If you grew up in Philly you probably know that Cheesesteak feeling. And it is not only, or even mainly about the food itself. It's about all the memories of growing up in your home town. The sandwich is just the ticket that takes you back to a time that seems so long ago, and yet so near.
Growing up in the heart of North Philadelphia, a good steak sandwich was never far away. For me, it was just around the corner at the intersection of Clearfield and Judson Street. That was the location of Curcio's Steak Shop. This was the Disney World of Steakdom. Sharkey's, a competitor, was a block away. Good, but Curcio's was the Gold Standard.
Charlie was the owner and chief steak maker. I can remember him as though it were just yesterday. With his tidal wave of ink black hair, he would be stylishly retro today. I can still see him behind the long formica counter, chopping the steak on the grill, and laying on a healthy ladle of his always cooking tomato gravy after the steak was quickly but carefully placed within the open Italian bread. And speaking of the bread...
The steak was on a monster half-loaf of scooped out Italian bread, the bread having been baked just across the street at Melio's bakery. It was thick, crusty, and divinely inspired in every way. I would not trade a year's worth of free eating at any 5 Star restaurant for one of those Curcio's Steaks!
But if you are here in Virginia, where do you go? You run right over to Philly Connection located at the intersection of Airline Parkway and Route 50, just west of Route 28.
Owner-operator Rob Maxey is doing a great job of keeping the grill hot for all area folks who must have a Philly Steak when the opportunity and urge are present. After 25 years in the IT industry, Rob took the plunge about two years ago and opened the Connection. He has been going full speed ever since.
The Philly Steak, in several variations, is the Main Event, but if you are in the mood for something else, there are lots of options. For example, you can go the Hogie route, which will also put you in a Philly state of mind.
The Connection has developed quite a following. Rob keeps everything fresh and he makes a terrific Steak. In addition to the many folks who stop in routinely for lunch, Rob has a "Philly crowd" of regulars whose home town heritage is inspired by their frequent visits. I appreciate Rob's attention to the quality of the food he serves and his friendly and customer-oriented approach.
Important for you to know if you ever want to bring a bit of the Connection to your home or business: Rob now does deliveries and catering. You can call for more information at 703 378-9346.
STORE HOURS - Monday thru Saturday: 10:30 AM to 9 PM - Sunday: 12 PM to 8 PM
LOCATION - 4080 Airline Parkway - Chantilly, VA - PHONE 703 378-WE GO (9346)
Next time you are drivng by, check out the Philly Connection and let us know what you think.
Also...if you are a transplanted Philadelphian, drop us an email or call and say hello. We'd love to hear from you!
[This post by Fran O'Neal. The Kathy O’Neal Team serves home buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia, with special focus on Chantilly, Centreville, and the communities of the Western Fairfax region.]
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