Richie V’s Chicago Eatery is gearing up to open in Chandler. The restaurant is currently under construction at 4975 S. Alma School Road on the northeast corner at the intersection with Chandler Heights Road.
This will be the highly anticipated return of Richie V’s Chicago Dog, following a devastating traffic accident that resulted in the loss of the popular traveling hot dog hut. Earlier this year, owner and Chicago-native Richie Vaia took a trip to the Windy City via Route 66, stopping at homeless shelters along the way to feed those in need with the goal of raising mental health awareness.
The successful and emotional trip ended in tragedy when on the way home, Vaia’s truck was severely rear ended by a semi outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Vaia might not have survived the collision if not for the infamous hot dog hut, which was attached to the back of his truck and completely destroyed upon impact.
Though grateful to have survived the accident with few injuries, Vaia unfortunately lost his truck, the hut and all his personal belongings. Hesitant to go back out on the road, Vaia told ABC 15 that he still wanted to make a difference through his food and had plans to establish a brick-and-mortar.
It didn’t take long for the business to bounce back, as the new restaurant has been under construction since the start of the summer. Vaia told What Now Phoenix this week that he aims to open by Labor Day this year, so it won’t be long before we can once again enjoy his Chicago-style Vienna hotdogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and other delicious Chicago eats.
Follow Richie V’s Chicago Dog on Facebook for updates.
