For over 13 years, Hot Doug’s, the iconic hot dog joint in Chicago, was the go-to spot for adventurous foodies and locals alike. Owner Doug Sohn, affectionately known as Hot Doug, served up creative encased meats that set the standard for gourmet hot dogs. When the doors closed in 2014, fans were left wondering: What’s Hot Doug doing now?
The Rise of Hot Doug’s
Before we dive into what Hot Doug is doing today, let’s take a step back and explore the phenomenon that was Hot Doug’s. Opened in 2001, the unassuming hot dog stand on Chicago’s North Avenue quickly gained a reputation for its outlandish hot dog creations. From the “Mac Daddy” (topped with mac ‘n cheese, crispy bacon, and caramelized onions) to the “Kevin Pang” (featuring spicy Korean chili flakes, kimchi, and crispy garlic), Hot Doug’s menu read like a love letter to the humble hot dog.
The lines were long, but the enthusiasm was palpable. Foodies, celebrities, and even the occasional hot dog critic would pilgrimage to Hot Doug’s, all for a taste of Sohn’s innovative dogs. The small, no-frills shop became a beloved institution, earning a spot on Eater’s 38 Essential Restaurants in America and a James Beard Award nomination for Outstanding Service.
The Closing of Hot Doug’s
In 2014, after 13 years of sizzling success, Hot Doug’s abruptly closed its doors. The news sent shockwaves through the culinary world, leaving fans wondering what had triggered the sudden shutdown. Sohn cited burnout and a desire to explore new creative avenues as the reasons behind his decision. Though Hot Doug’s was gone, its legacy lived on, with many considering it a pioneer in the gourmet hot dog movement.
The Post-Hot Doug’s Era
So, what has Hot Doug been up to since the closure of his namesake restaurant? While he’s kept a relatively low profile, Sohn has remained active in the culinary world, albeit in unexpected ways.
Food Truck Adventures
In 2015, Sohn partnered with the Chicago-based food truck company, Moto Hospitality, to launch the “Hot Doug’s on Wheels” concept. The mobile eatery brought a scaled-down version of the Hot Doug’s experience to festivals, events, and even the occasional Blackhawks game. Though the truck is no longer in operation, it marked an interesting foray into the world of mobile cuisine.
Pickles and Pâté
In 2016, Sohn surprised fans by announcing the launch of Hot Doug’s Pickles, a line of artisanal pickles and condiments. The venture marked a significant departure from the hot dog universe, with Sohn citing a passion for pickling and preserving as the driving force behind the new venture. Today, Hot Doug’s Pickles can be found in specialty stores and online, boasting a devoted following among food enthusiasts.
Consulting and Collaborations
Sohn has lent his expertise to various culinary projects, including consulting stints with Chicago-based restaurants and food companies. One notable collaboration is with Portillo’s, the popular Chicago-based hot dog chain, where he helped develop limited-time hot dog offerings.
Culinary Coaching
In 2020, Sohn announced his foray into culinary coaching, offering one-on-one mentorship and menu development services to aspiring chefs and restaurateurs. This new venture marks a natural progression for the Hot Doug’s founder, who has always been eager to share his knowledge and expertise with others.
The Legacy Lives On
Hot Doug’s may be gone, but its influence can still be felt throughout the culinary world. The pioneering spirit of Sohn’s hot dog creations continues to inspire a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts. As the gourmet hot dog movement continues to evolve, Hot Doug’s remains an integral part of its DNA.
Lasting Impact on the Hot Dog Landscape
Hot Doug’s played a significant role in elevating the humble hot dog from ballpark snack to gourmet staple. The restaurant’s innovative approach to toppings, condiments, and presentation raised the bar for hot dog vendors everywhere. Today, artisanal hot dog shops and gourmet carts can be found in cities worldwide, all owing a debt of gratitude to Hot Doug’s trailblazing spirit.
The Hot Doug’s Effect on Chicago’s Food Scene
Hot Doug’s was more than just a hot dog joint – it was a catalyst for Chicago’s culinary renaissance. The restaurant’s popularity helped put the city’s culinary scene on the map, paving the way for other innovative eateries and restaurateurs. The Hot Doug’s effect can be seen in the many chef-driven restaurants, food trucks, and artisanal food shops that now call Chicago home.
