The Absolute Best Philly Cheesesteak in El Cajon [Updated 2025]

Having grown up in this charming town, I've had my fair share of cheesesteaks from various spots around El Cajon. From the iconic cheese ooze to the perfect blend of flavors, these melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches hold a special place in my heart.

After trying out countless options, I've narrowed down my search and embarked on a quest to find the absolute best philly cheesesteak in El Cajon. With eleven reviews under my belt, it's time to spill the beans (or should I say, melted cheese) on where to find this savory delight.

Get ready for an adventure filled with mouthwatering bites and bellyaching laughs as we dive into the world of El Cajon's finest cheesesteaks!

Junction Bar & Grill

Highlights
Large beers, excellent food
Pulled pork tater tots and Brussel sprouts
Very large tacos for the price
Artichoke and jalapeño soup
Delightful ambiance

Walking into Junction Bar & Grill, I immediately felt a sense of excitement. The delightful ambiance, combined with the mouthwatering aroma wafting from the kitchen, had me eager to sink my teeth into their famous philly cheesesteak.

As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to the enticing highlights. Large beers? Excellent food? Count me in! But before diving into the cheesesteak, I couldn't resist trying their pulled pork tater tots and Brussel sprouts. Let's just say they surpassed all expectations. The crispy tater tots were loaded with juicy pulled pork and topped with a tangy sauce that made my taste buds dance. And those Brussel sprouts... simply divine.

Now onto the main event – the philly cheesesteak. It arrived at my table looking like a work of art, with thinly sliced steak oozing with melted cheese and caramelized onions piled high on a fluffy roll. One bite and I was transported to philly cheesesteak heaven. The steak was tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the gooey cheese and sweet onions. It was a harmonious symphony of flavors dancing on my palate.

But wait, there's more! As if their philly cheesesteak wasn't enough to satisfy any hungry soul, Junction Bar & Grill also offers an array of other delectable options. Their very large tacos for the price are worth mentioning – each one bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will leave you craving more.

To top it all off, I had to try their artichoke and jalapeño soup – a unique twist on traditional fare that left me wanting another bowl. Creamy yet spicy, it was a true culinary adventure.

In conclusion, Junction Bar & Grill is definitely a contender for the best philly cheesesteak in El Cajon. With their excellent food selection and a delightful ambiance, this hidden gem is a must-visit for any cheesesteak enthusiast. So grab a friend, order a large beer, and prepare to indulge in the ultimate philly cheesesteak experience. You won't be disappointed.

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Philly Steak Subs

Highlights
Quality and prices
Great service
Amazing Philly cheesesteak
Affordable prices
Cool atmosphere

From the moment I walked into Philly Steak Subs, I could sense that this place was something special. The cool atmosphere immediately caught my attention, with vibrant colors and cozy seating that made me feel right at home.

But let's talk about what really matters: the philly cheesesteak. Oh boy, where do I even begin? This sandwich was an absolute delight for my taste buds. Each bite was a perfect combination of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions bringing tears of joy to my eyes. The quality of the ingredients used was evident, as every component added its own unique flavor to create a harmonious symphony in my mouth.

Aside from the amazing food, the service at Philly Steak Subs was top-notch. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were more than willing to answer any questions I had about their menu. Talk about great customer service!

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: affordability. As someone who appreciates good food without breaking the bank, I couldn't be happier with Philly Steak Subs' prices. Their menu offers generous portions at reasonable prices, allowing you to indulge in a mouthwatering philly cheesesteak without feeling guilty about your wallet.

In conclusion, Philly Steak Subs is truly a hidden gem in El Cajon when it comes to philly cheesesteaks. With its amazing flavors, affordable prices, and fantastic service, this place has definitely earned its spot on my list of the best philly cheesesteak joints in town. So if you're in the mood for some cheesy goodness served with a smile, don't hesitate to give Philly Steak Subs a visit!

