The Philly Special

Reviews

• BM

  Bobby Marshall

  2 days ago
  5.0
  I was told about this place by a friend at work so I thought I’d check it out for a cheesesteak. I was pleasantly surprised. I ordered the 10” mushroom cheesesteak and it was good! The roll was fresh and soft. The shaved ribeye and cooper sharp were on point! Being from Philly I’m a tough critic but I really enjoyed this place. I was also told that they televise all of the Eagles games too…an added bonus! I’ll be back again for sure!
• AW

  Allison Washington

  3 days ago
  5.0
  First time visiting Philly Special and we will definitely be back! The staff was very friendly, the restaurant was clean, and the food was absolutely delicious. We tried the cheesesteak, crab fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken wings with lemon pepper sauce (also offered as a dry rub) and water ice (so good!!) — every single thing was amazing. The cheesesteak was packed with flavor, the crab fries were seasoned perfectly, the mozzarella sticks were crispy and cheesy, and the lemon pepper wings were some of the best we’ve had. The only thing better than the food was the owner. He made us feel welcomed and at home. Great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. Highly recommend!
• WS

  Wanda Solanes

  6 days ago
  5.0
  My husband heard about this place and suggested we give it a try....sure why not. I had no expectations which is actually a good state of mind for a first visit. So away we go with my son in tow. The young lady who greeted us was very pleasant. She took my order and we got settled into our table. The restaurant was clean, no frills which is fine with us. The mood was warm, friendly and the perfect amount of attentive. The first thing I noticed were the TVs...like a strip of TVs lining the entire wall playing music videos, just like in Pilly so I've been told. Our order didn't take long. We all got the 7 inch Philly Special and let me tell you, it was amazing. Ive never tasted anything like it!! Seriously, the best Philly Cheese Steak sandwich I've ever had and it was stuffed ! The three of us all felt the sameway....I can't wait to go back ..have to try the egg rolls!
• AY

  Angela yue

  May 8, 2026
  5.0
  The cheesesteaks here are absolutely incredible — easily some of the best food you’ll find in Tampa. Everything tastes fresh, high quality, and made with care. The service is fast, the establishment is spotless, and the staff brings such a fun, welcoming energy that makes the whole experience even better. Sean runs an amazing operation and it shows in every detail. He personally greets guests, checks on tables, and creates an atmosphere that feels genuine and welcoming. As a fellow business owner, it’s refreshing to see someone lead with that level of passion and hospitality. Tasty food, fast service, a clean establishment, and a fun staff — what more could you ask for? Highly recommend checking this place out!
• WP

  William Poirier

  May 3, 2026
  1.0
  HORRIBLE experience!!! From start to finish, a nightmare. First time customer. Walked in, young woman up front took my order. Repeated it back and she wrong TWICE!! Ordered my food and sat down with an overpriced small bottle of Coke. Waited and played on my phone and lost track of time. Noticed the owner (I think it was) come out twice to the couple sitting next to me about messing up their order. Realized it had been ALMOST 30 MINUTES since I placed my order. When I went back to the front to find out what the delay was. She had no idea about my order, and I reminded her my name and what I ordered. She looked around and magically “found” it. Ordered no onions and this was the first thing I noticed when I opened it……onions!!! I brought it back, told her they made it wrong. Poor woman looked exhausted and overworked. No one wanted to help and the guy in the kitchen had the balls to tell me there was no onion on it. BS, I am well aware what onions look like because I hate them. Finally, pissed off and hungry, I asked for a refund. Young woman comes up from the back and proceeds to refund me in cash (I paid with a card). She counts the money at the drawer and hands it to me. I said “What is this? I wanted a full refund for everything except the soda”. She said yes, 16 dollars and change. Too bad she only gave me 11 DOLLARS!!! OOPS!!!! It wasn’t until I got to my vehicle that I realized they didn’t reimburse me for the extra cheese I pad for. But I wasn’t about to go back in that that mess. No personality, no one even apologized to me at all. I love cheesesteaks and even go to PA yearly to get my fix. I was really looking forward to it after seeing a review on TikTok. Highly disappointed, and not sure I will give them I try again.