In Chicago Restaurants Can Also Dress Up For Halloween

The Wieners Circle in Chicago. Photo by Victorgrigas
The Wieners Circle in Chicago. Photo by Victorgrigas

Iconoclastic hot dog stand known as “The Wiener’s Circle” went all out for Halloween, embracing the 1988 cult film “Coming to America” as its muse. The restaurant temporarily changed its name to McDowell’s, just like the fictional eatery in the film and the employees dressed in the costumes of the fast-food workers who were portrayed in the movie. Some patrons who came in on Halloween were confused, thinking the old restaurant had been replaced by McDowell’s, but were relieved to see that the old familiar hot dog was still on the menu.

In the real movie Cleo McDowell explains how his fast-food established is completely different than that other eatery with a similar name:

“They got the Big Mac, I got the Big Mick. We both got two all-beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles and onions, but their buns have sesame seeds. My buns have no seeds.”

Wiener’s Circle manager Scott Brooker said that although the establishment was sold last month the new leadership will let the management continue selling their signature hot dogs that many say are the very best dogs in the country. Brooker explained what the Halloween costume was all about:

“McDowell’s just seemed like the best way to do it,” Brooker said. “We’re across from McDonald’s. They got the Big Mac, we got the Big Mick.”

Wiener’s Circle has become kind of a cult favorite itself. Located at 2622 North Clark Street, it has gained notoriety for its YouTube flicks as well as its totally authentic Chicago-style grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. The restaurant has also blossomed as a tourist attraction where visitors come to see some late-night antics which can include employees insulting customers and the famous “milk-shake.”

The Wiener’s Circle will maintain is new identity as McDowell’s until weekend’s end.