Denver’s The Philadelphia Filly, a cheesesteak cart that has been serving authentic Philly cheesesteaks on the 16th Street Mall for nearly 30 years, will be closing its doors on October 20.
“We’ve had a fun life,” says Sally Rock to Westword. “No one knew what they were back then. Now they’re everywhere.”
According to Rock, closing the business is due to construction on the 16th Street Mall, expenses of renewing the license and age.
“We’re also getting old, and we feel like this is the universe telling us it’s time,” she says to the outlet.
While Rock is ready to say goodbye to a Denver staple, she’s continuing on her path of creativity. Like many, during the pandemic we’ve unleashed a new love for creative projects. Whether it be playing an instrument, learning to sing, starting a business to creating art. For Rock, she’s taken a liking to painting.
“During COVID, I started painting,” she says. “I’ve sold 168 paintings so far.” Her work is on display at the Denver Art Society on Santa Fe Drive, as well as artbysallyrock.com. You can also sign up for her email list by contacting artbysallyrock@gmail.com: “We choose someone from the email list to win a painting every other month,” Rock says.
The closing of The Philadelphia Filly is a loss for the Denver community. It was a one-of-a-kind restaurant that served up delicious cheesesteaks and friendly service.
