Philadelphia, a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and of course, its incredible food scene, boasts a surprising diversity when it comes to coleslaw. Beyond the classic creamy versions, you'll find inventive twists and unique regional interpretations. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the best 15 coleslaws the city has to offer, exploring the nuances of each preparation and highlighting what makes them stand out. Whether you prefer a tangy vinegar-based slaw, a rich and creamy mayonnaise dressing, or something completely unexpected, this list has something for every palate. This guide will help you find the perfect Philadelphia coleslaw to complement your cheesesteaks, roast pork sandwiches, or enjoy on its own!
Creamy Classics: The Traditional Philadelphia Coleslaw Experience
These coleslaws represent the quintessential Philadelphia experience, emphasizing creamy, mayonnaise-based dressings and finely shredded cabbage.
1. Jim's Steaks' Creamy Coleslaw: A Cheesesteak Companion
Jim's Steaks, a Philadelphia institution, serves up a creamy coleslaw that perfectly complements their famous cheesesteaks. Their slaw is known for its perfectly balanced creamy texture and subtle sweetness, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meat. It's not overly tangy or spicy, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more traditional taste.
2. Pat's King of Steaks' Creamy Coleslaw: A Classic Rival
Pat's King of Steaks, Jim's' longtime rival, offers its own take on the classic Philly creamy coleslaw. While similar in its overall creamy profile, Pat's version often features a slightly more pronounced tang, thanks to a touch of vinegar or lemon juice in the dressing. This subtle difference sets it apart and caters to those who appreciate a bit more complexity in their coleslaw.
3. Sonny's Famous Steaks' Creamy Coleslaw: A Hidden Gem?
While often overshadowed by its cheesesteak fame, Sonny's Famous Steaks serves a remarkably good creamy coleslaw. This is a slaw that truly stands on its own, often featuring a sweeter, creamier dressing than its competitors and a slightly coarser cabbage shred.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Unique Coleslaw Styles in Philadelphia
Philadelphia's coleslaw scene extends beyond the classic creamy styles. These entries showcase the creativity and diversity found across the city's culinary landscape.
4. Reading Terminal Market's Diverse Coleslaw Options: A Market of Flavors
Reading Terminal Market, a foodie paradise, offers an array of coleslaw options from various vendors. Expect to find everything from traditional creamy styles to more unique interpretations incorporating different vegetables, herbs, and spices. This is the perfect place to embark on a coleslaw tasting adventure!
5. South Street's Artisan Coleslaws: A Bohemian Blend
South Street, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes, frequently features unique coleslaw interpretations. These establishments often experiment with different cabbage varieties, incorporating seasonal ingredients, and adding unique flavor profiles like toasted sesame seeds or spicy peppers.
6. Germantown's Traditional Coleslaws: A Heritage Perspective
Germantown's long history offers a glimpse into more traditional coleslaw preparations, often featuring a simpler vinegar-based dressing or a lighter mayonnaise-based version with a touch of caraway seeds. These are typically less creamy and more tangy.
Vinegar-Based Coleslaws: A Tangy Twist on a Classic
For those who appreciate a zesty bite, vinegar-based coleslaws offer a refreshing alternative to creamier options.
7. Dutch Eating Place's Tangy Coleslaw: A Dutch Delight
Often featuring a sharper, vinegar-forward dressing, this coleslaw cuts through the richness of heavier meals perfectly. The focus is on the bright, tangy flavor of the vinegar, which is often balanced with a touch of sweetness.
8. Eastern European Inspired Coleslaws: A Flavorful Heritage
Many Eastern European delis and restaurants in Philadelphia offer coleslaws that are tangier and more robust, often including additional elements like shredded carrots, apples, or even raisins.
Creative Coleslaw Creations: Beyond the Traditional
These coleslaws push the boundaries of what a coleslaw can be, experimenting with unexpected ingredients and flavor combinations.
9. Asian-Inspired Coleslaws: A Fusion of Flavors
Several restaurants incorporate Asian-inspired flavors into their coleslaws. These might feature a soy sauce-based dressing, sesame oil, ginger, or other aromatic ingredients.
10. Mexican-Inspired Coleslaws: A Spicy Kick
Some restaurants introduce a Mexican twist, incorporating jalapeños, cilantro, or a lime-based dressing for a spicy and refreshing experience.
11. Southwestern-Inspired Coleslaws: A Southwestern Fusion
These coleslaws might incorporate ingredients like corn, black beans, and a chipotle-based dressing for a smoky and flavorful coleslaw.
Hidden Gems: Discovering Unexpected Coleslaw Delights
These are the coleslaws that might be tucked away in unexpected corners of the city, waiting to be discovered.
12. Local Breweries & Gastropubs: Unexpected Slaw Surprises
Local breweries and gastropubs often feature unique, creative coleslaws on their menus, frequently pairing them with their craft beers. These are perfect options for the adventurous eaters.
13. Food Truck Finds: Coleslaw on the Go
Philadelphia's vibrant food truck scene may hold hidden gems of unique and creative coleslaw variations. Exploring different food trucks is a rewarding coleslaw adventure.
Beyond the Cabbage: Coleslaw Innovations
These entries explore innovative takes on coleslaw that go beyond the traditional shredded cabbage.
14. Kale Coleslaw: A Healthier Alternative
Several restaurants and cafes offer a healthier twist on coleslaw, using kale as a base instead of traditional cabbage. Kale's slightly bitter flavor is perfectly balanced with a creamy or tangy dressing.
15. Broccoli Coleslaw: A Crunchy Surprise
This unique coleslaw swaps the traditional cabbage for broccoli florets, offering a surprisingly satisfying and crunchy alternative.
This list represents a starting point for your Philadelphia coleslaw exploration. The city’s culinary landscape is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and variations appearing regularly. So get out there, explore, and discover your own personal favorite Philadelphia coleslaw! Remember to always check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm availability and menu offerings. Happy slaw-ing!
