I hope writing this review isn't a mistake. For selfish reasons I don't want Anna's to get too crowded. But, I must write a rebuttal. I just finished watching a Food Network show about Philadelphia's legendary cheesesteak rivals -- Pat's and Geno's. I once fell prey to the hype and tried them. Never again. Forget the crowds, the long lines of tourists and rude service just to experience an expensive, mediocre product. \r
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In the 1930's Anna's was my great-grandparents' favorite Hoagie shop. Today, it's still the same shop, owned and operated by the same family. Google map the address and check the street view. This tiny little shop that occupies only a part of the first floor of the house has been turning out the absolute best hoagies and cheesesteaks for 3/4 of a century! I grew up on their sandwiches. Now, living in the mountains of Virginia, we have to plan at least one pilgramage per year. Caution: If you plan a visit check their hours. Unless they've changed, they were always closed on Sunday and Monday. \r
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You won't find tourists here. You'll see the locals lined up to take their family's lunch or dinner home. (They only have seating for about 12 people) Notice how the staff knows the name and order of each person as they walk through the door. \r
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The only category I couldn't give a 5 was ""atmosphere."" But that's not why any one goes here. If you want to savor the ultimate Philadelphia sandwiches (for about the same price as a trip to a fast food burger joint), or, if you are one the many displaced Philadelphians suffering with one of those unexplainable cravings that you get for Hoagies, Cheesesteaks or Tastykake -- Find Anna's. I guarantee, you will be starting a new family tradition.
Pros: Best hoagies and cheesesteaks anywhere.
Cons: Closed Sundays and Mondays
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