The buzz: The quiet little taxi stand area in Clarke Quay has gotten some action with the arrival of a retro American-style diner that proclaims to be the home of the iconic Philly cheese steak. Junk food enthusiasts and post-party clubbers are no doubt rejoicing.
The vibe: It is what it is—a shack. With a couple of seats outside and wooden high tables and chairs inside, it’s a cozy, unpretentious and no-frills restaurant where you can shamelessly get your hands dirty. You’ll just have to deal with the blaring music from the neighbors. But apart from that, it’s a great option for an after-work, go-hard-or-go-home type of dinner and post-party munchies.
The food: While there are a couple of Philly cheese steak renditions availble in town, the one at Philly Shack is pretty juicy and flavorful. Packed with thin slices of ribeye steak, caramelized onions and your choice of cheese (provolone, American cheese, or, if you’re feeling extra classy, Cheez Whiz), their star dish gets better with each bite. And at just $18, you can opt for The Fully Loaded option, which comes with peppers, jalapenos and mushrooms for that extra twang. The rest of the menu is kept pretty simple, with options like the equally satisfying Philly Shack Burger ($17.50) with 170 grams of beef served with pretty darn delicious plum salted sweet potato fries; and a chicken variation that sees batter-fried chicken thigh doused in their signature habenero sauce, grilled pineapple and other goodies, served with thick fries ($14). If you’re a lover of spice, try their wings that are liberally slathered in the same habanero sauce and served with celery and carrot sticks and their blue cheese dip ($8.50 for six pieces, $14 for 12). Also, ask for their basket of sauces (they have over 60 different kinds). The intimidatingly named Widow, No Survivors Hot Sauce, for example, is enough to make you spontaneously combust.
The drinks: The highlight here has got to be their signature spiked shakes ($13). Try the chocolate milkshake which comes with a generous amount of bourbon or the savory peanut butter jelly with white rum. Otherwise, there’s a small selection of spirits and ciders, and craft beers like Stone Go To IPA and Mirror Pond Pale Ale. Oh and their spicy rendition of the classic Bloody Mary is spiked with habanero-infused vodka
