The Absolute Best Cheesesteak in El Cajon [Updated 2025]

And let me tell you, I've had my fair share of cheesesteaks in this town! From the classic spots to the hidden gems, I've tasted them all.

In this article, I'll share with you my top picks for the best cheesesteak in El Cajon. With 13 different places reviewed, you can trust that these recommendations come from someone with plenty of experience and a love for all things cheesy and delicious.

So grab your appetite and join me on this lighthearted journey as we uncover the mouthwatering world of El Cajon's best cheesesteaks. Let's dig in!

Junction Bar & Grill

Highlights
Large beers
Excellent food
Pulled pork tater tots
Large tacos for the price
Artichoke and jalapeño soup

Let me start by saying that this place knows how to satisfy both your hunger and your thirst. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by a friendly staff who promptly took my order. While waiting, I couldn't help but notice the impressive selection of large beers they had on tap. Trust me, you won't be disappointed with their drink choices.

Now, let's talk about the main event – the cheesesteak. The moment it arrived at my table, I could tell that this sandwich was something special. The bread was fresh and toasted to perfection, creating a delightful crunch with every bite. The thinly sliced steak was tender and juicy, bursting with flavor. But what took this cheesesteak to another level were the toppings. They had an array of options to choose from, including sautéed onions and peppers, melted cheese, and even mushrooms. It was like a party in my mouth!

But wait, there's more! Junction Bar & Grill goes above and beyond when it comes to their menu offerings. Their pulled pork tater tots are an absolute must-try – a crispy delight topped with tender pulled pork. And if you're looking for something different, their large tacos for the price will surely hit the spot.

Oh! Let's not forget about their artichoke and jalapeño soup – a combination that might sound strange at first but trust me when I say it's a match made in culinary heaven.

In conclusion, Junction Bar & Grill is a hidden gem in El Cajon that not only serves up excellent food but also provides a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious cheesesteak or want to explore their other delectable options, this place has got you covered. Don't miss out on the chance to experience their culinary delights firsthand – your taste buds will thank you!

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Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill

Highlights
Lovely ambiance
Delicious turkey sandwich
Colorful nachos
Friendly and attentive service
Wheelchair accessible

Walking into Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill, I was immediately struck by the lovely ambiance. The warm lighting and cozy seating made me feel right at home. But let's get down to business – the cheesesteak.

Now, you might be wondering why I'm mentioning a turkey sandwich in a review about cheesesteaks. Well, that's because Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill offers both classic cheesesteaks and a variety of other delicious options. So, being the adventurous foodie that I am, I decided to try their turkey sandwich first.

Let me tell you, it was delicious. The turkey was tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by the fresh vegetables and tangy sauce. It was like Thanksgiving in a sandwich – truly something special.

But back to the cheesesteak. Oh boy, where do I begin? The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had found something extraordinary. The thinly sliced steak was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasoning. Melt-in-your-mouth goodness is an understatement here.

To add some flair to my meal, I also ordered their colorful nachos as a side dish. Not only were they visually appealing with their vibrant toppings, but every bite exploded with flavor. It was like a party in my mouth!

I must commend the staff for their friendly and attentive service throughout my visit. They made sure everything was up to par and even offered suggestions for future visits.

One more thing worth mentioning is that Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill is wheelchair accessible – always an important factor to keep in mind when choosing a dining establishment.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best cheesesteak in El Cajon (or perhaps even an outstanding turkey sandwich), look no further than Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill. With its lovely ambiance, delectable menu options beyond cheesesteaks alone, and top-notch service, this place has earned its rightful spot as one of the contenders for El Cajon's cheesesteak crown.

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Janet's Cafe

Highlights
Delicious meals
Homely dishes
Generous portions
Top-notch quality
Warm and friendly service

Let me start by saying that the cheesesteak at Janet's Cafe is a mouthwatering delight. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of cheesy goodness that I didn't want to leave.

The meals at Janet's are nothing short of delicious. The flavors burst in your mouth with each tender bite. The steak is perfectly cooked, juicy, and oh-so-tasty. It's clear that they use top-notch quality ingredients to create their cheesesteaks, making them truly exceptional.

Not only are the dishes at Janet's Cafe homely and comforting, but they also come in generous portions that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. You won't be leaving this place feeling hungry, that's for sure.

What sets this place apart from the others is not just the amazing food but also the warm and friendly service. The staff at Janet's go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and ensure your dining experience is as enjoyable as possible.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest to find the best cheesesteak in El Cajon, look no further than Janet's Cafe. With their delicious meals, generous portions, and top-notch quality, it's no wonder they've made it onto my list of top contenders. Don't miss out on this hidden gem – give them a try and prepare to have your taste buds tantalized!

