Vienna Beef inducts Bartlett's The Dogfather into its hall of fame

Bartlett's The Dogfather restaurant this month became only the 138th establishment nationwide to be inducted into the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame.

According to the 128-year-old company, the Hall of Fame was created in 2006 to recognize loyal vendors that have become landmarks in their neighborhoods through their outstanding customer service, community leadership, longevity, philanthropic efforts, and devotion to quality operations.

Bob Schwartz, vice president of Vienna Beef, was joined by Bartlett village officials for the presentation of the award to Tony Passaro - who opened The Dogfather 21 years ago - and his staff.

Vienna Beef President Tim O'Brien also released a statement about the latest inductee.

"Congratulations to Tony Passaro and the staff, family, friends and customers of The Dogfather on being the newest member of The Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame," O'Brien said.

"We are proud to work with beloved neighborhood restaurants like The Dogfather that prides itself on building long-lasting relationships and featuring only the highest quality products in its offerings."

Passaro and his wife, Marianne, live in the Bartlett area and have raised six children, Vienna Beef representatives said. He is recognized as the maestro of his community restaurant, where customers are greeted warmly. He knows many customers' names and what they like to order.

Passaro sponsors community efforts such as Bartlett Little League and those supporting the local police and fire district. On many occasions, when he's not behind the grill, he said he is usually sitting with his customers, sharing their fries and entertaining their kids.