DAVIS, Calif — A Davis hotdog shop might be small, but they're big on flavor.
With a last name like "Franks," being in the hotdog business is meant to be.
"We say it's destiny. We were meant to serve hotdogs and be the best at it," said co-owner Tad Franks.
Owned by father and son, Ivan and Tad Franks, The Hotdogger's spicy Thai Chicken dog won the title of 'Best Bite in Town' on the Food Network's premier episode of the new show, hosted by restauranteur and Northern California native Guy Fieri.
On the show, three judges search for the best bite in town, each visiting two Davis eateries. But only one could win, and The Hotdogger took home the coveted title.
"We're truly honored to represent Davis," said Tad Franks. "To take home the 'Best Bite in Town' was truly amazing and validating for our family's legacy of 30 years working here."
Ivan Franks purchased the business in 1994, and they've been at the 140-square foot shop ever since.
"I was literally two when they bought the place and grew up under the counter, so I’ve been here my whole life. So it meant a lot being on there, and Guy Fieri and the whole production crew," said Tad Franks.
The winning hot dog was Thai Chicken Dog, a dish the Franks came up with during a trip to Thailand.
"I'm going to bring back the flavors and create something we love," said Ivan Franks.
The specialty sausage only needs Thai salsa and a toast in the oven. The show brought out some new visitor's to trying to winning dog.
"We watched Best Bites on the Food Network," said Kirsten Klinghammer. "My husband loves hotdogs, and I got really interested in that Thai hotdog that they were talking about. So I was like, 'Oh, I got to try it, and so that's why I'm here today."
In addition to the shop on E Street, you can try creations from The Hotdogger at the Davis Farmers market on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesdays 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. (May through September) and Wednesdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (October through April). They can also be found at Ruhstaller Farm brewery Friday through Sunday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
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