Joey Vento facts for kids

Joseph Anthony Vento (born December 18, 1939 – died August 23, 2011) was an American cook and business owner. He is famous for starting Geno's Steaks in 1966. This cheesesteak restaurant in Philadelphia became very well-known. It also began a long-standing friendly competition with its neighbor, Pat's King of Steaks.

Joey Vento's Story

Early Life and Beginnings

Joseph Anthony Vento was born in Philadelphia. His family had come from Italy a few generations before him. His parents were Eva and James Vento. Joey left school after the 9th grade. He did this to help his father run a restaurant. This early start helped him learn about the food business.

Starting Geno's Steaks

In 1966, Joey Vento opened his own restaurant. He called it Geno's Steaks. It was located on a busy corner in Philadelphia, at 9th and Passyunk. Right across the street was Pat's King of Steaks. This location immediately set up a famous rivalry between the two cheesesteak spots. Geno's Steaks quickly became one of the top places for cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. It is open all day and all night, every day of the week.

The Famous Cheesesteak Style

Joey Vento had his own special way of making cheesesteaks. He liked to serve the steak without chopping it up too much. He also believed that provolone cheese was the best choice for a cheesesteak. This unique style helped Geno's Steaks stand out. Many people still visit Geno's to try his famous cheesesteak.

His Legacy

Joey Vento passed away on August 23, 2011. He was 71 years old. He died from a heart attack at his home in Shamong Township, New Jersey. After his death, his son, also named Geno, took over the business. Joey Vento had named the restaurant after his son. Today, Geno's Steaks continues to be a popular spot. It keeps the cheesesteak tradition alive in Philadelphia.