Move over, Philadelphia: Baltimore is redefining the cheesesteak game with its own mouthwatering creations. From no-frills joints to family-owned spots, restaurants in the area offer cheesesteaks that pack a punch of flavor and creativity. Join me on a delicious journey through some of our best cheesesteak spots, where each bite proves why we do it better than our neighbors to the north.

The Real Thing

412 York Road, Towson

While you’ll definitely need napkins, Towson’s The Real Thing doesn’t mess around. Their Steak Real One, loaded with green peppers, onions, homemade hot sauce and cheese, is the top pick for cheesesteak aficionados. This low-key, cash-only eatery is all about focusing on what matters most: making drool-worthy and delicious cheesesteaks. After crowdsourcing recommendations, it was also by far the most highly recommended. As the name suggests, The Real Thing is the real deal.

Bully Boss Burgers

6036 A Rossville Blvd., Essex

Nestled in Essex, Bully Boss Burgers is where cheesesteaks reign supreme. Their footlong Philly cheesesteak is a juicy, meaty masterpiece stuffed with ribeye, American cheese, sautéed onions, mushrooms, green peppers, lettuce, tomato and mayo on a perfectly toasted roll. The cheese and meat blend together for the ultimate culinary collaboration. Forget the burgers; this cheesesteak is the real boss here.

Mamma Lucia Pizza & Grill

2401 Liberty Heights Ave., Baltimore

Located in Mondawmin Mall, Mamma Lucia’s cheesesteak is a surprising gem. Packed with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo, fried onions, hot banana peppers, salt and pepper, this sub is bursting with flavor. It’s so unexpectedly delicious that you might find yourself devouring it on a bench just outside the mall like I did. Who knew mall food could be this epic?

Cheesesteak & Co.

6500 Washington Blvd., Elkridge

In Elkridge, Cheesesteak & Co. takes cheesesteaks to the extreme. The Pounder, featuring a whopping 16-ounce ribeye, sharp cheese, provolone, whiz, grilled onions, mushrooms and sweet peppers, is a beast of a sandwich. Always bustling with lines (and hot takes on its wares in Howard County Facebook groups), this new spot also offers a smorgasbord of fried sides such as tater tots and jalapeño poppers. It’s a cheesesteak lover’s paradise with a side of crispy heaven.

Harbor East Delicatessen & Pizzeria

1006 Aliceanna St., Baltimore

In the bustling neighborhood of Harbor East, Harbor East Delicatessen & Pizzeria proves that great bread makes everything better. Their classic cheesesteak — jazzed up with mushrooms, green peppers and extra provolone — is a melted cheese sensation. Pair it with their soups, salads or pizza and you’ve got a lunch that will last you a few meals.

MaGerk’s Pub & Grill

1061 S. Charles St., Baltimore

MaGerk’s in Federal Hill serves up some of the best cheesesteaks this side of the Mason-Dixon Line. The No. 4 Philly original “whiz wit” — a classic with Cheese Whiz and onions on a crusty roll — is sheer perfection. And don’t miss their cheesesteak egg rolls, a delightful twist that’s sure to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Fresh rolls delivered daily ensure every bite is on point.

Di Pasquale’s Italian Market

3700 Toone St., Baltimore

Since 1914, Di Pasquale’s has been a family-owned staple in Baltimore, now with three locations including Brewers Hill. Their truffle cheesesteak — a luxurious concoction of thinly sliced steak, sautéed mushrooms and onions, melted truffle cheese and arugula — is the epitome of indulgence. This authentic Italian market offers an array of imported cheeses and meats, making it a haven for food lovers with a penchant for the finer things.

Merritt Sub

1784 Merritt Blvd., Dundalk

A Dundalk institution since 1963, Merritt Sub’s cheesesteaks are the stuff of legends. Bursting at the seams with meat and cheese, these subs are so hefty you might need a fork and knife to tackle them. Family owned and carryout only, this spot keeps it simple and scrumptious. It’s a slice of sub nirvana in a no-nonsense package.

Ravage Deli

9636 Belair Road, Perry Hall

In Perry Hall, Ravage Deli’s cheesesteak is a celebration of local, sustainable and high-quality ingredients. Made with shaved Black Angus beef, caramelized onions and your choice of American or provolone cheese on a toasted hoagie roll, it’s a culinary triumph that will keep you coming back for more. This Maryland-based deli supports local farmers and cooks with all-natural, organic ingredients when possible. With a creative menu and secret specials announced on social media, every visit is an exciting new adventure.

Chris Franzoni is a Baltimore native, food fanatic, blogger and “Eater-in-Chief” of @EatMoreBeMore, which he started nine years ago with two goals — eating his way through the city and shining a positive light on the Baltimore-area restaurant and hospitality scene.