These 10 Florida Cheesesteaks Are Melty, Meaty, and Worth the Trip
Florida might be famous for Cuban sandwiches and key lime pie, but the Sunshine State has quietly become a cheesesteak destination that rivals the best shops up north. From Sarasota to Orlando, passionate sandwich makers are piling thinly sliced ribeye, gooey cheese, and perfectly grilled onions onto fresh rolls that’ll make you forget you’re a thousand miles from Philadelphia. Whether you’re a Florida local or just visiting, these ten spots serve up authentic, drool-worthy cheesesteaks that are absolutely worth going out of your way for.
1. Delco’s Original Steaks (Sarasota)
Walking into Delco’s feels like stepping into a no-frills Philly corner shop, except you’re surrounded by palm trees instead of row homes. The owners brought their family recipes straight from Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and they haven’t cut a single corner since opening in Sarasota. Every cheesesteak starts with quality ribeye sliced so thin it practically melts on the griddle.
The cheese debate rages on here just like it does back East. You can get yours with traditional Cheez Whiz, sharp provolone, or creamy American cheese. The onions are caramelized to sweet perfection, and the rolls come from a local bakery that nails that perfect balance between crusty outside and soft inside.
What really sets Delco’s apart is their commitment to authenticity without being snobby about it. They’ll make your steak exactly how you want it, whether that’s wit or witout onions, loaded with hot peppers, or topped with mushrooms and peppers for a pizza steak. The portions are generous enough to satisfy even the hungriest beach-goer.
Located in a strip mall off Bee Ridge Road, Delco’s doesn’t look like much from the outside. But locals know this unassuming spot serves some of the most legitimate cheesesteaks in Southwest Florida, making it absolutely worth the detour from Siesta Key or downtown Sarasota.
2. Sonny’s Famous Steak Hogies (Hollywood)
Sonny’s has been a Hollywood institution since before food trucks and Instagram made cheesesteaks trendy. This family-run spot keeps things simple and does them exceptionally well. Their steaks arrive on a sizzling griddle, chopped and mixed with whatever toppings you’ve ordered, creating that perfect blend of flavors in every single bite.
The bread situation here deserves special mention. Sonny’s uses a slightly sweet roll that adds an unexpected dimension to the sandwich without overwhelming the meat. Some purists might raise an eyebrow, but one bite usually converts the skeptics.
You’ll find regulars lined up during lunch rush, everyone from construction workers to business folks in suits. The atmosphere is pure South Florida casual, with counter service and plastic baskets. Don’t expect fancy plating or Instagram-worthy presentations, just expect a seriously satisfying sandwich that hits every savory, cheesy note you’re craving.
The “famous” in their name isn’t just marketing hype either. Sonny’s has built a reputation across Broward County for consistency and generous portions. They don’t skimp on the meat, and the cheese is always melted to gooey perfection.
Cash is preferred here, and parking can get tight during peak hours. But these minor inconveniences fade away the moment you take that first bite of a perfectly constructed steak hoagie that’s been perfected over decades of serving hungry Hollywood locals.
3. Richie Cheesesteak (Spring Hill)
Spring Hill isn’t exactly known as a culinary hotspot, which makes Richie Cheesesteak even more of a hidden treasure. Richie himself grew up eating cheesesteaks in the Northeast and got tired of the subpar versions he found in Florida after moving south. So he decided to do something about it, opening a spot that would make his hometown proud.
The menu here goes beyond basic. Sure, you can get a classic cheesesteak with Whiz and onions, but Richie also offers creative variations that work surprisingly well. The buffalo chicken cheesesteak has a cult following, and the mushroom Swiss version appeals to anyone looking for something a bit more elevated.
Portion sizes at Richie’s border on ridiculous in the best possible way. A regular sandwich could easily feed two people, and the large is a legitimate challenge for even the heartiest appetite. The meat is seasoned perfectly, not too salty but packed with flavor that doesn’t rely solely on the cheese and toppings.
The shop itself is small and unpretentious, tucked into a plaza where you might drive right past it. But locals from Spring Hill and surrounding Hernando County know exactly where to find it. Service is friendly and quick, perfect for grabbing lunch on a work break or dinner after a long day.
