Chicago Gets the Cup, Tampa Gets Hot Dogs

Tampa may have lost the Stanley Cup during Monday night’s shutout by the Blackhawks, but the Bay area is getting a consolation prize courtesy of Portillo’s.

The Illinois-based chain, famed for its Chicago dogs, announced Tuesday morning that it has set its sights on a Tampa expansion.

“It’s official,” the eatery posted on its website. “Portillo’s is coming to Tampa in 2016.”

The chain got its start with a single stand outside Chicago in 1963. Today is serves up all-beef hot dogs, burgers, salads and more at locations throughout Illinois, Indiana and in Arizona and California. The Tampa location will be its first in Florida.

Portillo’s officials aren’t saying exactly where the Tampa location will be built, nor are they targeting an opening month. They are, however, saying the announcement was prompted by resident requests.

“Tampa residents spent years peppering us with requests to build a restaurant – you really put us in a pickle,” the announcement stated. “So we’re thrilled we’re finally making our way to Florida.”

As for the loss of the Stanley Cup to the Blackhawks, Portillo’s says there shouldn’t be any hard feelings.

“Let’s be frank: No matter whose jersey you’re wearing, everyone will be welcome. We hope you don’t have a beef against us or our hometown team.”

Nick Scarpino, Portillo’s director of marketing, says the company is poised to sign a lease for its Tampa location soon. The location will be announced once the ink dries. As it stands, the company hopes to open its doors in Tampa in the first half of 2016.

For more information about Portillo’s, visit its website.

Photos courtesy of Portillo’s