Philadelphia’s steak sandwich legacy extends far beyond Pat’s and Geno’s, and this lesser-known stop has been quietly layering onions and cheese since 1968. If you are looking for the Big John Steak & Onion Menu with Prices, you have landed in the right place. This guide breaks down every sandwich, side, and drink option so you know exactly what to order and what it will cost before you walk in the door.
Big John’s is not a fancy place. It is a cash-only, counter-service institution that focuses on one thing: a properly constructed cheesesteak. The menu is small, but every item has a purpose. Let’s get into the details so you can plan your visit like a local.
Big John Steak & Onion Menu With Prices
Below is the full current menu structure. Keep in mind that prices have been known to shift slightly with market costs for beef and cheese. The numbers listed here reflect the most recent reported pricing as of this writing. Always bring a little extra cash just in case.
The Main Event: Steak Sandwiches
The core of the menu is simple. You have a choice of cheese, a choice of size, and a choice of extras. The bread is a long, soft Italian roll that is griddled with the meat juices. The onions are chopped fine and cooked until they are sweet and translucent.
- Regular Steak Sandwich: This is the standard size. It comes with your choice of cheese and grilled onions mixed right into the meat. The roll is stuffed full but not overflowing. This is the right choice for a normal appetite.
- Large Steak Sandwich: This version uses a longer roll and a heavier portion of meat. If you are really hungry or plan to share, go with this one. The extra cost is minimal compared to the added bulk.
Here is the price breakdown for the base sandwiches. Remember, these are the prices before you add any extra cheese or peppers.
- Regular Steak Sandwich: $9.50
- Large Steak Sandwich: $12.00
Cheese Options And Upgrades
Your choice of cheese is included in the base price. You do not pay extra for the standard options. The classic choices here are processed American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz. Each one changes the flavor profile of the sandwich completely.
- American: This is the mildest option. It melts smoothly and adds a creamy dairy note without overpowering the beef.
- Provolone: This gives you a sharper, slightly salty flavor. It holds its texture a bit better than American.
- Cheez Whiz: This is the traditional Philly choice. It is salty, tangy, and coats the meat and onions perfectly. If you want the authentic experience, get the Whiz.
If you want a blend of cheeses, you can ask for it. There is no official menu line for this, but the counter staff will usually accommodate a mix of American and provolone. There is no extra charge for this request.
Extras And Add-Ons
Big John’s keeps the add-on list short. You will not find lettuce, tomato, or mayo here. That is not the point. The only acceptable additions are things that complement the beef and onion base.
- Hot Peppers (Cherry Peppers): These are served on the side, not cooked into the sandwich. They are pickled and have a sharp, vinegary heat that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese. This is a popular addition.
- Extra Onions: If you really love onions, you can ask for a double portion. There is a small upcharge for this.
- Extra Cheese: You can request an extra slice or an extra ladle of Whiz. This will cost you about a dollar more.
Here are the current prices for the add-ons.
- Hot Peppers (side order): $1.00
- Extra Onions: $0.75
- Extra Cheese: $1.00
Sandwich Sides And Drinks
No steak sandwich meal is complete without something to wash it down. The drink selection is standard. You will find bottled sodas and canned drinks in the cooler. They also offer a basic selection of chips and pretzels.
- Bottled Soda: The selection usually includes Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and root beer. They are served ice cold.
- Canned Iced Tea: This is a good option if you want something less sweet than soda.
- Water: Bottled water is available.
- Chips: You will find classic brands like Lay’s and Utz in plain, barbecue, and salt and vinegar.
- Soft Pretzel: Sometimes they have a large soft pretzel available. This is a nice local touch.
Pricing for sides and drinks is straightforward.
- Bottled Soda: $2.00
- Canned Iced Tea: $2.00
- Bottled Water: $1.50
- Chips: $1.50
- Soft Pretzel: $2.50
How To Order Like A Regular
Ordering at Big John’s is fast. You need to know what you want before you step up to the counter. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to avoid holding up the line.
- Decide on your size. Regular or Large. If you are unsure, go Regular. You can always order a second sandwich.
- Pick your cheese. Say “American,” “Provolone,” or “Whiz” clearly.
- State your extras. If you want hot peppers, say “with hots” or “peppers on the side.” If you want extra onions, say so now.
- Confirm your drink. Grab a bottle from the cooler while you wait, or order it at the counter.
