Zandy's Steak Shop
About This Spot
Stepping into Zandy's Steak Shop feels like discovering a cherished neighborhood corner where time slows just enough to savor something truly comforting. The modest, no-frills storefront on St John Street hints at something quietly enduring—a local fixture where the simple joy of a well-made cheesesteak is both ritual and celebration.
Inside, the pace is unhurried and welcoming, with friendly faces behind the counter ready to prepare your order with care. The atmosphere isn’t about flashy decor or bustling crowds, but about that familiar warmth that comes when staff remember your preferences and sandwiches arrive just how you like them. This is a spot where the ordinary transforms into moments of genuine satisfaction—a genuine nod to Allentown’s authentic eats.
The menu reads like a love letter to classic Pennsylvania comfort food, each item crafted to balance tradition and heart. The cheesesteaks here aren’t just sandwiches; they’re a tender embrace of locally baked rolls, juicy, freshly sliced steak, and those bright bursts of pickled cherry peppers that give just the right edge of flavor. Paired with crispy fries or perfectly golden onion rings, every bite becomes a small, meaningful pause in the day. And whether you’re stopping by for a quick solo lunch or sharing a meal with friends, the experience feels quietly special—cozy without pretense, deeply rooted in neighborhood pride.
For many, Zandy’s is a return to flavors remembered, a touchstone for those seeking an honest, satisfying meal crafted by hands who truly care. It’s the kind of place that lingers in memory not for its flash, but for its steady, heartfelt presence—a little culinary sanctuary in the heart of Allentown.
What’s Available Here
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Serves local specialty
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Quick bite
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Small plates
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Lunch
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Dinner
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Quiet
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Groups
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Tourists
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Accepts reservations
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Debit cards
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free of charge street parking
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Free parking lot
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Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | Closed | |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM - 06:00 PM |
Tyler Edelson 09 Jan 2026
Northeast philly transplant here and this is one of the best cheesesteaks I've had in the entire region and only few good true cheesesteak spots in the Lehigh Valley region. OG spot using a local roll and they got cherry peppers cash only. A must try
FreeStar 30 Nov 2025
It may not be the most lively restaurant visually, its kind employees and sandwiches make up for it. The Allentown cheese steak sandwich is one the best sandwich I’d ever had.
Krizia 15 Nov 2025
Super tasty steak sandwhich. Crispy fresh fries. I would come here again! Next time I'd get the sauce on the side, since otherwise it does not travel well! I'd like to try some other menu items as well!
Andrea Harmer 28 Oct 2025
Best steak sandwich I've eaten in a really long time, maybe ever! The meat was tender and juicy and the roll was soft and yummy. Zandy's is a wonderful throwback from my high school days and well worth the visit! Enjoy!
Layla Bird 20 Oct 2025
We were in town from NYC visiting a dying relative and really needed some extraordinary sustenance. This place absolutely exceeded our expectations. We loved the cheese steaks, onion rings, and chili. The staff was super welcoming to us and the inside is legendary. This is an essential stop for out-of-towners.
Morgan Radford 14 Oct 2025
Cash only! We visited from out of state & found Zandy’s via a reddit feed of best cheese steaks in PA; did not disappoint! The cheese steak made it into my top 3 best. Fried pierogies were great. Great local vibe, they’ve been around since 1940 after all! Staff were friendly & welcoming, would definitely recommend coming here for a local & historical experience.
Big Wally 21 Sep 2025
I have been driving past this place for a while and kept saying I gave to try it. It was worth the wait. It's a mom & pop place with a simple menu of Pennsylvania favorites. The steak sandwich was loaded with meat, topped with pickles, sauce and peppers, and well seasoned. Onion rings were crunchy and fries were crispy. Table and counter seating available. Friendly staff and classic decor, definitely a place to visit again. Business is cash only. The ATM on site charges a hefty fee for withdrawal.
perle75nyc 18 Sep 2025
I visited this place twice, and the taste was exactly as I remembered — juicy, soft, and tender. The bread is very soft, and the juicy meat and pickles go perfectly together. The two grandpas are always friendly, sweet, and humorous. After your meal, I recommend visiting the Allentown Art Museum nearby. It’s a small but fascinating museum with plenty to see, and admission is free.