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When people hear the words “Philly Cheesesteak,” Geno’s Steaks is the place that immediately comes to most people’s minds. It seems the same philosophy held true when it came time to answering the first question on the ballot for best cheesesteak.
The place is so popular that it has become a tourist attraction for out-of-towners, including celebrities. The outer walls include pictures of notable patrons, often posing with founder Joey Vento, who passed away in 2011. His son, Geno, who was named after the business, is running the show these days. The bright neon lights and signs that make the building at 1219 S. Ninth St. a hard-to-miss attraction. With Pat’s King of Steaks located directly across the street, the competition can get a little heated at times.
Geno’s attempted to expand operations back in 2004 by opening a stand at Citizens Bank Park, but it lasted only two years. The lone location seems to be working out just fine as it has secured multiple Readers’ Choice accolades over the years, which comes mostly from neighborhood supporters.
Jim’s Steaks grilled up second-place satisfaction while Tony Luke’s took a bite out of third.
Contact the South Philly Review at editor@southphillyreview.com.
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