Flames broke out early Thursday morning at a South Philadelphia cheesesteak joint co-owned by Joey Merlino, a man no stranger to public scrutiny with his past convictions and alleged mob ties. This establishment, formerly known as Ace of Steaks, now carries the moniker of Skinny Joey's Cheesesteaks — a testament to Merlino's nickname and the new direction he seeks to steer his entrepreneurial endeavors, FOX29 reported.
Back in March, Merlino had taken to social media to announce his ambitious plans to gut and transform the place into the "cleanest, best cheesesteak place in the city," as per a video on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "We're going to be the cleanest, best cheesesteak place in the city. If you're going to any sporting event — Flyers, Sixers, Phillies, concerts, Eagles — come by here. Stop and see me," Merlino boasted, "I'll be behind the grill making steaks," according to footage, as per PhillyVoice.
The fire, which occurred at the South Broad Street establishment, prompted an ongoing arson investigation, though the authorities have stated the flames caused only minor damage. Despite the incident, motives and potential suspects remain unknown, with the absence of nearby cameras slowing the course of the inquiry. Neither Merlino nor his attorney opted to comment on the case, 6abc noted.
Joey Merlino, who splits his time between Philadelphia and Florida, has recently been riding the wave of success with 'The Skinny with Joe Merlino,' a podcast that seems to have garnered an attentive audience. As to the progress of renovations at the cheesesteak shop before the arson, details are scant. The investigation into the fire is set to uncover not just the perpetrator but also the motives behind targeting Merlino's latest business venture.
