For the past six decades, Chink’s Steaks has been serving the finest gourmet cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, and its surrounding areas. It all began in 1949 when the original owner, Samuel “Chink” Sherman, opened a quaint “mom-and-pop” steak shop in the northeastern section of Philadelphia. As a young boy, Chink mastered the art of “steak-making” while working at renowned Pat’s Steaks. He brought his skills, experience, and knowledge with him to Chink’s Steaks. He began his venture basic and uncomplicated, serving only plain steaks with or without onions. After years of serving sandwiches in that manner, Chink was forced to upgrade his menu to include cheese; in an attempt to accommodate its demand. As the years passed, Chink’s popularity grew immensely. Before long, the local sandwich shop became one of Philadelphia’s most infamous cheesesteak hot spots.
After forty-six years of his hard work and dedication, Chink retired from the business. Shortly after his resignation Chink passed away. Before he passed away, he designated his protégé, Joe, as the new owner. Joe worked for Chink for over twenty years. He began his career at Chink’s, in his early adolescence, cutting meat and peeling onions in the basement. As Joe grew with the business over the years, he exceeded his boss’s expectations. Before he assumed the role of owner, he played a direct role in the daily operations of the shop. When Joe became the official owner of Chink’s Steaks, he vowed to run the business in the same traditional manner. His goal was to allow patrons to enjoy a terrific sandwich while absorbing the vintage scenery. The store is utterly unique with its original, classic 50’s décor. Chink’s continues to fascinate its customers with its timeless tin ceiling, classic soda fountain, and original mahogany booths. The combination of the intriguing décor and beautiful waitresses, mixed with the overwhelming aroma of delicious steaks invites its customers at the front door. Many customers appreciate the beautiful staff, and the nostalgic scenery; however, most return for the exceptionally fabulous sandwiches.
Over the years, Chink’s has continued to utilize the original menu that was created in 1949. This menu consisted strictly of: steaks, milkshakes, egg creams, fountain sodas, and sundaes. Over time, there have been a few minor additions to the menu, such as: the incorporation of cheese, hoagies, hotdogs, hamburgers, and sausage. Chink’s continues to prohibit the addition of toppings such as: sauce, mushrooms, pepperoni, and sweet peppers; however, they do provide delicious dill pickles and hot peppers on the side. Although the menu is brief, and simple; the items included in the menu are specific and delightful. Also, Chink’s is renowned for its array of thick milkshakes, which are served with premium Turkey Hill Ice-cream. Bananas and malt are added upon request. Chink’s is also infamous for its New York style egg creams. The classic steak shop, also, serves old-fashioned, towering banana splits and assorted sundaes. A milkshake and a cheesesteak serve as a sinfully perfect treat to any diet.
After all of these years, Chink’s Steaks continues to satisfy its customers. They have received acclamation, and recognition from numerous social influences. 2002 was an imperative year for Chink’s Steaks. After Craig LaBan from The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Restaurant Guide published a complimentary article favoring Chink’s, their publicity grew. Also, in 2002 Best of Philly voted them “best cheeseteak”. They also received acclaim from: AOL’s Citysearch, Sport’s Radio WIP 610, and many others. The greatest rewards come from the satisfied customers who praise the enchanting restaurant. Don’t take other people’s word; come down to Chink’s Steaks at 6030 Torresdale Avenue, and put their sandwiches to the test!
