Markella’s Gyros In Hot Dog Hall Of Fame

OAK FOREST, IL -- A popular stop for gyros in Oak Forest is now a member of Vienna Beef’s Hot Dog Hall of Fame. Markella’s Gyros, located at 15500 S. Cicero, received word in early April that they are among the newest members of the distinguished group of hot dog makers. The Daily Southtown reported on the induction ceremony, when top officials from Vienna Beef paid a visit to the local eatery.

“It’s an honor,” said Markella Sarantopulos, a manager at Markella’s and for whom the restaurant is named.

Sarantopulos said the business was nominated by Vienna Beef for being a longtime customer and user of their products and had to write an essay describing why they are unique and why they should win.

“And then we actually won,” Markella said. “That was very cool.”

The history of Markella’s goes back a few generations to when her Sarantopulos’ grandfather first opened a stand on 48th and Ashland in the city of Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood. Years later, in 1994, her father moved the family business to Oak Forest and renamed it after her.

“We’ve been loyal to Vienna Beef the whole time,” she said.

Sarantopulos says the business values itself on the “quality over quantity” motto and providing “good service and good food.”

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