Hot Dog Heaven Rises from the Ashes
A Legendary Eatery Returns to Fort Lauderdale
You don’t have to be a zombie to come back to life. Sometimes, thanks to popular demand, a business returns from the dead. A legendary Broward eatery has done just that, and the only thing fans can say is… hot dog!
The Story of Hot Dog Heaven
In 1975, Hot Dog Heaven opened its doors in Fort Lauderdale, serving up authentic Chicago-style hot dogs and other classic American fare. When the original owner retired, the restaurant closed its doors, but not for long. Joe Barra, a Fort Lauderdale resident, stepped in to save the institution, restoring it to its former glory.
A Passion for Preservation
"I love Fort Lauderdale. I live right here, and I wanted to continue with this legend that he created," says Joe Barra, the new owner.
A Taste of the Windy City
Hot Dog Heaven is the only place in Broward County where you can get authentic Chicago hot dogs, made with Vienna beef and served with all the fixin’s. The secret to their legendary dogs? The combination of mustard, relish, onions, pickles, and tomatoes, all served on a poppy seed bun.
A Menu to Savor
The menu hasn’t changed much since the original days, and that’s just the way Joe Barra likes it. "I think the people love the food the way it is and our menu, so I think it was important to keep it the same way," he says. You can get your hot dog with mustard, grilled onions and sauerkraut, or with chili and chopped onions. Or, try it the way they eat ’em in Illinois – with mustard, pickles, relish, onions, more pickles, and tomatoes.
Other Delights
But it’s not just hot dogs. Hot Dog Heaven also serves up Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style, as well as sausage and peppers hero. The restaurant’s classic decor, complete with 1970s-style tile and tables, adds to the nostalgic charm.
A Community Favorite
Regular customer Willie Wright sums it up: "I like this place, I’ve been here forever. I bring my kids, my friends, and all my friends over. He’s gotta keep up the good work, and he’s doing that."
Getting to Hot Dog Heaven
Address: 101 East Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Phone: (phone number)
Website: hotdogheavenfl.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best way to eat a hot dog at Hot Dog Heaven?
A: Try it the way they eat ’em in Illinois – with mustard, pickles, relish, onions, more pickles, and tomatoes.
Q: What makes the hot dogs so special?
A: The combination of mustard, relish, onions, pickles, and tomatoes, all served on a poppy seed bun.
Q: Can I get a Chicago-style Italian beef sandwich?
A: Yes, try it with giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable mix, for an extra kick.
Q: Can I dine in or take out?
A: Yes, you can dine in or take out – the choice is yours!
Q: Is Hot Dog Heaven open for lunch and dinner?
A: Yes, Hot Dog Heaven is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Friday, and for brunch on Saturday and Sunday.