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Franco's Giant Pizza

Highlights
Friendly customer service
Outstanding pizza
Fair prices
Variety of menu options

Upon entering Franco's Giant Pizza, I was immediately greeted by their friendly staff. Their warm smiles and attentive service set the tone for a positive dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the main event - their philly cheesesteak. Oh boy, was it a treat for my taste buds! The meat was perfectly seasoned and tender, with just the right amount of juiciness. The melted cheese oozed over the thinly sliced steak, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. It was sandwiched between a fresh and pillowy roll that added an extra layer of satisfaction.

What impressed me even more about Franco's Giant Pizza was their commitment to quality and value. Despite their outstanding pizza reputation, they managed to create a philly cheesesteak that can rival any dedicated cheesesteak joint in town. And all this at fair prices!

The menu at Franco's Giant Pizza is not limited to just pizza and cheesesteaks. They offer a wide variety of options to cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for pasta or wings, they have got you covered.

In conclusion, Franco's Giant Pizza has truly earned its place on the list of El Cajon's best philly cheesesteaks. With their friendly customer service, outstanding food quality, fair prices, and diverse menu options, they deliver an exceptional dining experience. So next time you're craving a cheesy delight that will transport your taste buds straight to Philadelphia (figuratively speaking), make sure to stop by Franco's Giant Pizza!

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AB’s Philly Steak

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

Prepare your taste buds for a journey to cheesesteak heaven! As soon as I walked into AB’s Philly Steak, the aroma of freshly cooked meat wafted through the air, instantly making my mouth water. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and great customer service, which made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - their philly cheesesteak. Oh boy, was it a delight! The meat was incredibly tender and packed with flavor. Every bite was like a symphony of savory goodness dancing on my taste buds. The cheese was perfectly melted and added a creamy richness to each mouthful.

One thing that stood out to me about AB’s Philly Steak was their commitment to using fresh ingredients. They use high-quality bread that perfectly complements the steak, creating a harmonious marriage of textures and flavors.

What impressed me even more was that this place is not just for adults; it's also kid-friendly! So if you want to introduce your little ones to the world of delicious philly cheesesteaks, this is definitely the place to go.

In conclusion, AB’s Philly Steak has truly mastered the art of crafting a phenomenal philly cheesesteak. Their fresh and yummy creation, combined with exceptional customer service, makes them stand out from the competition in El Cajon. Don't miss out on experiencing this culinary masterpiece – head over to AB’s Philly Steak and treat yourself to an unforgettable cheesesteak experience!

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Antonelli's Deli

Highlights
Amazing Turkey Sandwich
Quick service during lunch rush
Fresh and flavorful food
Generous portion size

Let me start by saying that I was blown away by the amazing selection of sandwiches at Antonelli's Deli. While their menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering options, I decided to focus on their philly cheesesteak for the purpose of my article.

From the moment I walked in, I noticed how efficient the service was, especially during the lunch rush. The friendly staff quickly took my order and within minutes, my sandwich arrived. Now, let's talk about flavor! The moment I took my first bite into this delightful creation, I could taste the freshness of every ingredient. The thinly sliced beef was tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by a generous serving of melted cheese. The onions and peppers added a burst of sweetness and crunch that completed each savory bite.

What truly impressed me about Antonelli's Deli was their portion size. They definitely don't skimp on quantity here! This generous serving left me feeling satisfied without being overwhelmed.

Overall, Antonelli's Deli has proven to be a worthy contender in El Cajon's philly cheesesteak scene. Their commitment to using fresh ingredients and delivering quick service during busy times sets them apart from the competition. Whether you're a local or just passing through town, make sure to swing by Antonelli's Deli for an unforgettable sandwich experience!

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New York Giant Pizza

Highlights
Always satisfied
Great value for money
Hot, fresh, and tasty
Quality products
Excellent service

As soon as I walked into New York Giant Pizza, I was greeted with a warm smile and excellent service. The staff was knowledgeable about their menu and eager to help me make the best choice for my philly cheesesteak craving.

