On first visiting the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, I was taken aback that there wasn’t a single thing engraved anywhere about cheese, peppers or thin sliced steak. I just assumed whoever was in charge of bell maintenance in the 1750s had greasy hands after lunch and it just slipped out of their hands. So with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, I knew the word “Cheesesteak” wouldn’t fit on a candy conversation heart, and it was going to be up to me to see who in the Inland Northwest was crafting a lunchtime liaison that would make the Earl of Sandwich smile.

Philycious

5422 N. Division St.

Philycious is more than a sandwich; it’s an experience. If you’re the type to mix and match topping creations when ordering pizza, take a trip up north for the opportunity to play chef with your sandwich. Start with the classic shaved ribeye and add in classic ingredients, or throw in a wild card like pineapple, jalapeño or kimchi.

Spike’s Philly’s & More

718 E. Francis Ave.

Your typical sports bar tends to base their food around burgers or chicken wings. Spike breaks the mold the second you look at the menu and notice it is flooded with takes on Philadelphia’s favorite sandwich. Whether it’s Ribeye Steak or chicken, just choose white American, Cheese Whiz or provolone cheese and get to eating.

Philly Express

200 W. Hanley Ave.

You might have seen this popular CDA sandwich shop at the Farmer’s Market or at Greenbluff’s Harvest Festival where they recently won “Best Food.” If not, head to Idaho and get your mouth around this flavor packed Philly. Chomp down on tender steak, onions and peppers, and make sure to save room for their deep fried cheese curds or homemade chili.

Big Reds

W. Sunset Blvd. & S. Government Way

The cheesesteak has been a long-time icon in the City of Brotherly Love, but there is a midwestern city that is challenging that role. Big Reds Food truck—turned brick and mortar—has snatched the spirit of Chicago and put in on a bun. Be it Hot Dog or Cheesesteak, Big Reds is assaulting your taste buds with gigantic versions of what makes Chicago the heart of the culinary industry.

Zelia’s Cheese

Steaks & Subs

415 N. Sullivan Rd.

Formally part of the Bruchi’s Cheesesteak franchise, the husband and wife team decided to switch things up and put their own spin on the popular Philadelphia classic. Though their store hours seem on vary, it’s a classic diner take to a sandwich shop. If you’re a Bruchi’s fan, head to the valley and support a couple locals doing the same thing.