Philadelphia native and acclaimed actor Bradley Cooper has recently embarked on a culinary venture that brings a taste of his hometown to New York City. Partnering with Danny DiGiampietro, owner of Philadelphia’s renowned Angelo’s Pizzeria, Cooper co-founded Danny & Coop’s, a cheesesteak haven nestled in Manhattan’s East Village. Since its opening, the eatery has attracted significant attention, with patrons eager to experience an authentic Philly cheesesteak and perhaps catch a glimpse of Cooper himself.
Danny & Coop’s: A New York Cheesesteak Sensation
Located at 151 Avenue A, Danny & Coop’s has become a culinary hotspot, drawing crowds willing to wait in line for a taste of their signature cheesesteaks, as noted by Yahoo! Life. The sandwiches feature tender chopped steak, caramelized onions, and Cooper Sharp cheese, all enveloped in a freshly baked sesame seed roll. The combination of high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation has earned the establishment a four-star rating on Yelp and a substantial following on social media platforms. While the presence of Bradley Cooper in the kitchen adds to the allure, the standout quality of the cheesesteaks ensures that the food remains the main attraction.
Bringing the Philly Cheesesteak Experience Home
For those unable to visit Danny & Coop’s, recreating an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home is entirely feasible with the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this iconic sandwich in your own kitchen:
Ingredients:
- Bread: Opt for a soft hoagie roll with a slight chew, ideally with a sesame seed topping.
- Meat: Thinly sliced ribeye steak is traditional, offering a balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Cheese: While Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, alternatives like provolone or American cheese are also popular.
- Onions: Finely chopped and sautéed until translucent and slightly caramelized.
Preparation Steps:
- Sauté the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the chopped onions until they reach a golden-brown hue. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high, add a bit more oil if necessary, and cook the thinly sliced ribeye. Season with salt and pepper, and use a spatula to separate the meat as it cooks.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the steak is browned, mix in the sautéed onions. Place slices of cheese over the mixture, allowing it to melt. For a creamier texture, consider adding a small amount of water and covering the skillet briefly to steam the cheese.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Slice the hoagie roll lengthwise, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Place the cheese-steak-onion mixture into the roll, pressing it down to ensure even distribution.
- Serve Immediately: For an extra kick, add toppings like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or a dash of hot sauce.
A Culinary Tribute to Philadelphia
Bradley Cooper’s venture into the culinary world with Danny & Coop’s offers New Yorkers a taste of Philadelphia and inspires food enthusiasts everywhere to recreate this beloved sandwich at home. Whether you’re savoring an authentic cheesesteak in the heart of the East Village or crafting one in your own kitchen, the Philly cheesesteak remains a delicious testament to the rich culinary traditions of the City of Brotherly Love.
