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# Cheat’s Cheesesteaks – Authentic cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC, local favorite, community-driven, flavorful offerings, vibrant atmosphere

Cheat’s Cheesesteaks, located in Charlotte, NC, is a beloved restaurant specializing in authentic cheesesteaks and sandwiches. Since its inception in 2020 as a pop-up, Cheat’s has rapidly grown, now boasting multiple locations, including a popular spot in South End at 2137 Hawkins St. The restaurant is known for its commitment to quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with the local community. Review highlights often mention the delicious cheesesteaks, particularly the Cheat's OG, and the friendly service, making it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike.

## History

### The story of Cheat’s Cheesesteaks
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks began its journey in 2020 as a humble pop-up, showcasing a passion for authentic cheesesteaks. The founders envisioned a place where quality ingredients and a love for food would create memorable dining experiences. This vision quickly resonated with the local community, leading to a growing demand for their offerings.

### Milestones and growth
- 2020: Cheat’s Cheesesteaks launched as a pop-up, gaining popularity at local events and markets.
- 2022: The first brick-and-mortar location opened on Pecan Ave, solidifying its presence in Charlotte.
- 2023: A new location opened in South End, strategically positioned along the Rail Trail, enhancing accessibility for patrons.

### Cultural and local influence
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks has become a staple in the Charlotte food scene, contributing to the local culture by emphasizing community engagement and supporting local events. The restaurant's growth reflects the increasing demand for quality fast-casual dining options in the area, particularly those that celebrate regional flavors.

### Continuing the tradition
As Cheat’s Cheesesteaks continues to expand, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality and community. The restaurant consistently seeks to innovate its menu while maintaining the authenticity that has endeared it to its patrons. This dedication ensures that Cheat’s will remain a cherished part of the Charlotte dining landscape.

## Community

### Community involvement
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks actively participates in local events and initiatives, fostering a sense of community and connection with its patrons. The restaurant often collaborates with local organizations and charities, reinforcing its commitment to giving back to the Charlotte area.

### Community notion about the place
The local community holds Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in high regard, often praising its friendly atmosphere and quality food. Many reviews highlight the restaurant as a favorite spot for casual dining, with patrons appreciating the welcoming service and the vibrant energy that fills the space.

### Events and gatherings
Cheat’s frequently hosts events that encourage community engagement, such as food tastings and local collaborations. These gatherings not only promote the restaurant's offerings but also strengthen ties within the community, making it a hub for social interaction and culinary exploration.

## Offerings

### What Cheat’s Cheesesteaks offers
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks specializes in a variety of cheesesteaks, sandwiches, and sides, all crafted with fresh ingredients. The menu caters to diverse tastes, ensuring that there is something for everyone, from classic cheesesteaks to innovative sandwiches.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Cheat’s is designed to be casual and enjoyable, with a focus on delivering flavorful meals. Patrons can expect generous portions and a variety of options, including vegetarian choices, ensuring that everyone can find something to satisfy their cravings.

### Events and packages
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks offers catering options for events, making it a popular choice for parties and gatherings. The restaurant's ability to provide large orders of their signature cheesesteaks and sides allows customers to enjoy their favorite dishes in a communal setting, enhancing the overall dining experience.

### Facilities and features
- Cozy indoor seating
- Outdoor seating along the Rail Trail
- Quick service model with self-ordering options
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Accessible location for pedestrians and cyclists

## Pros and Cons

### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Cheat’s Cheesesteaks reveal a mix of experiences, highlighting both the strengths and areas for improvement. Many patrons commend the quality of the food, particularly the cheesesteaks, while others express concerns about service speed and consistency.

