The Philly cheesesteak from SOKO Butcher in Takoma Park has earned a spot on The Washington Post’s list of the “40 Essential Dishes of D.C.,” highlighting standout selections from restaurants across Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia.
Founded by chef and butcher Brad Feickert, SOKO opened in Takoma Park in 2022 and has since built a following throughout the region. The business specializes in locally sourced, ethically raised meats, traditional butchery and a menu featuring premium sandwiches, burgers, breakfast items and house-made specialties.
Known as “The Philly,” SOKO’s cheesesteak is made with prime rib, grilled onions and a house-made cheese sauce featuring American and Cooper Sharp cheeses, all served on a roll from Lyon Bakery. The latest recognition follows another major honor for SOKO. Last summer, Washington Post readers named the shop’s cheesesteak the region’s best as part of a feature ranking several varieties of sandwiches.
“There’s no need to compare this massive, deeply savory sandwich to any other that might hail from the City of Brotherly Love,” The Washington Post wrote, praising its high-quality ingredients and the way the cheese, meat and onions are mixed together on the grill to provide each component in every bite.
SOKO expanded into Virginia earlier this year, opening a location at 15 Loudoun Street in downtown Leesburg on May 22. Demand quickly exceeded expectations, with the shop selling nearly 10,000 sandwiches during its first two-plus weeks. SOKO sold out on multiple days and temporarily paused sandwich production to give its staff a break.
