​It was nearly three decades ago That Vicki and her family had this desire to rebuild a hot dog restaurant near St. Patrick’s High School on Chicago’s northwest side. Twenty-eight years later, Vicki Bertucci Elmore looks back at The Dog Stop business they’ve created, the customers they’ve pleased and the community they’ve nurtured.
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Vienna Beef hot dogs, polish sausage and other products have been along for the ride with The Dog Stop’s homemade soups and Italian beef, as well as other menu favorites. They have never turned their backs on charity and community events such as with St. Pat’s and St Baldrick’s, Fenwick High School and sponsoring softball and Little Leagues. They have often worked with local police projects with Lt. Johnny Garrido and the 16th Precinct, and the 25th Precinct, as well. Joe Bertucci, Vicki’s son, has assumed the reins in the past year having grown up with the business and following a college, a Master’s degree and teaching credentials. Joe has added new ideas, like their hot dog of the month program and his involvement with the Illinois Restaurant Association. The Dog Stop has also received the Recognition Award for the 25th District.