How To Eat Your Way Through Philly

Philadelphia, PA is the well-known home of the great Philly Cheese Steak.  Did you know that the cheese was Cheez Whiz?  I did not.  What did we do as soon as we arrived at our dear friend Luke's house?  Eat a cheese steak, duh!  It really didn't matter that it was after midnight.  Where is the world's best cheese steak you may ask?  At Jim's Place on South Street.  Now, let me warn you, South Street is not for the feint of heart.  We arrived in the middle of a pretty hard-core night life, but man that sandwich was worth it!

Food seemed to be the theme of our day and a half visit to historic Philly.  Our friend and guide Luke showed us all of the best spots in town and we ate more than our weight in amazing, authentic Philly food.  One of the of the many great places we ate at was Koch's Deli on Locust.  Although we waited a good bit for our sandwiches, they were out of this world.  As I placed my order, the owner approved of my choice.  A conversation was struck, one thing lead to another, and he proposed!  He was sad to learn that I was already happily married.  His reply to this sad news?  "You'll never go hungry with me!"  He was a riot and we definitely recommend you eat there if you every pass through Philly.

Another theme of our trip so far has been construction.  Whether it be on the interstates or national monuments...it's all being renovated during our trip!  In D.C., the reflecting pool had been drained and dug up.  Nice and brown...not pretty.  The Independence Hall in Philly?  Completely covered by scaffold for repairs.  We still took photos and took in the historic moment, but really U.S?  All at the same time?  During the busiest vacation time of the year?  Not cool.

A major highlight of the trip was visiting the famous museum where Rocky ran all of those steps.  I sure enjoyed watching Cassie and Luke run all the way up and back.  In fact, Chow got a great video of the recreation.  As soon as we get it, I'll try to post it.  For now, check out these action shots:

We had such an amazing time in Philadelphia.  If only there were more time!  Thank you to Luke and his family for being such gracious hosts and guides.  We owe our weight gain and fabulous memories to you!