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Philly Cheesesteak Debate: Legacy vs. Modern Imitators

3/29/2026

44 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Frankie Olivieri asserts that the original Philly cheesesteak, created by his great-uncle, is underappreciated.
The sandwich has drawn notable figures, including four presidents and Oprah Winfrey.
Some food influencers claim the cheesesteak is dying and say that better versions exist among imitators.
Olivieri's father disagrees with this assessment, highlighting a divide in opinions about the sandwich's status.

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Story summary

Frankie Olivieri asserts that the original Philly cheesesteak, created by his great-uncle, is underappreciated.
The sandwich has drawn notable figures, including four presidents and Oprah Winfrey.
Some food influencers claim the cheesesteak is dying and say that better versions exist among imitators.
Olivieri's father disagrees with this assessment, highlighting a divide in opinions about the sandwich's status.