Philadelphia cheesesteak shops roll out royal welcome for LeBron James

Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are rolling out special tributes after James announced he’ll join the 76ers for the 2026-27 season.

Philadelphia has welcomed newly signed Sixer LeBron James with a cheesesteak celebration fit for a king. Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are preparing special treatment for the NBA star after he announced that he will join the Philadelphia 76ers for the 2026-27 season.

Pat’s is temporarily changing how customers can order its classic Whiz Wit in James’ honor. Fans who ask for “The King’s Way” will receive the same cheesesteak made with steak, Cheez Whiz and onions, giving the familiar order a royal nickname without changing the recipe.

Frank Olivieri, the third-generation owner of Pat’s, said the tribute offers customers another way to request the shop’s signature sandwich while celebrating Philadelphia’s newest basketball star.

Across the street, Geno’s is extending an even more personal invitation. The restaurant has reserved its closely guarded VIP booth for James and offered to bring him behind the counter for a cheesesteak-making lesson with president Geno Vento.

Vento told TMZ Sports that the booth “already has LeBron’s name on it.” He said Geno’s would welcome James with a cheesesteak, hand him a spatula and teach him how to work the grill.

The restaurant has hosted a long list of famous visitors, including Shaquille O’Neal, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Travis Kelce and Philadelphia Flyers mascot Gritty.

The royal cheesesteak reception comes after James announced that Philadelphia will be the final stop of his NBA career. The 41-year-old said he still wants to compete for another championship and believes he can help the 76ers reach that goal.

James will begin a record-extending 24th NBA season on a roster led by Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown. Philadelphia becomes the fourth franchise of his career following Cleveland, Miami and Los Angeles.

Philadelphia welcomes LeBron James as both a basketball legend and a future guest at two of the city’s best-known food landmarks. Whether he orders “The King’s Way” at Pat’s or accepts Geno’s offer to learn the grill, the longtime cheesesteak rivals have found common ground in celebrating the city’s newest superstar.