Philadelphia's legendary cheesesteak rivalry has found common ground in welcoming LeBron James to the city. Following the basketball superstar's announcement Friday that he would join the 76ers, both Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks have unveiled special tributes honoring their newest local sports icon.
Pat's King of Steaks has temporarily rebranded its signature menu item in recognition of James's arrival. The establishment's famous Whiz Wit — cheese Whiz with onions on steak — will now be available under an alternative name reflecting the city's new addition.
"Everyone knows there's only one way to order the classic, and now there's a new way to say it. When you come to the window and ask for The King's Way, we'll know exactly what you mean," Frank Olivieri, third-generation owner of Pat's, told TMZ.com. The sandwich itself maintains its traditional ingredients, ensuring longtime customers will receive the same beloved combination.
Across the street, Geno's Steaks has extended an even more personal invitation. The establishment has reserved its highly sought-after VIP booth for James and offered him the opportunity to learn the craft of cheesesteak preparation directly from owner Geno Vento.
"Our VIP booth – the hardest seat in Philadelphia to get – already has LeBron's name on it. Whenever he's ready, we'll welcome him with a cheesesteak, hand him the spatula, and even let him spend some time behind the grill for a little cheesesteak 101 with me personally. Every Philadelphia legend has a story at Geno's, and we'd love for LeBron's to begin here," Vento told TMZ.com.
The VIP booth at Geno's has previously hosted numerous celebrities, including Shaquille O'Neal, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Travis Kelce, and Philadelphia Flyers mascot Gritty.
James signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the 76ers that includes a player option, according to his agent Rich Paul. The agreement marks what James has indicated will be the final chapter of his professional basketball career. His announcement Friday included acknowledgments of Los Angeles, Miami, and Cleveland, the three cities where he previously played.
With the season's opening tip scheduled for just a couple months away, James will have limited time to explore Philadelphia's culinary landmarks before training camp begins. The city's passionate sports fans are already anticipating what the four-time NBA champion might bring to a franchise seeking its first championship since 1983.
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Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a pop culture junkie and loves to share what's happening in Hollywood and what trends are taking the world by storm.
