In a culinary venture that has captured the hearts of many in New York's East Village, Bradley Cooper has teamed up with well-known Philly chef Danny DiGiampietro to create Danny & Coop's, a cheesesteak restaurant that opened its doors in January 2025. With their signature $17.45 foot-long Philly cheesesteak attracting long lines of eager customers, this establishment has quickly become a local sensation.
Cooper, a 12-time Oscar-nominated actor, first forged a friendship with DiGiampietro years ago when he sampled the famed cheesesteak at Angelo's, a cherished pizzeria in Philadelphia. Excited by its robust flavor, he inspired a food truck venture, where they served cheesesteaks from the back of a truck for a couple of years. The actor remarked, “It’s all down to Danny DiGiampietro. I went to Angelo’s years ago, and I was like, ‘This is the best steak sandwich I’ve ever had.' I live in New York, but we did this thing. He’s such a nice guy. I said, ‘Hey, can I come and get your ingredients and just cook for my friends out here at weekends?’”
The journey from truck to restaurant was a natural progression for the duo, who finally found a permanent home at 151 Avenue A, directly across from Tompkins Square Park. It's a spot that has suddenly gained even more recognition after the recent acquisition of the building by Alchemy Ventures for $10.75 million, which includes eight spacious residential apartments and two retail spaces.
Sam Kooris, the principal at Alchemy Ventures, expressed enthusiasm for the purchase, stating, “This acquisition represents an exciting step in Alchemy Ventures’ continued growth in New York City.” With the restaurant nestled among residential and commercial spaces, the community has embraced the new dining option while Cooper and DiGiampietro have cultivated a loyal customer base.
Visitors lining up for the cheesesteak know that they’re indulging in a classic dish that originated in the 1930s at the hands of Pat and Harry Olivieri, hot dog vendors from Philadelphia. The foundation of a Philly cheesesteak is thinly sliced rib-eye or top round beef, perfectly seasoned, combined with either Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese, and garnished with onions and peppers, all tucked into a fresh hoagie roll. It’s comfort food at its finest.
At Danny & Coop’s, the concept has taken on a personal touch, with Cooper often cooking alongside staff, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as well as a community hub. “I take my daughter to school, I walk over, I go on the grill for four hours, I pick her up and it’s like heaven,” Cooper has expressed about his experience, highlighting his passion for this new endeavor.
Despite the popularity and success, the duo finds themselves navigating the uncertainties that accompany a restaurant deeply integrated into a real estate market that is constantly changing. While they have signed a five-year lease with an option for extension, the looming question remains whether expenses will rise as Alchemy Ventures settles into ownership.
The restaurant remains a beacon of Philadelphia's culinary heritage in Manhattan, and the opening has been particularly fortuitous for both Cooper and DiGiampietro, who turned their shared love of cheesesteaks into a successful venture. Their journey from food truck to storefront has not only redefined comfort food in the neighborhood but has also showcased the power of collaboration and friendship.
For anyone eager to experience a true Philly cheesesteak, the line outside Danny & Coop’s is a testament to its acceptance and affection among locals and visitors alike. It's more than just a meal; it’s a slice of Philadelphia right in the heart of New York City.
