u/KolonelKrackers

First time long time in this sub but I've read much of the discourse surrounding Matu and their newer cheesesteak shop so just wanted to give my 2 cents (or $24, as it were).

In a word: Impressive. The beef was super tender, juicy, and built flavor with every bite without feeling heavy. Most cheesesteaks I've had in town tend to feel heavy for me so I'll opt for chicken on return visits.

Portion size was generous, certainly bigger than some previous posts I've seen here. This Pasadena location is still relatively new but seems like they've gotten through those early growing pains and dialed in the portion size.

The sesame roll gave a real nice crunch with good structural integrity throughout, never got soggy. What really brings it all together is the Cooper Sharp cheese, rich and creamy and melts so well into the meat. The long hot peppers cut nicely through all the above and round out an impressive sandwich.

Overall I loved it. Would I love it more at $20 or less? Of course. But I was in Pasadena for a convention and having heard the hype, our party decided on lunch here and everyone left happy and satisfied with no complaints. Coming from Encino I probably wouldn't make a habit of it, not with College Boy Cheesesteaks popping up in my neighborhood, but I'm glad I finally got to try Matu for myself and I found it was worth the experience.