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A must-see place for cheesesteak lovers in South Korea

The cheesesteaks at World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, fuse Asian influence with an American staple.

The cheesesteaks at World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, combine Asian influences with American fare. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)


A family-run restaurant near Pyeongtaek, South Korea, presents the classic Philadelphia cheesesteak with a tasty Asian twist.

Just five minutes from the entrance to Osan Air Base, World Philly Cheesesteaks offers the classic American sub as well as its own meat fusion featuring teriyaki and beef bulgogi.

The menu doesn’t stop there. Step inside the restaurant and you’ll find a wide variety of dishes ranging from classic fries, fried dumplings and Buffalo wings to homemade biscuits and soju slushies.

The seating area at World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, is warm and comfortable.

The seating area at World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, is warm and cozy. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)

World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, serves more than just meat and cheese on a bun.

World Philly Cheesesteaks in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, offers more than just meat and cheese on a bun. (Luis Garcia/Stars and Stripes)

World Philly Cheesesteaks’ version of their namesake attraction costs 11,000 won, or about $8, and is made with finely ground beef and cheese, topped with onions, bell peppers, jalapenos, and mayonnaise. You can add extras in the form of bacon, extra meat, and shrimp for 3,000 won, or about $2, and cheese for 1,000 won, or about 75 cents.

Even far from its origin, this cheesesteak offered me a mouthwatering experience that left me wanting more.

To accompany the cheesesteak, I ordered Cajun cheese fries which cost 9,000 won. The fries themselves were pretty good but were enhanced by the parmesan and yellow cheeses.

In addition to sandwiches, fries and other popular American dishes, this place also doubles as a coffee shop offering typical selections like latte, caramel macchiato and cappuccino.

Another option if you’re not in the mood for sandwiches and have a sweet tooth are acai bowls and homemade cookies.

The restaurant also offers alcoholic beverages such as popular international beers and local soju.

Although unassuming on the outside, every glance at this family-friendly restaurant reveals more, whether it’s their incredible Philly sandwiches or their homemade coffee and cookies, there’s sure to be something to satisfy your hunger.

Philadelphia Cheesesteaks of the World

Location: 316-15 Sinjang-dong Pyeongtaek-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea

Hours: Open 10am to 2pm Tuesday; 10am to 8:30pm Wednesday to Sunday; closed Monday.

Prices: Subs start at $9; sides range from $4 to $9.

Dress code: Casual

Directions: Five minutes from Osan Air Base entrance gate.

Information: Phone: 010-3788-0284