Hotdog Johnnies opening in Dewey

Deep-fried, covered in chili, wrapped in bacon, topped with sauerkraut. Hotdog Johnnies is Dewey’s newest restaurant, and, as the name implies, customers will be able to get their hot dogs just about any way they want.

It’s slated to open in early May, and managing partner David Shamblin said Hotdog Johnnies will be totally different from anything the town has to offer. He said there are good restaurants in town, but nothing open late that’s also quick.

“I think Dewey needs it,” he said.

Located at Route 1 and New Orleans Street, in what used to be Rita’s, Hotdog Johnnies will offer all-beef hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, a barbecue pork sandwich, fries, wings and more.

Shamblin said in addition to serving the late-night crowd, Hotdog Johnnies will be family friendly.

“You’ll be able to feed the family for a quarter of what you’d spend in a full-service restaurant,” he said.

Shamblin has been working as head chef at Dewey Beer Co. since the restaurant opened its doors. He said they’ve been testing some of the hot dogs at the brewery over the winter.

People have been very interested in them, he said.

With a red and yellow color scheme and a mural on Route 1 depicting a human-sized hot dog enjoying the beach, the new restaurant can’t be missed.

“We basically gutted the whole place and started new,” said Shamblin, noting the doors open to Route 1. “This is going to be an open-air concept.”

Shamblin said he’s got a few tricks up his sleeve to bring Hotdog Johnnies some attention this summer. “Be on the lookout for surprises,” he said. “You never know who might be behind the counter working.”

Hotdog Johnnies will not serve alcohol, said Shamblin.

Hours during the season will be 10 a.m. to midnight, Monday through Thursday; and 7 a.m. to 2 a.m., Friday through Sunday.

For more information follow Hotdog Johnnies on Facebook, call 302-227-9502, or email hotdogjohnnies@gmail.com.