Real Deal the II Philly Cheesesteak Shop in South Carolina

What Real Deal the II Offers

Real Deal the II is a cheesesteak shop in South Carolina that makes sandwiches the way they're built in Philadelphia—with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions on a long roll. The shop focuses on doing one thing well rather than offering a sprawling menu, which means the cheesesteak itself gets the attention it deserves.

The sandwich comes with your choice of cheese (Provolone, American, or Whiz), and you can add peppers, mushrooms, or onions. The bread matters as much as the meat here—Real Deal the II sources rolls that hold up to the weight of the filling without falling apart, a detail that separates a proper cheesesteak from a sloppy one.

Beyond the signature sandwich, the shop keeps sides simple: fries, drinks, and sometimes specials that rotate. This isn't a place to hunt through a laminated menu the size of a newspaper. You order, you eat, you move on—the way a working lunch is supposed to go.

Key Takeaways

• Real Deal the II makes traditional Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and grilled onions on a proper roll.
• You can customize your sandwich by choosing your cheese type and adding peppers, mushrooms, or onions.
• The shop keeps its menu focused on doing cheesesteaks well rather than offering dozens of options.
• Fries and drinks round out the menu, with occasional specials depending on the day.
• The shop is busiest during lunch hours, so arriving early or mid-afternoon typically means a shorter wait.

Location and Hours

Real Deal the II operates in South Carolina, though hours and exact location details can shift seasonally or with staffing. Before you head over, a quick call or check on their social media pages will confirm they're open and ready to make your sandwich.

The shop tends to be busiest during lunch hours, especially on weekdays when people are looking for a quick, satisfying meal. If you prefer a shorter wait, early morning or mid-afternoon usually moves faster. Weekend traffic depends on what else is happening in the neighborhood and whether locals know about the spot.

What Makes the Cheesesteak Stand Out

The difference between a good cheesesteak and a mediocre one comes down to technique and ingredients. Real Deal the II starts with quality beef that gets sliced thin—not shredded, not chunky, but thin enough that it cooks quickly on the griddle and absorbs the flavors around it. The cheese melts into the meat rather than sitting on top of it.

The onions are grilled until they're soft and slightly caramelized, which adds sweetness and depth. Many cheesesteak shops skip this step or rush it, but Real Deal the II takes the time to get it right. The roll itself is toasted lightly, which keeps it from absorbing grease while still being soft enough to bite through without your teeth sliding off the sandwich.

Cheese Choices and Customization

Provolone is the traditional choice in Philadelphia, and it brings a sharp, slightly tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat. American cheese melts smoothly and creates a creamier sandwich. Cheez Whiz, the iconic Philadelphia choice, is milder and creates a uniform, almost sauce-like coating that coats every bite evenly.

Your preference depends on what you're after. If you want bold flavor, go Provolone. If you want something that melts evenly and doesn't compete with the meat, American works. If you want the authentic South Philly experience, Whiz is the call. Real Deal the II lets you decide, and the person taking your order can walk you through the differences if you're unsure.

Pairing Your Meal

Fries are the natural side—crispy on the outside, soft inside, and salted well enough to stand on their own. Some people dip them in the sandwich juices that pool on the wrapper, which is not wrong. The fries round out the meal without overwhelming it.

A cold drink cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat. Iced tea, soda, or water all work. The meal is straightforward and doesn't need much else—a cheesesteak is designed to be complete on its own, which is part of why it's been a working lunch staple in Philadelphia for decades.

When to Visit

Lunch is the obvious time, roughly 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., when the shop sees steady traffic and everything is fresh off the griddle. If you're in the area during that window and hungry, Real Deal the II is worth the stop. The lunch crowd moves quickly, and the energy in the shop reflects that.

Dinner is quieter, which means less wait but also potentially less foot traffic keeping the ingredients turning over. Weekends vary depending on the neighborhood and what else is happening nearby. A quick call before you go eliminates guesswork and lets you know whether they have any specials running that day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a cheesesteak without onions?

Yes. Real Deal the II builds sandwiches to order, so you can request no onions, extra onions, or any other modification. Tell them what you want when you order.

Do you have vegetarian options?

A traditional cheesesteak is meat-based, and Real Deal the II specializes in that sandwich. You could ask about a cheese and vegetable option, but the shop's focus is on the classic version.

What's the difference between Provolone and American cheese on a cheesesteak?

Provolone has a sharper, more distinctive flavor and doesn't melt quite as smoothly. American cheese melts evenly and creates a creamier texture. Both are legitimate choices—it comes down to whether you want bold flavor or smooth melt.

How long does it take to get my order?

During lunch rush, expect 10 to 15 minutes. During slower times, it's usually faster. The shop makes each sandwich to order rather than pre-making them, which takes a few minutes but ensures freshness.

Is there seating inside?

Real Deal the II is primarily a counter-service shop. Ask when you arrive whether there's seating available or if it's grab-and-go. Many people take their sandwich elsewhere to eat.