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| - Straight From Philly is literally a mom-and-pop-joint in a half-empty plaza.
I didn't actually ask, but I didn't have to after seeing the daughter of the only two workers. The fact that they stopped doing business on Mondays probably suggests some family obligation or perhaps an after-school activity.
I think you want to hear about the food though. They have hoagies with different meats, the option to substitute chicken in a cheesesteak, a variety of cheesesteaks with not-so-traditional toppings, burgers, fries, and even a gyro. However, I chose the standard cheesesteak wit (i.e. "with onions"), plus mushrooms, bell peppers, and sweet peppers that were all complimentary thanks to their "Three Topping Tuesday" special. Good value for $9.34 with tax, including some free ice cream that I'll mention later.
The sandwich was dripping with of juices, and it had so many toppings that you'll need to be careful about spillage. Definitely get a fork to eat what actually lands in your tray. I managed to find the fully melted cheese at the bottom (near the "hinge") but would've liked it spread out more evenly. It was American, which the mom explained is the default and the more traditional choice instead of provolone. There wasn't a real abundance of the other toppings, so I'm glad I wasn't shelling out extra for them.
I've noticed a consistent "underseasoning" of cheesesteaks wherever I've eaten (unfortunately, nothing in Philadelphia yet), and this was the case here as well. After consulting with a friend who recently visited Philadelphia and ate several cheesesteaks, I have to conclude that most cheesesteaks actually should taste a little lacking in salt. Funny thing is we both observed that cheesesteaks that come with Cheez Whiz do not have this condition. In light of these findings, my evaluation is that my cheesesteak today was pretty solid. Next time I go here, I'll consider ordering extra whiz (which is listed on at least one menu item, so I know they have it).
I was still considering a lower rating, but what won me over was the ice cream that's still free with purchase (which makes you wonder if they've raised cheesesteak prices to compensate). I instantly recognized it as Thrifty ice cream upon seeing the chocolate malted crunch (among 9 other flavors). Actually, I wanted to have chocolate brownie walnut, but the mom had difficulty getting out a full scoop of it and offered to add on a free second flavor. I went back to the malted crunch, at which time I learned that her full scoop is a pretty generous size. The ice cream had about the same taste and texture as any Thrifty ice cream, and it saved me an extra trip elsewhere for dessert. (Another thing that won me over: when I asked for a cup for water, the guy gave me a complimentary bottle of almost frozen water after informing me that the water spigot in the soda fountain was broken.)
Straight From Philly is definitely worth a try if you live or spend time in Henderson and/or if you want to support a small business. It might not blow you away, but you'll leave with a smile.
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