Mike Feld has built a business recreating his childhood memories of Chicago-style hot dogs.
The Windy City native and his wife, Beth Feld, opened Hot Dog Heaven in 1987 after failing to find the classic Chicago dish up to their standards in Central Florida.
Since then, the Orlando restaurant has become a local institution known for its commitment to offering an authentic Chicago hot dog — from the ingredients (Vienna hot dogs and buns as well as mustard, hot peppers, relish pickles and celery salt from the Windy City) down to the paper lining used in the serving baskets.
Even its speared hot dog sign is inspired by Chicago — it’s a replica of one from Wolfy’s, a hot dog restaurant Mike Feld visited as a child.
When the eatery first opened 31 years ago, locals were mystified as to the hot dog’s $1.69 price tag and the special ingredients used.
“We won people over as soon as they tried it,” Mike Feld said.
The menu has expanded through the years, offering a variety of topping combinations including sauerkraut to chili, cheese and slaw. Hot Dog Heaven itself has grown from 500 to 1,500 square feet.
“I give the credit to our customers,” Feld said. “Our customers support us through those times.”