### Compliments and strengths
- Delicious cheesesteaks with generous portions
- Friendly and accommodating staff
- Vibrant atmosphere that encourages social interaction
- Commitment to quality ingredients and local sourcing

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews mention inconsistencies in food preparation and service speed, particularly during busy hours. While many customers rave about the flavors, a few have noted that certain items, like the fries, could be improved in terms of portion size and seasoning.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Cheat’s Cheesesteaks is well-regarded for its flavorful offerings and community involvement. While there are occasional critiques regarding service and food consistency, the positive feedback overwhelmingly highlights the restaurant as a go-to destination for cheesesteak lovers in Charlotte.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks is situated in the vibrant South End neighborhood of Charlotte, NC, at 2137 Hawkins St. This area is known for its lively atmosphere, featuring a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The restaurant's proximity to the Rail Trail makes it an ideal stop for those enjoying outdoor activities or exploring the local scene. The surrounding neighborhood is rich in cultural offerings, making Cheat’s a convenient and appealing choice for both locals and visitors.

## FAQs

**What are the hours of operation** Cheat’s Cheesesteaks typically operates from lunch through dinner, but hours may vary.

**Is there outdoor seating available** Yes, Cheat’s offers outdoor seating along the Rail Trail for a pleasant dining experience.

**Do they offer vegetarian options** Yes, Cheat’s Cheesesteaks has vegetarian offerings on their menu.

**Can I order online for pickup** Yes, Cheat’s provides online ordering for convenient pickup.

**Is catering available for events** Yes, Cheat’s Cheesesteaks offers catering options for larger gatherings and events.

## Visit Cheat’s Cheesesteaks Today
Cheat’s Cheesesteaks invites you to experience its delicious offerings in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. With a rich history rooted in the Charlotte community, the restaurant continues to serve up mouthwatering cheesesteaks and sandwiches that keep patrons coming back for more. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Cheat’s is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic flavors and a welcoming dining experience.

3c453143-3399-44fa-809d-3c072c6c7385

I've been rocking with Cheat's since the pop-up days and it's been awesome watching them grow into multiple locations. What started in 2020 as pop-ups around town (even Panthers games) became a brick-and-mortar on Pecan Ave in 2022, and now there's a South End spot right on the Rail Trail (2137 Hawkins St) and I'm loving the glow-up. This visit was a celebration lunch after wayyy too many missed meals cutting for an IBJJF tournament, and Cheat's mostly delivered like always. I ordered the Cheat's OG (ribeye, Cooper Sharp, grilled onions, Cheat's sauce) and enjoyed almost every bite.. everything between the bread was a 10/10. The roll was the only miss for me that day; maybe an off bake, maybe a new supplier, but it didn't wow me the way it has before. Still, the steak/cheese/onion/sauce combo? Money. I also grabbed the Honey Sriracha wings. The flavor was solid (more honey than heat for my palate) but tasty all the same. Next time I'll ask for extra heat. I love Cheat's and it remains an easy recommendation especially as a home-grown Charlotte brand that's scaled up without losing the soul of a great cheesesteak shop. Even with my quibble about the bread on this visit, it's still an easy go-to.

0626e0be-a4d8-4cc3-99b3-744df085af75

Didn't bother with fries and drink this time. Goes from $12 lunch to $20 real fast. Fries portion is too small to bother anyway. Service was a lot quicker than I've experienced in the past so that's nice. Staff were friendly and put out and dried chairs (was post-rain). Cheesesteak is good but not great. A lot more steak than cheese. I like mine gooey. Overall, I will still come here due to convenience for a quick bite but there are much better cheesesteaks at a much better value if you don't mind a hike.

09d4c3e8-bd28-466b-902b-b72d9e46973b

I braved south end because I wanted to try a cheesesteak from Cheat's. It's tucked away between the light rail and Hawkins street. Very cozy setup. Now I've never had a cheesesteak from Philly, so I don't have a bar to compare it to. I will say the meat was very good. Unfortunately, I ordered on gluten free bread and that took away from the experience. I was just happy to see they had GF bread. I also order a meatball sub and a honey hot chicken sandwich. Both were also very good. The meatball sub weighed like a pound. The chicken was my least favorite. Super sloppy and needed a little more chicken in my opinion. You definitely need a bunch of napkins. There are a ton of items to choose from. I will definitely go back.

