Joint serves up delicious Philly cheesesteaks outside Osan AB

A corner store near Osan AB is not the first place one might think to find a Philly cheesesteak. But, it is!

In South Korea, there are many places where Americans can try to get a taste of home, but the Philly cheesesteak is not a common option. Min Yong-gi, owner of restaurant Philadelphia, however, is using his memories and flavors from his 15-year stay in the City of Brotherly Love to bring that Philly flavor to Pyeongtaek.

I heard about this place last year in March when Min started donating meals to those in quarantine in the Osan dorms. I’ve never been to Philadelphia, so I decided to head to Pyeongtaek International Center Market to try Min’s take on the famous sandwich.

Inside the restaurant is a no-frill décor that looks more like an unfinished garage with Eagles flags and other sports memorabilia. “I designed the dining area, as keeping in my mind someplace where soldiers can recall the memory of their childhood back home and feel cozy,” Min said.

The simple Philly décor matches the simple menu which only has two sizes of cheesesteaks and fries. I ordered the lunch special that included an 8-inch cheesesteak, French fries and soda for 10,000 won (about $10) to-go.

I didn’t want to wait until I got home, so I decided to dig in from my car. The warm, pillowy bread, which Min said is baked fresh on-site every morning, was delicious. The meat was cooked to perfection and the cheese completed this sandwich. The French fries were hot and crisp with just the right amount of seasoning.

Though I’ve yet to make it to Philly, this cheesesteak definitely took my taste buds on a vacation. Give it a try and on your birthday and get a free cheesesteak when you show your ID. Philadelphia is also a dog-friendly restaurant and Min offers treats to furry customers.

• ADDRESS 필라델피아 [ENG] 18, Pyeongtaek 2-ro, Pyeongtaek-si, [KOR] 경기 평택시 중앙시장로11번길 10-1 [NAVER MAP] http://naver.me/5O4d7Oty

• HOURS 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Closed every Tuesday)

• PHONE 070-8969-6168, 010-9335-6168

• PRICE 8-inch cheesesteak: $10, 14-inch cheesesteak 14: $15, Fries $2.