cooks, popped his head through the doorway, and said with cheerful reassurance, “No worries. I’ll take care of you.”

Phillies is currently open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.–8 p.m., with plans to extend hours in the near future.