Cathy's Too: A Cheesesteak Landmark in Wilmington

Where to find Cathy's Too and what to order

Cathy's Too is a cheesesteak shop in Wilmington, North Carolina, located at 1109 Military Cutoff Road. The restaurant is known for its Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks made with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions on a long roll. The menu also includes Italian subs, burgers, and sides like fries and onion rings.

The signature order is the cheesesteak with provolone or Cheez Whiz—the traditional Philadelphia choice. Many regulars add grilled onions and peppers. The shop operates as a casual counter-service spot where you order at the window and can eat inside or take your food to go.

Cathy's Too has been a fixture in the Wilmington area for decades, drawing both locals and visitors looking for an authentic cheesesteak experience outside of Philadelphia. The straightforward menu and consistent preparation keep people coming back.

Key Takeaways

• Cathy's Too serves Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions on a long roll.
• The restaurant is located at 1109 Military Cutoff Road in Wilmington and operates as a counter-service establishment.
• Provolone and Cheez Whiz are the traditional cheese choices, and grilled onions and peppers are popular additions.
• The menu extends beyond cheesesteaks to include Italian subs, burgers, and fried sides.

The history of Cathy's Too in Wilmington

Cathy's Too opened as a response to Wilmington's appetite for authentic cheesesteaks. The restaurant's name references the original Cathy's, and it became known for staying true to the Philadelphia formula rather than adapting the sandwich to regional tastes. This commitment to tradition has made it a reliable destination for people who want the real thing.

Over the years, Cathy's Too has become part of Wilmington's casual dining landscape, mentioned in local recommendations and visited by people exploring the city's food scene. It represents the kind of neighborhood spot that doesn't rely on marketing or trends—it simply makes the sandwich well and keeps doing it.

What makes the cheesesteak here different

The quality of a cheesesteak depends on three things: the meat, the cheese, and the roll. Cathy's Too sources thin-sliced steak that cooks quickly on the griddle, allowing it to brown without drying out. The cheese melts into the meat rather than sitting on top, which requires timing and technique.

The roll matters as much as the filling. A proper cheesesteak roll is sturdy enough to hold the meat and cheese without falling apart, but soft enough to bite through. Cathy's Too uses rolls that meet this standard, which is harder to find than it sounds outside of Philadelphia and a few dedicated shops.

Hours, parking, and what to expect

Cathy's Too operates during typical lunch and dinner hours, though hours can vary seasonally. The location on Military Cutoff Road has parking available. The shop is small and casual—expect a short line during peak times, especially around lunch and early dinner.

The ordering process is quick. You tell the person at the counter what you want, they make it in front of you, and you pay. There is seating inside, but many people take their food to go. The atmosphere is no-frills, which is part of the appeal for people who want a straightforward meal without ambiance pricing.

Pairing your cheesesteak with sides and drinks

Fries are the standard side at Cathy's Too, and they come in regular and larger portions. Onion rings are also available for people who prefer them. These sides are meant to complement the cheesesteak, not overshadow it—they are straightforward fried potatoes or onions, not gourmet variations.

Soft drinks and bottled beverages are available. Many people order a cold drink to balance the richness of the melted cheese and meat. The meal is designed to be satisfying and filling, so portion sizes are generous.

How Cathy's Too fits into Wilmington's food scene

Wilmington has a diverse food culture shaped by its coastal location, its history, and its role as a film and television production hub. Cathy's Too represents the category of casual, unpretentious restaurants that serve a specific food well rather than trying to do everything.

The restaurant appeals to people who are tired of chains and want something with local roots. It also draws visitors who have heard about it through word-of-mouth or online reviews and want to try an authentic cheesesteak while in town. In a city with many dining options, Cathy's Too occupies a clear niche: the place to go when you want a cheesesteak made the way it should be.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my cheesesteak at Cathy's Too?

Yes. You can choose your cheese (provolone or Cheez Whiz), add or skip onions, and add peppers or other toppings. The staff will make it to your specifications. The customization is straightforward—this is not a place with dozens of sauce options or specialty ingredients.

Is Cathy's Too good for a quick lunch?

Yes. The counter-service format and simple menu mean your food is ready in a few minutes. If you arrive during off-peak hours, you can order and eat within 10 to 15 minutes. During lunch rush, expect a short wait.

What's the difference between Cheez Whiz and provolone?

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce that melts smoothly and has a tangy flavor. Provolone is a firmer, aged cheese with a sharper taste. Both are traditional on Philadelphia cheesesteaks. Cheez Whiz is more common in Philadelphia itself; provolone is popular elsewhere. Try both to see which you prefer.

Does Cathy's Too take online orders or delivery?

Cathy's Too is a small, counter-service shop, so ordering options may be limited. Call ahead to confirm current ordering methods, or visit in person. Delivery through third-party apps may or may not be available depending on the current year and local partnerships.