Ready for some big dog energy?
Okay, picture this: you’re walking through Norfolk or Richmond and suddenly you smell it—that perfect combo of grilled dogs, melted cheese, and golden fries. That’s right. Wienerschnitzel, the world’s largest hot dog chain (and one that some people swear is better than Sonic), is officially opening seven new locations in Virginia—and it’s happening soon!
Where are the new stores going?
The rollout is happening across two major cities: Norfolk and Richmond. While exact addresses and grand opening dates haven’t been confirmed yet, the company says the new restaurants will open within the next few weeks. So if you’re in either of those cities, consider yourself lucky—you’re about to have easy access to the most iconic chili dogs this side of the Rockies.
Meet the man behind the hot dogs
The East Coast expansion is in the hands of Leon Dickey, an experienced franchisee who used to run multiple McDonald’s locations. Translation: the guy knows what he’s doing.
When asked why he chose Wienerschnitzel, Dickey said, “Wienerschnitzel immediately stuck out to me for its unique positioning and operational efficiencies.” He’s betting big on the brand, and he’s not the only one.
What’s on the menu?
This isn’t some limited version of the brand. These new Virginia spots will serve up Wienerschnitzel’s full menu, including:
- Chili Cheese Dogs
- Junkyard Dogs
- Chili Cheese Fries
- Jalapeño Poppers
- And of course, Tastee Freez soft serve for dessert
Let’s be honest—if that list doesn’t make your mouth water, we can’t be friends.
Why it matters
This expansion is a big deal, not just for hot dog fans, but for the brand itself. Wienerschnitzel has been growing fast, recently opening locations in Walmart stores and pushing into non-traditional spaces. These seven new restaurants in Virginia mark its first real move onto the East Coast.
Ted Milburn, Wienerschnitzel’s Director of Franchise Development, put it this way: “This is a major milestone for Wienerschnitzel… It’s a big step in our national growth strategy.”
Quick hot dog history
If you’re new to the brand, here’s a fun fact: Wienerschnitzel was founded in 1961 by John Galardi in Wilmington, California. Since then, it’s grown to over 340 franchised locations across 13 states. And with more than 50 new stores in development, chances are you’ll be seeing a lot more of them soon.
Read this later:
Free chicken wrap? Major fast food chain starts the Wrap Wars
Bad news for tomato lovers: prices could rise 10% as deal with major supplier country set to end
Final bite
So whether you’re team ketchup or mustard, classic or chili-loaded, get ready—Wienerschnitzel is coming to town. And if you’re in Norfolk or Richmond, that first bite of a Junkyard Dog could be just days away. Keep your eyes (and your appetite) open.
