News

Dat Dog sets sights on Austin

September 26, 2017

Less than five months after signing an agreement for the development of 25 locations throughout the Houston metro area, Dat Dog has turned its attention to other parts of Texas for expansion, including Austin, according to a company press release.

While there are no set locations at this point, company president Bill DiPaola believes the market can hold as many as five restaurants. According to DiPaola, there are several areas of town that would be ideal for a Dat Dog location, including Sixth Street, Rainey Street, Hyde Park/North Loop and, of course, the Warehouse District.

"Hot Dogs are one of America's favorite foods," DiPaola said in a company press release. "They are quintessential to our culture. From ballparks and fairs to backyard grills and street vendors, hot dogs have put a smile on peoples' faces,” DiPaola said.

“When it comes to eating and drinking in Austin, there are many fine neighborhoods to choose from. As we plan our next growth phase, we look forward to beginning our search for enthusiastic franchise partners to lead Dat Dog's local expansion."

Dat Dog's plan for Austin expansion also comes less than seven months after DiPaola announced his intentions to expand the brand's footprint across the South through franchising and corporate-owned restaurants. He said he would like to see about 40 to 50 restaurants open up in the next five years in an area stretching from Texas to the tip of Florida.

Founded in 2011, Dat Dog features sausages made from crawfish, alligator and duck, in addition to the traditional beef wiener. The more than 30 toppings available at no extra charge – including unconventional options like blackberry sauce, guacamole, Sriracha mayo and crawfish etouffee – allow customers to create their very own "jazz improvisation in a bun," DiPaola said.

The restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan sausage options, in addition to a hot dog wrapped in a lettuce leaf instead of a traditional bun for carb avoiders.

"Dat Dog is a place where amazing and affordable food, fun-loving staff, and bright colors provide you with a sanctuary of joy from the moment you cross its threshold. Combining the soul of Louisiana with the sophistication of Europe, our artfully crafted cuisine of hot dogs and sausages are a thing of beauty," DiPaola said. "I have no doubt that Austinites will love our quirky culture — along with our crazy delicious dogs."

Including a franchise fee of $50,000, the total investment necessary to begin operation of a Dat Dog franchise is between $475,405 and $927,675, DiPaola said