When the Van Nuys location of Cupid’s Hot Dogs Inc. closed in 1997 after 40 years, patrons had their hearts broken. So when the family-owned eatery was able to re-open last year, the move was well received. The re-opening also marked a new endeavor for the ownership of Kelly and Morgan Walsh, two sisters who took over the chain in 2009 after their father, Richard, died. He was overseeing the Van Nuys location when it closed. “We weren’t really prepped or ready for running a business,” said Kelly Walsh, 30. “But since it was in the family for so long we wanted to keep it going.” Walsh said she and Morgan, 24, weren’t able to re-open at the exact location where Cupid’s was originally located because the property owners following her father created a strip mall there. But they were able to remain on the same corner at Victory Bouelvard and Tyrone Avenue. The company still serves the same hot dog and chili recipes from Walsh’s grandparents who opened the first Cupid’s in North Hollywood in 1946. Walsh added French fries to the menu in Van Nuys last year and is toying with the idea of adding more items to the menu. Walsh also wants to open another store this year, but this time outside of the Valley, maybe on the Westside or in Pasadena. She said Cupid’s has made its mark in the Valley, and she doesn’t want to go overboard by opening too many here. There are eight locations altogether, half owned by the family and half franchised. “We don’t feel like we need them every other block,” said Walsh. Neither of the sisters had planned to take over the business, but when their father passed away, Walsh said she had a change of heart. “It’s nice to be part of those people’s memories,” said Walsh. “I just love it. – Bailey Brewer
Family Makes Stand With Hot Dogs
