Theodore Spiro Liaros
Owner/Chef
Business – Ted’s hot dogs
About Theodore Spiro Liaros
Theodore Spiro Liaros: The Visionary Behind Buffalo’s Beloved Ted’s Hot Dogs
Buffalo, New York, is a city full of delicious food traditions, but no local culinary story is quite as iconic as that of Ted’s Hot Dogs. What started as a small hot dog stand in the 1920s has grown into a cherished Western New York institution, all thanks to Theodore Spiro Liaros—a determined Greek immigrant with a passion for simple, high-quality food.
From Greece to Buffalo
Theodore Spiro Liaros came to America in 1913 with the dream of building a better life. Like so many immigrants of his time, he arrived with little in his pockets and no knowledge of the English language, yet a hardworking spirit that would soon shape his destiny.
Buffalo became his home, and it was here in 1927 that his entrepreneurial vision began to take root. Theodore initially sold hot dogs from a horse-drawn cart near the bustling construction site of the Peace Bridge, which at the time was a major project connecting Buffalo to Canada. It was an opportune location filled with hungry workers and passersby.
When the bridge’s construction was completed, Theodore made a bold move. He bought a small shack near the site, where he continued cooking and selling his hot dogs. That humble shack was the birth of what would eventually become Ted’s Hot Dogs—a legacy that continues to thrive nearly a century later.
The Ted’s Hot Dogs Legacy
What set Theodore’s hot dogs apart from the very beginning was his dedication to quality. Grilled to order over charcoal, the hot dogs had a rich, smoky flavor that remains the hallmark of Ted’s to this day. But Theodore didn’t stop there—he added his own secret weapon, the now-famous Ted’s hot sauce, which gave the hot dogs a uniquely tangy kick. Paired with crispy onion rings, handmade milkshakes, or a refreshing cup of Buffalo’s iconic Loganberry drink, a meal at Ted’s quickly became a must-try in the region.
By 1948, Theodore expanded Ted’s with a second location in Tonawanda, a northern Buffalo suburb. Over the next few decades, the restaurant grew to multiple locations across Western New York, ensuring that more people could enjoy these beloved charcoal-broiled hot dogs. The recipe for success turned out to be simple yet brilliant—stick to the classics, deliver consistent quality, and serve it all with a friendly smile.
A Buffalo Icon
Today, Ted’s Hot Dogs is much more than a restaurant—it’s a symbol of Buffalo pride. Generations of families have made Ted’s a part of their traditions, from weekly dinners to pre-game meals before a Bills or Sabres game. Their charcoal-broiled hot dogs are a taste of nostalgia for locals and a must-try for visitors. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down to indulge in a footlong hot dog slathered in hot sauce, Ted’s offers an experience that feels like home.
But Ted’s has also managed to expand well beyond Buffalo. With a location in Tempe, Arizona, the restaurant has brought a piece of Western New York to the Southwest, earning an entirely new fanbase. Despite its growth, Ted’s has stayed true to its roots by prioritizing the simple, timeless flavors that started it all.
More Than Just Hot Dogs
Ted’s is best known for its hot dogs, but its menu has evolved to include something for everyone. From burgers to Polish sausage, chicken, and vegetarian options, they’ve ensured that every guest leaves satisfied. Side dishes like their handmade onion rings and old-fashioned milkshakes are just as loved as the main attraction. And for those who can’t get enough, Ted’s famous hot sauce is even available by the jar, so you can take the magic home with you.
Theodore’s Lasting Impact
Theodore Spiro Liaros built more than just a restaurant—he built a legacy of quality, tradition, and community. His story of starting with nothing and creating something so enduring is a testament to the American dream and the spirit of Buffalo. While Theodore passed away many years ago, his vision and values live on in every charcoal-broiled hot dog that’s served at Ted’s.
For Buffalonians, Ted’s Hot Dogs is more than just a meal—it’s a slice of history. It’s a place where memories are made, where the food is simple but unforgettable, and where the legacy of a hardworking immigrant continues to shine.