Cupid’s still has its authentic mid-century look to it and satisfies most hot dog cravings at a reasonable price.
Photographer: Jackelyn Ruby
How would you like to visit a hidden gem with a mid-century appeal right here in the Valley? Where the Vintage sign enthusiasts would salivate not only for their famous hot dogs, but also their heart sign. Take a stroll down memory lane at Cupid’s Hot Dogs and enjoy an authentic Valley hot dog.
A hidden gem located in Winnetka, San Fernando Valley, Cupid’s is a family owned and operated restaurant since 1946, satisfying most hot dog cravings at a reasonable price.
Cupid’s still has its authentic mid-century look to it, with their locally known vintage heart shaped sign with an arrow across it pointing towards the restaurant. The building has classic appeal. The building still has its original layout with modifications added, such as a patio so customers can enjoy their meals without having to sit in their car or taking their meals to go. The tables have hand painted movie quotes on them.
In addition to its authentic history, the parking lot and patio walls are decorated with hand painted murals that are inspired by the past, including one in the parking lot that has white palm trees across a black background that reads “The Valley”. There is a second mural that has two men dressed in suits and one is wearing a tilted fedora hat waiting in front of the restaurant.
A mural seen at Cupid’s Hot Dogs has two men dressed in suits and one is wearing a tilted fedora hat waiting in front of the restaurant. Photographer: Jackelyn Ruby
Each table is spaced out following social distancing best practices.
There is a carhop service from 2-6 p.m., so diners can have the food rolled to the car by one of the roller skaters, which adds more to the nostalgic experience.
The menu consists of their most popular option—the Cupid’s Original Dog—and they also have a vegan option, a sausage named the Veggie Dog. Aside from hot dogs you can also order chili bowls that can be topped off with cheese. Soft drinks, water and chips are also available.
Their menu does not have any pictures, but fear not, because the cooks make the hot-dogs right in front of you.
The Chicago Dog has slices of fresh Roma tomatoes, pickles as well as some chopped white onions, celery salt and radish paired with some yellow peppers to add a spicy kick to your taste buds. Adding mustard, mayonnaise and ketchup compliments the meal.
The plant-based sausage has distinction versus the meat sausage and adding toppings, such as red cabbage, sauerkraut and onions provide added flavor.
Overall, Cupid’s is a wonderful place to visit and a good option for families. There is plenty of parking adjacent to the restaurant. The retro charm to this diner is ideal for the vintage enthusiast.
Cupid’s Hot Dog
Address: 20030 Vanowen St., Winnetka, Calif., 91306.
Hours: Monday through Sunday 11AM – 8PM.
Carhop services are available from 2PM-6PM.
