In a nod to the bygone era of Route 66, Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs, located at 459 Navajo Blvd. and owned by Aaron and Becki Colon, has resurrected a piece of history by successfully restoring a vintage sign that once adorned their establishment. This iconic sign, a relic from the heyday of Route 66, now stands as a symbol of the enduring allure of this classic American highway.
Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs, a cozy eatery that opened its doors in May, has been serving up Vienna Beef Chicago style hot dogs to locals and passersby, especially those from the Midwest who see the Vienna Beef sign and have to make a stop. However, the story behind the restoration project is as captivating as their hot dogs.
Aaron, one of the minds behind Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs, has a unique connection to the world of hot dogs, having worked in a hot dog joint as his first job where he first encountered the mouthwatering Vienna Beef hot dogs that are now their specialty. But what led him to Holbrook was nothing short of serendipity.
The journey began when Aaron was introduced to the Hashknife Pony Express Ride by a friend, an organization he had never heard of before. Through these rides and visiting the town, he developed a deep affinity for the charming town of Holbrook. It was then that he spotted potential in an old gas station situated along the city’s main drag, and the dream of bringing a slice of Chicago to the Arizona desert took root.
The building itself boasts a rich history, originally established as a Richmond gas station in 1958 during the Route 66 golden era. The restoration project was set in motion when a local resident revealed that he possessed the original sign from the station. Aaron took on the challenge, meticulously recreating the sign’s frame using historical photographs to ensure its authenticity. Just last week, with the assistance of Randy Murph from Welding Services & Supply, they successfully erected the sign, paying homage to the restaurant’s roots.
However, the revival efforts don’t stop at the sign. Aaron has ambitious plans to refurbish and restore the vintage gas pumps from the 1960s that still stand on the premises, further honoring the restaurant’s rich heritage.
Beyond their commitment to preserving history, Aaron and Becki pride themselves on using top-notch, all-natural ingredients in their menu offerings to create the best experience for customers. Notably, Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs is the sole restaurant in Holbrook currently offering outdoor seating, a unique feature that has resonated with tourists and locals alike.
Colonel Mustard Hot Dogs is more than just a dining spot; it’s a tribute to Holbrook’s past and a testament to the enduring legacy of Route 66. With their dedication to historical preservation and their mouthwatering hot dogs, Aaron and Becki Colon have created a destination that captures the essence of this iconic highway. The restored sign represents not only a piece of history but also a symbol of Route 66’s timeless appeal and the passion of Holbrook’s residents.
