In South Jersey, a culinary rivalry has emerged as the Garnet Grill, which opened this February in Haddon Heights, serves a “Camden-style” cheesesteak that many claim rivals the iconic offering at Donkey’s Place in Camden.
This debate is particularly charged among New Jerseyans, especially those with longstanding attachments to Donkey’s Place, a beloved establishment that has been serving cheesesteaks since 1943.
Famed chef Anthony Bourdain once declared the Donkey’s cheesesteak the best, a reputation that has solidified its status in the local food scene.
However, even loyal patrons of Donkey’s are beginning to acknowledge that the Garnet Grill might do the classic dish even better.
Patrick Duff, co-owner of the Garnet Grill, is a Delran native and has long dreamed of opening a restaurant.
His motivation intensified a few years ago during his battle with cancer, spurring him to share regional flavors from New Jersey and Philadelphia.
“We like to take some of that regional flair and run with it,” Duff explained, hinting at the restaurant’s connection to local favorites.
Named after the mascot of Haddon Heights High School, the Garnet Grill has made a name for itself not only with cheesesteaks but also with menu items like sauced chicken tenders reminiscent of the buffalo tails served at One More Bar & Grill and “cranky fries” similar to those at Chickie’s & Pete’s.
Despite these offerings, the spotlight undoubtedly shines on the Camden-style cheesesteak, which features sliced ribeye, Cooper sharp cheese, and caramelized onions on a poppyseed kaiser roll.
While it may resemble the Donkey’s classic, those who try it notice a distinct flavor that sets it apart.
The key ingredient in the debate may well be the cheese. Cooper sharp is known for its robust flavor, while Donkey’s continues to use white American cheese.
The sweetness of the caramelized onions in the Garnet’s version complements the sharpness of the Cooper cheese perfectly.
Yet, it is the ribeye that truly elevates the Garnet Grill’s sandwich. Well-seasoned and cooked with a touch of inspiration from Duff’s time in Thailand, the steak is topped with pineapple juice to enhance moisture during cooking.
The pepper relish offered at Garnet Grill aims to mirror the spicy, tangy variety found at Donkey’s Place.
While both relish options have their strengths, many agree that the original still packs a more intense punch.
However, when it comes to the quality of the meat and the boldness of the cheese, the Garnet Grill seems to edge out Donkey’s Place.
Despite the accolades and growing popularity of the Garnet Grill, not everyone is pleased.
Duff has faced backlash from die-hard Donkey’s fans, who sometimes criticize his establishment online.
Acknowledging the pushback, Duff noted, “It’s weird because online they’ll come after me. Even Donkey’s came onto my (Facebook) page and said I was doing a Donkey’s dupe.”
However, Duff is quick to clarify his intentions as he strives to shine a light on Camden as a culinary destination that deserves recognition for its local flavors.
He articulated, “The Philly cheesesteak is known around the world, so I thought it’d be cool if that could happen with Camden.”
As the Garnet Grill continues to develop its reputation, the conversation about what constitutes a better Camden-style cheesesteak remains a hot topic in South Jersey’s dining landscape.
For those willing to explore beyond the classics, the Garnet Grill presents an exciting new option that is quickly winning over hearts and taste buds.
With the rise of new eateries and the refinement of traditional recipes, the South Jersey food scene is undeniably vibrant, constantly evolving, and ever more delightful.
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