Chicago-based Portillo’s Hot Dogs looks like it’s expanding to the East Valley.
Owner Dick Portillo says he’s in discussions with Tempe Marketplace and Chandler Fashion Center to open restaurants at both malls, according to the Phoenix Business Journal.
The 200-seat restaurants, also known for their burgers and Italian beef sandwiches, would be located outside the malls. They require at least 7,000 square feet and a drive-through.
Portillo says he also plans to open locations in other Valley cities.
“I have people looking at other locations in Phoenix and Scottsdale,†he tells the paper. “Once we get approval from any location, we could be open in about eight or nine months.â€
There currently are 31 Portillo’s Hot Dogs nationwide. All but three are in Illinois.
The Portillo Restaurant Group also includes several other concepts, including Barnelli’s Pasta Bowl, Honey-Jam Cafe, Luigi’s House Casual Italian Dining, Julian’s Pizza, and Julian’s Piano Bar.
