After two decades of serving up his beloved East Coast-style hot dogs, Steve Ballas, the owner of Denver’s iconic Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs, has decided to close the doors for good. Known for his famous “snappin’ dogs,” Ballas reflected on his journey into the hot dog business, which started unexpectedly after a visit to the doctor.
“I saw a guy selling hot dogs outside the doctor’s office and called my wife,” he explained. “I said, ‘I think we need to do hot dogs!’” That spark of inspiration led to a successful 20-year run where Steve became known as the go-to place for a delicious, snappy bite.
Now at 70, and both a cancer survivor and facing the challenges of aging, Ballas is ready to retire. “Linda’s cancer came back, and we both decided it’s time,” he shared. Linda, his wife and partner, recently turned 77, making it the right moment for them to step back.
While it’s bittersweet for Ballas to say goodbye, he’s proud of all he’s achieved. Before Steve’s Snappin’ Dogs, Ballas was a firefighter, police officer, and EMT. But feeding people remained one of his greatest joys. “You can make people so happy with good food, simple food,” he said.
The restaurant will close its doors on Saturday, Oct. 19, marking the end of an era for Denver’s hot dog lovers.
