Geno's removes controversial English-only sign

The controversial sign at Geno's Steaks requesting that customers order in English has been quietly removed.

An employee answering the phone at the popular eating destination in South Philadelphia on Wednesday night confirmed a report by online __news outlet Billy Penn that the sign had been taken down.

The employee, who did not want to discuss the matter, referred a reporter to a publicist, who was not immediately available for comment.

The sign, which read "This is America. When ordering, speak English," was placed in the ordering window in 2006 by owner Joey Vento.

The Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations in 2009 ruled against a complaint that the sign was discriminatory.

Vento, who died in 2011, argued that his sign was a political statement and complained about the commission's investigation, but he also welcomed the notoriety.

"They made me famous throughout the world," Vento said after the commission's decision. "I'm way ahead of the game. I became a hero. I've got to thank them for that."

Geno's got renewed attention last month when Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump dropped by to order some steaks for his campaign team.

The business is now owned by Vento's son, Geno.

Published: October 12, 2016 — 10:22 PM EDT | Updated: October 12, 2016 — 10:23 PM EDT
The Philadelphia Inquirer

We encourage respectful comments but reserve the right to delete anything that doesn't contribute to an engaging dialogue

Help us moderate this thread by flagging comments that violate our guidelines

Commenting policy | Comments FAQ

Help us learn more about Philly.com commenters. Click here to take this quick survey.

Comment policy:

Philly.com comments are intended to be civil, friendly conversations. Please treat other participants with respect and in a way that you would want to be treated. You are responsible for what you say. And please, stay on topic. If you see an objectionable post, please report it to us using the "Report Abuse" option.

Please note that comments are monitored by Philly.com staff. We reserve the right at all times to remove any information or materials that are unlawful, threatening, abusive, libelous, defamatory, obscene, vulgar, pornographic, profane, indecent or otherwise objectionable. Personal attacks, especially on other participants, are not permitted. We reserve the right to permanently block any user who violates these terms and conditions.

Additionally comments that are long, have multiple paragraph breaks, include code, or include hyperlinks may not be posted.

Load comments