For over 70 years, Holmes Hot Dogs has been a beloved fixture in Spartanburg, South Carolina, serving up delicious hot dogs and a hefty side of nostalgia. This iconic eatery, nestled at 925 W Blackstock Rd in Arcadia, SC, has been satisfying locals and visitors alike with their famous chili recipe and classic American fare since 1953. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Holmes Hot Dogs offers a taste of history and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back for more.
Before get into details,here are some other recommendations near in this city:
The story of Holmes Hot Dogs begins in 1953 when Walt Holmes, fresh from serving in World War II, purchased a small lunch counter known as Gordo's Lunch. Renaming it Holmes Lunch, Walt and his wife laid the foundation for what would become a Spartanburg institution.
For over four decades, the Holmes family served up their signature hot dogs and chili to hungry patrons. In 1995, Walt's daughter Treva and her husband Rob Webb took over the business, focusing on Walt's specialty – his hot dogs and famous chili recipe. They renamed the establishment Holmes Hot Dogs, cementing its place in local culinary lore.
In 2022, as Rob and Treva Webb prepared for retirement, they were determined to keep Holmes Hot Dogs a family-run business, preserving Walt's legacy. Enter Kyle "Cowboy" Childers, a longtime customer who had been visiting Holmes Hot Dogs with his family since childhood. After a two-year apprenticeship under the Webbs, Kyle and his family took ownership, ensuring that everything remained true to Walt's original vision.
Stepping into Holmes Hot Dogs is like taking a journey back to a simpler time. The restaurant's retro charm and friendly atmosphere immediately transport visitors to the 1950s, when Walt Holmes first opened his doors. The small, cozy space is filled with the aroma of sizzling hot dogs and the warm chatter of satisfied customers.
While hot dogs are the star of the show, Holmes Hot Dogs offers a variety of classic American fare to satisfy any craving:
At the heart of Holmes Hot Dogs' enduring popularity is their famous chili recipe. Guarded and passed down through generations, this secret recipe has been delighting taste buds since 1953. The chili's unique flavor profile sets Holmes' hot dogs apart from the competition and keeps loyal customers coming back for more.
Holmes Hot Dogs has earned a devoted following over the decades. Here's what some satisfied customers have to say:
"Great hot dogs especially with slaw! A 70+ year standard of a hot dog emporium! I had meals there for over 60 years. Through two changes it has always made me happy!" - Ken C., Spartanburg, SC
"Have you ever taken the first bite of anything and experienced a flavorful explosion that rocked your taste buds? That's what happens to me every time that I take a bite of a Holmes Hotdog!" - Joe T., Gaffney, SC
Many reviewers comment on the nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service at Holmes Hot Dogs:
"Holmes Hotdogs is a spot that makes you feel like you stepped back in the day due to their great prices and good sized portions. The staff are the friendliest people and every tip goes to the kitchen." - Terry M., Gaffney, SC
Holmes Hot Dogs isn't just a local lunch spot – they also offer catering services for events and gatherings. Whether you're planning a corporate lunch, family reunion, or community event, Holmes can bring their famous hot dogs and homemade chili to you.
More than just a restaurant, Holmes Hot Dogs has become an integral part of the Spartanburg community. Its longevity and commitment to quality have made it a local landmark, attracting generations of families and creating lasting memories.
Holmes Hot Dogs is located at 925 W Blackstock Rd, Arcadia, SC. They're open Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Note that they're closed on weekends, holidays, and for the first two weeks of July.
For more information or to place an order, you can reach Holmes Hot Dogs at 864-576-0801.
Holmes Hot Dogs stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-made food served with a side of nostalgia. From Walt Holmes' original recipes to Kyle "Cowboy" Childers' commitment to preserving tradition, this Spartanburg institution continues to delight customers old and new.
Whether you're a local looking for a comforting lunch or a visitor seeking an authentic taste of South Carolina's culinary heritage, Holmes Hot Dogs offers an experience that goes beyond mere sustenance. It's a journey through time, a celebration of family tradition, and most importantly, a delicious meal that will keep you coming back for more.
So the next time you find yourself in Spartanburg, make sure to stop by Holmes Hot Dogs. Take a bite of history, savor the famous chili, and become part of a tradition that's been satisfying hungry patrons for over seven decades. At Holmes Hot Dogs, every meal is a trip down memory lane – one delicious bite at a time.