About Us

Hot Dog Charlie's, known for its mini-hot dogs and special chili meat sauce, is a family business that goes back three generations. Hot Dog Charlie's which was first known as New Way Lunch, was started in 1922 by a Greek immigrant. For years, Hot Dog Charlie's has been loved by adults and children and today the same craving for this flavor in hot dogs continues to grow.

Back in 1922, before the health codes were placed, Strates served his mini dogs by lining up a dozen along the length of his arm to be dressed in mustard, onions, and Charlie's famous secrete chili meat sauce recipe, who many have tried to duplicate over the years with no success. Today, you'll still find photos and news stories of the famous "Hairy Arm" technique in newspapers that are posted on the walls f its three locations.

Thereafter, the first store was opened local customers and those that came from miles always to buy Charlie's mini hot dog for 5 cents started calling the Strates "Charlie'. Eventually, the business name was changed to Hot Dog Charlie's.

Today, Hot Dog Charlie's is run and operated by owners Charles Fentekes and Florence Dimitriadis. Presently, there are four locations, Clifton Park, Cohoes, Troy, and Rensselaer.

Have you tried our hot dogs yet? Come see what all the talk is about. We hope to see you at our local hot dog shop soon.