fd18cd19-78a4-4279-98d1-3e074d0f6300

First time at Cheats on a Tuesday night around 8pm. It's located right off the rail trail in Southend. Plenty of seating outdoors. Service we received was great although we waited an unreasonable amount of time for our food due to the orders being made incorrectly multiple times. Our server offered his apologies and provided us with comp fries while we waited. Overall very solid cheesesteaks. Had the mushroom add peppers (still missed the mushrooms smh) with provolone. Steak was well seasoned, portion were spot on and bread was good with the right amount of chew. Def recommend !

f54316a7-d1d6-429a-a776-c43d6e1c50fd

One of the best cheesesteaks I had, def recommend. Service was quick. Cajun fries were tasty. Nice location. Food was fresh and hot

d90c2f20-e2d6-47a5-979d-822424daffcf

The cheesesteak was out of this world amazing. It was recommended to us from a friend is from Philadelphia. Sorry I didn't take pictures of the seasoned fries, they were nice and crispy. 10/10 highly recommend!

2aceb1ea-96cd-4ddb-a1b1-cbad2e195277

I have lived in Philly. Been Executive Chef for years but now I'm vegetarian, I always thought whomever would make a cheese teak out of beyond meat products instead of impossible (soy based) would make a great sub. Well cheats did the damn thing. But just not a great execution, but amoroso sub roll. Cheezwiz was a memorable bonus, but the next time I'll switch to daiya. It add lil too much salt. Like the fries but the season was applies heavy handed. Lil seasoning would have created a greater taste profile. The exhibition fast food concept was great enough to inquire about franchise ownership.

dd357415-0cbe-4e16-be49-413266dace1b

was in the south end for a new year's special italian beef (on recommendation no less!!) but it's no longer available because apparently "February" is old for a year which I kinda guess makes sense. so I ask for a regular cheesesteak and fries. dude asks if I want a drink and I ask if they have orange; he says yes so I say yes then we do the money for food thing and I wait... about eight minutes later dude is calling my name and as I'm picking up my sammich a random doggo put's his face up near the counter in search of a prize... I let him sniff my hand, give him scratchies under the chin, and share some syllables with his person and wouldn't you know it... mr doggo didn't go head first into my bag because, well, you know... good mr doggo! get back to the house and sampled my goodies: my regular cheese steak was still warm and moist and delicious! cheese would have been a gawdawful mess if it weren't securely bound up in layers of paper and other paper and there's just enough onion hanging around to let you know 'onions!' without going all-caps about it... not sure how 'philly' it is but for a sandwich it's pretty excellent. fries here are still kinda weird but I think I've got 'em sussed: they are the right seasoning on the wrong potatoe. if you were to sub in yukon gold cut a little thinner, fried a little harder and seasoned with a restraint these would almost be nearly close to fresh out Andy Capp Hot Fries!

98374143-ca01-4c88-9342-51ee6f04780f

The location is excellent! After a good run, you can stop by for a cheesesteak or powerbowl. I ordered a steak power bowl. It was alright. A little bland. I had the cheesesteak before, at their first location. Maybe next time, I will try a cheesesteak at this location.

195398cf-2b00-4958-af39-491f399ff661

They have changed drastically. No longer have a cashier. They put a iPad at the front to place your own order and a bell that they don't answer. It has changed the model so much and the food has gone down in presentation and taste. I am not a fan anymore and not be going back To the downtown location anymore. If I could give 0 starts I would

Discover Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC, offering mouthwatering cheesesteaks in a vibrant setting. Satisfy your cravings today and enjoy a true local favorite.

Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC | Best Local Eats

Charlotte

Cheat’s Cheesesteaks

North Carolina

Enjoy authentic Philly cheesesteaks at Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC. Perfect for lunch or dinner, near local attractions. Visit us today!

Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC - Best Philly Sandwiches & Casual Dining

Learn about Cheat’s Cheesesteaks in Charlotte, NC. Family-friendly, casual vibe, quality ingredients. Discover our story and menu today!

About Cheat’s Cheesesteaks, Charlotte, NC - Your Favorite Local Sandwich Spot

Opening hours for Cheat’s Cheesesteaks, Charlotte, NC. Find opening hours for Cheat’s Cheesesteaks, Charlotte, NC on 2137 Hawkins St.

Cheat’s Cheesesteaks Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Cheat’s Cheesesteaks

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