Creative and traditional sandwiches at Lefty’s Cheesesteaks (Courtesy photo)
Food | Gaslamp

‘Left-Handed Ambition’

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

The Gaslamp Quarter recently saw the arrival of Lefty’s Cheesesteaks, a growing Detroit-based chain that has zero affiliation to Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria in North Park and Mission Hills.

Founder Sam Berry started the business from a small shop in suburban Detroit and grew it into a franchise with multiple locations in Michigan, Texas and the Los Angeles area. This is his first spot in San Diego. It replaces Burger Lounge, and we’re told by local owner Habib Abbas that San Diego County will see five additional openings of Lefty’s per year over the next five years.

Berry calls himself “a left-handed person living in a right-handed world.” He attributes his success to the years he spent perfecting the art of cheesesteaks, hoagies, and burgers “as an innovative lefty.”

The food is fetching rave reviews on social media. Customers will also find sprightly salads, fried appetizers, Coney Island hot dogs, and assorted chicken wings.