When my order arrived, I couldn't help but notice how hot, fresh, and tasty it looked. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The first bite confirmed that this place knows how to make a satisfying cheesesteak.

The quality of the ingredients used at New York Giant Pizza is top-notch. From the tender slices of steak to the perfectly melted cheese, every bite was a delight. The bread was soft yet sturdy enough to hold all the flavors together.

What impressed me most about this place is that they always leave their customers satisfied. The portion sizes are generous, offering great value for money. You won't leave here feeling hungry or disappointed.

Overall, my experience at New York Giant Pizza in El Cajon was exceptional. They truly understand what makes a philly cheesesteak great – quality ingredients, attentive service, and delicious flavors. If you're looking for a place that delivers on all fronts, then this is the spot for you.

Pro tip: Don't forget to try their house-made sauces - they take these cheesesteaks to another level!

So next time you find yourself in El Cajon searching for the best philly cheesesteak, give New York Giant Pizza a try - your taste buds will thank you!

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Jersey Mike's Subs

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Fast and efficient
Great attitudes
Kid-friendly
Easy parking

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the aroma of freshly grilled steak and melted cheese, which instantly whetted my appetite. The staff at Jersey Mike's Subs were not only fast and efficient, but they also had great attitudes, making my visit a delightful one.

The highlight of my experience was their philly cheesesteak sandwich. Made with high-quality ingredients, each bite was a burst of flavor that transported me to the streets of Philadelphia. The thinly sliced steak was tender and perfectly cooked, complemented by the ooey-gooey melted cheese that enveloped every delicious morsel.

What impressed me even more was the attention to detail in constructing the sandwich. The roll it came on was fresh and toasted to perfection, providing an ideal vessel for holding all those savory fillings together. The generous amount of onions and peppers added a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness to balance out the richness of the meat and cheese.

As someone who appreciates a family-friendly atmosphere, I was pleased to see that Jersey Mike's Subs catered to kids as well. Their menu offered options suitable for even the pickiest eaters, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a taste of Philly.

Parking is often a hassle in El Cajon, but at Jersey Mike's Subs, finding a spot was easy-peasy. They have ample parking available right outside their establishment, allowing for a stress-free dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for an authentic philly cheesesteak in El Cajon, look no further than Jersey Mike's Subs. With their commitment to using fresh ingredients and providing fast service with a smile, they've certainly earned their place among the contenders for the title of best philly cheesesteak in town!

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Bonny's Cafe

Highlights
Classic "homestyle" diner
Fresh and good quality food
Quick and prompt service
Kid-friendly with affordable prices
50s themed atmosphere

Walking into Bonny's Cafe is like stepping back in time to a classic 50s diner. The atmosphere is nostalgic with the jukebox playing old tunes and the walls adorned with vintage memorabilia. But enough about the ambiance, let's talk about the star of the show - their philly cheesesteak.

The first bite into Bonny's philly cheesesteak was like a burst of flavor fireworks in my mouth. The thinly sliced ribeye steak was tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by gooey melted cheese and sautéed onions. It was a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

What sets Bonny's apart from other places is their commitment to using fresh and good quality ingredients. Every bite had that homemade touch, as if it were prepared with love by someone's grandma in her cozy kitchen.

I also appreciated how quick and prompt their service was. They managed to serve up this culinary masterpiece in record time without compromising on taste or quality.

As a parent, I found Bonny's Cafe to be incredibly kid-friendly. The prices were affordable, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. Plus, the friendly staff made sure my little ones felt welcome and comfortable throughout our visit.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best philly cheesesteak in El Cajon, look no further than Bonny's Cafe. With its classic diner vibe, fresh ingredients, prompt service, and affordable prices, it truly deserves its place among the top contenders for this delicious title.

