The Best Philly cheesesteaks in greater Milwaukee

Craving an authentic Philly cheesesteak without the 13-hour drive to Philadelphia?

Greater Milwaukee offers surprising depth in the cheesesteak category, from dedicated shops serving ribeye with authentic Cheez Whiz to creative Midwestern interpretations featuring local bakery rolls. Whether you're in the North Shore, downtown, or the southern suburbs, families can find quality cheesesteak experiences within a reasonable drive—and we've mapped out every notable option to help you plan your next cheesesteak adventure.

Dig deeper and you'll discover neighborhood gems, creative pub interpretations, and regional chain outposts that each bring something unique to the table. Here's your comprehensive, neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide.

Milwaukee

Chubby's Cheesesteaks – East Side (Original Location)

The flagship that launched Milwaukee's cheesesteak revival, Chubby's East Side has anchored the Oakland Avenue corridor since 2007 when brothers Murad and Mazin Hamdan opened it specifically because "there were no authentic places in the area."

Address: 2232 N. Oakland Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: (414) 287-9999
Hours: Mon–Wed 10am–2am; Thu–Sat 10am–3am; Sun 10am–2am
Website: chubbyscheesesteaks.com

Cheesesteak menu breakdown: The signature Philly Cheesesteak ($13.99) comes loaded with ribeye steak, cheese, fried onions, and red and green peppers. Purists gravitate toward the Plain Cheesesteak (steak plus cheese only), while adventurous eaters opt for the Four Cheese Cheesesteak layering American, mozzarella, provolone, and authentic Cheez Whiz. The Mushroom Swiss version adds earthy depth with Swiss cheese, fried onions, and mushrooms.

Authenticity credentials: Chubby's checks the key boxes—ribeye steak chopped on a flat-top griddle, Cheez Whiz as a cheese option (the hallmark of true Philly style), and soft rolls from Peter Sciortino's Bakery. Philadelphia Magazine previously named them "Best Cheese Steak Outside Philadelphia," a distinction they proudly maintain.

Beyond the classic sandwich: Don't overlook the Cheesesteak Fries ($12.99) smothered in Cheez Whiz and ribeye, or the Philly Sticks ($12.99) served with marinara for dipping. Breakfast brings Philly Cheesesteak Breakfast sandwiches ($13.99) with scrambled eggs, ribeye, peppers, onions, and Cheez Whiz.

Family-friendly details: The "Mighty Kids Meals" include options like kid-sized cheesesteaks, grilled cheese, chicken nuggets, and hot dogs with fries and drink. The casual counter-service setup accommodates wiggly kids, and the extensive 160-item menu ensures even picky eaters find something appealing. Late-night hours make this a post-event destination after concerts or Bucks games.

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery via DoorDash/Uber Eats/Slice, catering through EZCater

Chubby's Cheesesteaks – Walker's Point

Address: 605 S. 1st St., Milwaukee, WI 53204
Phone: (414) 220-9999
Hours: Late-night hours available
Website: chubbyscheesesteakswalkerspoint.com

This Walker's Point outpost serves the same comprehensive menu in Milwaukee's trendy arts-and-entertainment district. The location proves particularly convenient for families attending events at the Baird Center or exploring the neighborhood's murals and galleries. Parking can be trickier here than the East Side location, so plan accordingly.

Milwaukee Brat House – Downtown

A different approach to the cheesesteak experience, Milwaukee Brat House wraps theirs in full pub atmosphere steps from Fiserv Forum.

Address: 1013 N. Old World 3rd St., Milwaukee, WI 53203
Phone: (414) 273-8709
Hours: Mon–Fri 11am–2am; Sat–Sun 10am–2am
Website: milwaukeebrathouse.com

Cheesesteak menu breakdown: The Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich arrives on a toasted hoagie with chopped ribeye, pepper jack cheese, caramelized onions, and house cheese sauce. For something uniquely Wisconsin, try the Philly-Style Stuffed Brat—a Usinger's brat topped with melted pepper jack, caramelized onions, and sharp cheddar cheese sauce.

