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The Andie Summers Show

Jim’s Steaks Reopens on South Street

Author Shannon Boyle

Jim’s Steaks Reopens on South Street

History of Jim’s Steaks

Ken Silver’s father and a business partner opened Jim’s Steaks during the summer on 1976 on South Street, but first opened in West Philadelphia in 1939. What Ken’s father didn’t know is how beloved this cheesesteak joint would soon become to Philadelphia.

Jim’s Steaks Fire

In July of 2022, Jim’s Steaks caught fire due to electrical wiring and burnt down. It was a great disappointment to Philly, like a piece of our city was missing. It left Philadelphians wondering if we’ll ever get our Jim’s Steaks back in it’s same location. NBC 10 asked one local man how this fire affected him. He responded, “You don’t understand how much a place means to you until it’s destroyed.”

But Jim’s wasn’t closing for good. Plans for rebuilding started soon after. Ken Silver said to NBC 10 in the meantime, “Visit the other great establishments in Philadelphia. There are so many of us. We’re one big family and we’re one big cheesesteak community.”

Jim’s Steaks Reopens

On May 1st, Jim’s Steaks will reopen their doors to very hungry Philadelphians. They state on their website, “We’re almost there and can’t wait to welcome you back!  You won’t believe the incredible transformation of our building (now two buildings) but we’re sure you’ll enjoy the same great sandwiches as always.”

They have now expanded their shop, so you may see some differences, like bigger space and clean & fresh furniture. Jim’s promises that their menu will stay the same. Phew! Enjoy your classic Jim’s cheesesteak on South Street during their reopening.

Jim’s Steaks Pays Homage To Philly’s Magic Garden

A perfect day in Philadelphia could be walk down South Street. Start at Jim’s Steaks for a delicious cheesesteak and then make your way to see Philly’s beautiful Magic Garden, a mosaic museum that will take your breath away. But wait! What if you could do both at the same time?

With the expansion of Jim’s Steaks, the cheesesteak shop has created a special dining area for you to enjoy the art of the Magic Gardens while feeding that incredibly missed Jim’s steak. Make sure you grab a table in this stunning room!

Shannon, the Assistant Producer for The Andie Summers Show and the Promotions Coordinator at 92.5 XTU, is a graduate of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. Her journey with the station began as an intern for The Andie Summers Show and has worked her way through the ranks for the past 4 years. Shannon is known for her articles covering and recapping 92.5 XTU station events, delivering the latest in celebrity gossip and country news, and contributing to The Andie Summers Show's daily podcasts.

The Andie Summers Show Favorite Cheesesteaks

The Andie Summers Show Favorite Cheesesteaks

Jim’s Steaks Reopens

The iconic Jim’s Steaks on South Street has finally reopened their doors after a devasting fire in 2022. Our city was missing one of their greatest pieces that tie us together. While we were mourning melted cheese over steak, the owner, Ken Silver, was working hard rebuilding his establishment for the city.

On May 1st, Philly celebrated outside of Jim’s Steaks for their grand opening. What we discovered is that Jim’s may look the same on the outside, but you’ll find some new differences on the inside. Don’t worry, their menu stayed the same!

South Street is full of gems, one of them being Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens. They collaborated with Jim’s to create a beautiful expansion of the restaurant. Cheesesteak lovers can now dine and enjoy their delicious steak inside a mosaic inspired by the museum on the same street. See photos here.

Who Has The Best Cheesesteak?

It’s the greatest debate in Philly. Who has the best cheesesteak and why is it your favorite? Maybe you’ve attached a wonderful memory to it. Maybe you can’t get over their melted cheese and perfect roll. Or maybe you appreciate the history of that joint’s cheesesteak. Knowing how stubborn us Philadelphian’s can be, especially when it comes to our cheesesteaks, I’m sure this argument has caused riffs in some relationships.

Don’t let anyone tell you that your favorite cheesesteak isn’t the most delicious thing in the world. All cheesesteaks are beautiful in their own way. Most importantly, remember their made from people who share a common interest with you – That Philadelphia is the greatest city.

The Andie Summers Show Favorite Cheesesteaks

I asked The Andie Summers Show who makes their favorite cheesesteak. Will this cause some chaos? Of course! I think you’ll be surprised what didn’t make the list.

  • Andie Summers: Jim's Steaks

    The greatest cheesesteak joint in the world is Jim’s. Period. I cannot imagine that ever being challenged.
    My sister Debbie first introduced Jim’s to me after an Eagles game one Sunday afternoon. Granted, anything would have tasted good that day because the Eagles won, the place was packed with fans, and it was the epitome of Brotherly Love. That is Jim’s. When it burned down I cried. And today I rejoice.

  • Jeff Kurkjian: Mama's Pizzeria

    Where do I even start? I mean, their cheesesteaks were so good that they literally stopped serving pizza. And “pizzeria” is in their name!! Is it the roll? Yeah, it could be cause it’s amazing. But really it’s the cook of the steak with the melted cheese, WOW. Plus, don’t sleep on getting their chicken cheesesteak. Just trust me. In fact, a coworker and I have been, one gets steak, the other gets chicken, cut them in half then split! So good. 

  • Donnie Black: Jim's Steaks

    I was introduced to Jim’s when my buddy lived on 3rd and Bainbridge and Jim’s was walking distance.  Right after college, we used to go out on South Street every weekend and we had to make a stop at Jim’s before we came home.  I have so many memories of waiting in the long line and talking to everyone in line about whatever Philly sports team was playing at the time or the whole crowd would sing whatever song was on the radio inside Jim’s. 

  • Shannon: Steve's Prince of Steaks

    I’ve always preferred sliced steak over chopped when it comes to my cheesesteaks. That’s why Steve’s is my favorite, specifically the one located on Roosevelt Boulevard. As a Northeast Philly girl, this was a staple of my childhood. American wit out. Now, I’m getting hungry!

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Author Shannon Boyle
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