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    The Real Thing

    4.0 (380 reviews)
    Closed Closed
    Updated 3 months ago

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    THE REAL THING ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - The Real Thing

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    Joshina B.

    I have been working in Towson for quite some time. And when I get in the mood for a sub, The Real Thing is my go to. The restaurant is small but always clean. Tony the owner is always welcoming and quite the joker and has a crazy personality. The subs here do not disappoint. I have both cheesesteak and chicken cheesesteak. The portion is plentiful and very tasty. They are a bit but pricey, $14 and up but so is everything else. Do know he only does cash. And parking is challenging so be prepared. Check this place out of you are in the Towson area.

    Cheesesteak
    Jamar S.

    Maaaaaaaaannnnnn this breaks my heart to do this bc I loved this place but Tony, if you're reading this, you are a GREAT owner & make an amazing cheesesteak. But whoever this other guy is that cooks the food, and runs the cashier needs to GO & I don't say things like that lightly. My first encounter with him was about a year ago, and he was so rude that I hadn't come back. Today, I was in Towson on business & decided to visit my fav cheesesteak establishment again, and when I walked in, and saw him, I instantly knew there was going to be a problem. For starters, his customer service is basura. He acts like he's mad that he has customers whenever someone comes in and places an order. From his bad energy, lack of warmth and the way he mumbles comments under his breath, the entire experience is just uncomfortable. Second, I forgot that you only take cash & approached the register with my debit card. The way he communicated to me that I needed cash was how you'd imagine an abusive Parent talking to an abused child. Who are you talking to w/ that tone? And what makes matters worse, there's an ATM inside of the building so there really shouldn't be as much hostility when I could simply walk five feet that way and get cash. After getting my cash, I came back to the register & tried to get his attention to pay for my meal & he completely brushed me off as if I was a fly or an animal. Straight racist vibes & that's an awful accusation to make so please know that I don't throw that around lightly. But, I'm glad he did bc while waiting for him to acknowledge me, I noticed him using his hands, ungloved to put together a customers cheesesteak, even using his hands to add the toppings. The customer was seated so he didn't see it but I kindly asked if he could put on gloves when he makes mine to which he snapped: I WASHED MY HANDS! Initially I remained calm, and told him: I understand but you're also touching a dirty counter. This makes me uncomfortable(having just recovered from Covid), could you please put on gloves. He snapped again: THIS STOVE IS 300 degrees!! At that point I had had it and met his energy telling him how rude and unprofessional he is and had been from the moment I entered the establishment. He could've grabbed my bun with foil. Anything. But he was so stubborn & plain mean. After going back and forth for awhile, I said: I need you to put gloves on before you touch my food & he refused & suggested I leave to which I gladly obliged. Tony, whoever he is, be it a friend, or family, he is damaging a brand that you worked so hard to build. He doesn't care about the community or quality bc he lacks it x a million. Sorry for the long review & I doubt you'll even see it, but man I wish you would.

    huge cheesesteaks
    Juli F.

    Happened to be in a hotel nearby and scored super cheesesteak sandwiches! Busy Sat. night around midnight. Owner cooking - funny too. Been in business 40 years and it shows. Be nice to get extra hot sauce - they make their own. No tables at that hour, no frills, cash only. Highly recommended!!! Parking seems unlikely at this hour.

    The Real One-no Peppers
    Dan A.

    This spot is a Yelp find. I saved it and sort of forgot about it. I was in Towson and was looking for a new place to try and The Real Thing was on the list. A small place and easy to miss. That said, don't let the humble, understated exterior cause you to pass on by. We ordered a variety of Cheesesteaks as they are billed to be the "Best Cheesesteak in Baltimore." Mushroom Cheesesteak, The Real one with jalapeños & one without peppers. Overstuffed Sub on a soft roll. Steak was tasty and the sauce had just the right kick. I really liked their jalapeño mix which took it over the top. I've had some of the best in Philly and the Real Thing's cheesesteak is right there with some of Philly's best. The gentlemen taking the orders and prepping the food were friendly and we had a laugh about my big order. If you can't make the 1.5 hour drive to Philly for a cheesesteak, this is the spot!

    Cheesesteak with provolone, LTOM... sooooo good!

    This spot has been a fixture in Towson for 40+ years and it is truly 'The Real Thing'. Look, I've been in Bmore the majority of my life and I have had my share of subs and fries. This spot is it as alot of the previous spots that I came to know are no more. I recently ordered a cheesesteak sub at The Real Thing that had onions, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and mayo with fries. Let me break it down for you... the bread is legit where it is lightly toasted and whatever you get on it, believe me, the bread will hold it and still give you a slight crunch along with that chewy texture. Now, on to the steak that made it to my bread... fresh and tender (not a steak-ums); the provolone cheese was fresh and melted over everything and for that reason, going in on this sub was just a moment of perfection For me. YUUUUM! This spot has a neat and clean eating area where you can sit and enjoy. The entire place including the kitchen is clean and just gives off a plain and easy chilled vibe to sit and eat a banging sub. Do know that before I pulled off to head home with my food, I had to open my sub and take not just one bite but I had two bites. After that meditative state that I fell into, I called the owner, Tony and let him know that he definitely has 'The Real Thing'. He is so nice and funny too. Call Tony if you need to park around the back - he will guide you in - it can get busy in Towson and parking can be hard to find. Consider giving Tony some love if you are on board with what he prepared for you. Reviews are a good thing especially for small businesses. Let's keep Tony and The Real Thing in Towson for another 40 years in the Towson community. Thank you and God Bless!

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    4 years ago

    Great portions, feels better than the authentic one, who wants whiz? Definitely stick to the cheese steak

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    7 years ago

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    2 years ago

    Awesome tasting Cheesesteak Sub. Lager portion definitely beats the price. Friendly service Well recommended!!

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    4 years ago

    This is a must visit. Cheesesteak is the best. Tony is super and friendly. He brought Philly to Towson. Keep doing what you are doing.

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    4 years ago

    Terrific subs. Solid fries. Hole in the wall decore. In-your-face service. Cash-only when I visited. I'll be back. Five stars.

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    4 years ago

    My wrap is always perfect and they remember their customers! He always says that's all you want on it! Lol

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    5 years ago

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