Cozy Dog Drive In facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cozy Dog Drive In |
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| Restaurant information | |
| Established | 1946 |
| City | Springfield |
| State | Illinois |
| Country | U.S. |
The Cozy Dog Drive In is a famous restaurant in Springfield, Illinois. It is located at 2935 South Sixth Street. This restaurant is well-known for inventing the "Cozy Dog," which is a special kind of corn dog.
Contents
The Story of the Cozy Dog
The idea for the Cozy Dog started during World War II. A man named Ed Waldmire sold "crusty curs" to soldiers. These were hot dogs covered in a cornmeal batter. He sold them at military clubs.
A New Name and Logo
When Ed came back to Springfield, his wife Virginia thought "crusty cur" was not a good name. They decided to call them "Cozy Dogs" instead. Virginia even drew the first logo. It showed two hot dogs hugging each other.
First Sales and Popularity
Ed began selling Cozy Dogs at the Illinois State Fair in 1946. They quickly became very popular. He also opened a small stand outside his house that same year. Cozy Dogs originally cost only 15 cents! Later, another stand opened. It even shared seating with a Dairy Queen.
The Cozy Dog Today
In 1996, the Cozy Dog restaurant moved to its current spot. It is just a short distance from the original location. Today, you can go inside and eat. You can also order food to take with you. There is even a drive-up window for quick service. You order at the counter, and they bring your food to you.
Family Business
Ed's son, Buz, and his wife, Sue, took over the restaurant. Later, Sue became the sole owner. The Cozy Dog has remained a family-run business for many years.
A Stop on Route 66
The Cozy Dog is a very popular place for people traveling on U.S. Route 66. Route 66 is a famous old highway across America. The restaurant has many items related to Route 66. You can see old pictures and buy souvenirs. They also have a guest book where visitors from all over the world can sign their names.
The Waldmire Family's Route 66 Connection
Ed and Virginia's son, Bob Waldmire, was a famous artist. He created many designs for postcards and maps about Route 66. He traveled along the highway to get ideas for his artwork.
Featured on TV
The Cozy Dog has even been on television shows!
- In 2009, it was shown on an episode of Man v. Food. This show was on the Travel Channel.
- It was also featured in a documentary called A Hot Dog Program. This show aired in 1999.
See also
