Experience the Iconic: Exploring the Old Four Seasons in Philly

Joan Aug 08, 2026

The "Old Four Seasons Philly" is an iconic sandwich that has been a beloved staple in Philadelphia for decades. This classic meal, also known as the "Philly Cheesesteak," is a delectable fusion of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all served on a tempting roll.

an indoor dining area with candles lit up in the center and trees on either side
an indoor dining area with candles lit up in the center and trees on either side

Thought to have originated in the early 20th century, the Old Four Seasons Philly is credited to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor turned steak sandwich pioneer. He innovated the feast in 1930,/outputting a culinary masterstroke that would forever change the city's food landscape.

the city is covered in snow and has tall buildings on both sides, with trees lining the street
the city is covered in snow and has tall buildings on both sides, with trees lining the street

The Pillars of an Old Four Seasons Philly

The sandwich's moniker is derived from its core components: the four seasons of the year, with each season embodying a key element.

an old black and white photo of people on the street
an old black and white photo of people on the street

In the spring, we have the crisp, fresh roll that sets the stage for the ensemble. Next, the summer is represented by the sizzling,!$ livestock steak that's sliced thin and cooked to tender perfection. Autumn brings forth the caramelized onions, sweet and mellow from their slow sauté. Finally, winter's chill is counteracted by the gooey, cheesy blanket that binds everything together. These distinct tastes harmonize beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors that keeps fans craving more.

Selecting the Perfect Roll

The City of Brotherly Love
The City of Brotherly Love

The base of any great Old Four Seasons Philly is the roll. The best options are crisp, slightly chewy on the inside, and able to stand up to the weight of the sandwich's fillings without collapsing. Many local spots favor Italian hoagie rolls, while others use a traditional soft roll for a stark contrast.

Purists swear by the potato roll, which adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory contents. Whatever the choice, the roll is integral to the overall balance and texture of the sandwich.

Cheese: The Binding Agent

a large group of people standing in the middle of a street at night with fireworks
a large group of people standing in the middle of a street at night with fireworks

Choosing the right cheese is crucial for the Old Four Seasons Philly's mouthfeel and flavor profile. Traditionalists opt for Provolone, while others prefer the mild, creamy texture of American cheese. Those seeking a sharper taste may lean towards Cheddar or Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses.

Savvy chefs often slice or shred the cheese and melt it separately before topping the sandwich. This ensures an even, consistent distribution that coats every bite, enhancing the sandwich's creaminess and cohesion.

Customizing Your Old Four Seasons Philly

Swim in luxury on Logan Square
Swim in luxury on Logan Square

Just like the seasons, every Old Four Seasons Philly doesn't have to be the same. Throughout the city, sandwich artisans offer a range of customization options that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Common add-ons include bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch, mushrooms for earthy undertones, or sautéed spinach for a hit of green. Some enthusiasts crave the heat of hot peppers or the tartness of pickles. While others keep it simple, piling on the steak or onions in lieu of cheese.

Staycation at The Logan - Alex & Mike
Staycation at The Logan - Alex & Mike
the interior of a restaurant with large windows and plants in vases on the tables
the interior of a restaurant with large windows and plants in vases on the tables
an old black and white photo of people walking in front of a building at night
an old black and white photo of people walking in front of a building at night
Sheraton Hotel - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Sheraton Hotel - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
a group of men standing next to each other on top of a basketball court in front of an audience
a group of men standing next to each other on top of a basketball court in front of an audience
the four seasons hotel is lit up in red and orange lights at night, with an awning on the second floor
the four seasons hotel is lit up in red and orange lights at night, with an awning on the second floor
The Team Behind the Old Four Seasons Is Putting Together a New One
The Team Behind the Old Four Seasons Is Putting Together a New One
a city skyline is seen from across the water
a city skyline is seen from across the water
an aerial view of philadelphia in the early 1900's
an aerial view of philadelphia in the early 1900's
a full moon rises over the city skyline as a train goes down the tracks in front of it
a full moon rises over the city skyline as a train goes down the tracks in front of it
two people are walking in the snow on a city street at night with tall buildings
two people are walking in the snow on a city street at night with tall buildings
an empty city street with tall buildings in the background
an empty city street with tall buildings in the background
South Street Philly 1984
South Street Philly 1984
Philadelphia circa 1912. Broad Street and City Hall tower. William Penn presiding over a profusion o
Philadelphia circa 1912. Broad Street and City Hall tower. William Penn presiding over a profusion o
an aerial view of a city with lots of buildings
an aerial view of a city with lots of buildings
Tourist Photos From 1981 Reveal the Heart of “Old Philadelphia”
Tourist Photos From 1981 Reveal the Heart of “Old Philadelphia”
an outdoor christmas tree is lit up in front of a large building with people walking around it
an outdoor christmas tree is lit up in front of a large building with people walking around it
a merry go round in front of a tall building with a clock on it's side
a merry go round in front of a tall building with a clock on it's side
Stanton Theatre, 1620 Market St, Phila, PA - in 1935
Stanton Theatre, 1620 Market St, Phila, PA - in 1935
an aerial view of a city with tall buildings and skyscrapers in the foreground
an aerial view of a city with tall buildings and skyscrapers in the foreground

Whiz or Not

A divisive topic among Philly iconoclasts is the addition of Cheez Whiz. This processed cheese spread is a controversial add-in, detracting from the sandwich's authenticity, according to purists. Hailing from the same region that brought us this legendary sandwich, Whiz lovers champion its creamy, tangy goodness, stating it complements the other ingredients without disrupting the harmony.

Regardless of stance, die-hard fans agree one thing: differing opinions on toppings or spreads should never overshadow the joy of sharing this Philadelphia treasure with loved ones.

The Art of Pairing

An Old Four Seasons Philly is a meal in itself, but that doesn't mean it can't be paired with complementary sides. Many corners and diners offer crispy fries or hearty onion rings to soak up every last bit of juice from the sandwich. For a lighter, crunchy balance, opt for coleslaw or a simple side salad.

Moreover, it's hard to forget the classic Philly-style soft pretzel, a perfect companion for a cold day or a night out on the town. Its salty exterior and warm, chewy interior make an ideal counterpart to the rich, satiating sandwich.

Whether you're a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, the Old Four Seasons Philly is a must-try destination dining experience.설을