Netflix’s gripping docuseries Mob War: Philadelphia vs. The Mafia has reignited interest in Joseph “Skinny Joey” Merlino, the notorious Philadelphia crime figure. But where is Joey Merlino today, and what’s he doing after decades of legal battles and alleged mob connections?
Table of Contents
Joey Merlino Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joseph Salvatore Merlino |
| Nickname | “Skinny Joey” |
| Born | March 13, 1962 (Age 63) |
| Birthplace | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Current Location | Philadelphia & Boca Raton, Florida |
| Business | Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks |
| Status | Restaurant Owner & Podcast Host |
From Mobster to Entrepreneur
Joey Merlino now runs a thriving cheesesteak restaurant and co-hosts a popular podcast, marking a dramatic transformation from his alleged past as Philadelphia’s mob boss. In late March 2025, Merlino opened Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia, attracting celebrity fans including rapper Fat Joe, Amber Rose, and former Eagles player Jason Kelce.
The restaurant, located near Philadelphia’s stadium district, has become a cultural phenomenon. Lines often stretch for two hours, with visitors flying in from other states just to taste the famous sandwiches made with custom rolls from Aversa’s Bakery.
The Netflix Documentary Connection
The Netflix series chronicles the violent 1990s mob war between Merlino and then-boss John Stanfa. The three-episode docuseries features interviews with law enforcement and former associates, chronicling Merlino’s rise and ultimate fall, earning him the nickname “John Gotti of Passyunk Avenue”.
However, Merlino maintains that he was never involved in organized crime, stating “I was no altar boy. I’ve gambled. I’ve received stolen goods. I never did no violence. I never did none of that”.
Life After Prison
Merlino was convicted in 2001 of racketeering offenses including extortion, bookmaking, and receiving stolen property, receiving a 14-year federal sentence and serving about 11 years before his March 2011 release. Since then, he’s rebuilt his life through legitimate business ventures.
Beyond the restaurant, Merlino co-hosts The Skinny With Joey Merlino podcast with Joe “Lil Snuff” Perri, launched in September 2023, discussing everything from NFL football to prison reform and politics.
Current Lifestyle and Future Plans
Merlino splits his time between Philadelphia and a $400,000 Boca Raton, Florida townhouse. His entrepreneurial ambitions extend beyond one location—he’s planning franchise expansion for Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks.
Despite his public persona and business success, according to Mob War: Philadelphia vs. The Mafia, the FBI is still keeping tabs on him.
For more insights into crime documentaries and true crime entertainment, check out our latest streaming reviews and Netflix documentary coverage.
FAQs
Is Joey Merlino still involved in organized crime?
Merlino has repeatedly denied any current involvement in organized crime since his 2011 release from prison. He maintains he’s focused entirely on his restaurant business and podcast. According to reports, he was allegedly “shelved” by the Philadelphia organization in 2024 after stepping into social media and podcasting, though this remains unverified.
Where can I visit Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks?
Skinny Joey’s Cheesesteaks is located at 3020 South Broad Street in Philadelphia, near the city’s sports complex. The restaurant opened in March 2025 and has become one of Philadelphia’s hottest dining destinations, with celebrity endorsements and lines often stretching for hours.
