Chicago Hot Dog Chain Portillo’s Expanding to Florida with New Bradenton Location

Portillo’s, the beloved Chicago-based restaurant chain known for its Chicago-style hot dogs and classic street food, is expanding its reach on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The company has filed preliminary plans to open a new location in Bradenton, bringing its iconic menu closer to South Florida residents.

New Location Details

The proposed Portillo’s will be located in the Marketplace at Heritage Harbour plaza, conveniently positioned off State Road 64 East and Grand Harbour Parkway. The restaurant will occupy a 6,250-square-foot building, featuring a 500-square-foot patio, dual drive-thru lanes, and a 79-space parking lot, providing ample space for visitors.

Expanding in Florida

Portillo’s already has eight locations across Florida, including spots in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Orlando. While the chain doesn’t yet have a presence in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, the Bradenton location will be the closest to South Florida, offering a taste of Chicago right on the Gulf Coast.

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A Storied History

Founded in 1963 by Dick Portillo, the chain began as a hot dog stand called The Dog House in Villa Park, Illinois, a Chicago suburb. Just four years later, the stand was rebranded as Portillo’s. Since then, the company has grown to over 70 locations in states like Arizona, Michigan, and Georgia.

The Bradenton opening will mark Portillo’s ninth location in Florida and its first in Manatee County, continuing the chain’s expansion across the Sunshine State.

Opening Timeline

Though plans for the Bradenton restaurant have been submitted to Manatee County, an official opening date has yet to be announced. When it opens, Portillo’s will bring its signature menu items—including Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and crinkle-cut fries—to an eager new audience on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

While South Florida will have to wait a bit longer for a local Portillo’s, the Bradenton location is a significant step toward satisfying the cravings of Florida residents for this Midwest favorite.

source

Alton Walker

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