Connor Detlefsen
Lantern Staff
Amongst the backdrop of El Dorado’s downtown area, there is an uncanny purple, almost microscopic building infamously known as Coach Al’s Cheesesteaks. One can quickly identify the restaurant by the cartoon face of Al Presnell emblazed on the side of the building. Owner Josh Hall explained the reasoning behind the naming the restaurant after Al Presnell saying “The man is a local legend; he literally bleeds purple.”
By just asking around, it is clear that Al Presnell is a known supporter of the community. Hall also briefly went into the long history that the building possesses. The restaurant, being located at 117 W. 2nd Ave. in El Dorado, has had several different names and past lives. One thing that is noticeable at Coach Al’s Cheesesteaks is that the building is fairly small. The restaurant hosts a small kitchen and a small hosting area where diners can place orders.
Coach Al’s Cheesesteaks has a pretty unique format, since there is such limited space in the restaurant, customers are encouraged to call ahead before they order or come in and place an order. Then, customers eat their meals outside at an external location just feet away where benches have been set up with a roof to keep customers as comfortable as possible. The restaurant also has a small drive through if customers are in a hurry, but the space feels a bit cramped.
The restaurant has small number of cheesesteaks to chose from, but each one is equally fantastic. Along with their cheesesteaks, they have chicken sandwiches and hot dogs. The food is made fresh and in front of customers, which makes for a more special experience. The food is also prepared fast, but make no mistake, it is not fast food. The Cheeseburger Philly is particularly phenomenal with ribeye, bacon and Cheez Whiz. The portions are substantial as well.
One can order a cheesesteak in two sizes, 6’’ and a foot long. A side of hand cut fries or a bag of chips is a optional choice, and fries are a must have. Coach Al’s Cheesesteaks is mostly busiest at noon, and they are open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Customers can call and place a order at 316-452-5800. Coach Al’s Cheesesteaks offers a charming, warm and authentic experience, which is refreshing when compared to similar fast service restaurants that feel cold and artificial.
