Philly Shack: Messy American Diner Classics in Clarke Quay

PUBLISHED April 5th, 2017 06:00 am

They say you haven’t really been to the US without having ordered a Philly cheesesteak, and we have to agree. Not just any ordinary sandwich, the cheesesteak is a magnificent trifecta of three glorious parts: juicy thinly-sliced rib eye beef, a crisp chewy bread roll, and gooey melted cheese (usually Cheez Whiz, but commonly substituted with provolone). Basically, it’s the hero of all sandwiches, readily available at hot dog stands, steak shops, delis, and even some high-end restaurants in the country.

But finding a true cheesesteak in Singapore is no easy feat. Though often duplicated at several eateries here, attempts to create an authentic cheesesteak are rarely successful. And we have a new contender in Philly Shack, which took over the now-defunct The Butchers Club at Clarke Quay and has claimed to becoming Singapore’s first home for the authentic Philly cheesesteak.

The art of cheesesteak preparation lies in the delicate balance of flavours and textures, and The Fully Loaded ($19) holds up pretty well with the works – caramelised onions, green bell peppers, sauteed mushrooms, and jalapenos. The lightly-toasted housemade roll comes pillowy and soft, and the Cheez Whiz tangy and salty (alternatively, you can opt for American cheese or provolone). The slivers of rib eye, which I felt thought was a bit chewy, could have been sliced a tad thinner. That said, it remains a drool-worthy cheesesteak.

Making great accompaniment to the sandwich are the Spicy Buffalo Wings (12 pieces for $14), though if you’re anything like me and don’t have a high threshold for piquancy, the housemade habanero sauce is almost guaranteed to stir up your stomach. Despite the intense mouth burn, they’re awesome. Ask for your sauce on the side if you’re erring on the side of caution. And did I mention they have 64 types of hot sauces from around the world?

The big kids can mellow it down with the spiked milkshakes, though you might just start blushing in double the time. The Chocolate Bourbon ($13) is delicious and decadent – just the way I like it. The Peanut Butter Jelly and Banana Split, both $13, are also all darn boozy. Craft beer aficionados will find a good range craft beer here, including Mirror Pond, Boont Amber, and Stone Go To IPAs.

Also featured on the menu are signature burgers: The Philly Shack Burger ($20) takes on the classic hamburger with 175gm of beef, bacon, caramelised onions, American cheese, housemade BBQ sauce, and sweet potato fries, while Philly’s Chicken Burger ($14) features a freshly battered chicken thigh that’s delightfully succulent with grilled pineapple and housemade relish.

Whether it’s a hunger-pang-busting lunch, after-work snack, or a late-night affair, Philly Shack makes for a welcome indulgent addition within the lively Clarke Quay. And as much as everyone wants to know where to find the best Philly cheesesteak, it’s likely there just isn’t one. Some like the rolls soft and chewy while others like them toasted and hard. Some like the sandwich soggy and dripping with grease, while others like it clean and mess-free.

The only way to know is to head down to Philly Shack and to try their rendition for yourself. In the end, it’s simple, moreish, satisfying, and perfect anytime with a good tipple and some friends.

Enjoy 1-for-1 deals on selected bottled beers, housepour spirits, house wines & prosecco from 12pm – 8pm daily.

Philly Shack is located at 3A River Valley Rd, Singapore 179020, p. +65 6837 0675. Open Sun-Tue 12pm – 11pm, Wed-Sat 12pm – 2am.