Pricing: Sandwiches approximately $12–14 including one side (seasoned fries, baked beans, potato salad, house-made kettle chips, coleslaw, cottage cheese, tater tots, onion rings, or cheese curds)

What makes it notable: The Philly-brat hybrid represents Milwaukee creativity at its finest, merging two beloved sandwich traditions. The location offers front and back beer gardens perfect for warm-weather dining, plus a free shuttle to Brewers games and Summerfest.

Family-friendly details: The casual pub atmosphere welcomes families during daytime and early evening hours. The extensive menu includes famous Usinger's bratwurst varieties, Wisconsin cheese curds, Friday fish fry with Schlitz beer-battered cod, and giant pretzels that kids devour.

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, food served until 2am

Charleys Cheesesteaks – South Side

National chain recognition meets Milwaukee convenience at this Ohio Plaza location, which Eat This, Not That! ranked as the #1 Philly Cheesesteak in America among national chains.

Address: 3272 S. 27th St. (Ohio Plaza), Milwaukee, WI 53215
Phone: (414) 671-6770
Hours: Mon–Sat 9:30am–9pm; Sun 12pm–8pm
Website: charleys.com

Cheesesteak menu breakdown: The standard Philly Cheesesteak features USDA-choice steak with green peppers, mushrooms, onions, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a signature toasted roll. Authenticity seekers should order the Old School Cheesesteak—extra grilled USDA-choice steak, Cheez Whiz, and sautéed onions, nothing else. Creative options include the Korean BBQ Cheesesteak with gochujang sauce, kimchi, and sriracha mayo, or the Nashville Hot Cheesesteak bringing heat with Nashville hot sauce and ranch.

Pricing: Combos approximately $10.99–12.99 for regular size with fries and drink

Authenticity credentials: Uses 100% USDA-choice steak, offers authentic Cheez Whiz on the Old School version, and grills everything to order with hand-cut vegetables.

Family-friendly details: Fast-casual environment with quick service, kids-friendly portions, wings, fries, milkshakes, and ice cream. Large parking lot makes arrival easy.

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, delivery via Uber Eats/DoorDash, catering available

Riley's Social House & Sandwich – Third Ward

Not a traditional Philly cheesesteak, but worth knowing for families seeking an elevated steak sandwich experience in a dog-friendly setting.

Address: 411 E. Menomonee St., Milwaukee, WI 53202
Hours: Tue–Wed 11am–9pm; Thu–Sat 11am–10pm
Website: rileysandwich.com

Steak sandwich offerings: The Terrible City layers beef tenderloin steak with cheese, onion, beer cheese, dill pickle potato chips, and slaw. The Steak & Avo takes a lighter approach with beef tenderloin, avocado, tomato, mozzarella, and aji verde (Peruvian green sauce). House tip: add spicy giardiniera to the Steak with Roasted Garlic Cream Cheese.

What makes it notable: Riley's uses sous-vide beef tenderloin rather than traditional ribeye, delivering consistently tender medium-rare meat with gourmet touches. Dogs are welcome inside—unusual and delightful for pet-loving families. The attached Social House offers 24 craft drafts and full bar service.

Family-friendly details: Dogs welcome with pup cups and treats available, outdoor patio seating, casual sandwich shop atmosphere with connected bar area

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering

Beerline Cafe – Riverwest (Vegan/Vegetarian)

For families with plant-based eaters, this 4-star Green Restaurant Association-certified café offers cheesesteak and cheesesteak fries made entirely from plant-based ingredients.

Address: 2076 N. Commerce St., Milwaukee, WI 53212
Phone: (414) 265-5644
Hours: Mon & Wed–Fri 9am–3pm; Sat–Sun 8am–3pm; Closed Tue
Website: beerlinecafe.com

The vegan cheesesteak provides a quality option for families navigating dietary restrictions. The "fresh-casual" café also serves crepes, panini-style sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies, and Stone Creek Coffee. LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere with local art on walls and outdoor seating.

North Shore

Chubby's Cheesesteaks – Bayshore (Glendale)

The primary cheesesteak destination for North Shore residents, this Bayshore Town Center location delivers the full Chubby's experience with one exclusive offering: stone-fired pizza.

