The 3 best cheesesteaks in Scranton, according to our readers

Looking for the best cheesesteak in Scranton? Look no further! We’ve conducted a readers poll to bring you the top spots for the most mouthwatering, savory, and downright delicious cheesesteaks in town. Get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate comfort food experience at these renowned eateries.

Courtesy of Cosmo’s

3. Cosmo’s Cheesesteaks

Securing a respectable third place in our poll is Cosmo’s Cheesesteaks. That’s a controversial choice according to some, but do Scranton foodies agree on anything? This joint has been open since 2009, serving up sandwiches, cheese fries, and a variety of creative, mouthwatering pizzas. 

Bite into a cheesesteak from Cosmo’s, and you’ll understand why our readers love it. First, they use shaved ribeye instead of inferior cuts of meat. Not to mention the house blend of secret seasonings that flavor up the meat to perfection. Pile that high on an amoroso roll with sautéed onions, peppers, cheese whiz, and Cooper cheese, and you have a state specialty made with love. 

What sets Cosmo’s apart is their full menu with tons of surprises, particularly their pizzas, which are made with inventive toppings such as seasoned ricotta and hot honey. With a crunchy crust, it doesn’t get much better than that. But when it comes to cheesesteaks, they keep it authentic and down to earth, just like their owner, Cosmo. 

And don’t forget to pair your cheesesteak with a side of their crispy, golden fries. Toss some cheese on them, and you’re in business.

Courtesy of Whitehouse

2. Whitehouse Steak Hoagies

Nabbing the second spot with a hefty serving of mouthwatering goodness is Whitehouse Steak Hoagies. This legendary establishment doesn’t play around when it comes to serving up some of the best cheesesteaks in Scranton. It’s where generosity meets gastronomy, offering patrons “Monster Hoagies at Affordable Prices” — their motto.

What makes Whitehouse stand out? For starters, their commitment to quality. Using fresh ingredients and tried and true recipes is key to crafting the perfect sandwich every time. And let’s talk about those portions. If you leave Whitehouse hungry, you might want to check your pulse. Their cheesesteaks coin the phrase “go big or go home,” making sure that every patron leaves satisfied and ready to let out their pants.

If you wish to walk on the wild side you should definitely consider adding hot peppers to your Whitehouse cheesesteak. Come on. We dare you. 

Just because Whitehouse is the runner-up doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the second best — it’s all a matter of taste. Aside from that, it’s a beloved landmark in its own right, where every visit is an opportunity to indulge in a piece of the city’s culinary history.

Courtesy of Samario’s

1. Samario’s 

Ascending to the throne of Scranton’s cheesesteak kingdom, Samario’s takes the crown, and rightly so. It’s no small feat to emerge as the top contender in a city passionate about its cheesesteaks, but Samario’s has done it with style — and a generous helping of cheese.

Let’s break down what makes a Samario’s version worthy of its gold medal. First, there’s the steak, seared to a tender perfection. And then there’s the cheese. Samario’s doesn’t skimp on the cheese. They heap it on, allowing it to melt into every nook and cranny of the sandwich, creating a gooey, cheesy bliss.

But a true dynasty isn’t just content with the status quo, and neither is Samario’s. They’re innovators, constantly experimenting with toppings and combinations that push the boundaries of traditional cheesesteak conventions. Whether it’s the classic onion and pepper duo or the daring addition of mushrooms and bacon, each choice is a testament to Samario’s philosophy: that the best can always get better.

Victory tastes best when it’s layered with steak and cheese, and at Samario’s, it’s a flavor you’ll experience with each bite. So, when you find yourself in Scranton with a hankering for the city’s best cheesesteak, remember the champion.