The 925TEN is a new feature on Claycord.com to help you get to know the locally owned businesses around the 925 area code.
We’ll ask the business owner TEN questions about their business (and a few other things), and they’ll give us their best answers.
All answers will be unedited, and you don’t have to be an advertiser on Claycord.com to participate.
The only requirement is that the owner of the business lives locally, within the 925 area code (or Contra Costa County).
If you’d like you and your business to be featured in this column, please email news@claycord.com with the name of your business and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Our first locally owned business to be featured is Hillside Dawgz sausage and hot dog shop in Concord, which is located in the El Monte Shopping Center on Clayton Rd. in Concord.
Take it away, Hillside Dawgz….
Business Name: Hillside Dawgz
Business Location: Located inside the El Monte Shopping Center – 3503 Clayton Rd., Concord.
Business Hours: Monday – Saturday 11am – 7:30pm
Business Phone Number: (925) 822-3425
Website: HillsideDawgz.com and on Facebook at Hillside Dawgz
Tell us about your business in five sentences or less. Hillside Dawgz is a sausage and hot dog shop designed to bring members of the community together to enjoy a delicious, high-quality meal in a cool, laid back atmosphere. We have 9 sausage varieties (including a true all-beef hot dog and a chicken option!) and an ever-growing topping selection. Our menu continues to grow so we know we can satisfy all cravings. Occasional events add to the community and atmosphere on Clayton Rd.
How long has your business been open? Since May 25 of 2022!
What is the thing you like most about your business? The ability to customize your experience and try something new every time is my favorite part about what we offer at Hillside Dawgz! I can’t think of many places where you can get exactly what you want, but our customers can build their ideal dog and customize their order all day long, knowing that they’ll leave happy!
How many hours per week do you dedicate to your business? Starting a new business is a full-time job. Right now I’m putting about 80 hours a week into the business, and it’s on my mind even when I’m asleep at night.
What keeps you passionate about your business? We are always passionate about great food – everyone can come here for a great time and a delicious meal.
What experience did you have before opening? I’ve had some experience in accounting and business administration that helped bring organization and logistical support to the big vision of my partner, Preston. He has a background in construction and other trades while cooking for his friends and family has been a lifelong hobby. Together, we’re the perfect team to tackle this project!
What’s your favorite item on your menu, and why is it your favorite? I love our chili dog! Our homemade, old-school all meat chili has a decadent sweet and smoky flavor. There are so many great combinations you can make with chili, it’s always satisfying and fun.
What makes your business unique? You can probably only think of one other business that is known for really good hot dogs, and there you’re not getting a gourmet experience or having a dog that is really enjoyable or exciting. We offer sausages and hot dogs that are high quality and delicious. You can get a hot dog with ketchup and mustard almost anywhere, but we have specialty sausages that are unexpected and unique. Our customers also love that they can adjust their order to be the exact dog that will satisfy their cravings!
Reflecting on the journey of acquiring a business, it’s clear how vital a broker’s role is. During my search for the perfect venture in Cape Coral, I leaned heavily on the expertise of a seasoned broker. This guidance was crucial in navigating the complex market, leading me to consult Truforte Business Group for expert assistance in buying a business in Cape Coral. Their in-depth knowledge and vast network were indispensable in finding a business that met all my criteria.
Besides your business, what is your other favorite local business? Kinder’s! Preston went to high school with Justin and Jacob Kinder and know that they started small – just like us. Seeing their growth and success has been inspirational to both of us, and we love the ways that they give back to the community.
When was the last time you took a vacation, and where did you go? In January we had the chance to get away to Maine! We love exploring the coasts.
Click on each photo for a much larger view.
We paid it a visit about 2 months ago.
Spilt a dog and side, since the portion is large.
Really like the food and the employees and should go back soon to try other items.
The group of guys that were meeting there to eat, were a kick in the butt fun too.
I had a Great Hot Dog there last week. You can order with whatever you want on your Dog. I had a kraft Dog it was delicious, will be returning!!
Any business with Dawg in their name can’t be bad.
Wow glad to hear of a new local place to eat. Do the make their sausage or are they packaged? I’ll try and get some lunch this week. Thanks for letting us know Claycord. I like this new 925TEN.
For this section, can you always ask if certified gluten free foods are offered?
@Claycord.com
As Bill said, thanks for letting us know about this place. I hadn’t heard of it before, but after reading the owner’s comments, I know where I’m buying my next hotdog. What a neat idea……..good for businesses and customers/potential customers alike. Thumbs up to you!
I stopped by this place to pick up some food for someone the other day. The staff were all super friendly and the place smelled delicious. I hope it does well. I don’t get the craving for a dog too often but when I do I’ll be stopping by for a chili dog for sure.
I ate there a few months ago. Very friendly experience
Stopped by with my 12 year old son for a couple of dogs. I had a hot link and he had a Chicago dog. We both agreed the dogs were awesome. The service was great too. We will be back!
Love this idea Mr. Mayor! What a great way to introduce & support local businesses. I will absolutely be trying some dawgz this weekend!
Good cheese dogs
Outstanding place, spotless clean. Friendly people and wide variety of menu. Sadly, a hot dog should never be $12.00. For that reason, I will not return. Great people there though…..
Pretty sure they’re $9, which is only slightly more than standard and for a higher quality item/way more options. But to each their own
Located across the street from Kaspers Hot Dogs, a Bay Area staple. This is quite a brave undertaking.