<P> A cheesesteak, also known as a Philadelphia cheesesteak, Philly cheesesteak, cheesesteak sandwich, cheese steak, or steak and cheese, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll . A popular regional fast food, it has its roots in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States . </P> <P> The cheesesteak was developed in the early 20th century "by combining frizzled beef, onions, and cheese in a small loaf of bread", according to a 1987 exhibition catalog published by the Library Company of Philadelphia and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania . </P> <P> Philadelphians Pat and Harry Olivieri are often credited with inventing the sandwich by serving chopped steak on an Italian roll in the early 1930s . The exact story behind its creation is debated, but in some accounts, Pat and Harry Olivieri originally owned a hot dog stand, and on one occasion, decided to make a new sandwich using chopped beef and grilled onions . While Pat was eating the sandwich, a cab driver stopped by and was interested in it, so he requested one for himself . After eating it, the cab driver suggested that Olivieri quit making hot dogs and instead focus on the new sandwich . They began selling this variation of steak sandwiches at their hot dog stand near South Philadelphia's Italian Market . They became so popular that Pat opened up his own restaurant which still operates today as Pat's King of Steaks . The sandwich was originally prepared without cheese; Olivieri said provolone cheese was first added by Joe "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location . </P> <P> Cheesesteaks have become popular at restaurants and food carts throughout the city with many locations being independently owned, family - run businesses . Variations of cheesesteaks are now common in several fast food chains . Versions of the sandwich can also be found at high - end restaurants . Many establishments outside of Philadelphia refer to the sandwich as a "Philly cheesesteak ." </P>

Where did the philly cheese steak come from
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