Grand Strand Cheesesteak Results!
When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot like a classic Philly cheesesteak. But let’s be real — we’re not in Philly. We’re in Myrtle Beach, where the sun’s out, the tourists are hungry, and the sandwich game is surprisingly competitive.
So in May, I set out on a delicious (and slightly greasy) mission: to find the best Philly cheesesteaks around the Grand Strand. I hit up a bunch of local spots — from low-key joints to more well-known places — and I’m here to report back with my personal favorites, ranked and reviewed.
Now, like anything else, food is subjective — so these are my top picks. Your taste buds may totally disagree, and that’s okay. Also, yes — I know what a proper, authentic Philly cheesesteak should be. For the most part, I kept things simple and classic: just steak, cheese, and onions. But I also kept an eye out for creative spins or standout toppings, because even in Philly, you’ll find places pushing the envelope.
I took everything into account when ranking these. The taste, originality or authentic factor, service, and environment of the establishment. It’s 90% weighted to taste, however, since that is what matters most.
Whether you’re a local looking for your next go-to sandwich spot or just in town and craving something cheesy and satisfying, here’s my cheesesteak roundup from across the Grand Strand.
Let’s get started ranking the 9 places visited last month!
🥇 9. Dagwood’s – N Myrtle (other locations too)
Flavor:
Good flavor, but the steak could have been more flavorful. The bread was too soft.
Authenticity/Originality
Somewhat authentic but not original, just average
Vibe/Service
Pub feel, good environment, and good service
Overall Impression:
For a place that does many different things, it’s a tasty Cheesesteak but felt generic.
🥇 8. Sweet Girlz Bakery & Cafe - North Myrtle
Flavor:
Great flavor, ordered with cheese wiz. Not crazy about thick steak rather than chopped
Authenticity/Originality
Good score on authenticity
Vibe/Service
Great service here, great environment always for a quick bite
Overall Impression:
This was the only place I ordered cheese whiz on the cheesesteak and I did not like it. So I should try one again with regular cheese. If you like a thicker steak on your cheesesteak, this is your place, but I prefer it more chopped. If you do like cheese whiz on your cheesesteak, which I know some in Philly do like, then this is the place for you.
🥇 7. Take a Bite - Conway
Flavor:
Flavor was good but there were more fatty parts than I wanted. The roll and subtle toasting of the roll was great.
Authenticity/Originality
Certainly more authentic than original.
Vibe/Service
The people at Take a Bite are great, along with their service. Always a favorite spot for a quick bite to eat.
Overall Impression:
This was a good cheesesteak however, the meat was a bit fatty, and there wasn’t much in the roll. Everywhere else made sure to really fill up that roll! It however, was very tasty.
🥇 6. American Hero - Loris
Flavor:
Flavor was really good. Can even taste the grill while eating the sandwich. The bread was not toasted, just soft and warm.
Authenticity/Originality
Ordered with peppers and onions. Not super authentic or original, more like a “sub” style, but was tasty.
Vibe/Service
It’s very casual and more of a takeout. If you dine in, it’s not much of a vibe or service.
Overall Impression:
Tasty cheesesteak sub but some points taken off for vibe, service, environment, and the roll. I would certainly have it again if in that area without any hesitation.
🥇 5. Spencerz - Surfside Beach
Flavor:
The steak was really good, the roll was lightly toasted. The flavor was really good.
Authenticity/Originality
Ordered with just onions and was very authentic
Vibe/Service
It’s a hole-in-the-wall bar. Seemed like everyone knew everyone. If you don’t like a “bar scene” type environment, then this isn’t for you.
Overall Impression:
Great authentic score on this one, wasn’t crazy about the environment or service but it’s a great Cheesesteak nonetheless.
🥇 4. Peppers - Socastee
Flavor:
This packs a great flavor punch: the steak, cheese, and the Amoroso roll.
Authenticity/Originality
Ordered with just onions and was very tasty, very authentic
Vibe/Service
It’s only take-out and feels like it’s still “covid” when you walk in due to that. The service is below average and the environment doesn’t look clean or inviting. Many on our Facebook page have complained about the same thing.
Overall Impression:
Very authentic option for those wanting exactly that. I know many think of this place as the “automatic best” in the area but weighing everything in doesn’t make our #1. From a taste perspective, we do have others in our top 3 that I believe beat out this classic choice.
🥇 3. Drifter’s - Myrtle Beach
Flavor:
This is very tasty, the steak and the Cooper Sharp is on point
Authenticity/Originality
Very authentic tasting with Cooper Sharp and Amoroso roll, lightly toasted
Vibe/Service
Drifter’s is newly re-opened. Smoke free bar with great food including this gem of a cheesesteak! The service and enviornment is very good and right in the heart of Myrtle.
Overall Impression:
This was a great find for sure. Really nice cheesesteak and great sit-down service. Will certainly return when in the mood for a cheesesteak.
Ok, so for #1 we have a tie.. one for being authentic and the other for being most original!
🏆 1 (Authentic) Famous Andy’s
Flavor:
This cheesesteak has all the flavor. The steak tastes amazing and the right amount of cheese.
Authenticity/Originality
Ordered with just onions and was very authentic with Amoroso roll lightly toasted
Vibe/Service
It’s mainly a take out pizza/sub and of course cheesesteak place. It does have some tables for sit-down quick bite. I enjoyed mine in and received great service.
Overall Impression:
Obviously, it’s very authentic and tasty but the establishment is ok for enjoying it there since it’s mainly take-out.
🏆1 (Originality) Bruiser’s Burgers - Surfside Beach
Flavor:
I can’t even describe the great flavor of this one. The steak and everything was amazing
Authenticity/Originality
This one is at the top due to its originality. Shaved steak, Cooper Sharp cheese, onions, homemade truffle mayo, and cherry red peppers make this a “must try”
Vibe/Service
This was my first time here and the service is friendly and great, along with a great dining room and bar. So, whether you get takeout or dine in, it’s a great experience
Overall Impression:
Very original and different from everyone trying to be “authentic”. It certainly has authentic ingredients, but with its own twist. My only complaint is that my bread split halfway through, not sure if it was due to how prepared or my mistake, but nice first world problem to have! This is a cheesesteak and establishment I can keep going back to! Trust me, the pictures do it no justice. Every bite is full of flavor and the peppers aren’t over powering.
This one from their Facebook Page