What’s Next for Hot Doug?
While Sohn remains tight-lipped about his future plans, fans can take comfort in knowing that the Hot Doug’s spirit lives on through his various pursuits. Whether it’s pickles, pâté, or culinary coaching, one thing is certain – Hot Doug will continue to push the boundaries of the culinary world, inspiring a new generation of food enthusiasts and entrepreneurs.
As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, one question remains: What’s Hot Doug doing now? The answer, much like Sohn’s most iconic hot dog creations, is a delicious mystery waiting to be unraveled.
What is Hot Doug’s doing now?
Hot Doug’s, the iconic hot dog joint in Chicago, closed its doors in 2014 after 13 years of operation. Since then, Doug Sohn, the owner and creator of Hot Doug’s, has taken on various projects. He has made appearances at food festivals, hosted hot dog-themed events, and even launched a line of artisanal hot dogs.
Currently, Doug is focusing on his latest venture, a gourmet hot dog cart called “Doug’s Dogs” that can be found at various events and festivals around the city. He is also working on a cookbook that showcases his unique hot dog creations and recipes.
What made Hot Doug’s so popular?
Hot Doug’s was more than just a hot dog joint – it was an experience. The restaurant was known for its quirky decor, featuring hundreds of hot dog-themed trinkets and memorabilia. But what really set it apart was the creativity and variety of hot dogs on the menu. From classic Chicago-style dogs to more adventurous options like the “Mac Daddy” (topped with mac and cheese and bacon) or the “Foie Gras” (topped with seared foie gras and fig jam), there was something for every palate.
The restaurant’s popularity was also due in part to Doug’s charismatic personality and commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients. He was always experimenting with new flavors and toppings, and his passion for hot dogs was infectious. Whether you were a foodie, a hot dog enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and casual dining experience, Hot Doug’s was the place to be.
What was the most popular hot dog at Hot Doug’s?
The most popular hot dog at Hot Doug’s was undoubtedly the “Chicago-Style Hot Dog,” which featured an all-beef hot dog served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, sport peppers, and a pickle spear. This classic dog was a staple on the menu and a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
However, Hot Doug’s was also known for its more adventurous and creative hot dogs, such as the “Movie Star” (topped with caramelized onions and truffle aioli) or the “Elvis” (topped with peanut butter, banana, and bacon). These unique flavor combinations helped set Hot Doug’s apart from other hot dog joints and earned it a loyal following.
Will Hot Doug’s reopen?
While there have been rumors of a potential Hot Doug’s revival, there are currently no plans to reopen the restaurant. Doug has stated that he is focusing on his new ventures and exploring other opportunities in the food industry.
That being said, Doug has not ruled out the possibility of reopening Hot Doug’s in the future. He has expressed a willingness to consider reviving the restaurant if the right opportunity arises, but for now, he is happy to focus on his new projects and continue to share his passion for hot dogs with the world.
Can I still get Hot Doug’s merch?
Yes, you can still get your hands on some iconic Hot Doug’s merchandise! Doug still sells a range of hot dog-themed swag, including t-shirts, hoodies, and hats, at his events and online.
From retro-style posters to hot dog-shaped keychains, there’s something for every fan of Hot Doug’s. Doug has also been known to release limited-edition merchandise collaborations with other brands and artists, so be sure to keep an eye out for those special releases.
Will Doug write a cookbook?
Yes, Doug is currently working on a cookbook that will feature a collection of his favorite hot dog recipes, including some of the most popular creations from Hot Doug’s. The cookbook will also include stories and anecdotes from Doug’s time at the restaurant, as well as tips and tricks for creating the perfect hot dog at home.
The cookbook is expected to be released in the near future, and fans of Hot Doug’s can’t wait to get their hands on it. It will be a must-have for anyone who loves hot dogs and wants to bring a taste of Hot Doug’s magic into their own kitchen.
How can I follow Doug’s latest adventures?
Doug is active on social media, where he regularly shares updates on his latest projects and events. You can follow him on Instagram and Twitter to stay up-to-date on his latest hot dog exploits.
Doug also has a website and newsletter where he shares news, behind-the-scenes peeks, and exclusive offers. By following Doug on social media or signing up for his newsletter, you’ll be the first to know about upcoming events, new product releases, and other hot dog-related happenings.