Address: 430 W. Silver Spring Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53217 (Glendale/Bayshore Town Center)
Phone: (414) 310-1979
Hours: Mon–Wed 10am–2am; Thu–Sat 10am–3am; Sun 10am–2am
Website: chubbyscheesesteaksbayshore.com

Cheesesteak menu breakdown (with North Shore-specific pricing):

Sandwich Description Price Cheesesteak Steak + cheese $9.50 The Philly Steak + cheese + fried onions + red & green peppers $9.99 Chubby's Cheesesteak Steak + cheese + lettuce + tomatoes + mayo + raw onion $9.99 Mushroom Swiss Steak + Swiss cheese + mushrooms + fried onions $9.99 4 Cheese Cheesesteak Steak + American + provolone + mozzarella + Cheez Whiz $9.99 Pizza Cheesesteak Steak + mozzarella + marinara sauce $9.29 French Fry Cheesesteak Steak + fries + Cheez Whiz + fried onion $9.50 Build Your Own Steak + cheese + choice of toppings $13.75 16" Cheesesteaks Large format sharing size ~$13.25

All sandwiches available with chicken at similar price points ($8.95–$13.75).

Cheese options (8 varieties): American, provolone, mozzarella, Swiss, pepper jack, feta, blue cheese, and authentic Cheez Whiz

Authenticity credentials: Ribeye steak grilled to order on flat-top, Cheez Whiz available, hoagie rolls. The "Milwaukee's Answer to the Philly Cheesesteak" tagline reflects their East Coast-inspired approach.

Family-friendly details: Chubby's Mighty Kids Meals ($6.99–8.99) include 5-piece chicken nuggets, hot dog, grilled cheese, cheeseburger, or kid's cheesesteak with fries, drink, and two Oreo cookies. Bayshore Town Center location means easy parking and walkable adjacent shopping. Casual fast-casual atmosphere accommodates families of all sizes.

Beyond cheesesteaks: Gourmet burgers ($7.99–10.99), gyros and Greek items, Señor Chubby's tacos and Mexican fare, wings, fried chicken dinners, Friday fish fry (cod, catfish, perch), breakfast waffles and pancakes, 19 different sauce options, and stone-fired pizza exclusive to this location.

Specials: Daily cheesesteak, fries, and drink specials; VIP Club signup for promotions

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery via Grubhub/Uber Eats/DoorDash, catering through EZCater

The Bay Restaurant – Whitefish Bay

Downtown Whitefish Bay's neighborhood bar and restaurant offers a cheesesteak within walking distance for many North Shore families.

Address: 342 E. Silver Spring Dr., Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
Phone: (414) 455-3045
Hours: Mon 4pm–9pm (bar only early hours); Tue–Sun 11am–9pm
Website: thebayrestaurant.com
Reservations: Available via OpenTable

Cheesesteak offering: The Milwaukee Cheesesteak Sandwich (also called "Philly Cheesesteak Hoagie") arrives on a warm hoagie roll with steak and traditional toppings. Customer reviews describe it as "full of flavor" and "very good." Served with choice of fries, chips, baked potato, or coleslaw (substitute side salad, soup, or loaded baked potato for +$2).

What makes it notable: Full-service American restaurant experience with full bar, extensive wine list, and craft beer selection—a more upscale cheesesteak outing than fast-casual options. The hip neighborhood bar atmosphere occupies a historic 1955 building. Live music Thursday and Friday adds energy. The house-made chips earn consistent praise as "super crunchy."

Other menu highlights: Friday Fish Fry, Sunday Brunch, BBQ options, Bay Burger, Salmon Cakes with homemade remoulade, Jordan River Dates appetizer

Family-friendly details: Family-friendly atmosphere throughout, outdoor patio seating, public parking behind restaurant plus street parking, wheelchair accessible

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering for birthday parties, corporate events, and weddings; happy hour specials available

The Brick Pub & Grill – Glendale

A true neighborhood pub across from Kletzsch Park, The Brick offers steak sandwiches within a sports-bar atmosphere perfect for game-day family outings.

