Tobi-wan
Google
Since the early 90's, I used to go to Hot Dog Heaven frequently when I lived and worked in Broward County. Even after I moved to Lake Worth, I would still try to stop by whenever I was in the area. I was saddened to hear that Barry had sold Hot Dog Heaven last year. Anyway, yesterday I finally had an opportunity to go and enjoy a Chicago hot dog at what was once, my favorite hot dog joint in Florida.
Upon entering, I noticed that some cosmetic changes had been made since my last visit. However, the most noticeable difference was the absence of the warm welcome one would receive from Barry when you walked in the door. The countertop was full of boxes of Vienna Beef hot dogs buns, so you couldn't really see the employees working on food orders. No longer does one enter and go the right to place their order and watch as their hot dogs are constructed to order before their eyes. Now, you order at the register and your name is called when your food is ready.
I was most disappointed when I was told they would not honor my full Hot Dog Heaven reward card. (see picture) In my opinion, that was a huge mistake by the new owner/management. I was told that perhaps a new rewards card was coming. When? HDH has been under new management for months. Anyway, too late. The damage was already done.
The hot dog and fries themselves were good, but that was primarily because they still use Vienna Beef, which in my opinion, are the best. But something about it felt off. Barry Star understood Chicago. He understood Chicago Hot Dogs. They way he would rotate the steamed buns so they would not get too soggy, and tap them open with his hands before using a tong to place a hot dog into it. He understood customer service and warm welcomes. I'm not so sure the new management does.
As I left, I did not hear the "So long." or "Have a great day." that Barry and/or his other employees used to say as you walked out.
I left Hot Dog Heaven saddened to learn that it just wasn't what it used to be and that it was most likely the last time I would walk in and out it's doors.