4. LaSpada’s Original Cheesesteaks & Hoagies (Orlando)
LaSpada’s brings a slice of South Philly straight to International Drive, serving tourists and locals alike since the early 2000s. The family behind LaSpada’s knows their cheesesteaks because they’ve been making them for generations, first in Pennsylvania and now in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district. Despite the location, this isn’t a tourist trap churning out mediocre sandwiches for out-of-towners who don’t know better.
Every morning, LaSpada’s receives fresh rolls from Amoroso’s, the legendary Philadelphia bakery that supplies many of the best cheesesteak shops back home. That attention to authenticity extends to every ingredient. The ribeye is hand-cut and cooked on a flat-top griddle, seasoned simply and allowed to speak for itself.
The shop offers both dine-in and takeout, though the small interior fills up quickly during lunch and dinner rushes. You’ll hear the rhythmic scrape of spatulas on the griddle and smell the intoxicating aroma of sizzling beef and onions the moment you walk through the door.
Beyond cheesesteaks, LaSpada’s serves excellent hoagies and Italian specialties, but the cheesesteak remains the star attraction. Whether you order yours traditional with Whiz or opt for provolone, you’re getting the real deal. It’s easily one of the best cheesesteaks in Central Florida, proving that authenticity can thrive even in the middle of theme park country.
5. Little Phillies Cheesesteaks (Flagler Beach)
Finding a legitimate cheesesteak in a small beach town seems almost too good to be true, but Little Phillies makes it happen. Nestled in charming Flagler Beach, this tiny spot punches way above its weight class when it comes to authentic Philadelphia-style sandwiches. The owners are Philly transplants who missed the food from home enough to open their own place.
Size matters here, and Little Phillies doesn’t hold back. Even the small cheesesteak is substantial, while the large could probably satisfy two hungry surfers after a morning in the waves. The steak is chopped fine and mixed thoroughly with cheese and grilled onions, creating that perfect melty consistency where every bite tastes exactly like the last.
The casual beach vibe extends to the dining experience. You order at the counter, grab a seat at one of the handful of tables, and wait for your number to be called. There’s nothing fancy about the setup, but that’s part of the charm.
This is honest, straightforward food made by people who genuinely care about getting it right.
Locals love Little Phillies not just for the food but for the friendly service and consistent quality. Whether you’re stopping by after a day at the beach or making a special trip from Palm Coast or Ormond Beach, you’ll find the cheesesteaks here rival anything you’d get in the Northeast.
6. South Philly Cheesesteaks (Bradenton)
Bradenton’s South Philly Cheesesteaks doesn’t just borrow the name of Philadelphia’s most famous neighborhood. The owners actually hail from South Philly and brought their exacting standards and family recipes to the Gulf Coast. You can taste the difference in every single sandwich that comes off their griddle.
The magic happens right in front of you as you watch your cheesesteak being assembled. Thin ribbons of ribeye hit the hot griddle with a satisfying sizzle, getting chopped and flipped until they’re cooked just right. The cheese gets added at the perfect moment so it melts into the meat rather than sitting on top like an afterthought.
What impresses regulars most is the consistency. You can visit South Philly Cheesesteaks on a random Tuesday afternoon or a busy Saturday evening, and your sandwich will be just as good either time. That kind of reliability comes from having systems in place and staff who know exactly what they’re doing.
The menu extends beyond cheesesteaks to include other Philly favorites like hoagies, roast pork sandwiches, and even Tastykakes for dessert. But if you’re visiting for the first time, stick with what they do best. Get a classic cheesesteak with fried onions and your cheese of choice, maybe add some hot peppers if you like a little kick, and prepare to understand why people drive from Sarasota and Tampa just to eat here.
7. Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks (Orlando)
The name tells you everything you need to know about the portion sizes at Big Dave’s. This Orlando favorite doesn’t believe in skimping on ingredients, and their cheesesteaks are legendary for being almost comically oversized. But size alone doesn’t make a great sandwich, and Big Dave’s backs up the portions with quality ingredients and proper technique.
Dave himself is usually behind the counter, chatting with regulars and making sure every sandwich meets his standards. He’s particular about how the meat gets cooked and how the cheese melts, and that attention to detail shows in the final product. The ribeye is always tender, never chewy or gristly, and the seasoning hits that sweet spot where it enhances the beef without overpowering it.
The shop has a fun, laid-back atmosphere with sports memorabilia covering the walls and local sports always playing on the TVs. It’s the kind of place where you feel comfortable showing up in gym clothes or work boots, where the focus is squarely on the food rather than any pretense of being trendy or upscale.
