In the San Francisco Bay Area, there is a small chain called The Cheesesteak Shop (you can find locations, menus, history and more on their website). I’ve been going (primarily) to the location on University Ave in Berkeley for a little over a year–a stop a previous boyfriend and I would make on our way back from the Berkeley marina, from some kite flying, or after a hike.

I’ve only ever had the “twister fries” (think home-made seasoned curly fries, greasy and crispy in just the right proportions), and the original cheesesteak–the first one on the menu, though they have a variety of others (with mushrooms, in Italian style, etc). But I tell you, you’ll never be so satisfied.

Carmelized onions, sweet and hot peppers, a soft bun with some cornmeal on the bottom, cheesy goodness and super hot, super fresh meat. And, cheap.