HAGERSTOWN, Md. — The inaugural Battle of the Cheesesteaks was a hit on Saturday evening, May 16, in the Elizabeth Hager lot just off Potomac Street in Hagerstown. The idea for this event comes from Jamie Lawrence, often known locally as “The Cheesesteak Guy,” and the face of One Room Media – a local visual production company. The event was also hosted by Downtown Hagerstown, facilitating the event, and sponsored by Hamilton Nissan.
Nine competitors from local food trucks and restaurants faced off to determine who has the best cheesesteak sandwich around the city. Contestants included, The Colonial, Dugout Sport Bar, Veva’s on Potomac, Melted Dreams, Grab Smash & Go, Heroburgers and more, Tucker’s Pucker Stoner Days Dogs Subs & Sammies, Seasonz Grill, and The Pita King.
From the beginning at 3 p.m., guests who purchased a ticket could sample cheesesteaks from each competitor, and cast their vote on who had the best sandwich. Tickets started at $18 for general admission, granting a sample punch card and a vote. VIP tickets were also available providing exclusive perks and early access to the event.
Antietam Brewery could also be found at Battle of the Cheesesteaks, offering beer for guests of legal age. Setting the mood were various local musicians including Dirrty Phil, Logan Tritle and Matt Stowell.
When sampling was finished and all votes were cast, the food truck Grab Smash & Go came out victorious with the title of Hagerstown’s best cheesesteak sandwich. Just behind them in the rankings were The Pita King and Seasonz Grill. Grab Smash & Go was awarded the first ever cheesesteak trophy, earning bragging rights and setting the bar for future cheesesteak battles.
Image from Grab Smash and Go on Facebook. Want to try Grab Smash and Go for yourself? Find them on Facebook at, https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555276890193. Readers can keep up with Hagerstown events at, visithagerstown.com/events
