Philly Grill Restaurant in South Carolina: What to Order and Where to Find It

What Philly Grill serves and where locations are

Philly Grill is a casual counter-service restaurant that makes cheesesteaks, hoagies, and other sandwiches in the style of Philadelphia. The chain operates multiple locations across South Carolina, with restaurants in the Midlands, Lowcountry, and Upstate regions. Each location is independently owned, so menus and hours can vary slightly, but the core sandwich offerings remain consistent.

The restaurant focuses on hand-rolled dough for hoagies, fresh toppings, and meat cooked to order. Most locations are small—seating for 20 to 40 people—and designed for quick lunch service or takeout. You order at the counter, pay, and wait for your sandwich to be made fresh.

Key Takeaways

• Philly Grill makes cheesesteaks with Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese, plus grilled onions and peppers, following Philadelphia tradition.
• The Italian hoagie and roast beef sandwich are popular alternatives to the cheesesteak, and both use the restaurant's house-made or fresh-baked rolls.
• Most locations are small, counter-service only, and designed for lunch crowds, so expect a short wait during peak hours (noon to 1 p.m.).
• Prices typically range from $8 to $14 for a sandwich, depending on meat choice and toppings, with combo meals adding fries and a drink.

The cheesesteak: meat, cheese, and toppings

Philly Grill's cheesesteak starts with thinly sliced beef cooked on a flat-top griddle with grilled onions and peppers. You choose your cheese: Cheez Whiz (the traditional Philadelphia choice), provolone, or American. The sandwich comes on a long roll, typically 6 to 8 inches, and is wrapped in foil to keep it warm.

The restaurant does not add mayo, lettuce, or tomato to the cheesesteak unless you request it—that is the Philadelphia standard. If you want those toppings, ask when you order. Some locations also offer mushrooms, jalapeños, or hot peppers as add-ons for a small extra charge.

Other sandwiches worth ordering

The Italian hoagie is built on a longer roll with Italian meats (usually ham, capicola, and salami), provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and oil and vinegar. It is a good choice if you want something different from the cheesesteak but still in the Philadelphia tradition.

The roast beef sandwich features sliced roast beef, usually served with peppers and onions, and your choice of cheese. Some locations also make a turkey sandwich and a vegetarian option with grilled peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Prices for these alternatives are similar to the cheesesteak, usually $9 to $13 depending on the meat.

Sides and what to expect at the counter

Most Philly Grill locations serve fries (regular or curly), onion rings, and sometimes coleslaw. Drinks are typically fountain sodas, bottled water, and sweet tea. A combo meal—sandwich, fries, and drink—usually costs $2 to $4 more than the sandwich alone.

Service is counter-only: you order, pay upfront, and wait for your number to be called. During lunch (11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.), expect a 10- to 15-minute wait if the restaurant is busy. Takeout is the norm, though most locations have a few tables or bar seating along the counter.

Finding a location near you

Philly Grill locations are scattered across South Carolina rather than clustered in one region. The Midlands has the most restaurants, with multiple locations in and around Columbia. The Lowcountry has at least one location in the Charleston area, and the Upstate has restaurants in Greenville and Spartanburg.

Because each location is independently owned, hours and menus can differ. Call ahead or check the specific location's hours online before you go, especially on weekends or holidays. Most locations close by 8 or 9 p.m. and some close earlier on Sundays.

Price and value

A single cheesesteak or hoagie at Philly Grill costs between $8 and $14, depending on the meat and toppings. A combo meal with fries and a drink adds $2 to $4. This is mid-range pricing for a casual sandwich shop—more than a fast-food chain but less than a sit-down restaurant.

The sandwiches are made to order and portion sizes are generous. Most people find one sandwich and fries filling for lunch. If you are splitting a meal or eating light, you could order a sandwich and share fries.

When to go and what to know

Philly Grill is busiest during lunch hours, especially on weekdays. If you want to avoid a wait, go before 11:30 a.m. or after 1:30 p.m. Dinner service is quieter but some locations close early in the evening.

The restaurant is casual and fast-paced, so it is not the place for a lingering meal. Most people eat at the counter or take their sandwich to go. If you are new to cheesesteaks or unsure what to order, the staff can walk you through the options and answer questions about toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Cheez Whiz and provolone on a cheesesteak?

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce that melts smoothly and is the traditional Philadelphia choice. Provolone is a firmer, sharper cheese that gives a different flavor. Both are common at Philly Grill; choose based on your preference. Cheez Whiz is creamier, provolone is tangier.

Can I get a cheesesteak without onions and peppers?

Yes. Tell the person taking your order that you want it plain or with only certain toppings. Most locations are happy to customize. You can also ask for extra peppers or onions if you prefer.

Do I need to call ahead or can I just walk in?

You can walk in, but calling ahead during lunch rush (noon to 1 p.m.) can save time. Some locations take phone orders for pickup. Check the specific location's phone number online before you visit.

Are there vegetarian options?

Most Philly Grill locations offer a grilled vegetable sandwich with peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Availability varies by location, so ask when you order. You can also order a cheese hoagie or just cheese and vegetables on a roll.

What time do locations close?

Most Philly Grill restaurants close between 8 and 9 p.m. on weekdays and earlier on Sundays. Hours vary by location, so call or check online for the specific restaurant you plan to visit.