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Funky Fries and Burgers

Highlights
Amazing food
Friendly staff
Oreo freak shake
Made to order
Tap beer

From the moment I stepped into Funky Fries and Burgers, I knew I was in for a culinary adventure. The friendly staff greeted me with smiles and made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the philly cheesesteak. Oh boy, was it an experience! This sandwich was a work of art, crafted with care and precision. The bread was perfectly toasted, providing a delightful crunch that contrasted beautifully with the tender meat and melty cheese. Every bite was a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

But Funky Fries and Burgers doesn't stop there. They also offer an array of mouthwatering sides, including their famous funky fries. These crispy wonders were seasoned to perfection and paired perfectly with their signature dipping sauces.

And let's not forget about dessert! The Oreo freak shake is a must-try for any sweet tooth out there. It's like drinking happiness in a glass, topped with whipped cream and crushed Oreos. Pure indulgence.

One thing that really stood out to me about Funky Fries and Burgers is their commitment to making each order made to order. This ensures that every dish is fresh and tailored to your preferences.

To wash it all down, they have an excellent selection of tap beer, which pairs wonderfully with their flavorful creations.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best philly cheesesteak in El Cajon, look no further than Funky Fries and Burgers. With amazing food, friendly staff, an incredible Oreo freak shake, made-to-order dishes, and tap beer options galore, this place hits all the right notes for a truly satisfying dining experience.

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Jack in the Box

Highlights
Clean and spotless interior
Friendly and helpful staff
Great customer service
Plenty of parking available

Walking into Jack in the Box, I was pleasantly surprised by the clean and spotless interior. It immediately made me feel confident that I was in for a good dining experience. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and were incredibly helpful in guiding me through their menu options.

The customer service at Jack in the Box was top-notch. The friendly staff patiently answered all my questions about their philly cheesesteak offerings, and even provided recommendations based on my preferences. They genuinely seemed interested in ensuring that I had a fantastic meal.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – their philly cheesesteak! With each bite, I could taste the perfect balance of flavors. The thinly sliced steak was tender and packed with savory goodness, while the melted cheese added a delightful creaminess to every mouthful. The roll used for the sandwich was fresh and soft, complementing the filling perfectly.

Parking is often a challenge when dining out, but not at Jack in the Box! There was plenty of parking available right outside, making it convenient for customers to grab a delicious philly cheesesteak without any hassle.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a playful yet professional place to satisfy your philly cheesesteak craving in El Cajon, Jack in the Box is definitely worth a visit. With its clean atmosphere, friendly staff, great customer service, and flavorful sandwiches, you won't be disappointed. So why not give your taste buds a treat? Head over to Jack in the Box today!

Disclaimer: While this review is meant to be light-hearted and entertaining, it is based on my personal experience as an expert reviewer.

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Denny's

Highlights
Amazing teamwork
Good & hot food
Friendly service
Great atmosphere

Let me start by saying that the team at Denny's showcased some amazing teamwork in preparing their philly cheesesteak. The coordination between the cook and the server was flawless, ensuring that my food arrived promptly and piping hot.

Speaking of the food, let me tell you that it was nothing short of good. The tender slices of beef were cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of seasoning to tantalize my taste buds. The melted cheese added a creamy richness to each bite, while the sautéed onions and peppers provided a delightful burst of flavor. It was truly a harmonious symphony of ingredients nestled within a soft roll.

The service at Denny's was also worth mentioning. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and made sure I felt welcomed throughout my visit. They were attentive, making sure my water glass was never empty and checking in to see if I needed anything else. Their friendliness added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

As for the atmosphere, it was top-notch. The cozy booths and dim lighting created a comfortable ambiance for indulging in this classic American delight. Whether you're dining alone or with friends, you'll feel right at home here.

In conclusion, Denny's in El Cajon is definitely a strong contender in the quest for the best philly cheesesteak. With their amazing teamwork, good & hot food, friendly service, and great atmosphere, they have certainly earned their place on any philly cheesesteak lover's radar. So why not give it a try? After all, life is too short not to enjoy a delicious philly cheesesteak once in a while!

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