Pink’s Hot Dogs is celebrating National Chili Dog Day with a special event on July 31. (photo courtesy of Pink’s)

Pink’s Hot Dogs, the iconic Hollywood eatery since 1939, was recently named “Best Hot Dog Stand in the United States” by Fodor’s Travel Guide – a title that owner Richard Pink is celebrating with relish.

“We are absolutely thrilled with being named No. 1 hot dog stand in America. It’s a testament to the passion of our staff, the authenticity of Pink’s – an 85-year-old hot dog stand that was founded by my parents by purchasing a push cart for $50,” Pink said. “If my parents were around today, it would absolutely mean the world to them, that something that they founded back in 1939 has now become a true Hollywood legend.”

For decades, Pink’s has delighted Angelenos from all walks of life with a creative and ever-evolving lineup of hot dogs featuring just about every topping imaginable. From humble beginnings to a star-studded clientele of over 250 celebrities enshrined on its “Wall of Fame,” Pink’s is a true Hollywood success story.

The recent honor is the latest in a list of awards and accolades for the longtime business. In 2024, Pink’s was awarded “Small Business of the Year” for Assembly District 51 by Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Los Angeles). In 2018, the corner of Melrose and La Brea avenues was designated Pink’s Square by the city of Los Angeles.

“It’s a little bit like winning an Oscar, being that we’re in Hollywood,” Pink’s said. “But we have to acknowledge all the great hot dog stands that have inspired us through the years, and there are many great hot dogs stand in Los Angeles and the country. So we share this honor because I think we bring credit to all of us.”

Pink’s credited the No. 1 designation to the restaurant’s consistency – still serving original recipes dating back to 1939 – in addition to a dedicated staff, an inviting atmosphere, a commitment to authenticity and an innovative menu.

On July 16 –  to celebrate National Hot Dog Day – Pink’s gave out its first 250 hot dogs of the day for free, with proceeds from the next 250 hot dogs benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“Even though Pink’s is a family business established to put food on the table for our family all these years, we try to give back with our program called Chili Dogs for Charity,” Pink said. “Given that it’s National Hot Dog Day, we’re recognizing that day and recognizing the gratitude that we have for 85 years of business in Los Angeles.”

For those who missed National Hot Dog Day, a similar celebration will take place on July 31 – National Chili Dog Day. Chili Dogs for Charity will return, with proceeds from chili dog sales going toward a charity to be announced.

Pink also encouraged hot dog fans to stop by the restaurant’s new stand at the L.A. Zoo, adjacent to the Cape Vulture Plaza. Pink said the stand is a great way for zoo visitors and families to experience Pink’s.

Pink’s Hot Dogs is located at 709 N. La Brea Ave. The L.A. Zoo is located at 5333 Zoo Drive.