I like provolone more than the traditional Cheese Whiz.
For me, the atmosphere of Jim's is all-important.
I lived in Philadelphia during a time in my life when I was very much down and out; a series of bad decisions put me in the worst spot I've ever been in.
I worked my way out of it over a period of three or four years — my mid to late twenties — and Jim's was a treat I allowed myself only when I made real progress, which wasn't very often.
When I go there (I live in New York now) the feel of those times comes back in stereo. Jim's has changed virtually not at all.
Last time I went I took my family. My children enjoyed it very much, and loved their first real cheese steaks. When I lived in Philly back in the early '80s, I never dreamed I would someday have a family. It seemed inconceivable to me at the time.
It looks and sounds like a cool place. Just gimme another cheese option. It won’t kill the vibe.
(Cheesesteak motivation!)
God bless you and your family.
A nice testimony! I took my wife on a business trip to Philly (My first). As we were walking along South Street I was suddenly overtaken by hunger.
Because of the 2nd floor, the grill vent fans are in the wall over the sidewalk just above head high. No better business plan and advertisement was ever conceived!
Now whenever I visit, I park usually at 6th street, buy a all day purple bus pass and head for Jim’s.
(For first timers.....Use public parking garages. Philly wreckers can snatch a parked car off the street without slowing down!)
Wow dude, great story and hats off to you for defeating life’s demons.
Good to hear. Happy for you.