Tail o' the Pup

Tail_o'_the_Pup,_March_2024

Tail o' the Pup is a historic hot dog stand located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1946, it is renowned for its unique architecture, which resembles a giant hot dog. The stand has become an iconic symbol of the city and a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

History

Tail o' the Pup was originally opened by Eddie Blake and his partner. The stand quickly gained popularity due to its distinctive design and high-quality hot dogs. Over the years, it has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and advertisements, cementing its status as a cultural landmark.

In 1986, the stand was forced to move from its original location on La Cienega Boulevard due to redevelopment. It was relocated to San Vicente Boulevard, where it continued to operate until 2005. After a brief closure, the stand was moved to a storage facility, and its future remained uncertain.

In 2016, the stand was purchased by the 1933 Group, a company known for restoring historic Los Angeles landmarks. They announced plans to restore and reopen Tail o' the Pup, preserving its iconic design and legacy.

Architecture

The architecture of Tail o' the Pup is an example of programmatic architecture, a style where buildings are designed to resemble the products or services they offer. The stand is shaped like a giant hot dog, complete with mustard and relish detailing. This whimsical design has made it a beloved and instantly recognizable feature of Los Angeles.

Cultural Impact

Tail o' the Pup has been featured in various forms of media, including movies, television shows, and music videos. Its unique design and cultural significance have made it a popular subject for photographers and artists. The stand is often cited as an example of Los Angeles' rich history of novelty architecture.

See Also

• Hot dog
• Programmatic architecture
• Los Angeles landmarks
• 1933 Group