- Pay in cash. Have your money ready. This speeds up the transaction for everyone behind you.
The staff will call out your order when it is ready. The sandwich comes wrapped in paper. Do not unwrap it immediately. Letting it sit for a minute allows the cheese to melt into the meat and the roll to steam slightly.
What Makes This Sandwich Different
The key difference at Big John’s is the way the meat is chopped. The beef is not minced into tiny bits. It is sliced thin and then chopped on the griddle into larger, identifiable pieces. This gives you a more substantial bite. The onions are also chopped very fine, almost minced, so they distribute evenly throughout the entire sandwich rather than clumping in one spot.
The roll is another critical factor. It is not a crusty baguette. It is a soft, slightly chewy Italian roll that has been lightly toasted on the griddle in the beef fat. This gives it a crisp exterior but keeps the inside soft enough to soak up the juices without falling apart.
Tips For Your First Visit
If you have never been to Big John’s, there are a few things you should know before you go. This is not a sit-down restaurant. There are a few small tables and a counter along the window, but most people take their food to go.
- Bring cash. There is no ATM on site. You will need to stop at a bank or ATM before you arrive.
- Check the hours. They are not open late. They close in the early evening, so plan to go for lunch or an early dinner.
- Know the location. The storefront is easy to miss. Look for the simple signage and the line of people outside during peak hours.
- Do not ask for ketchup. It is not offered. The sandwich is meant to be eaten as is.
Estimated Total Cost For A Meal
To help you budget, here is a realistic estimate of what you will spend for a full meal. This assumes you are getting a standard sandwich, a drink, and a side.
- Regular Steak with Whiz: $9.50
- Bottle of Soda: $2.00
- Bag of Chips: $1.50
- Total: $13.00
If you upgrade to a Large sandwich and add peppers, the total will be closer to $16.00. This is still a very reasonable price for the amount of food you receive. The Large sandwich is substantial enough that you might not need the chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the menu and the ordering process. These should clear up any confusion before you go.
Is the Big John Steak and Onion menu expensive?
No. The prices are very reasonable for the portion size. A regular sandwich is under ten dollars, and a full meal with a drink and chips will run you about thirteen dollars. This is on par with or cheaper than most other steak shops in the city.
Do they only accept cash?
Yes. Big John’s is a cash-only establishment. There is no credit card terminal at the counter. Make sure you stop at an ATM before you arrive, as there is not one inside the shop.
Can I get my steak sandwich without onions?
Yes, you can. Just tell the person at the counter that you want it “without onions” or “plain.” They will cook the meat and cheese without adding the grilled onions. This is a common request.
What is the best cheese to get on the sandwich?
That depends on your taste. Cheez Whiz is the classic Philly choice and pairs best with the grilled onions. Provolone offers a sharper flavor. American is the mildest. If you cannot decide, try the Whiz on your first visit for the traditional experience.
Are the hot peppers spicy?
The cherry peppers have a moderate heat level. They are pickled, so they have a strong vinegar tang that hits first, followed by a slow burn. They are not as hot as jalapenos, but they do have a kick. If you are sensitive to spice, start with a small amount on the side.
Final Thoughts On The Menu
The Big John Steak & Onion menu with prices is refreshingly simple. You are not faced with a wall of options. You pick your size, pick your cheese, and decide if you want peppers. That is it. This focus on the fundamentals is why the sandwich has remained popular for over five decades.
Do not overthink your order. Go with a Regular, get the Whiz, and add the hot peppers on the side. Grab a cold soda and find a spot to eat. The sandwich is messy, greasy, and absolutely worth the trip. Just remember the cash and get there before they close.
If you are comparing this to the big tourist spots on Passyunk Avenue, you will find that Big John’s offers a slightly different texture and a more no-nonsense atmosphere. The line moves faster, and the locals will tell you the flavor is just as good, if not better. Give it a try on your next visit to the city.
One last note on the menu pricing. The prices listed above have been consistent for a while, but beef prices fluctuate. If you see a slight difference when you visit, do not be surprised. The quality of the sandwich remains the same regardless of a fifty-cent adjustment.
Go hungry. Bring cash. Enjoy one of Philadelphia’s best kept secrets. You will not be disappointed with the amount of meat, the sweetness of the onions, or the gooey cheese that holds it all together. This is a steak sandwich done right, and now you know exactly what to expect when you order.