Saratoga’s Latest Viral Sensation: Cheesesteak Alley

In an effort to retain summer workers through the winter at 15 Church, Chef Michael Mastrantuono devised a solution – start selling Philly cheesesteaks.  

“Originally I thought if I sell 25-30 cheesesteaks out the back door, I can keep four of my line cooks that I normally have to let go,” said Mastrantuono.  

In their first weekend on October 17 and 18, Cheesesteak Alley sold 750 cheesesteaks, proving the business venture is more than sustainable.  

“If I could have sold 10,000 this weekend, we would have sold 10,000,” said Mastrantuono.  

Cheesesteak Alley operates from 15 Church’s dormant patio Wednesday through Saturday from 3:30 to 10 p.m. or until they sell out. 

The $24 cheesesteak features shaved Australian wagyu beef, confit Vidalia onions, poblano peppers, pickled peppers and cooper sharp cheese on a 12-inch semolina roll sourced from New York City.  

Accompanying the cheesesteak on the menu are $8 house cut curly fries fried in beef tallow which overflow in the bag.   

Social media videos have contributed to the overwhelming success and have put a hold on upcoming menu items like drunken street noodles and a smoked cheddar hot dog.  

For the time being, Mastrantuono says he is focused on consistently delivering the best cheesesteak before expanding the menu. 

“As 15 Church, because you have that reputation, it has to be the best Philly Cheesesteak these people have ever had,” said Mastrantuono. 

Eventually Mastrantuono expects to release more menu items, whether it be a limited supply or on specific day. 

Now the question on his mind is what to do during the track season when the patio will be used by the restaurant? 

“It looks like I have to open up a cheesesteak restaurant in Saratoga,” Mastrantuono said. “I don’t know if I will be able to pause for the 12-week track season because this has become a massive thing.” 

Ultimately, Cheesesteak alley is serving its purpose for the restaurant industry, by the restaurant industry.  

“The most warming part about this whole thing is it feels like it’s bringing more of a community feel to 15 Church,” said Mastrantuono. “People who work in restaurants can’t always get an $89 dollar filet mignon. But they can roll up after work and grab a really great cheesesteak, have a really awesome meal, with that 15 Church touch.” 

Cheesesteak Alley is available for pick up or delivery. Customers can order ahead on their website to lock in a pick-up time at thecheesesteakalley.com.