Address: 6343 N. Green Bay Ave., Glendale, WI 53209
Phone: (414) 797-0710
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–2am; Fri–Sat 11am–2:30am; Sun 9am–12am
Website: thebrickpubandgrill.com

Cheesesteak note: Menu includes steak sandwiches as part of broader sandwich offerings. TripAdvisor reviews specifically mention a quality Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich with waffle fries.

What makes it notable: Historic location dating to 1981 (formerly Wren's II) with 14 TVs including patio screens, horseshoe-shaped bar, four-season sun room, and two outdoor patios. Dog-friendly establishment.

Family-friendly programming: Sunday Brunch, Friday Fish Fry, homemade pizza Thursdays, build-your-own pasta Wednesdays, Mexican fare Mondays—themed nights help families plan repeat visits.

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, Packer specials during games

North Shore communities with limited cheesesteak options

Fox Point, River Hills, and Bayside lack dedicated cheesesteak establishments. These primarily residential communities are best served by driving to Chubby's Bayshore in Glendale (typically under 10 minutes). Brown Deer offers excellent delis (Kurt Schulz Deli & Pastry Shoppe, Larry's Market) but no dedicated cheesesteak options.

Western suburbs

Chubby's Cheesesteaks – Brookfield

The premier dedicated cheesesteak destination in the western suburbs, serving the full Chubby's menu to families in the Brookfield, Elm Grove, and New Berlin corridor.

Address: 3845 N. 124th St., Brookfield, WI 53005
Phone: (262) 781-9999
Hours: Open daily with late-night hours (contact for current schedule)
Website: chubbyscheesesteaks.com

Cheesesteak menu highlights:

• The Philly Cheesesteak – Steak plus cheese with choice of provolone, American, mozzarella, or Cheez Whiz

• The Pepper Steak – Steak or chicken with cheese, fried onions, red and green peppers

• The Ultimate (4 Cheese) – American, mozzarella, provolone, and Cheez Whiz combined

• Buffalo Cheesesteak – Chicken or steak tossed in Buffalo sauce with blue cheese

• Pittsburgh Steak – Steak or chicken topped with fries, fried onions, and Cheez Whiz

• Cheesesteak Parmesan – Steak or chicken with mozzarella and marinara

• BBQ Cheesesteak – Steak or chicken with mozzarella and Open Pit BBQ sauce

Pricing: Cheesesteaks typically $8.95–10.50+ depending on size; Cheesesteak Fries ~$6.99–8.50

Family-friendly details: Chubby's Mighty Kids Meals available, casual fast-casual atmosphere, free parking lot, colorful interior that appeals to kids

Beyond cheesesteaks: Gourmet burgers (including veggie option), specialty sandwiches, hot dogs, Polish sausages, fish fry, breakfast items, Señor Chubby's Mexican items, wings, salads, milkshakes, ice cream

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery via DoorDash/Uber Eats/Grubhub, catering via EZCater

Chubby's Cheesesteaks – West Milwaukee (Miller Parkway)

Address: 2147 Miller Park Way, West Milwaukee, WI 53219
Website: chubbyscheesesteaks.com

Conveniently located near American Family Field, this location serves the full Chubby's menu and proves ideal for pre- or post-Brewers game cheesesteak runs. Same menu, pricing, and family-friendly features as other Chubby's locations.

Cousins Subs – Wauwatosa (Multiple Locations)

Wisconsin's homegrown sub chain offers a respectable Philly Cheesesteak at multiple Wauwatosa locations.

Mayfair Location:
Address: 725 N. Mayfair Rd., Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Phone: (414) 453-7710
Hours: 10am–9pm daily

Burleigh Location:
Address: 12320 W. Burleigh St., Wauwatosa

Cheesesteak menu breakdown: The Steak Philly Cheese Steak comes with choice of steak or chicken, American cheese, sautéed green peppers and onions on signature fresh-baked bread (baked daily in-house). Available as Steak Cheese Steak Bowl for low-carb eaters, served over spring mix.

Pricing: Subs typically $7.99–12.99 depending on size

Authenticity credentials: Wisconsin-based, family-owned chain since 1972 using fresh-sliced deli meats and Wisconsin cheeses. Made-to-order grilled subs with daily-baked bread. Not Philly-authentic, but a quality Midwestern interpretation.

