Nicky V’s officially opened its newest location Friday, Aug. 22, inside the Bedford Park Gas N Wash at 5641 W. 65th St., marking a special homecoming for owner Nick Versetto.
For Versetto, who grew up in nearby Garfield Ridge and now lives in Frankfort, the expansion represents more than just business growth — it’s personal.
“I grew up here,” Versetto said. “Being back in the neighborhood has been great — I’ve already seen so many friends and neighbors that I haven’t seen in years. It’s wonderful to be able to reconnect.”
The new location holds even more meaning because Versetto’s 96-year-old grandmother still lives just down the street. She also inspired the restaurant’s name.
“Originally, when we purchased the first location, it was called Doug’s Dogs,” Versetto said. “But when I told my grandma I was taking it over, she said, ‘You should call it Nicky V’s.’ I immediately thought, ‘I like that.’”
The Versetto family purchased the longtime Oak Forest favorite Doug’s Dogs in 2019 and quickly set out to recreate some of the best South Side food they grew up eating.
What started as a small hot dog stand soon became a local favorite, earning plenty of recognition along the way. In 2021, Nicky V’s was featured on Chicago’s Best TV show and was ranked among the “Top 5 Suburban Hot Dogs” in Dennis Foley’s book No Ketchup. The restaurant was also named the #2 “Top Hot Dog” in the Best of the Southland awards in 2021, 2023 and 2024.
The Versettos take pride in giving back to the community has become a cornerstone of what they do. The family regularly supports local organizations, including Project Fire Buddies, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation — all of which assist families in need across the area.
“Community has always been important to us,” Versetto said. “We want to serve great food, but we also want to give back to the neighborhoods that have supported us.”
Since taking over the Oak Forest location, Nicky V’s has grown rapidly.
The business now operates five locations — in Bedford Park, Oak Forest, Mt. Greenwood, Merrionette Park and New Lenox, along with four food trucks. The New Lenox location also opened earlier this month.
While the menu is filled with options, Versetto has his personal favorites. He recommends the cheese fries but says the hotdogs, chicken pita and breaded steak sandwiches are among the top sellers.
“We sell a lot of tacos — they’re really good if you haven’t tried them yet, you should,” he said.
Opening in Bedford Park brings Versetto’s journey full circle — back to the neighborhood where it all began, where family, friends and familiar faces make Nicky V’s more than just another restaurant.