About 5 years ago I was asked to check out some new local "Supposed Authentic Chicago Eatery" that was bragging about bringing the true taste of Chicago, including real Vienna Beef franks, to Roswell, GA.

So… we're living in Golden, Colorado and we're driving down Colfax Ave when my wife starts screaming, “STOP THE CAR!! STOP THE CAR!!” To my utter surprise there is a big Vienna sign. We run in and she starts yelling, “Is it really Vienna?” Joe, the owner reaches out to calm her by saying, “Calm down …. I get that reaction all the time!” Joe, as we found out, gets his stuff straight from Vienna and only serves true, authentic Chicago food including Fannie May Candies. My wife ordered so much food we could barely fit it into the car. The bun was steamed perfectly… the dog had a perfect "snap"…and the Green River Soda was that same great … strange flavor!! We went back every week and Joe was good enough to always have a lollipop for the kids and a smile for my wife!

In 2006 Vienna Beef held the "Fastest Hot Dog Maker" contest at Daley Plaza, Chicago. The jist of the contest was to give each contestant 10 mins to fix as many Chicago Style Hot Dogs as possible. Obviously, the one who made the most won! I remember the relish was flying and the mustard was everywhere. I think the winner made 32 dogs, if I remember correctly. Harry Hefman, of Harry's Hot Dogs (Chicago), at the age of 86, made 1 1/2 dogs in same amount of time. Harry had the loudest applause! Way to go, Harry!