At Smith Land & Improvement Corporation, community has always been at the center of everything we do. From long-standing local businesses to new ventures finding their footing, each tenant has a story worth sharing.
We’re excited to kick off a new spotlight series featuring the people behind the businesses that make our properties feel like home. First up: Josh and Keri Longo, owners of The Cheesesteak Guy at the West Shore Plaza in Lemoyne.
From Market Stand to Full-Time Location
Before opening their full-time location in September 2024, Josh and Keri built their reputation at the Broad Street Market, a hub for local food vendors and one of Harrisburg’s most well-known destinations.
“Well, I helped ZeroDay open in the Broad Street Market around 10 years ago,” Josh shared. “There was a burger stand, and I asked the owner if he would do cheesesteaks, but he didn’t. I felt like it was something missing in the area.”
With years of experience in the food industry and family roots in it, the idea stuck. What started as a concept turned into their first venture, operating within the fast-paced, community-driven environment of the market.
“We loved our experience at the Broad Street Market,” Josh said. “The community, the fast pace, the people were great. It was a great learning experience. It’s a big part of who we are.”
Over time, The Cheesesteak Guy expanded beyond the market, with a presence in Hershey and even a food truck. Because of that, some customers assume it’s a larger operation.
“In reality, we’re a true mom-and-pop shop,” Josh said. “My wife and I do almost everything.”
Finding the Right Fit at West Shore Plaza
While the market helped build a loyal following, it was only open a few days a week. The idea of a full-time location was always there.
“We always thought about it,” Josh said. “It was something I thought about a lot and sort of manifested.”
After exploring different opportunities, the right one finally came along at West Shore Plaza.
“We’d been in contact with Smith Land & Improvement Corp, and they showed us a few spaces, but they didn’t feel like the right fit,” he said. “We used to eat at Hoageez, and when that space opened up, it was perfect.”
Today, they’ve found exactly what they were looking for.
“We love being there. Great people, great parking. We’re very happy.”
Quality Comes First
What truly sets The Cheesesteak Guy apart is a commitment to quality and sourcing.
“We try to source everything as locally as possible,” Josh explained.
Their meats come from Warrington Farm Meats in Dillsburg, and their rolls are delivered fresh daily from multiple bakeries, including Liscio’s Bakery, LeBus Bakery, and New York Bakery in Philadelphia.
“We go to great lengths to make sure things are fresh and sourced locally,” he said. “If I won’t eat it, I won’t serve it.”
It’s not something they heavily promote, but it’s something customers notice.
“We don’t boast a lot,” Josh added. “We think the quality of our food speaks for itself.”
Fan Favorites (and Personal Picks)
One standout menu item has become a customer favorite.
“Our take on an Italian classic is a big hit, the Cacio e Pepe Cheesesteak,” Josh said. Made with shaved ribeye, black pepper, roasted garlic, onions, Cooper cheese, and white cheese sauce, it’s a unique spin that keeps people coming back.
As for personal favorites?
“Right now, mine is Cooper cheese, onions, and fresh mushrooms on a seeded roll,” Josh shared. “Keri likes that same combo, but she adds Kraft Cheez Whiz.”
The Reality Behind the Counter
Running a small, quality-focused food business comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to pricing.
“The toughest part is fluctuating costs,” Josh said. “A case of green peppers went from $15 to $55. Similar things have happened with lettuce and tomatoes.”
For a business committed to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, those changes add up.
“The cost of doing things right is higher,” he said. “But that’s something we’re not willing to compromise on.”
A Growing Community (Without Growing Too Big)
The Longos have carried over loyal customers from their Broad Street Market days, while also building a new following in Lemoyne.
“People are great,” Josh said. “Some followed us, and we’ve gained a whole new group of customers. We’re very happy here.”
As for what’s next, the answer is simple.
“We’re happy where we are,” he said. “If we tried to expand, we’d risk sacrificing quality and personality.”
They recently added a new sign at West Shore Plaza, something they’re excited about, but beyond that, their focus remains the same: doing what they do well.
Thinking About Stopping By?
Josh keeps the invitation simple.
“Come and try it,” he said. “We don’t cater to every need, but once people find us and see the quality and effort that goes into everything, they’re sold.”
