According to several media sources, the acclaimed Maui Dog Hot Dog and Hamburger joint is closing. To all those aspiring new business owners out there, take heed. Even though the place had won several "Best of" ratings, the economics of running a business can bite you in your back side. You may have a great product but sometimes that's not enough.
Here's the story from "New Times":
"Sad news from the Valley hot dog scene:
Maui Dog, the colorful eatery of island-inspired dogs, burgers, and sliders which opened last July on
Indian School Road and 36th Street in Central Phoenix, is closing its doors for good at the
end of this year. Owner
John Stamatakis, who spoke to me in August about a
possible relocation, says the
deal has fallen through and due to a
60 percent increase in rent at his current location, he can no longer be profitable.
"I'm devastated," Stamatakis tells me. "This was my baby, my dream. And all the accolades I've received don't seem to matter. I've lost everything. I'm broke."
Stamatakis says that sales were up from last year, but not enough to make up for the
increase in rent. He adds that he might continue to try and find a new location, perhaps in
Tempe, or look into a
food truck, but for now, has no immediate plans.
Those wanting their last Maui Dog can stop by through
Wednesday, December 28, the restaurant's last day of
business."
<message edited by Foodbme on Tue, 12/27/11 2:38 AM>
