Arby’s just made its biggest menu statement in years — and it came with a trade-off.
The chain officially added its Angus Cheesesteak to the permanent menu this week, upgrading the recipe with Philly-sourced ingredients and positioning the sandwich as its flagship beef offering going forward. To make room, Arby’s simultaneously discontinued its burger lineup — a significant pivot for a chain that had only recently expanded into burger territory.
And to celebrate, Arby’s is giving away 100,000 free sandwiches to Rewards members. Text STEAK to 27297 to unlock the offer while supplies last.
What Changed From the 2025 Version
The Angus Cheesesteak first appeared at Arby’s as a summer limited-time item in 2025, where it became one of the chain’s most popular launches. That version featured a garlic spread and a diced pepper-and-onion blend — a solid cheesesteak, but not an authentically Philly one.
For the permanent version, Arby’s went back to the source. The culinary team traveled to Philadelphia specifically to research what defines a standout cheesesteak, and the result is a noticeably stripped-down, more authentic sandwich:
- 100% Angus steak — seasoned and thinly shaved
- Cooper White American Cheese — a Philadelphia institution, known for its rich creaminess and subtle sharpness
- Thick-cut caramelized onions
- Amoroso’s Sesame Seed Sub Roll — arguably the most important detail; Amoroso’s rolls are the gold standard for cheesesteaks in Philadelphia and are rarely found outside the region
Both Cooper Cheese and Amoroso’s rolls are icon brands in Philadelphia’s cheesesteak culture. Using both in the same sandwich is a genuine commitment to authenticity — not just a marketing claim.
“We traveled to Philadelphia to understand what makes a great cheesesteak and bring those elements to Arby’s,” said Jeff Baker, Arby’s Chief Marketing Officer. “We’ve paired 100% Angus steak with the authentic Cooper Cheese and Amoroso’s roll used in Philadelphia. The best ingredients to make the best cheesesteak.”
Why Arby’s Is Dropping Burgers for This
The burger discontinuation is the bolder story here. Arby’s has been expanding beyond its roast beef roots for years — adding chicken, gyros, fish, and yes, burgers — but the brand has consistently struggled to shake the perception that it’s a roast beef chain that dabbles in other categories.
By making the Angus Cheesesteak permanent and exiting burgers simultaneously, Arby’s is making a deliberate statement: we’re a premium beef and sandwich chain, not a burger chain. The move also puts the brand in more direct competition with Jersey Mike’s, which has built a fast-growing business around hot sub sandwiches including a range of cheesesteak options.
For context, Jersey Mike’s average unit volume recently surpassed Arby’s — a competitive pressure point that a higher-quality, permanent cheesesteak directly addresses.
The Free Sandwich Offer
To drive awareness of the new sandwich, Arby’s is giving away 100,000 Angus Cheesesteaks to Rewards members who spend $10 or more. The offer launched June 17 and is available while supplies last.
To unlock it: text STEAK to 27297, or find it in the Arby’s app. Not a Rewards member yet? Sign up at arbys.com/deals — membership is free.
Early Reviews
Early taste tests from food media have been largely positive. Delish described the sandwich as “rich and satisfying,” praising the well-seasoned steak and creamy cheese. The Takeout highlighted the balanced flavors and tender beef, though some reviewers noted they wished for a more generous portion of filling relative to the roll.
Pricing and Availability
The Angus Cheesesteak is available now at all Arby’s restaurants nationwide for pickup, drive-thru, or delivery through the app or website. Prices vary by location — expect approximately $8.99 to $9.99 depending on your market.
The Bottom Line
Arby’s Angus Cheesesteak is now a permanent menu item, built with Cooper Cheese, Amoroso’s rolls, and 100% thinly shaved Angus steak — a more authentic Philly-inspired recipe than the 2025 version. Arby’s has simultaneously discontinued its burgers to make this its marquee beef sandwich. Text STEAK to 27297 for a free one with a $10 purchase through the Arby’s Rewards program while supplies last.
