WGM Weekender: Interview with Peppi’s Pizza & "FL's Only Cheesesteak", Chef Ryan Mckeown
Peppi's Brings Legendary Flavor, Swagger, & History to Miami Design District
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We love you Miami.
There’s a certain kind of swagger you only get from growing up in the Northeast.
It’s blunt. It’s unapologetic. It usually comes with strong opinions about everythingm including bread. Ryan McKeown embodies that and then some.
We sat down with the Peppi’s Pizza owner in the Design District and within five minutes it was clear, this isn’t another Miami restaurant trying to be “vibey.” It’s a mission with history, tributes, and incredible flavor and entertainment.
Ryan explained to us in our interview “You know, a lot of places serve what I call a steak and cheese, but have never stepped foot in Philly. For me, it’s not about copying tradition, it’s about understanding where it’s going.”
And honestly, that tells you everything you need to know.
Philly Meets New York Meets Miami
Peppi’s isn’t trying to reinvent anything. It’s doing something harder: making sure to get it right in a place that often has gotten this wrong.
Ryan’s background is rooted in Philly, but the menu walks the line between New York slice culture and Philadelphia sandwich royalty.
But the soul of the place? That’s in the details.
72-hour fermented dough for that perfect chew
House-baked bread for the sandwiches
No shortcuts, no gimmicks
Cooper Sharp, because thats the only cheese it could be or should be
This is food made by someone who clearly cares, maybe a little too much, but in the best way possible.
Started with Pizza, but the Cheesesteak is the Headliner
Let’s just say it: Miami has needed this.
Peppi’s cheesesteak isn’t trying to be a “version” of a Philly cheesesteak, it’s the cheesesteak.
Shaved ribeye. Cooper Sharp or Whiz. Fresh bread. Sesame seeds. Picked hot peppers you get to bite into and drizzle on top.
It’s the kind of sandwich that people get weirdly territorial about, and for good reason. Even Dave Portnoy called it “an authentic Philly cheesesteak” and scored it higher than the pizza.
And once you try it, you get why.
And finally Miami has an Italian Sub worth driving for.
