Hot Dog on a Stick Reopens Their Original Store by the Santa Monica Pier

Published on April 18, 2023

Hot Dog on a Stick Stomps Out Free Lemonade for Grand Reopening of Original Muscle Beach Location

Hot Dog on a Stick, the all-American, beach-born brand, announces an official grand reopening celebration to commemorate the refreshed look of the chain’s original Muscle Beach location on April 22. The beloved, red hot dog shack closed for a major remodel just before the pandemic. The new building sits right in the same place as the original “Hot Dog Stick” and sports a familiar red exterior. Since reopening in Oct. 2022, the restaurant has been planning the ultimate party for fans to enjoy during the anniversary month of Hot Dog on a Stick’s very first opening.

The “Grand Re-Opening” celebration kicks off with a splash — free lemonade! From 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on April 22, Hotdoggers will be handing out free small Original Lemonades. Fans can even try their hand at Hot Dog on a Stick’s signature lemonade-making method, lemon stomping.

Hot Dog on a Stick is also looking forward to welcoming beloved former employees, lovingly known as “Hotdoggers,” at a reunion at the grand reopening. All current and former Hot Dog on a Stick employees are invited. The brand will also be giving away exclusive swag including striped t-shirts, hats and more.

“Celebrating this moment for Hot Dog on a Stick is something we’ve been looking forward to for some time,” said Jenn Johnston, President of FAT Brands’ Quick-Service Division. “Hot Dog on a Stick is an icon in American pop culture, and it is only fitting to throw a fun-filled beach bash to celebrate the refreshed look of the stand that made us famous almost 80 years ago. We look forward to seeing fans and our amazing Hotdoggers at our beachside event.”

What’s a corn dog?

The Santa Monica Pier is visited by hungry guest from all over the world. Although the humble corn dog is a ubiquitous snack often found on school lunch menus and fast food restaurants here in the United States, we often get asked, “What is a CORN DOG?”

A corn dog is a hot dog that is coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter and deep fried. It is a popular American snack food that is often served at fairs, carnivals, and other events.

The exact origin of the corn dog is unknown, but there are several competing claims. One claim is that the corn dog was invented in the 1930s by a carnival vendor in Texas. Another claim is that the corn dog was invented in the 1940s by a restaurant owner in Oregon.

Corn dogs are so good for a few reasons. First, the cornmeal batter gives them a crispy, crunchy exterior. Second, the hot dog inside is juicy and flavorful. Third, the combination of the cornmeal batter and the hot dog is just plain delicious.

Corn dogs are a popular snack food for a reason. They are tasty, affordable, and easy to eat. Whether you are at a fair, carnival, or just at home, a corn dog is always a good choice.

History of Hot Dog on a Stick in Santa Monica, CA

Hot Dog on a Stick is a fast food chain that was founded in Santa Monica, California in 1946. The company was founded by Dave Barham, who opened the first location on the Muscle Beach boardwalk. Barham’s original idea was to sell lemonade and ice cream, but he quickly realized that corn dogs were the real draw. He began selling corn dogs on sticks, and the rest is history.

Hot Dog on a Stick quickly became a popular destination for beachgoers and tourists alike. The company expanded to other locations in California, and by the 1960s, it had opened stores in other states as well. Today, Hot Dog on a Stick has over 70 locations in the United States.

After a lengthy remodel during the pandemic, the original Hot Dog on a Stick location behind the pier is still open today. It continues to be a popular spot for refreshing lemonade or hand-held snack, and it is a great place to experience a piece of California history.

Fun Facts!:

The original Hot Dog on a Stick location was opened in 1946.
The company was founded by Dave Barham.
The first menu item was lemonade.
Corn dogs were added to the menu in 1947.
The company expanded to other locations in California in the 1950s.
The company expanded to other states in the 1960s.
Hot Dog on a Stick has over 70 locations in the United States today.
The original Hot Dog on a Stick location in Santa Monica is still open today.

About Hot Dog on a Stick

Established in 1946 in Southern California, Hot Dog on a Stick is known for its fresh, made-to-order hot dog on a stick and cheese on a stick products, hand-stomped natural lemonade, smiling customer service, and its iconic bright striped uniforms. Hot Dog on a Stick provides customers with a fun, all-American quick service restaurant experience, catering services for events, party packs, and fundraisers. Hot Dog on a Stick has over 50 locations in the U.S. For more information, visit www.hotdogonastick.com.

Feature image courtesy of @yetanotherfoodieaccount