WHEREAS, National Cheesesteak Day is observed annually on March 24th in celebration of one of America’s most iconic sandwiches; and
WHEREAS, The cheesesteak is inseparable from the identity, culture, and culinary legacy of the City of Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS, According to Visit Philadelphia, the cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in 1930, when South Philadelphia hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri first prepared the sandwich that would become a defining food of this City; and
WHEREAS, Institutions like Cleavers Philadelphia, Del Rossi's Cheesesteak & Pizza CO., Joe’s Steaks + Soda Shop, Larry’s Steaks, Max’s Famous Steaks, and Taste Cheesesteak Bar, as well as the countless small mom-and-pop delis serve as both some of the finest culinary experiences the City has to offer and invaluable fixtures of their communities; and
WHEREAS, Over generations, the cheesesteak has grown from a neighborhood staple into an internationally recognized symbol of Philadelphia, drawing residents and visitors alike to local eateries across the City; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia’s cheesesteak tradition reflects the City’s working-class roots, neighborhood pride, culinary creativity, and enduring role as one of America’s great food capitals; and
WHEREAS, Cheesesteak shops across Philadelphia contribute to the City’s economy, tourism, and cultural life while sustaining one of its most beloved traditions; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes March 24, 2026, as National Cheesesteak Day in the City of Philadelphia.
End