As the Four Seasons belted out, “Late December back in 63,” that’s about when Dean Matsas opened a hot dog stand in Chicago’s south loop at Franklin and Van Buren. Several other locations followed a few years later. These stands set the stage for his son Strat to create his own place in Franklin Park called simply…Strats. With his 60’s retro look from the music to the old Coke and Ovaltine signs and of course the food, Strat was had created a customer friendly gem. By preparing great food including his Vienna hot dogs, burgers, and even a few corned beef sandwiches Strat was on his way. Even celebrities from Madonna to MJ have checked in and enjoyed the fare.
Strat's 50's Diner
Inducted on 29th Oct 2008