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Philly Steak Subs

Highlights
Quality and prices
Friendly staff
Best chicken tenders
Affordable prices
Cool atmosphere

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a friendly staff who were eager to take my order. The menu boasted an impressive selection of cheesesteaks, and my taste buds were tingling with excitement.

I couldn't resist trying their signature offering, so I ordered the classic Philly cheesesteak. As I waited, I couldn't help but notice the cool atmosphere of the place. The walls were adorned with pictures of Philadelphia landmarks, transporting me to the heart of the City of Brotherly Love.

When my sandwich arrived, it was love at first bite. The quality of the ingredients was undeniable; every mouthful was bursting with flavor. The tender slices of beef combined with melted cheese and sautéed onions created a harmonious symphony in my mouth. It was like a culinary masterpiece!

But here's where things got interesting - Philly Steak Subs is not just about cheesesteaks! They also serve up the best chicken tenders in town. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – they were simply perfection.

What impressed me even more was that all this deliciousness came at affordable prices. You don't have to break the bank for a top-notch meal here.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place that offers both quality and value, with a side of friendly service and some seriously tasty chicken tenders, then Philly Steak Subs is your go-to spot! Trust me when I say that it's worthy of being in contention for El Cajon's best cheesesteak crown.

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Antonelli's Deli

Highlights
Incredible turkey sandwich
Quick service during lunch rush
Fresh and flavorful food
Generous portion size
Deli with heart and soul

Walking into Antonelli's Deli, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It’s as if I had been transported back to my grandma's kitchen, where love and flavor were the main ingredients. But enough about my childhood memories, let's get down to business - the cheesesteaks.

The first bite of their cheesesteak was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds. The incredible turkey sandwich was perfectly seasoned with tender pieces of meat and melted cheese cascading over a bed of sautéed onions and peppers. It was a true masterpiece.

One thing that stood out during my visit was the quick service despite the lunch rush. The staff at Antonelli's Deli seemed to have mastered the art of efficiently serving hungry customers without compromising on quality or flavor. Kudos to them!

And speaking of flavor, every ingredient in the sandwich tasted incredibly fresh. From the crusty bread that held everything together to the generous portion size, it was evident that Antonelli's Deli takes pride in using only the finest ingredients.

What impressed me most about this deli is their commitment to creating food with heart and soul. You can tell that each sandwich is crafted with care and passion. It's not just about slapping some meat between two slices of bread; it's an art form.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a cheesesteak experience that will make your taste buds sing with delight, look no further than Antonelli's Deli in El Cajon. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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AB’s Philly Steak

Highlights
Fresh and yummy
Great customer service
Tender meat
Kid-friendly options

Let me just start by saying that AB's Philly Steak is a culinary masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with joy. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a smile and the intoxicating aroma of freshly cooked meat.

The first thing that caught my attention was the freshness of their ingredients. Each bite of their cheesesteak was like a symphony of flavors exploding in my mouth. The tender meat was cooked to perfection and paired perfectly with the melted cheese. It was an absolute delight!

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the customer service at AB's Philly Steak was top-notch. The staff were friendly, attentive, and quick to cater to any special requests or dietary needs. They were more than happy to accommodate my preferences, making me feel like a valued customer.

One aspect that stood out for me is how kid-friendly this place is. They offer options for little ones who might not be as adventurous when it comes to trying new flavors. So if you're looking for a place where both you and your little ones can enjoy a delicious meal, AB's Philly Steak should be at the top of your list.

In conclusion, AB’s Philly Steak in El Cajon has truly raised the bar when it comes to cheesesteaks. With their fresh ingredients, excellent customer service, and options for everyone in the family, they have definitely earned their spot on my list of best cheesesteaks in El Cajon. Don't miss out on this hidden gem – go try them out today!

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Tasty Pizza

Highlights
Cheap and delicious
Friendly customer service
Quick pick-up service

Upon arriving at Tasty Pizza, I was immediately drawn in by the enticing aroma of freshly baked dough and melted cheese. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation as I approached the counter to place my order.

The first thing that struck me about Tasty Pizza was the affordable prices. Who says you can't find quality without breaking the bank? The cheesesteaks here were not only cheap, they were also delicious. Each bite was a flavorful explosion of tender meat, perfectly melted cheese, and just the right amount of sautéed onions. It was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; it was also the friendly customer service. The staff at Tasty Pizza greeted me with smiles and made me feel like a valued customer. They were knowledgeable about their menu and gladly answered all my questions, making sure I had exactly what I wanted.

