JOEY VENTO, 71 Died Aug. 23, 2011
Founder of Geno's Steaks in South Philadelphia at 9th St. and Passyunk Avenue, across from rival Pat's King of Steaks (who claim they invented the sandwich in 1933). He started the 24-hour, seven-day restaurant in 1966. He differed from the others by offering provolone cheese instead of the usual Cheez Whiz.
According to Wikipedia, he chose the name Gino's because there already was a Joe's Steak Place in Philadelphia, then changed the "i" to "e" because of a regional fast-food chain.
They serve 4,500 Philly Cheesesteaks a day.
I went to Philadelphia on a bus tour, but didn't get the opportunity to eat at either place. Next time I will. I did have several of the sandwiches, the best at a street cart by Independence Hall.
When in Philly, Ya Gotta Have a Cheesesteak, Ya Know.
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