The line of people stretching down Avenue A is the first thing you'll see, and it points straight to Danny & Coop’s Cheesesteaks. This is a standing-room-only operation, and Tompkins Square Park, just across the street, serves as its unofficial dining room. The space itself is a narrow, black-painted room designed for one thing – getting cheesesteaks out the door as efficiently as possible. It’s loud, with music playing, and generally packed with people waiting for their order. You’ll find high counters lining the walls for those who want to eat immediately, but there’s no actual seating.
The menu is exceptionally focused. You are here for the cheesesteak, made with grilled shaved ribeye, caramelized onions, and Cooper Sharp American cheese, all packed into a house-made sesame seed hoagie roll. This isn't a place for customization; the no-modifications policy is part of the deal. You get the standard cheesesteak and are given a choice of hot or sweet peppers on the side. A spicy version with hot peppers and spicy cheese is also on offer, but be warned that the hot peppers are genuinely fiery. To drink, there’s a simple selection of classic sodas.
The whole concept is a joint venture between Danny DiGiampietro, owner of Philadelphia's famed Angelo's Pizzeria, and actor Bradley Cooper, built to bring an authentic Philly sandwich to the East Village. This is a true grab-and-go spot, and that sesame seed roll is sturdy enough to survive the walk across the street to a park bench – which is exactly what it was designed for.
Danny & Coop’s Cheesesteaks