One aspect that stood out was their quick pick-up service. In no time at all, my order was ready for takeout. It's perfect for those days when you're in a rush or simply want to enjoy your cheesesteak in the comfort of your own home.

In conclusion, Tasty Pizza is an excellent contender for El Cajon's best cheesesteak. With its combination of cheap yet delicious food, friendly customer service, and quick pick-up service, it definitely deserves recognition. So if you're craving a cheesesteak that won't empty your wallet but will satisfy your taste buds, head over to Tasty Pizza!

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Grandstand Pizza

Highlights
Authentic pizza
Delicious toppings
Fast service
Family-friendly
Cheesy bread

Grandstand Pizza is not your average pizza joint; they also serve up a mean cheesesteak that will tantalize your taste buds. As I walked in, the aroma of freshly baked dough and sizzling meat filled the air, instantly making my mouth water.

I decided to order their famous cheesesteak, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The first bite was a combination of tender beef strips cooked to perfection and melted cheese oozing out from every corner. The bread was soft and slightly crunchy on the outside, adding an extra layer of texture to each mouthful.

What sets Grandstand Pizza apart from other places I've tried is their attention to detail when it comes to toppings. They offer a wide range of options like sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, and even jalapeños for those looking to add a little kick to their sandwich. Each topping is thoughtfully chosen and brings its own unique flavor profile to the overall experience.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service at Grandstand Pizza was fast and friendly. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch.

This family-friendly establishment is perfect for a casual lunch or a quick dinner with loved ones. The cozy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a delicious meal together.

If you're in El Cajon and craving a cheesesteak that's truly worth writing home about (or in this case, writing an article about), head over to Grandstand Pizza. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!

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Izzy's Cafe

Highlights
Best banana crepes
Excellent service
Reasonable prices
Superb food options
Kid-friendly dining

Let me start by saying that Izzy's Cafe is not your typical cheesesteak joint, but they sure know how to make a delicious sandwich. As I entered the cafe, the aroma of sizzling steak and melted cheese wafted through the air, instantly piquing my appetite.

The service at Izzy's Cafe was nothing short of excellent. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and promptly took my order. They were polite and attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was top-notch from start to finish.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – their cheesesteaks. Oh boy, they were absolutely divine! The thinly sliced steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy with a hint of smoky flavor. The cheese was generously melted, creating a creamy blanket over the meat. Each bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

But Izzy's Cafe isn't just about cheesesteaks; they have an array of superb food options to satisfy any craving. From their mouthwatering burgers to their best-in-town banana crepes, there's something for everyone. And fear not, fellow foodies, because the prices are more than reasonable for the quality you receive.

One thing worth mentioning is that Izzy's Cafe is also a kid-friendly place. So if you're looking for a spot where both you and your little ones can enjoy a scrumptious meal together, this is it!

In conclusion, Izzy's Cafe may not be solely focused on cheesesteaks, but their take on this classic sandwich deserves recognition. With their excellent service, reasonable prices, and superb food options, it's no wonder why this hidden gem has become a local favorite in El Cajon. So next time you find yourself craving a cheesesteak adventure with a twist, give Izzy's Cafe a try - you won't be disappointed!

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Jersey Mike's Subs

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Fast and efficient employees
Great attitudes
Kid-friendly and high chairs
Convenient parking

Let me start by saying that Jersey Mike's Subs truly lives up to its reputation of serving some of the best cheesesteaks in El Cajon. As I walked through the doors, I was immediately greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling steak and melted cheese. The atmosphere was lively, with customers happily chatting away while eagerly awaiting their orders.

One thing that stood out to me about Jersey Mike's Subs was their commitment to using fresh ingredients. Each bite of my cheesesteak was bursting with flavor, thanks to the high-quality meat and perfectly melted cheese. It was evident that they take pride in sourcing top-notch ingredients.

The employees at Jersey Mike's Subs were not only fast and efficient but also had great attitudes. They took the time to answer any questions I had and ensured that my order was prepared exactly to my liking. Their friendly demeanor added a delightful touch to my dining experience.

What impressed me even more was that Jersey Mike's Subs is very kid-friendly. They offer high chairs for young children, making it easier for families to enjoy a delicious meal together without any hassle.

Parking can sometimes be a challenge in El Cajon, but not at Jersey Mike's Subs! They have convenient parking, providing ease and accessibility for their customers.

