Chris’ Famous Hotdogs, landmark Montgomery restaurant, sold to new owner
Celebration of 100th anniversary of Chris’ Famous Hotdogs in downtown Montgomery in 2017 – Photo from WAKA Action 8 News
Chris’ Famous Hotdogs, the oldest restaurant in Montgomery, has been sold to a new owner who will take over the 108-year old landmark later this month.
Owner Angia Katechis and the family said in a letter to customers that, “Since 1917, our little stand at 138 Dexter Avenue has been more than just a place to grab a bite – it’s been a gathering spot, a piece of history, and a labor of love passed down through generations.
“We’ve had the honor of serving governors, presidents, athletes, musicians, movie stars and visitors from around the world. But the true stars of our story have always been you – the people of Montgomery. Your smiles, your stories, your loyalty – they’ve filled our walls with warmth and our hearts with gratitude.”
Action 8 News has produced stories about Chris’ Famous Hotdogs over the years, including this piece on the restaurant’s 100th anniversary in 2017. The restaurant on Dexter Avenue sits only a few blocks from the Alabama Capitol in the center of downtown.
As we have reported, Chris’ bar stools have seated notable patrons like Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Presidents Bush 41 & 43, Jimmy Stewart, Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Clark Gable, Tallulah Bankhead, Whoopi Goldberg, countless sports stars and every Alabama governor since 1917.
Greek immigrant Christopher Katechis opened the doors to Montgomery’s oldest family owned and operated restaurant May, 1, 1917. Later, his son, Theo Katechis and grandson Gus Katechis worked to keep the family legacy alive as co-owners of the Montgomery landmark. Theo Katechis died last year at 78.
Angia Katechis said in the family’s letter that, “On October 17, I will lovingly pass Chris’ into the hands of wonderful new owners – devoted caretakers who share our deep love for Montgomery and its rich traditions. Their family, too, has long-standing roots in this city, and they are committed to honoring the legacy that has made Chris’ so special for over a century.”
The letter continues, “To every person who ever stood in line, shared a meal, or brought a friend to Chris’ – thank you. You’ve been more than customers. You’ve been family. Montgomery, you are the soul of this story. In a country full of great cities, there’s none we’d rather call home.
“From the depth of our hearts – thank you for 108 extraordinary years.
With love and gratitude,
Angia Katechis & The Chris’ Famous Hotdogs Family”
READ: Katechis family letter on sale of Chris’ Famous Hotdogs
