Pub Grub: Sparrow's Philly Cheesesteaks

bar side

This place aims to be that venue, whose staff will engage in some lively banter with you, take you under their wing and bring you into the family.

Sparrow’s Philly Cheesesteaks mixes the standard we expect of Melbourne with the authenticity of Philly. Trading inside The Catfish bar, this buzzing little steak shop sits between the front bar, an exposed-brick dungeon-style pub featuring a wide array of craft beers and an eclectic selection of live music, and a large sunny courtyard.

Cheesesteaks — a popular American sandwich invented in the ‘30s — and fries are the staple here. It’s got sliced, sautéed, locally sourced rib-eye beef, melted provolone or American cheese, grilled onions, topped with your choice of sauce, jalapenos, peppers, mushrooms or pizza toppings. For vegetarians they’ve got a smoky tofu and vegetarian chilli ‘Nearly Philly’ with melted cheese and toppings. A specialty is the Bourbon Bacon Cheesesteak: American-style bacon, grilled onions, the steak, homemade bourbon BBQ sauce and melted cheese. For something a little different, try the Korean Cheesesteak: bulgogi beef, Swiss cheese, kimchi, Korean mayonnaise, grilled onions and fresh spring onions. Like spice? The Hot Pepper Cheesesteak’s the most popular item.