Family-friendly details: Kids menu available, quick-service family-friendly atmosphere, health score 100/100, dogs allowed at some locations, good for groups

Other menu highlights: Classic subs (Italian Special, Club, Turkey), Wisconsin Cheese Curds, soups, Party Boxes for groups

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, delivery, reservations available

Firehouse Subs – Wauwatosa

Address: Near Mayfair Mall/Milwaukee Zoo area
Website: firehousesubs.com

Cheesesteak offering: The Firehouse Steak & Cheese Sub features tender slices of sautéed sirloin steak smothered with melted provolone, sautéed onions and bell peppers, mayo and mustard on the chain's signature steamed sub rolls.

Pricing: Small ~$5.49–5.69; Medium ~$9.39–9.49; Large ~$12.39–13.49

What makes it notable: The signature steamed bread technique creates an unusually soft texture that kids particularly enjoy. Clean, well-maintained restaurants with consistent quality.

Family-friendly details: Good for kids, quick service, chili and mac & cheese sides

Dining options: Dine-in, takeout, delivery

The Local – New Berlin

A neighborhood bar and restaurant offering Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches with fries in a "quaint Wisconsin bar" setting.

Location: New Berlin, WI

Reviews describe delicious food, friendly staff and patrons, and consistently good quality. A solid option for families seeking pub-style dining in the New Berlin area.

Rise & Shine Food Truck – Menomonee Falls Area

Service Area: Menomonee Falls and surrounding areas within 30 miles
Website: riseandshinewi.com

This food truck offers a Cheesesteak Burger that reviews describe as "best flavored burger I've ever had," plus steak options in burritos and breakfast sandwiches. Owners Tony and Mason focus on homemade quality including fresh donuts. Available for full-service on-site catering for weddings, birthday parties, business events, and graduations—a unique option for family celebrations.

Southern suburbs

Big Lou's Standing Room Only – Kenosha ⭐ Local Favorite

A genuine hidden gem, this seasonal Kenosha establishment consistently earns "best cheesesteaks in Kenosha" recognition with creative varieties and old-school neighborhood charm.

Address: 635 75th St., Kenosha, WI 53143
Phone: (262) 658-4776
Website: biglouscheesesteaks.com

Hours: Sun 12pm–7:45pm; Mon CLOSED; Tue–Sat 11am–7:45pm
IMPORTANT: Seasonal restaurant—typically closes after Labor Day. Verify operating status before visiting.

Cheesesteak menu breakdown:

• Classic SRO Cheesesteak – Sirloin steak with choice of cheese

• Aloha Cheesesteak ($12) – Sirloin steak, mozzarella, bacon, pineapple chunks, aloha sauce (pineapple teriyaki) on fresh Paielli's Italian bomber bun

• Big Lou Cheesesteak – Signature large-format version

• Godfather Cheesesteak – Specialty steak sandwich

• Chicagoland Cheesesteak – Regional variation

What makes it notable: Family-owned since 1996, Big Lou's uses fresh daily Paielli's bomber buns from a local Italian bakery and creates unique flavor combinations you won't find elsewhere. The Aloha Cheesesteak exemplifies their creative Midwest-meets-tropical approach. Reviews consistently cite these as "some of the best cheesesteaks I've ever had." Located in Kenosha's Allendale neighborhood.

Authenticity note: Uses sirloin steak rather than traditional ribeye, mozzarella rather than Whiz, and local bomber buns—a distinctly Midwest interpretation rather than strict Philly authenticity.

Family-friendly details: Good for kids, vegetarian options available, outdoor patio perfect for warm weather, dogs welcome at outdoor tables with treats and water provided, on-site parking

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, online ordering via website

Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings – Racine

The most "authentic" national chain option in the southern suburbs, with USDA Choice steak and genuine Cheez Whiz availability.

