Pappa Genos - Authentic Philly Cheesesteaks in Houston, TX

Pappa Geno's, located on Ella Blvd in Houston, TX, delivers a taste of authentic Philly cheesesteaks with a Texan twist. Customers rave about the quality and flavor of the sandwiches, particularly the Freaky Philly—a savory fusion of seasoned steak, grilled onions, and cheese whizz, elevated by a drizzle of spicy Italian hot oil. Many patrons, including Denise, a proud South Philly native, commend the bread’s authenticity, a fundamental element that truly completes the cheesesteak experience. The menu offers a variety of options, from the classic Steak & Cheese to the decadent Smothered Philly, which has quickly earned a reputation for its rich flavors and generous portions. Ram King praised the Wicked Philly for its unique combination of pickled jalapeños and carrots, highlighting the restaurant's ability to balance flavors while maintaining freshness. In addition to the robust sandwiches, Pappa Geno's impresses with its cleanliness, friendly service, and efficient order preparation—often ready in about 10 minutes. The inviting atmosphere and ample seating make it an ideal spot to enjoy a quick meal or a casual sit-down. Overall, it’s a culinary gem in Houston that promises both authenticity and satisfaction for cheesesteak enthusiasts. Don't miss out on their mozzarella sticks—another hit on the menu!

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible car park
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
- Offers delivery
- Serves dine-in
Highlights
- Has fast service
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves comfort food
- Serves food
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has toilet
- Has Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
Crowd
- Good for groups
- Popular with tourists
- Popular with university students
Payments
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- High chairs available
- Has kids' menu
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Plenty of parking

Denise

Apr 20,2025

I’m a native South Philly girl and I was more than delighted with your cheesesteak! The regular one - just meat and cheese was awesome! Thank God you’re far from me or I wouldn’t fit through the door in a week. Some of the sandwiches we don’t do in Philly, like adding gravy! Not! But I can’t believe how close you got to the real thing! Where on earth did you get the right bread?

Martin Lee

Mar 31,2025

A gem on the corner (: Steak so good. Seasoned well. The bread is consistently soft and fresh. Friendly staff. Ample parking, and lots of clean seating. Came back a few times to try different stuff. Portions are a good amount. All the smothered stuff is a little crazy but in the best ways. The hot pepper oil has got a kick for sure.

Jim Gossen

Mar 28,2025

Pappa Geno’s original location has been a favorite for Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches for years. Plenty of good tasting meat, I think it ribeyes, and a good bread. It’s my favorite in town and if you are wanting a great sandwich to rival anywhere, come here. This is there Smothered Philly, I added mayonnaise.

Cat G

Mar 1,2025

Overall these sandwiches are a great deal. Bread to meat ratio is spot on. When I call in orders they're ready in about 10 minutes. Plenty of seating inside also. The sandwiches we have tried have all been delicious. The mozzarella sticks are amazing!

Ram King

Feb 24,2025

I had lunch today at Papa Geno’s on 1801 Ella Blvd in Houston, TX, during a break from my open house, and I was absolutely blown away by how good the cheesesteaks were. I got the Wicked Philly (the Number Four), which comes with pickled jalapeños and pickled carrots—one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the ingredients were fresh and flavorful. I will definitely be coming here every time I’m in the area. The customer service was fantastic, the interior was very clean, and there was plenty of parking in front and on the side of the building. You must come and try the food here as soon as you can!

Michael Grimes

Feb 11,2025

Went there for pick up. Had the number 3. Was super delicious. Wife had the number 1 and loved hers too. Not sure why it took us so long to try this place but it’s great!

Isaac Lopez

Feb 6,2025

Came to this place last night after hearing that it has the best cheesesteak sandwiches in the loop. The place is nice and relatively clean; the furniture looks like an old timey diner. The lady that serviced use was very nice and the food came out quickly in less than ten minutes, but that may have been because there was only one other customer at the time. We had the food to go, and I've always kind of felt like to-go food is lesser quality but this place has it nailed down right. The sandwiches had very soft, nice bread, the meat was very proportional and tasty, and it was just the right amount. I believe they're 9 inch sandwiches. The fries are tasty, greasy, and toasty. The cheese sticks are thick, but there is significantly more cheese than breading so up to you if you prefer that. Loved it overall. It lives up to the hype.

Charlie C

Jan 28,2025

Oh what a magical place! I’m currently sitting here with my wife singing in joy while stuffing our faces with magical goodness. Super friendly service, amazing food and great tunes. I’ve prayed and the food gods have responded, these “Philly” cheesesteaks are next level! The portions are huge and the flavors are bigger. Don’t let the appearance of the lot it’s located on fool you this is a must have in Houston.

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