Pennsylvania takes roast beef seriously—and these sandwiches prove it.
This isn’t deli-counter filler or something slapped together at lunchtime. These are sandwiches built with patience, sharp knives, and recipes that locals guard like secrets. When the beef is right, people line up. When it’s wrong, they don’t come back.
Across small towns and busy cities, certain restaurants have earned a reputation that never fades. Paper-wrapped sandwiches carried to cars. Counters worn smooth by regulars. Menus that barely change because they don’t need to.
These 13 Pennsylvania restaurants didn’t chase trends or tourists. They focused on doing one thing well, year after year. The result? Crowds that return out of habit, loyalty, and hunger. If you believe a great roast beef sandwich can still steal the spotlight, you’re about to feel very validated.
Old Original Nick’s Roast Beef — Philadelphia, PA
Old Original Nick’s has been dishing up its famous hand-carved roast beef sandwiches on freshly baked Kaiser rolls for decades — a true South Philadelphia classic.
Known for its USDA Prime roast beef, slow-roasted and seasoned with a secret blend of spices, this sandwich is juicy, flavorful, and served with rich homemade gravy that many locals swear by.
The beef can be ordered by itself or in a combo with sharp provolone for an extra punch of flavor, making it a must-try for roast beef lovers.
Located at 2149 S. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA 19145, Nick’s typically operates 11:00 AM–10:00 PM Monday–Saturday, closed Sundays.
What makes Nick’s special is how consistent and beloved the sandwich has become: generations of Philadelphians have grown up knowing this roast beef as one of the signature handhelds in the city, rivaling even the cheesesteak in devotion. Its slow-roasting process, freshly carved beef, and gravy-soaked bread make every visit feel like eating local history.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch midday or enjoying a hearty dinner, Nick’s delivers a rich, indulgent roast beef experience that’s all about simplicity, quality, and tradition — the kind of sandwich that keeps crowds coming back year after year.
Ye Olde Ale House — Lafayette Hill, PA
Nestled in Lafayette Hill just outside Philly, Ye Olde Ale House may look like your typical neighborhood tavern, but it’s earned local fame for its hand-carved roast beef sandwiches. The beef is carved fresh right in front of you — a major part of the experience — and served hot with flavorful gravy or au jus that keeps regulars loyal year after year.
Address: 405 Germantown Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA 19444. Typical hours are 11:00 AM–10:00 PM Monday–Thursday, extended to 11:00 PM Friday and Saturday, and Sunday 12:00 PM–10:00 PM.
What makes Ye Olde Ale House worth visiting isn’t just the roast beef — although that’s legendary with its tender, juicy slices — but the warm neighborhood vibe. Locals gather here for good beer, classic comfort food, and lively conversation, making the roast beef sandwich part of a complete Philly-area pub experience.
The sandwich itself is a lesson in restraint and balance: juicy roast beef that’s moist without being greasy, bread that holds up to the juices, and gravy ladled just right. Add fries with gravy on the side and you’ve got a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and truly satisfying.
State Street Sandwiches — Media, PA
In the Delaware County town of Media, State Street Sandwiches is a cherished lunch spot known for its hand-carved roast beef sandwiches that are a lunchtime staple for local workers, jurors, and students alike. The roast beef is carved fresh and piled high on quality bread, delivering a hearty, flavorful bite that keeps people coming back.
Located at 301 W State St, Media, PA 19063, the shop serves classic roast beef and other hearty sandwiches with a menu that’s perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners.
What makes State Street Sandwiches special is its longevity and local reputation — evolving from a beloved ale house tradition into a modern sandwich shop without losing its commitment to quality meat and generous portions.
This is the kind of place where you’ll see familiar faces around the counter and regulars ordering “the usual” without needing to glance at the menu. The roast beef sandwich here is simple, proper, and satisfying — perfect for a no-nonsense handheld that hits all the right flavor notes.
Cherry Street Tavern — Philadelphia, PA
For a taste of historic Philly, Cherry Street Tavern is a Logan Square institution that’s been serving juicy hot roast beef sandwiches with provolone and horseradish since the late 1970s. It’s a quintessential neighborhood bar with a sandwich that’s become a local legend, often paired with a well-chosen beer on tap.
Located at 129 N 22nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Cherry Street Tavern typically opens around 12:00 PM daily (closed Mondays) and stays open late with a classic pub atmosphere.
What distinguishes this spot is its cozy, old-school vibe and the way the roast beef sandwich is integrated into the local culture. The beef is slow-roasted in-house, sliced thin, and piled high on chewy Kaisers, then served with horseradish and long hots so you can tailor the heat and tang to taste.
Locals praise the combination of classic bar ambiance, strong beer selection, and standout sandwiches, making Cherry Street Tavern a place where you come for the food but stay for the atmosphere and community feel.
Beef Boss — Philadelphia, PA
Hidden in South Philly, Beef Boss is a beloved, unpretentious cafe known for its oven-roasted hot roast beef sandwiches soaked in rich beef gravy and piled on fresh Sarcone’s bread. It’s a bright, casual spot where the focus is on comfort food done right, and the roast beef here has earned a loyal local following.
At 2532 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19145, Beef Boss typically operates 10:30 AM–4:30 PM Monday–Friday and Saturday until mid-afternoon.
What makes Beef’s roast beef special is its simple but perfect execution: juicy hot roast beef drenched in savory gravy, with or without sharp provolone, on chewy Italian bread. Local guides and reviewers alike point to this sandwich as one of Philly’s lesser-known but genuinely delicious roast beef options.