Address: 4700 Washington Ave., Racine, WI 53406
Phone: (262) 456-0805
Hours: Daily 10am–10pm; Delivery 10:15am–9:45pm
Website: charleys.com

Cheesesteak menu breakdown:

• Philly Cheesesteak – USDA Choice steak, onions, mushrooms, green peppers, provolone, signature toasted roll

• Old School Cheesesteak – Extra USDA Choice steak, sliced sautéed onions, CHEEZ WHIZ® Sauce, toasted roll (most authentic option)

• Bacon 3 Cheesesteak – Steak, crispy bacon, provolone, Swiss, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, mayo

• Chipotle Ranch Steak – USDA Choice steak, bacon, onions, jalapeño, provolone, BBQ sauce

• Korean BBQ Steak – USDA Choice steak, gochujang sauce, onions, peppers, kimchi, provolone, sriracha mayo

• Nashville Hot Cheesesteak – All-white meat chicken, Nashville hot sauce, American cheese, ranch

• Vegetarian Option: Veggie cheesesteak with mushrooms, onions, peppers, provolone, Swiss, cheddar

Pricing: Regular cheesesteak combos approximately $10.99 with fries and drink

What makes it notable: Named America's #1 Philly Cheesesteak by Eat This, Not That! among national chains. Consistent quality, genuine Cheez Whiz option, kids meals available.

Family-friendly details: Kids menu prepared fresh to order, catering options for groups, rewards program for deals, health score 100/100

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery via DoorDash/Uber Eats

Lee's Deli – Racine

A family-owned institution since 1971, Lee's offers steak subs alongside their award-winning deli fare.

Address: 2615 Washington Ave., Racine, WI 53405
Website: leesdeliracine.com
Hours: Sun–Wed, Fri–Sat 9am–8pm; Thu 10am–5pm

Steak Sub represents their cheesesteak-adjacent offering. Named Best of Racine County by The Journal Times multiple times, Lee's delivers on quality deli sandwiches, BBQ, fish sandwiches, Italian beef, and American classics. Extensive menu with deli sandwich variety.

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery, catering available

MACS – Macaroni and Cheese Shop – Oak Creek

A uniquely Wisconsin concept: cheesesteak as mac and cheese topping.

Address: 120 W. Town Square Way, Ste 500, Oak Creek, WI 53154
Also: 8031 S. Howell Ave., Oak Creek (second location)
Phone: (414) 215-7733
Hours: Daily 10:30am–9pm
Website: macandcheeseshop.com

Cheesesteak offering: The Philly Cheesesteak Mac tops their signature macaroni and cheese with seasoned steak, grilled peppers, and onions. Available in Regular (~$10–11) and Mac Daddy (~$14–16) sizes.

What makes it notable: Wisconsin comfort food creativity at its finest—the marriage of cheesesteak and mac & cheese proves surprisingly satisfying. Highly rated (4.3–4.5 stars) with reviews specifically recommending the Philly Cheesesteak version. Located in walkable Drexel Town Square shopping area.

Family-friendly details: Kids meals available, casual atmosphere, easy parking in shopping center

Dining options: Dine-in, carryout, delivery via DoorDash/Uber Eats/Postmates/Grubhub, catering

Cousins Subs – Waukesha (Three Locations)

530 W. Sunset Dr., Waukesha, WI 53189 – Mon–Thu, Sun 10am–9pm; Fri–Sat 10am–10pm
2320 E. Moreland Blvd., Waukesha, WI 53186 – Phone: (262) 798-1800 – Daily 10am–9pm
1700 Pearl St., Waukesha, WI 53186 – Daily 10am–10pm

Same Philly Cheesesteak and Double Cheesesteak menu as other Cousins locations. Fresh bread baked daily, Wisconsin cheese, cheese curds as side option. Health scores 95–99/100 across locations.

Cousins Subs – Oak Creek, Racine, and Southern Metro

Multiple additional locations throughout the southern suburbs including:

• 2327 W. Ryan Rd., Oak Creek, WI 53154 – Phone: (414) 761-7665 – Daily 8:30am–10:15pm

• 135 W. Rawson Ave., Oak Creek, WI 53154

• 6100 Regency West Dr., Racine, WI 53406 – Mon–Sat 9:30am–9pm; Sun 10:30am–8pm

Consistent Philly Cheesesteak quality across all locations with USDA Choice steak, Wisconsin cheese, and signature fresh-baked bread.

