It’s one of the sure signs of spring in Acton - the return of the community’s most popular street food vendor.
Gordon Rugg is the face behind Gord’s hot dog stand, faithfully located outside Acton Home Hardware, and soon at Prospect Park as well on the weekends.
Since opening in 2019, the local man and his grill have built a dedicated following of hot dog-loving residents.
Originally named Hot Dog Central, Rugg said he went through a re-branding after his brother/business partner moved away.
“People would always say, ‘Let’s go get a hot dog at Gord’s,’ so that name just felt really fitting,” he said.
Now, the name Gord’s has become synonymous with tasty street eats in Acton.
Rugg said the jumbo beef dog is the most popular item on his menu, with other offerings including mild and spicy sausages, veggie dogs and drinks. He’s also known to bring out Gord’s famous homemade relish for special occasions.
And while the weather has been very unpredictable this spring, the local entrepreneur says his 2023 season is off to a great start.
“The town has really seen that I’ve proven myself to be a legit business at this point; that I’m not just a flash in the pan,” he said. “I’ve got so many regulars.”
Growing up in Acton, Rugg said he has fond memories of visiting the food stand in the park, and the hot dog lady during his high school years.
“They were some of the coolest experiences, but then they were gone. Now, I’m bringing that experience to people of all ages. I like providing something that people really enjoy.”
Rugg is also showing his creative side at the hot dog stand, with crocheted food characters that he designed (handcrafted by Paula’s Past Time) available to purchase alongside your meal.
He even has some new merch in the works - hats and T-shirts featuring his own hot dog-themed artwork, like a wiener dog or a hot dog-osaurus.
Throughout the summer, Rugg said local residents should be on the lookout for limited-time items, such as specialty condiments or sausages.
Gord’s is located outside Home Hardware daily except for Mondays, and will be at Prospect Park every weekend starting the Victoria Day long weekend.
You can also find him at several special events this year, including Canada Day in the Glen and Prospect Park, Leathertown Festival, local fall fairs and more.
Check out Gord’s Facebook or Instagram pages for his latest schedule details as they’re weather-dependent.