Stop by for a sandwich and you’ll meet locals enjoying classic Italian-American lunch favorites in a cozy setting, proving that you don’t always need a big name — just great ingredients and skilled preparation — to make a sandwich worth returning for.
DiNic’s Roast Pork & Beef — Philadelphia, PA
Located inside Reading Terminal Market, DiNic’s is nationally famous for roast pork, yet longtime locals also swear by its hot roast beef sandwich, which follows the same slow-roasting, gravy-rich philosophy. The beef is roasted until deeply flavorful, sliced tender, and soaked in its own jus before being packed into a crusty Italian roll that holds up beautifully.
Address: 51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107. DiNic’s is typically open daily 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, though hours may vary slightly by season.
What makes DiNic’s special is consistency. Everything moves fast, but nothing feels rushed. The roast beef is always hot, juicy, and intensely savory, with optional sharp provolone adding balance. Crowds form early, yet the line moves quickly thanks to an efficient counter system perfected over decades.
It’s worth visiting because this is Pennsylvania comfort food at its most reliable. Whether you’re a tourist or a regular commuter, DiNic’s roast beef delivers the kind of deeply satisfying sandwich that turns first-timers into repeat customers without any hype needed.
Primanti Bros. — Pittsburgh, PA
While best known for fries-on-the-sandwich creations, Primanti Bros. has a loyal following for its roast beef sandwich, which balances tender beef with tangy coleslaw and fresh-cut fries. The combination sounds bold, yet generations of Pittsburghers consider it comfort food.
Primanti locations vary statewide, but the flagship sits at 46 18th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.
What makes the roast beef version special is texture contrast. The warm, savory beef meets crunchy fries and vinegar-kissed slaw, creating a sandwich that’s hearty, messy, and deeply satisfying. It’s not delicate food—it’s fuel, designed for long days and late nights.
People return because it’s uniquely Pennsylvania. You don’t come here for refinement; you come for tradition. If you want a roast beef sandwich that represents Pittsburgh’s working-class food identity, Primanti Bros. delivers it every single time.
Sulimay’s Restaurant — Philadelphia, PA
A North Philly institution, Sulimay’s is known for classic diner comfort food, including a hot open-faced roast beef sandwich served with gravy and mashed potatoes. It’s old-school, hearty, and deeply satisfying.
Address: 632 E Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19125. Typically open daily from morning through mid-afternoon.
What makes Sulimay’s special is nostalgia. The roast beef tastes like something made at home—tender, savory, and generously portioned. It’s not rushed, and it doesn’t pretend to be modern.
People return because it feels familiar. For a Pennsylvania-style roast beef meal that comforts as much as it fills, Sulimay’s remains a neighborhood favorite.
Jake’s Sandwich Board
Jake’s Sandwich Board, nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, is a haven for sandwich aficionados.
The quirky, vintage-inspired decor sets the stage for their renowned roast beef sandwiches, which are a blend of tradition and innovation.
Their signature sandwich features tender, slow-roasted beef with a hint of spice, served on freshly baked rolls. Each bite is a testament to their commitment to quality, with flavors that dance on the palate.
Jake’s has become a local favorite, often bustling with both regulars and newcomers. Its reputation for delightful culinary experiences ensures it remains a staple in the city’s vibrant food scene.
Hershel’s East Side Deli
Located in Reading Terminal Market, Hershel’s East Side Deli offers a genuine taste of New York-style deli right in Philadelphia. The aroma of their roast beef, prepared with a secret family recipe, is simply irresistible.
Each sandwich is crafted with precision, piled high with juicy beef and your choice of condiments. The combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting, nostalgic experience.
Hershel’s is not just about food; it’s about tradition and community. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make every visit memorable, a place where stories and meals are shared with warmth.
Neato Burrito
While primarily known for its unique burritos, Neato Burrito in Harrisburg surprises with its stellar roast beef creations. Their culinary twist on the classic sandwich is an adventurous take that captivates the taste buds.
The roast beef here is enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, complemented by a variety of toppings that add a burst of flavor. It’s this creative approach that sets Neato Burrito apart from traditional offerings.
Frequented by locals who appreciate bold flavors, this spot infuses every meal with a sense of fun and creativity, ensuring that each visit is as exciting as the last.
Hank’s Place
Tucked away in Chadds Ford, Hank’s Place is more than just a restaurant; it’s a community hub. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, this spot offers a roast beef sandwich that’s both hearty and flavorful. The beef is slow-cooked to perfection, complemented by a tangy horseradish sauce.
Hank’s Place has been serving locals and tourists since 1950. Its reputation for quality ingredients and friendly service keeps patrons coming back. Regulars know that the experience here is as comforting as the food itself.
The homely decor and friendly staff make dining here feel like visiting an old friend. It’s a classic spot amidst a historic setting, making it a must-visit for sandwich enthusiasts.
The Brickyard
The Brickyard in Williamsport is a bustling spot famed for its exceptional roast beef sandwiches. The restaurant’s industrial-chic decor creates a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a hearty meal. Known for their generous portions, each sandwich is a fulfilling experience.
Their roast beef is seasoned with a special blend of spices, enhancing its rich flavor. Served with crispy onion rings, it’s a meal that satisfies the soul as much as the stomach.
With a reputation for friendly service, The Brickyard draws a diverse crowd, from locals to visitors. It’s a cornerstone in the community, offering both great food and a vibrant setting.