1 Cosmi’s | This no-nonsense corner deli assembles what very well may be the most solid roster of sandwiches in the city. The cheesesteaks are that ideal combo of beefy and American-cheese gooey, served up on a seeded Sarcone’s roll, and their seven different Italian hoagie variations layer on some serious cold-cut action. 1501 S. Eighth St., 215-468-6093, cosmideli.com.
2 Termini Brothers | The chrome and tile of this bakery is immaculate, a time machine transporting you back to when bakeries were more than just cute cupcake cafés. The Sicilian pastries that Termini so lovingly displays are ricotta-heavy and prone to flavors like amaretto and anise. 1523 S. Eighth St., 215-334-1816, termini.com.
3 Mr. Joe’s Café |With all the Chianti-and-checkered-tablecloth places in South Philly, Mr. Joe’s Cafe sets itself apart not just with staggering portion size (and complimentary wine), but with home-cooked fare that tastes, well, like someone cooked it — or, more specifically, someone’s nonna. All meals are capped off with an oversized slice of cake from Termini Brothers. 1514 S. Eighth St., 215-334-1414.
4 George’s Sandwich Shop | Most folks head over to Paesano’s when they’re in the market for something outside of the cheesesteak-and-hoagie comfort zone, but if we’re on Ninth Street, we’re heading over to George’s Sandwich Shop for the slow-simmered tripe. Extra long-hots, please. 900 S. Ninth St., 215-592-8363.
5 Tortilleria San Roman | The tortilla makers here have a good gimmick: Every customer who walks in the door is handed a freshly pressed corn tortilla. One bite with a spoonful of salsa and you’ve basically committed yourself to at least a kilo of these magically fluffy tortillas. And while you’re at it, you should probably grab a pillowcase-sized bag of chips to go. 915 S. Ninth St., 267-507-9161.
