Joey Vento facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Joey Vento
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| Born | December 18, 1939 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
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| Died | August 23, 2011 (aged 71) Shamong Township, New Jersey, U.S.
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| Nationality | Italian American |
| Known for | Cheesesteak chef Founder of Geno's Steaks |
Joseph Anthony Vento (December 18, 1939 – August 23, 2011) was an American cook and restaurateur who founded Geno's Steaks, a cheesesteak restaurant, in 1966, starting a longtime rivalry with neighboring restaurant, Pat's King of Steaks.
Early life
Joseph Anthony Vento, a third generation Italian American, was born in Philadelphia to Eva and James Vento. He dropped out of school in the 9th grade to assist his father in running a restaurant.
Restaurant business
Vento opened Geno's Steaks in 1966 on the corner of 9th and Passyunk, starting a longtime rivalry that is ongoing with Pat's King of Steaks. His restaurant is considered one of Philadelphia's Big Three cheesesteak establishments and is open 24/7. Vento serves his cheesesteak without chopping the steak and believes provolone is the preferred cheese to be added.
Death
Vento died of a heart attack on August 23, 2011 at his home in Shamong Township, New Jersey. He was 71 years old. Ownership of Geno's Steak was passed to his son Geno, whom he named after the restaurant.