In conclusion, after sampling various cheesesteaks throughout El Cajon, I can confidently say that Jersey Mike's Subs is a strong contender for the title of the best cheesesteak in town. With their commitment to fresh ingredients, fast service, friendly staff, and convenient parking, it truly is a winning combination. So if you're craving a savory sandwich packed with flavor, head over to Jersey Mike's Subs – your taste buds will thank you!

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Funky Fries and Burgers

Highlights
Amazing experience
Friendly staff
Delicious burgers
Great customer service

Walking into Funky Fries and Burgers was like stepping into a world of pure culinary delight. The atmosphere was vibrant, with colorful walls adorned with funky artwork. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles, making me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - their cheesesteaks! Oh boy, were they a treat for my taste buds. The cheesesteak at Funky Fries and Burgers is a masterpiece in itself. The steak was tender and juicy, cooked to perfection. The cheese oozed over the steak, creating a delectable harmony of flavors.

But wait, there's more! The bread used for the sandwich was fresh and toasted to a crispy golden brown. It added an extra layer of texture that elevated the overall experience. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my tongue.

As if the amazing cheesesteak wasn't enough, the customer service at Funky Fries and Burgers was top-notch. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every customer had an unforgettable dining experience. They were knowledgeable about their menu and offered helpful suggestions to enhance our meal.

In conclusion, Funky Fries and Burgers is not just another burger joint; it's a haven for cheesesteak enthusiasts like myself. With its delicious offerings, friendly staff, and great customer service, this place deserves its spot among El Cajon's finest eateries. So if you're craving a mouthwatering cheesesteak experience that will leave you wanting more, make your way to Funky Fries and Burgers - your taste buds will thank you!

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Chicago Pizza Company

Highlights
Authentic Illinois deep dish
Large pizza lasts 3 meals
Yummy specialty pre-built pizzas
Great employees with excellent service
Kid-friendly with board games

Walking into Chicago Pizza Company, I immediately felt like I had been transported to the windy city itself. The aroma of authentic Illinois deep dish pizza filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I decided to try their famous cheesesteak pizza, and boy was I in for a treat! The combination of tender steak slices, gooey cheese, and sautéed onions on a thick, buttery crust was simply divine. Each bite was an explosion of flavors that left me wanting more.

What amazed me the most about Chicago Pizza Company was the portion size. A single slice was enough to satisfy my hunger for not just one meal, but three! Talk about value for money!

If you're not in the mood for a cheesesteak pizza, fear not. Chicago Pizza Company offers a variety of specialty pre-built pizzas that are equally delicious. From BBQ chicken to veggie supreme, there's something for everyone's taste buds.

The employees at Chicago Pizza Company were top-notch. They greeted me with warm smiles and provided excellent service throughout my visit. It's clear that they take pride in what they do and genuinely care about their customers' experience.

Another bonus is that Chicago Pizza Company is kid-friendly, with board games available to keep little ones entertained while waiting for their food.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a truly satisfying cheesesteak experience in El Cajon, look no further than Chicago Pizza Company. Their authentic Illinois deep dish pizzas will leave you craving more and their great service will make you feel right at home. So go ahead and indulge in some cheesy goodness - your taste buds will thank you!

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Subway

Highlights
Friendly staff
Best sandwiches
Vegetarian options
Plenty of parking

First and foremost, the staff at Subway in El Cajon was incredibly friendly. They greeted me with a warm smile and patiently walked me through their menu options. And let me tell you, their sandwiches are no joke! When it comes to cheesesteaks, Subway does not disappoint.

I opted for their classic steak and cheese sandwich, and boy was it a mouthwatering delight. The thinly sliced steak was grilled to perfection, tender enough to melt in my mouth with each bite. The cheese, oh the cheese! It was perfectly melted and oozed out from between the layers of steak, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

What impressed me most about Subway is that they offer vegetarian options as well. So if you're not a carnivore like myself or simply want to switch things up, fear not! You can still indulge in a delicious cheesesteak experience without compromising your dietary preferences.

Another aspect that stood out to me was the ample parking available near the restaurant. Let's be honest, finding parking in El Cajon can sometimes feel like searching for Bigfoot. But at Subway, there are plenty of spots available, making your quest for cheesesteak satisfaction all the more convenient.

All in all, Subway in El Cajon is definitely worth a visit if you're on the hunt for a tasty cheesesteak. Their friendly staff, delectable sandwiches (including vegetarian options), and stress-free parking make it an excellent choice for both locals and visitors alike. So go ahead and sink your teeth into one of their cheesy creations – your taste buds will thank you!

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