Plush Pup 

Plush Pup Joins the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame 

In the world of Chicago’s bustling food scene, few honors carry as much weight among hot dog purveyors as induction into the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame. And on April 17, 2018, Plush Pup — located at 5344 N. Cumberland Ave — was officially welcomed in as the 119ᵗʰ inductee. 

This isn’t just a nod to great sausages — it’s a recognition of legacy, consistency, and local love.

The Hall of Fame & What It Means

Vienna Beef established its Hall of Fame to spotlight hot dog operations that:

• Have demonstrated longevity

• Have become neighborhood landmarks

• Maintain outstanding product quality and customer satisfaction
  
  

Only a select few—out of thousands of Vienna Beef customers—have earned this accolade since the Hall’s inception in 2006. 

For Plush Pup, this induction is a validation of decades of serving up comfort foods with heart.

The Story of Plush Pup: More Than Just Hot Dogs

While the induction centers on their Vienna Beef fare, Plush Pup is far more than a hot dog stand.

• The business has been part of Chicago’s northwest side for four decades. 

• Our owner, George Bistolis, has prioritized consistency, quality, and strong community ties — especially over the last 15 years. 

• Plush Pup’s menu is a broad delight: beyond Vienna franks, they offer burgers, Greek specialties, chicken, ribs, gyros, and more. 

• Some staff members have served here for 30+ years, weaving their own stories into the restaurant’s fabric.
  
  

In short: Plush Pup operates not just as an eatery, but as a living local institution.

Why This Induction Matters — Locally & Historically

For the Neighborhood

• Recognition like this deepens community pride. A local joint getting Hall of Fame status says: “You matter.”

• It draws attention, even from outside the immediate area, to a spot that might otherwise fly under the radar.
  
  

For Chicago Food Culture

• Chicago’s identity is inseparable from its hot dogs, beef sandwiches, and street‐corner stands.

• Vienna Beef itself is woven into the city’s culinary DNA (founded in 1893, still iconic today). 

• By inducting establishments like Plush Pup, the Hall of Fame helps preserve and celebrate that local flavor and tradition.

What to Experience at Plush Pup (If You Haven’t Already)

If you find yourself in the Cumberland/Northwest side neighborhood, definitely stop in. Here are a few must-tries:

• A classic Vienna Beef hot dog — now Hall of Fame certified

• Our burgers and Greek specialties — a customer favorite

• Gyros, ribs, chicken, and other comfort staples

• Friendly service and an atmosphere that blends diner charm with neighborhood heart
  
  

With ample parking, a long history, and deep roots in the community, Plush Pup has become a go-to for many locals.