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The Hot Dog Shoppe Warren: 5 Shocking Changes And Secret Menu Items Revealed In 2025

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The Hot Dog Shoppe in Warren, Ohio, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a beloved Mahoning Valley institution that has been serving up its signature chili dogs for nearly eight decades. As of the current date in December 2025, the shoppe is undergoing one of the most significant transitions in its long history, involving a change in ownership, major renovations, and ambitious plans for expansion that are set to redefine its future while promising to keep its nostalgic charm intact. The deep-rooted history and the iconic "spinning weenie" sign continue to draw crowds, but the business operations are now charting a new course.

The recent developments, including a high-profile sale and subsequent financial resolutions, have put this Trumbull County landmark back in the spotlight, sparking curiosity among long-time patrons and new food enthusiasts alike. This article dives deep into the shoppe's fascinating origins, the new leadership aiming to take the brand national, and the menu staples that have made it a culinary legend in Northeast Ohio.

The Hot Dog Shoppe: A Legacy of Paul Trevelline and New Ownership

The story of The Hot Dog Shoppe begins with a post-World War II entrepreneurial spirit. The founder, Paul Trevelline, established the original location in Warren, Ohio, in 1946 after returning home from his service. Initially, Trevelline opened a small knickknack shop, but when sales proved slow, he took a chance on selling hot dogs—a decision that quickly took off and cemented his legacy. His philosophy was simple: no shortcuts, no gimmicks, just quality food made right.

For decades, the business remained a cherished family-owned enterprise, expanding to a three-unit chain across the Mahoning Valley. However, in a major development, the family sold the three Hot Dog Shoppe locations—in Warren, Girard, and East Liverpool—to a new ownership group in early 2024.

The Vojnovic Brothers: New Stewards of the Chili Dog Empire

The new owners are Greg Vojnovic and his brother, Nick Vojnovic, both seasoned veterans of the restaurant industry. The acquisition was made under the entity Hot Dog Shoppe Holdings LLC. Greg Vojnovic, who now leads the brand, is an industry executive with a track record of success, offering a fresh, professional perspective on the beloved regional chain.

This transition was not without its challenges. The East Liverpool location faced a brief financial hurdle when a foreclosure notice was filed by Columbiana County for approximately $33,000 in back taxes. However, owner Greg Vojnovic quickly confirmed that the issue was resolved, ensuring the continued operation of the shoppe and demonstrating the new ownership's commitment to the brand's stability.

The new owners have immediately invested in the future of the flagship location. Renovations are currently underway at the Warren Hot Dog Shoppe, promising to refresh the historic building while maintaining the classic diner atmosphere that patrons expect.

The Iconic Menu: More Than Just a Hot Dog

What keeps customers returning to the Warren Hot Dog Shoppe is the menu—a simple, classic lineup built around a few perfect items. The shoppe is famous for its chili dogs, which are topped with a proprietary, savory chili sauce that has become the brand’s culinary calling card.

Key menu items that have achieved legendary status include:

  • The Chili Dog: The undisputed champion, featuring the signature chili sauce and often topped with cheese and onions. Many loyal customers still "smash three chili cheese and onions" in one sitting.
  • All Beef Hot Dog: A high-quality option for those who prefer a classic, unadorned dog.
  • The Big Deal: A popular combo that offers significant value for hungry patrons.
  • French Fries with Sauce: The thick-cut French Fries are often ordered with a side of the famous chili (available by the cup or pint), making it a unique and essential side dish.
  • Family Fry: A large portion of their popular fries, perfect for sharing.
  • Cheeseburger Combo: The menu also features classic American diner fare, including a satisfying cheeseburger option.

The chili sauce itself is a deeply guarded secret, with some former employees even claiming to have recreated the recipe at home, highlighting its legendary status. The consistency and flavor of this sauce are what truly set The Hot Dog Shoppe apart from other regional hot dog chains and have made it a culinary landmark in the Youngstown-Warren metropolitan area.

The Future: Expansion and National Ambitions

Under the leadership of the Vojnovic brothers, The Hot Dog Shoppe is no longer content to remain a regional secret. The new owners have publicly stated their intent to expand the chain beyond its current three locations.

This expansion strategy is focused on refining the business model, leveraging the brand's deep history, and introducing the unique Ohio-style chili dog to new markets. The brothers' extensive experience in the fast-casual restaurant sector suggests a professionalized approach to growth, including potential franchising opportunities, which could see the iconic spinning weenie sign appear in new states.

The focus on freshness and quality remains a core tenet of the new business strategy. The commitment to using quality ingredients and maintaining the original recipes is crucial for satisfying the fiercely loyal customer base while attracting new patrons in expansion territories. The combination of a nostalgic, time-tested product and modern, experienced leadership positions The Hot Dog Shoppe for an exciting future.

Topical Authority Entities and Keywords

The Hot Dog Shoppe’s rich history and recent business activity make it a focal point for several key entities and topical discussions:

  • Geographical Entities: Warren, Ohio; Trumbull County; Mahoning Valley; Girard; East Liverpool; Northeast Ohio; Youngstown-Warren metropolitan area.
  • Historical & Business Entities: Paul Trevelline; Greg Vojnovic; Nick Vojnovic; Hot Dog Shoppe Holdings LLC; World War II (WWII); Foreclosure notice; Columbiana County.
  • Culinary Entities: Chili Dog; All Beef Hot Dog; Chili Sauce; French Fries with Sauce; Family Fry; Cheeseburger; Big Deal; Diner food; Fast-casual dining.
  • Iconic Elements: Spinning Weenie sign; Renovations; Restaurant industry veterans.

The continued success and planned expansion of the Warren Hot Dog Shoppe are a testament to the enduring appeal of classic American comfort food. The new era under the Vojnovic brothers promises to honor the legacy of Paul Trevelline while introducing the beloved chili dog to a wider audience, ensuring that this Ohio landmark continues to thrive for generations to come.

The Hot Dog Shoppe Warren: 5 Shocking Changes and Secret Menu Items Revealed in 2025
warren hot dog shoppe
warren hot dog shoppe

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