Beyond the classic cheesesteak, Big Dave’s offers creative variations like a pizza steak loaded with marinara and mozzarella, and a buffalo chicken version that’s become almost as popular as the original. The fries are hand-cut and perfectly crispy, making them an essential addition to your order. Just come hungry because you’re not leaving here with an empty stomach.
8. Johnny Longhots Philly Steaks (Sarasota)
Johnny Longhots takes its name from the pickled hot peppers that give many Philly cheesesteaks their signature kick, and this Sarasota spot delivers on that spicy promise. The owners are passionate about recreating the authentic Philadelphia experience, right down to the Tastykakes and Herr’s chips stocked near the register. Walking in feels like entering a shrine to Philly food culture, with Eagles and Phillies gear covering every available wall space.
The cheesesteaks here are textbook perfect. Thinly shaved ribeye gets cooked on a flat-top griddle until the edges get slightly crispy while the interior stays tender and juicy. The cheese options include all the classics, and they’ll pile on as many hot peppers as you can handle.
If you’re brave enough to get extra longhots, prepare for a sandwich that’ll clear your sinuses and leave you reaching for your drink.
Service at Johnny Longhots is fast and friendly, with staff who genuinely seem to enjoy their work. They’re happy to explain the menu to first-timers and make recommendations based on your heat tolerance. The shop does a brisk takeout business, but there’s also seating if you want to enjoy your sandwich on-site.
Located in a busy shopping area, Johnny Longhots has become a go-to lunch spot for locals who work nearby and a destination for cheesesteak enthusiasts from across the region. They also cater events, bringing their authentic Philly flavors to parties and gatherings throughout Sarasota County.
9. Charlie’s Steak & Hoagie (Sarasota)
Charlie’s operates on a simple philosophy that great sandwiches don’t require complicated recipes or fancy ingredients. Just start with quality meat, fresh bread, and proper cooking technique, then get out of the way and let those fundamentals shine. This straightforward approach has earned Charlie’s a devoted following in Sarasota’s competitive cheesesteak scene.
The shop itself is modest and unassuming, the kind of place you might pass by without noticing if you didn’t know what culinary treasures waited inside. But step through that door and you’re greeted by the mouthwatering smell of beef sizzling on the griddle and the warm welcome of staff who treat regulars like family and first-timers like future regulars.
Charlie’s cheesesteaks strike an ideal balance between meat, cheese, and toppings. Nothing overwhelms anything else, and each component contributes to a harmonious whole. The rolls have just enough structure to hold everything together without getting soggy, even if you take your time eating.
That’s the mark of a well-constructed sandwich.
Prices at Charlie’s remain reasonable, especially considering the generous portions and quality ingredients. You get genuine value here, the kind that keeps people coming back week after week. The menu includes other sandwiches and sides, but most customers know exactly what they’re getting before they even walk in the door.
When you nail the cheesesteak this well, there’s no reason to overthink your order.
10. Daniel’s Cheesesteak House (Winter Garden)
Winter Garden’s charming downtown has become a dining destination in recent years, and Daniel’s Cheesesteak House fits right into the community’s welcoming vibe. Daniel opened his shop after years of perfecting his cheesesteak recipe and dreaming of sharing it with the world. His passion for the craft shows in every sandwich that leaves the kitchen.
What distinguishes Daniel’s from other cheesesteak spots is the slightly elevated approach without losing the sandwich’s working-class soul. The ingredients are sourced thoughtfully, the cooking is precise, and the presentation shows care. But this isn’t precious food, it’s still a hearty, satisfying sandwich meant to be eaten with both hands and plenty of napkins nearby.
The shop offers a comfortable dining area where you can actually sit down and enjoy your meal rather than eating in your car or standing at a counter. The atmosphere is casual but clean and inviting, making it suitable for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Families with kids feel welcome here, as do couples looking for a low-key date night option.
Daniel’s also pays attention to the sides and extras that round out the meal. The fries are excellent, and the homemade chips provide a satisfying crunch. You can also grab a craft soda or local beer to wash down your cheesesteak.
The combination of quality food, pleasant atmosphere, and genuine hospitality makes Daniel’s a Winter Garden gem that deserves recognition beyond just the local community.