Remembering The Philly Way

Milwaukee's cheesesteak scene lost its most authentic establishment when The Philly Way closed permanently in August 2025 after approximately 20 years at 405 S. 2nd St. in Walker's Point.

Owner Dave London trained at Pat's King of Steaks in Philadelphia, and Philadelphia Magazine twice named The Philly Way "Best Cheese Steak Outside Philadelphia." The restaurant featured giant cans of Cheez Whiz as décor, shaved ribeye chopped on the grill, and offered provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz options—hitting every authenticity mark.

The Shepherd Express eulogized it as "the old stalwart" with "beef, flat-topped and diced, pocketed by a warm roll, set to swim on the creamy seas of cheese whiz." For families who remember The Philly Way fondly, Chubby's has effectively stepped into that void, with multiple sources noting it has become "the new, better Philly Way."

Planning your family cheesesteak adventure

By neighborhood at a glance

Region Top Pick Runner-Up Best for Families Milwaukee Downtown Chubby's East Side Milwaukee Brat House Chubby's (kids meals, late hours) North Shore Chubby's Bayshore The Bay Restaurant Chubby's (Mighty Kids Meals, Bayshore parking) Western Suburbs Chubby's Brookfield Cousins Subs Chubby's (parking, menu variety) Southern Suburbs Big Lou's (Kenosha) Charleys (Racine) Big Lou's (patio, dog-friendly)

For authentic Philly-style preparation

If Cheez Whiz and ribeye steak matter to your cheesesteak experience, prioritize these options:

• Chubby's Cheesesteaks (any location) – Cheez Whiz, ribeye, soft rolls

• Charleys Cheesesteaks (Racine or South Side Milwaukee) – Old School sandwich with Cheez Whiz

• ~~The Philly Way~~ – Closed August 2025

For creative regional interpretations

• Big Lou's Standing Room Only (Kenosha) – Aloha Cheesesteak with pineapple teriyaki

• MACS (Oak Creek) – Philly Cheesesteak Mac

• Milwaukee Brat House – Philly-Style Stuffed Brat

For budget-conscious families

Cousins Subs offers the most affordable cheesesteak experience across the metro area, with Philly Cheesesteaks starting around $7.99 at multiple convenient locations. Their fresh-baked bread and Wisconsin cheese provide solid quality at value pricing.

Weekend trip planning tips

North Shore families can combine a Chubby's Bayshore visit with Bayshore Town Center shopping or nearby Kletzsch Park playground time.

Kenosha day trip: Pair Big Lou's seasonal cheesesteaks (verify open dates!) with a visit to Kenosha's lakefront, the Kenosha Public Museum, or the vintage streetcar system. The outdoor patio and dog-friendly atmosphere make it perfect for warm-weather family outings.

Brewers game combo: The West Milwaukee Chubby's location on Miller Park Way sits minutes from American Family Field—ideal for pre-game cheesesteaks.

Racine adventure: Combine Charleys with Racine's kringle bakeries (O&H, Bendtsen's) for a Wisconsin culinary double-header.

Conclusion

Milwaukee's cheesesteak landscape may lack Philadelphia's legendary density of options, but dedicated spots like Chubby's and Big Lou's prove you don't need to leave Wisconsin for satisfying cheesesteak experiences. The closure of The Philly Way leaves Chubby's as the metro area's clear cheesesteak champion, with six locations ensuring most families have one within reasonable driving distance.

For North Shore families specifically, Chubby's Bayshore represents the go-to destination—close to home, family-friendly with Mighty Kids Meals, and offering the authentic Cheez Whiz option that purists demand. But don't sleep on The Bay Restaurant in Whitefish Bay for a more upscale outing, or venture south to Big Lou's when the seasonal windows align for creative varieties you won't find anywhere else.

The best cheesesteak is ultimately the one your family enjoys together—whether that's a late-night Chubby's run after a concert, a sunny afternoon on Big Lou's patio, or a quick Cousins stop during Saturday errands. Happy eating, Milwaukee families.