Jeff’s Red Hots
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs since 1977.
About Jeff’s
Top Grade Vienna Beef
We only give our customers the best! For us, this means top-grade, natural casing, Vienna Beef dogs! You’ll hear a “snap” in every bite!
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs
Jeff’s Red Hots is one of the last remaining Chicago-Style Hot Dog joints you remember from your child-hood. We keep things simple to give you the nostalgic experience you remember and love.
Family-Owned since 1977
We’re a family-owner small business since 1977. Our customers are family and we appreciate the many years of support from you. When you come visit, we’ll have your favorite order ready!
Our Specialties
We’re known for our hot dogs but our customers come back for some much more! What can we get for you?
Hot Dogs
Burgers
Gyros
Ice Cream
Chicago’s Best Chili Dog
Jeff’s Red Hots was featured in Chicago’s Best for our famous Chili Dog! Host Brittney Payton visits Jeff’s to learn why we’re the best.
Our History
In 1988, Jeff's Red Hots was purchased by the Vrettos brothers, who were no strangers to the restaurant business. The brothers grew up in Chicago, after immigrating from Tripoli, Greece in 1967. Steve began working in industry at McDonald's and worked his way to becoming manager. Steve and his brother then opened J&D Hot Dogs in Wicker Park which became Jeff's Red Hots in Portage Park. The two brothers were a comedy show! They constantly bickered behind the counter, but balanced each other out. The two brothers became known for their great food, humor, and community service. In 2003, Jeff’s lost half its identity when Steve lost his brother, Jimmy. Steve continued to live the family legacy in all that he did.
Steve loved helping the community in so many ways. Steve praised the 17th Police District, supported local alderman, and was an advocate for local schools. Steve built up Jeff’s to become award winning including Top Hot Dog in Chicago, Featured in the “Chicago’s Best” TV Show, and Vienna Beef Hall of Fame for Community involvement.
In January of 2021, Jeff was sadly taken from our family too soon. While Steve is no longer with us physically, he is very much with us in spirit. Steve is with us everyday as we continue to live his legacy and provide the same quality food and service that he would deliver himself. Everyone knew that Steve knew there was not a happier man to make a hot dog.
What Our Customers Say
“Try Jeff’s and Thank me later!”
“I’ve never had anything I didn’t like. My go-to is a Chicago style hot dog with some kraut. The beefs are great and I LOVE the Gyros! Have you heard of a francheezy? Neither had I, but it's a hot dog stuffed with cheese, wrapped in bacon, and deep fried.... so bad for you, but so good! I love their fries too, thin cut, and crispy. Try them and thank me later.”
Sabrina Recendez
“Drove an hour to visit!”
“Drove over an hour to get here, but it was well worth it! This place is the best. The employees are fast and nice. Would highly recommend! If you live in Chicago, make the trip! Well worth it! Great job Jeff's!”
Ariel Castillo
“Perfection… Every Time!”
“Nothing short of perfection EVERYTIME! I’ve been coming here since I was a kid. Nothing has changed and I absolutely love it! Great, prompt service and reasonable prices!”
Christopher Dixon